Congratulations to Mr. David Macallister OAM

Everyone at Royal Life Saving NSW is incredibly proud to congratulate David Macallister on being awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the 2026 King’s Birthday Honours.

This honour is a wonderful and well-deserved recognition of David’s extraordinary contribution to Royal Life Saving, the aquatic industry, and communities across Australia over many decades.

David’s journey with Royal Life Saving began as a volunteer lifesaver, athlete, instructor and examiner, roles that reflected his genuine passion for helping others and keeping people safe around water. Those same values of humility, dedication, reliability and community remained at the heart of his leadership throughout his career.

As Chief Executive Officer of Royal Life Saving NSW, David played a transformative role in shaping the organisation into the respected and trusted leader it is today. Through his vision, passion and unwavering commitment, he helped expand the reach and impact of Royal Life Saving programs across New South Wales, ensuring more people than ever before had access to swimming, water safety and lifesaving education.

One of David’s greatest legacies is the growth of Royal Life Saving’s regional presence. His commitment to supporting regional and remote communities helped establish and strengthen regional offices across the state, including the development of the Northern NSW Office, ensuring lifesaving programs and services could reach communities where they were needed most.

By the conclusion of his professional career, Royal Life Saving NSW programs were engaging more than 100,000 people annually and supporting the delivery of more than 250,000 swimming, water safety and lifesaving awards each year across New South Wales — an incredible achievement and a testament to David’s leadership and commitment to drowning prevention.

Even after stepping down as CEO, David’s passion for lifesaving has never slowed. Returning to his love of lifesaving sport, he accepted the role of Director of Sport for Royal Life Saving Society Australia, where he continued to support and inspire the next generation of athletes and volunteers.

Beyond the titles and achievements, David is widely respected for the way he has supported people throughout his career — mentoring staff, encouraging volunteers, building partnerships and always leading with integrity and care.

His impact on Royal Life Saving, and on the many people and communities he has supported over the years, cannot be overstated.

We thank David for his remarkable service, leadership and lifelong dedication to saving lives.

Congratulations, Mr. David Macallister OAM — this recognition is so richly deserved.