Reeling in the awards

President Surf Life Saving NSW Brett Harrod, Amanda Scott, Emma Green, and Josh Taylor at the awards.

THE recent Surf Life Saving NSW Award Night in Sydney saw the Illawarra bring home four awards.

Illawarra took out the NSW event of the year for its efforts in The Australia Day Rookie challenge, which took place on Australia Day in January at Belmore Basin.

Matt Freeman from the Bulli club was awarded with the prestigious NSW Athlete of the Year, while Bulli also received a high commendation for the McDonald's Nipper weekend in February.

The Integral Energy Surf Safety summer program, which was delivered throughout the summer months,? also received a high commendation for the NSW Community Education Program of the Year.

Amanda Scott, 19 was presented with both the event of the year and the high commendation for the community education of the year.

"Its great to see the Illawarra come home with awards, as it really shows the hard work which has been put in this season," Scott said.

"This is the second season we have come home with Event of the Year for the Australia Day Rookie Rescue challenge, so everyone is just thrilled to have backed it up again."

The night held at Bondi was attended by over 350 members and recognised the best of the best lifesavers, competitors and volunteers from all over NSW.