Joan Shannon is retiring at 79 years young.

Westpac Rescue Helicopter volunteers recently bid farewell to the long-time serving volunteer from Corlette.

Mrs Shannon started volunteering 20 years ago with her husband (Dec), and at 79 years she has decided to call it a day.

Mrs Shannon said there is “always something to plan and consider, especially how our decisions today would impact on the future.”

“Consideration of future benefits and usefulness, this has kept me mentally alert,” Mrs Shannon told Bay News Of The Area.

Mrs Shannon, surrounded by the love and support of fellow volunteers, beamed as she received a bouquet of flowers and certificate, but most importantly the beautiful words from her colleagues.

“I have known Joan for nine years, she was here when I started volunteering,” fellow volunteer Des Cobb said.

“The best thing about Joan is she is always happy and helpful. She is also very good at selling raffle tickets, she’s raised a lot of money.”

“Joan is just gorgeous, always turns up for meetings, she’s a fun lady and comes out with funny things too,” Glenda Hickey of Nelson Bay said.

“She will be greatly missed and we will continue to support Joan as she enjoys her leisure time,” volunteer Neddie Billet said.

Mrs Shannon plans to spend time relaxing and enjoying the pleasures in life.

By Mandy ELLIS