THE
MAGAZINE
OF
THE
BALLINA
SHIRE
COUNCIL
ISSUE
61 FEB
MARINE RESCUE HERO EARNS TOP AWARD Dedicated Marine Rescue Ballina volunteer, Geoff Hutchinson, was awarded 2026 Citizen of the Year at the Ballina Shire Australia Day Awards Ceremony.
Renowned for his calm professionalism and deep maritime expertise, Geoff consistently steps up, day or night, to protect lives on local waterways. His integrity, reliability and selfless dedication have earned him widespread respect across Marine Rescue NSW. In the past year, Geoff has taken part in 37 rescues, including major life saving missions such as rescuing two fishermen from a sinking trawler and leading a four day search for a missing person. Alongside his frontline efforts, he devotes extensive time to mentoring new volunteers, improving procedures and
2026
helping raise funds for a new rescue vessel, demonstrating courage, leadership and unwavering commitment to community safety. Featuring a moving performance of I Am Australian by Ballina Players, The Australia Day ceremony recognised more than 65 award nominees, welcomed new Australian citizens and celebrated everything that makes life in the Ballina Shire so special. Image (left to right): Volunteers of the Year, Marine Rescue Ballina (Graeme Gordon, Richard Weber, Peter Hill and Debbie Hutchinson), with Citizen of the Year, Geoff Hutchinson.
See page 2 for the full list of winners.
P R O J E C T U P D AT E
Sharpes Beach carpark now open! See page 6
ballina.nsw.gov.au