Ms Pattinson lived in the Bowral for the last years of her life, before passing away in 2016, aged 85.

With no surviving relatives, Ms Pattison gave her estate to a number of worthy charities, including the three local surf clubs.

South Coast Surf Lifesaving president Steve Jones said he was both humbled and appreciative of the Ms Pattinson’s generosity when contacted by the executor of her estate, solicitor Philip Boyce.

“I had never met Ms Pattinson but her generosity is greatly appreciated,” he said.

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“Her bequest will assist our three surf lifesaving clubs to purchase vital lifesaving rescue and first aid equipment for our patrols on the South Coast Branch.

“Mr Boyce contacted me some weeks before the annual presentation and we decided to keep the announcement until the awards’ evening.”

Each club will receive $18,603, from a total of $55,809 from Ms Pattinson’s estate.

Mr Boyce said since her childhood growing up in Mosman, Ms Pattinson had a passion for the sea and beach.

“She was never happier than when she was sailing her boats or motoring around the Harbour in her cruiser,” he said “until she was in her late 70s she owned a boat moored at Bobbin Head that she managed to use most weekends single handedly.

“With that association and experience with boats and the sea she knew of the raw power of the sea, its beauty and inherent dangers.

“It followed that she had the utmost respect for these who dedicated their time and risked their comfort, safety and lives to keep the users of our waterways, sea and beaches safe.

“In her will she wanted to make gifts to support those who generously and selflessly give their time and spirit to serve their communities.”

Another highlight on the evening was the announcement that Mr Jones and Mollymook’s Rod Austin were awarded life membership to the South Coast Branch.

“It was a total shock,” Mr Jones said.

“I had no idea. I was thinking how did this happen, I was kept out of the committee which I sit on that makes such decisions.”