Pāpāmoa Surf Life Saving Club members Shaun Smith and Jo Miller received top honours at the 2024 Surf Life Saving New Zealand National Awards of Excellence, held in Christchurch last month.

Smith was awarded the prestigious title of Life Member, the highest honour in lifesaving.

A dedicated surf lifeguard since 1977 with the Opotiki SLSC, Smith's remarkable journey includes stints patrolling in Australia and an impressive 28 years at Pāpāmoa., continually shaping the surf lifesaving community.

He is an instructor and examiner for the Surf Lifeguard Association and Inflatable Rescue Boat training, continuing to train Pāpāmoa clubbies and examine all candidates in the Bay of Plenty for their crew and drivers awards throughout each winter season.

"In 2021, Shaun received a Distinguished Service Award. Becoming a Life Member marks another significant milestone in his journey since starting as a lifeguard. He should be incredibly proud," said Pāpāmoa Surf Club’s chairman, Jim Pearson.

Smith's impressive list of contributions includes roles as a board/committee member, club captain, patrol captain, and lifeguard committee member.

He has been a passionate competitor for 16 years and a Search and Rescue Squad member for 16 years. Additionally, Smith has served as a competition official and event water safety/first aider for over 20 years and was the National Event Water Safety Manager for three years.

“We are deeply grateful for Shaun’s incredible legacy of service, and we thank him for his ongoing dedication and commitment to our club and to Surf Life Saving,” Pearson said.

Miller was awarded the prestigious Surf Official of the Year and received a Distinguished Service Award for her exceptional contributions, continuously supporting the club's operations with a level of dedication that sets her apart. Pearson praised her unwavering dedication to the club, particularly in officiating numerous surf competitions, mentoring officials, and her significant and lasting impact on the surf lifesaving community.

“We are incredibly fortunate to have Jo as a member, and we deeply appreciate her invaluable contributions,” he said. “We’d like to extend a massive congratulations to Jo.”

“Both Shaun and Jo embody the true spirit of surf lifesaving. We are immensely proud of their outstanding achievements and grateful for all they continue to do for our club and the wider community,” said Pearson.