The dinner, held at the Ashbury Hotel near Okehampton, was followed by presentations recognising achievements of the country’s finest surf lifesavers.

Exmouth’s very own ‘Hero of the Surf’ received recognition in three areas – ’30 Years Long Service’, ‘Services to the Community – National’ and ‘Services to Lifesaving’.

On receiving his certificates, Nigel laughed about the ‘trickery’ his fellow club members had played to keep it under wraps: “I thought I was going to the rugby and then out for a few quiet beers… I had no idea I was up for these awards!”

About the evening, he said: “It has been great to celebrate the work and achievements of volunteers in the surf lifesaving world, and I am grateful for the awards I have received (if not a little embarrassed).”

Dan Thorogood, club member, said: “It is fantastic that Snowy has received recognition for his prolonged services to surf lifesaving.  Starting out as a teenager with nothing more than a kayak and a throw line, he would spend his spare time on the beach keeping the public safe.  From there, the club has grown under his expert guidance into a renowned professional service with a strong membership.”

Exmouth Beach Rescue Club was founded in 1986 and continues to provide voluntary lifeguarding services during the summer to users of the beach at Maer Rocks and Orcombe Point.  It has a strong youth membership, supported by a professional senior contingent, with members working towards their lifesaving awards and participating in surf lifesaving sport.  In August, the national surf lifesaving competition is once again being hosted by the club.

The club has a new website, www.exmouthbeachrescueclub.org, and can also be found on Facebook.