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Rachel Hessey named 2026 Westfield Albany Local Hero

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Hibiscus Coast, 22 October 2026 - She did it! 

Coastguard Hibiscus volunteer Rachel Hessey has been named the 2026 Westfield Albany Local Hero, winning a $20,000 grant for the unit!

Rachel has given more than 10 years to Coastguard Hibiscus as a skipper, fundraiser and mentor. 

She served two years as unit President and is the unit’s only female qualified Master. 

Rachel along with her fellow unit volunteers. helped bring more than 300 people safely home last year.

“Thank you to everyone who voted for us. It made a huge impact,” said Rachel.

Massive thanks to everyone who got behind Rachel, you made this happen. 

The grant will go towards training for Hibiscus volunteers, helping keep the unit’s crews rescue-ready.

Congratulations Rachel, a deserving local hero!

Jerome Buckleigh 
Senior Communications Advisor 
[email protected]

It takes a crew to save a life

Coastguard is a charity powered by volunteers. Your support can help make boating safer for all Kiwis.