When it comes to young people who make the Northern Beaches great, Cooper Morgan and Lachlan O’Callaghan are perfect examples. During a routine shift at Quays Marina in Church Point, their quick thinking and bravery saved a life. 

These two young men demonstrated leadership and skills well beyond their years, and now it’s time to celebrate more incredible stories like theirs. Nominations are closing soon for this year’s Australia Day Awards. 

Nominate a young person doing great things in our community today. 

Read more about Lachlan and Cooper’s lifesaving efforts and how it felt to receive the Northern Beaches Australia Day Young Citizen of the Year Award. 

Tell us why you were recognised as Young Citizens of the Year?

Lachlan: We were working one day at our jobs at Quays Marina and taking people out to their boats. As we were coming back into the marina, we saw a boat had capsized, and then realised there was someone in the water. 

Cooper: This guy was struggling, barely staying afloat so we got to him, hauled him up and made sure he was alright. He was responsive but very stressed and in shock as well. We were so glad he was alright.

How did you know what to do in that kind of stressful situation?

Cooper: At the time, we had both been working at Quays Marina for a number of years so we’ve completed a lot of training and we have also learnt a lot from nippers in Surf Life Saving, so we used those skills when we needed to. 

How did it feel to save this person’s life?

Lachlan: It felt good to rescue him and know that because of us he was okay. If we didn’t get there in time, we don’t know what would have happened because he was going under the water. 

How did it feel to win the Northern Beaches Young Citizen of the Year Award together?

Cooper: It was great to be recognised because it felt really good to help this guy, and it’s nice to know our efforts might have saved his life. 

From our young trailblazers and inspiring seniors to dedicated community groups, sportspeople, and event organisers, let’s recognise those who make the Northern Beaches even better. Nominate them today.