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Coastguard Hibiscus volunteer Michelle Smyth was named Coastguard NZ’s Support Volunteer of the Year, in its recent Awards of Excellence.
Her win was announced on October 11.
Michelle joined Coastguard Hibiscus in 2022. Now a committee member and recruitment officer, Michelle has brought onboard no fewer than 11 new recruits to the local unit.
Her role includes looking after them – she has designed plans for her recruits to assist with the induction process and meets with them weekly to help keep them on track and be there for them should they have any questions.
Additionally, Michelle guides her trainees through the required theory modules and paperwork and ensures that they get valuable boat time.
To date, Michelle has managed a phenomenal 97 percent retention record.
Modestly, she credits others with her success.
“The Coastguard Hibiscus people are great and they help me become better – it’s all because I’m surrounded by amazing people.”
Coastguard NZ also congratulates Charlotte Robertson (Coastguard Auckland) and Hannah Waterman (Coastguard Taranaki) as finalists in this category for their achievements.
