Federal and state politicians honour Bill Ewen and Frank Petsch

The deaths of Ballina Marine Rescue volunteers Bill Ewen and Frank Petsch have now been formally acknowledged in both the Federal and NSW parliaments, with local MPs delivering emotional tributes to the two men and the wider rescue community.

Richmond MP Justine Elliot, Page MP Kevin Hogan and Ballina MP Tamara Smith all spoke over the past week about the tragedy that shook Ballina and the Northern Rivers.

Their statements are reproduced below.

Justine Elliot MP  – Member for Richmond

“I rise today on behalf of my community whose hearts are breaking right now following the recent tragedy in Ballina.

“Early last week, a crew of six Marine Rescue volunteers went out in difficult and dark conditions, answering the call to assist a vessel in distress.

“They did what emergency service volunteers and personnel across the north coast and across the country do every single day: they put the safety of others before their own.

“Tragically, local heroes and Marine Rescue volunteers Bill Ewen and Frank Petsch made the ultimate sacrifice and died during the rescue.

“And the sailor they’d gone to rescue, Matthew Clayton, also died, after his boat struck the South Ballina breakwall.

“It takes a remarkable kind of person to head into dangerous conditions to help others seeking safety.

Justine Elliot, far right, with NSW Emergency Services Minister Jihad Dib at a press conference held at the Marine Rescue Tower on May 7.

“Bill and Frank did so without hesitation because they believed in service over self.

“That is a legacy worthy of our deepest respect and gratitude.

“The courage, dedication and selflessness of these two brave heroes must always be remembered.

“Our community stands united in grief with the survivors, the families and friends affected and with our dedicated local Marine Rescue volunteers, who have been devastated by this tragic event.

“I also pay tribute to the extraordinary bravery of all emergency service personnel who responded to this horrific incident with courage and compassion.

“My heart breaks for everyone impacted, especially the loved ones of those involved.

“May they rest in eternal peace.”

Kevin Hogan MP – Member for Page

“I’d like to rise to acknowledge a tragedy that recently happened in my community.

“On May 5, Marine Rescue volunteers from Ballina answered a call to assist a boat in distress.

“Six volunteers launched into dangerous conditions.

“Tragically, the rescue vessel capsized, and Bill Ewen and Frank Petsch made the ultimate sacrifice.

“We often speak in this place about courage, service and community spirit.

“Bill and Frank showed all three.

Kevin Hogan joined Mayor Sharon Cadwallader to lay floral wreaths on the breakwall on May 5.

“They were volunteers who quietly dedicated their time, skill and compassion to protecting others — men who loved serving their community and never hesitated when help was needed.

“Their loss has deeply affected the Marine Rescue family and our wider community.

“I extend my condolences to Bill’s wife, Kerry; Frank’s wife, Janet; and their extended families.

“Bill Ewen and Frank Petsch: rest in peace.”

Tamara Smith MP – Member for Ballina

“With deep sadness, I acknowledge the tragic loss of two of our Ballina Marine Rescue NSW volunteers, Bill Ewen and Frank Petsch, who died in the line of duty off the Ballina Bar on Monday.

“I offer Bill and Frank’s families and loved ones my deepest condolences during this unimaginably difficult and painful time, and extend those condolences to the entire Marine Rescue community.

“I also acknowledge the death of the solo yachtsman, Matthew Clayton, and offer our community’s sorrow at his passing.

Tamara Smith also laid flowers near the Marine Rescue tower on May 5.

“Bill and Frank were part of a highly skilled and dedicated crew who volunteer to help others at one of the eastern seaboard’s most treacherous bars — an act that speaks to the very best of our community.

“Their loss is a profound shock for Ballina and a solemn reminder of the risks that our Marine Rescue volunteers take in keeping others safe.

“Bill was a longstanding volunteer, known for his kindness, generosity and deep commitment to helping others.

“Frank was an experienced vessel operator and trainer, known for his energy, skill and love of the ocean.

“These men gave their time, their strength and, ultimately, their lives in service of others.

“I offer our deepest condolences.”