A volunteer from Coastguard Hibiscus received the award for the Support Volunteer Of The Year for 2023.

Michelle Smyth joined Coastguard Hibiscus in early 2022 and has become a veritable ‘sponge’ soaking up all the knowledge she can, retaining it, and developing additional avenues for success. 

Now a committee member and recruitment officer, Michelle has recruited 11 people to the local unit.

She has designed intuitive induction plans for the recruits to assist with the onboarding process, and meets with the new recruits weekly to help keep them on track and be there for them should they need help.

Michelle also guides the trainees through required theory modules, and paperwork and makes sure they get valuable boat time. 

Not too long ago, Michelle was a trainee herself, so she knows what it’s all about - and that’s why she boasts a phenomenal 97% retention record. 

Michelle says, “Hibiscus is a good unit. The place is full of learning and encouragement, and there’s never any negativity. The people are great and they help me become better. It’s all because I’m surrounded by amazing people.” 

Coastguard New Zealand CEO Callum Gillespie says, “Coastguard only exists with amazing volunteers like Michelle supporting and encouraging our newest recruits. I’m thrilled that Michelle’s hours of hard work behind the scenes for the betterment of her unit and community have been recognised with this award.”