The volunteer lifeguard and basketball coach was selected under the theme Inspiring Others to Achieve, which recognises unsung heroes who help others achieve goals and are an inspiration to their local community.

Mr Noter said he was honoured to grace the front cover and was surprised with his selection.

He came to Warrnambool from Robinvale in 1990 to play basketball and since then he has coached thousands of budding players, with several junior players going on to represent the state and nation. 

In 2007, he established the local arm of Basketball 4 All, an initiative to cater to the needs of people with disability and he widened the scope of his volunteer work when his daughter joined Warrnambool’s surf lifesaving club.

It sparked an interest in him to teach lifesaving skills to kids and create opportunities for locals to participate in events nationwide. 

“It’s great to see young people in the region keeping fit and healthy,” he said.

“I’m really proud of what they’ve achieved through hard work and determination.”

White Pages product manager Sarah Simpson said this year’s covers will celebrate humble community members who don’t always get the recognition they deserve.

“There are thousands of Australians going the extra mile to help other people succeed and never ask for thanks or recognition,” she said.

“This year we are thrilled to recognise Rebel’s efforts inspiring his community.”

Warrnambool’s new telephone directories will be distributed throughout the south-west over the next six weeks from today.