Tony Hayes OAM – SWRSLSC – Life Member Interview

Anthony (Tony) Hayes OAM first joined the SWRSLSC in 1968. During this time ‘Haysie’ as he is fondly known has gained multiple awards, including – Advanced Resuscitation Certificate, IRB Crew Certificate, Silver Medallion – IRB Driver. He was also gained his Instructors Certificate in 1978 and was one of the MNC’s best trainers for decades.

‘Haysie’ has been involved in all facets of the SLS movement from volunteer patrols, education, carnival organisation and holding many positions on both Club and MNC Branch committees. He was Club President from 1989 -1997, Vice-President from 1997-2010 and Club Delegate to the MNC Branch for over 10 years. He sat on the MNC Branch committee as President from 1994-1997 and Secretary from 1980-1994. ‘Haysie’ was a District Supervisor from 1993-1998 and a Surf Sports Official for over 20 years.

In 2014 Tony was awarded an ‘Order of Australia Medal’ for this effort, not just in surf lifesaving, but in other community groups in the Macleay Valley spanning decades. He was also inducted as a MNC Branch Life Member in 1994 and SLSNSW Life Member in 1999. ‘Haysie’ still runs the Friday Night Raffles at the club which raises approximately $10,000 a year for the purchase of equipment and oversees the ‘Old Farts Committee’ who are a group of retired members that complete maintenance and gardening around the clubhouse.