Gavin Burke has given most of his life to local surf clubs. Despite being described as “probably the most decorated sweep” for surf boats at Kempsey-Crescent Head Surf Life Saving Club over the past 20 years, he says the lifelong friendships are the highlight. “It’s about the people that I’ve met more so than the awards and the achievements,” Burke told the Mid North Coaster. Decades of dedication: Burke grew up in Smithtown, in Kempsey Shire.