Marlborough Police, along with members of the Marlborough Coastguard paid tribute to one of Marlborough’s local heroes at a ceremony on Arapawa Island on Friday.
Joe Heberley has been the ‘go to man’ for Police search and rescue when boaties get into trouble in the Marlbrough Sounds and Cook Strait for decades. Joe, along with his sons and with his late father can be credited with saving the lives of countless people who have got themselves into difficulty on the water.
At the surprise presentation ceremony at the Heberley farm on the island Marlborough Police Area Commander Inspector Simon Feltham presented Joe with a District Commander’s Commendation and a plaque in appreciation from Marlborough Police.
Inspector Feltham said Joe had probably done more than any other person in Marlborough to support the community and serve others.
“Police are enormously reliant on people in the community to help us out and proved expertise and local knowledge in area when we are involved in a rescue.
“Joe’s expertise has been invaluable and numerous people wouldn’t be alive if it wasn’t for his expertise and efforts. His selfless commitment to service has saved countless lives and contributed to the rescue of numerous vessels and people in distress,” he said.
In response Joe said that as fishermen living in a remote environment “you don’t hesitate” to go to the aid of othersS.
“We might all be in that position one day and hoping that someone will come,” he said.
Coastguard Marlborough President Dick Chapman also presented Joe with an honorary life membership and a plaque in appreciation of his service.
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Photo
Marlborough Police Sgt Kris Payne, Inspector Simon Feltham, Joe Heberley, Senior Sgt Peter Payne, Sgt Mark Lewis.
Note: More photos and video available on the Marlborough Police Facebook page.