Raymond Matthew Brown OAM – Freshwater SLSC
Raymond Brown joined Freshwater SLSC in 1937, and was awarded his Bronze Medallion on the 23/11/1937.
He became a Life Member of Freshwater SLSC in September 1955 and a Life Member of Manly Warringah Branch (now SLS SNB) in 1977. Ray went on to become a Life Member for Surf Life Saving New South Wales in 1986, and a Life Member for Surf Lifesaving Australia in 1994.
Ray was awarded the Board of Examiners prestigious Harry Ragan Award for Outstanding Service in 1984 and the Radio Officials Award for Sydney Northern Beaches in 2002-2003.
In 1987 Ray was awarded an OAM for outstanding service to Surf Life Saving.
After the war Ray returned to duty as a NSW Police Officer and resumed his life long service to the Surf Life Saving movement.
Ray dedicated 66 years of service to the Surf Life Saving community. Throughout these years, he held numerous leadership roles within the Freshwater Club, including Club Captain, Treasurer, Secretary and President, demonstrating his commitment and versatility to the organisation’s growth and success.
In addition to his leadership roles, Ray displayed his versatility by taking on diverse responsibilities such as carnival organiser, gear steward, and social organiser among many others. His dedication to the SLS community further expanded when he joined the Board of Examiners in the 1962 – 63 season, contributing his expertise as an examiner and competition official.
The SNB Radio Operator’s Award, presented annually to an exceptional Radio Operator, is a testament to Ray’s exceptional contributions to the community. Affectionately known as the “voice of the airwaves,” Ray was highly respected as a trainer for new operators in the radio room. During critical incidents, his calming demeanour was invaluable in helping lifesavers on the beach gather vital information for emergency services. He also maintained the morale of patrolling members by keeping them updated with cricket scores during summer. Ray’s exemplary service made him a role model for many of today’s operators.
Rays legacy extends beyond Freshwater, as his outstanding contributions continue to be celebrated throughout the broader lifesaving community. His lasting impact serves as a reminder of the positive influence that one dedicated individual can have on the lives of many.
Raymond was awarded SNB Life Membership in 1977.
Raymond passed away on April 20th, 2004. He was aged 82.