Marine Rescue NSW celebrates Botany Port Hacking volunteer Ian Baker's 50 years of service
by Marine Rescue NSW 1 Sep 21:15 BST
(L to R) Marine Rescue Botany Port Hacking Unit Commander Aaron Blackwell - Ian Baker ESM - Marine Rescue NSW Deputy Commissioner Darren Schott © Marine Rescue NSW
Marine Rescue NSW has honoured one of its longest-serving volunteers, Ian Baker ESM, who has reached the extraordinary milestone of 50 years of service to the boating community.
Baker, a highly respected Coxswain and Search and Rescue Support Officer with Marine Rescue Botany Port Hacking, is one of only a handful of volunteers in the organisation's history to achieve this exceptional milestone.
Today, the 83-year-old was presented with the Marine Rescue NSW 50-year service pin during a ceremony at the unit's Hungry Point base.
Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Alex Barrell paid tribute to Ian's lifelong commitment to saving lives on the water.
"Half a century selflessly serving boaters and supporting his community is an incredible achievement," Commissioner Barrell said.
"The sacrifices Ian and his family have made over five decades of service are deeply appreciated. He is a wonderful person who epitomises dedication, and we are also grateful to his family for supporting his commitment to the Service.
"Since joining the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard Association in 1975, Ian has been involved in hundreds of search and rescue missions. His contribution is nothing short of remarkable."
Following the amalgamation of the Coast Guard with other organisations to form Marine Rescue NSW in 2010, Baker continued to serve with distinction and remains an active operational volunteer. He is a Life Member of Marine Rescue NSW and the recipient of several significant honours.
He was awarded the 2021 NSW Maritime Medal in recognition of his sustained contribution to maritime safety. Most recently, he received the Emergency Services Medal (ESM) in the 2024 King's Birthday Honours List.
Marine Rescue Botany Port Hacking Unit Commander Aaron Blackwell said Baker has long been a cornerstone of the unit.
"Ian has served in a variety of roles, including Treasurer, Training Officer and Training System Officer," Unit Commander Blackwell said.
"He is a calm, grounded and knowledgeable leader who has earned the deep respect of all who serve alongside him.
"He places the utmost importance on crew safety and has led numerous high-pressure rescue operations, often in challenging conditions. His steady hand and mentoring have made a lasting impact on countless members of our unit."
Ian Baker continues to actively serve in both vessel and radio operations, exemplifying the highest standards of volunteerism and public service.
"Marine Rescue NSW extends its heartfelt congratulations and thanks to Ian for five decades of unwavering commitment to community safety," said Commissioner Barrell.
Baker said he never thought he would reach half a century serving the boating community.
"I never thought I would get anywhere near it. Never, ever thought about going that far. Then, all of a sudden, it's here. Just like my 60th wedding anniversary, which is coming up in December — I never thought I would get there either," he said.
Baker said saving lives on the water has been a rewarding journey.
"The camaraderie, the people, what we do — we help people. I got to enjoy boating and helping people at the same time, which is killing two birds with one stone."
Marine Rescue NSW is a volunteer-based, not-for-profit professional organisation dedicated to keeping boaters safe on the water and supporting local communities.