This year the award was not awarded to a single person as had always happened in earlier years.

Instead the award was given to the Andrews family for all their time, effort and continued commitment spent as members of the lifesaving club.

"It was such an honour to receive the award," Carol said.

Rod, Carol, Candice and Caitlin moved to the area two years ago in what Rod describes as their sea change and the best move they ever made.

Candice first joined the lifesaving club and was soon followed by the rest of the family.

Candice and Rod were both awarded their bronze medallions in December last year.

Before they were awarded their medallions Candice and Rod trained with the masters club at the pool and carried out open water swimming as well as a range of other tests and activities.

This year Candice is training for her gold medallion and wants to start racing.

She is also a lifeguard at the local pool.

Carol and Rod's son, Chris, was awarded his bronze at the end of the summer season in March this year, giving the family three bronze medallion holders.

Carol has been awarded her first aid certificate while in the club and Caitlin is a rookie currently training for her Surf Rescue Certificate (SRC).

The family is a member of 'Team Rip' captained by Barbra Gurr.

"The team is really supportive. Everyone really encourages you to do a good job," Rod said.

The lifesaving club is very family orientated and members range from five years old to the oldest patrolling member at 76.