18-07-2025
Pilbara's emergency volunteers recognised in prestigious WAFES Awards
The Pilbara's tireless volunteer emergency responders are being celebrated on the state stage, with several local heroes and teams named as finalists in this year's WA Fire and Emergency Services Awards.
In Port Hedland, two rising stars from Marine Rescue have earned spots as finalists in the Marine Rescue Young Person of the Year Award category — maintenance officer and senior skipper Lachlan Field and rescue crew member Owen Wells.
Mr Field said it was rewarding enough just to be able to assist in Hedland's boating community.
'To be recognised at a state level alongside people who have been volunteering for decades is truly humbling,' he said.
'If you have a trade or a skill, it would be awesome to see more young people giving back to their communities.'
Mr Wells said it has been great to give back to Hedland using the skills he has gained through Marine Rescue and his career on the water.
'Being nominated alongside my peers has been a real surprise, and I encourage other young people to just get in and have a crack.'
Also flying the flag for Hedland is Natalie Marley from the local Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service, nominated for the Individual Achievement Award. Meanwhile, Connie Reed from Newman State Emergency Service is in the running for the Peter Keillor Award.
Over in the West Pilbara, the Karratha Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service (VFRS) has been nominated the Firefighting Team Achievement Award, while lieutenant Riley Mole has been shortlisted for the Firefighting Young Person of the Year Award.
Across to Exmouth, David Skene from Marine Rescue Exmouth has been nominated for the Marine Rescue Individual Achievement Award, joined by fellow nominee Scott Williams from Marine Rescue Dampier.
Inland, the Tom Price State Emergency Service has also earned well-deserved recognition as a finalist in the State Emergency Service Team Achievement Award.
