SEA RESCUE SPRING 2021 | NSRI MEMBERS’ MAGAZINE
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CONTENTS 10
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10 A SWIFT RESPONSE SAVES LIVES After heavy flooding, Sea Rescue volunteers and the SAPS diving unit bring stranded community members from
Riviersonderend to safety.
COVER PHOTOGRAPH: ANDREW INGRAM
14 SAFETRX TO THE RESCUE SafeTrx is still a lifesaver for those who find themselves in trouble out on the water. 18 THE RIGHT CALL We find out more about the progress of turtles Gabby and Loki after Ballito crew assist in their rescue. 22 IN THE NICK OF TIME St Lucia crew respond to a boat in dangerously rough surf.
24 KIDS’ CLUB Important water safety messages for our young members.
SPRING 2 02 1
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26 MARINE MEDUSAS Fascinating facts about jellyfish.
42 ‘WE ARE SINKING’ The story of how the entertainment crew onboard the Oceanos pulled off one of the biggest civilian maritime rescue operations in history.
29 IN THE NEWS
44 TAKING ON THE BOS 400
Fundraising drives, events, station and sponsor news.
36 AGM AND AWARDS We recognise the bravery and long-service commitment of our rescue crew, and acknowledge the contribution made by all our donors and supporters. 39 50 YEARS AND GOING STRONG We chat to Pat van Eyssen, Ian Hamilton and Howard Godfrey about their 50 years of service to Sea Rescue.
Phil Ress takes us through the harrowing rescue of the crew off a crane barge in 1994.
46 NSRI BASE LOCATIONS
SAVING LIVES. CHANGING LIVES. CREATING FUTURES. SEA RESCUE SPRING 2021
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FROM THE HELM J
UDGING BY THIS past week, the traditional
In June we were fortunate to be able to hold our AGM and Station Commanders Conference. I think
Cape weather is back. The Bakoven crew once again had to move their boat out of the shed in case the spring tide and swell caused the expected havoc, and I’ve been surfing in the tidal pool in the morning, albeit in that thick yellow foam. Exciting sea conditions like these fortunately keep boats at home and mean that our services are not required. Yet the cold season is a busy time for Sea Rescue as stations prepare for the summer, new boats hatch out of moulds and training continues in earnest. Hands may be cold but they’re not idle! What’s also apparent is that there is plenty of activity along the coast. I’ve just returned from a two-week sardine run, and it’s interesting to see how many people are kayaking, surfing and fishing in remote locations as they escape from the madness of the cities, even outside of school holidays. I was also sad to discover that, even in winter, children continue to drown on beaches and in estuaries, adding to the pressure on us to evolve services along the coast to prevent this. One positive aspect
it made everyone in the room realise how much we miss one another and the continuous social contact, which is such a necessary and fulfilling element of our service. What was firmly put on the table was the need to focus on people: our crew, donors, supporters and staff, without whose wellbeing we could not function. ‘People’ is a Strategic Focus for 2022, even more so than before. The Awards Evening was a welcome distraction from the current pressure in society, and every award-winner deserves our humble thanks. It was terribly sad not to have the Oceanos rescuers personally present, but I think we’ve made the point that this recognition was long, long overdue and our expression of thanks has been well received. We had several 40- and 50-year awards, among them Andrew Ingram, Howard Godfrey, Pat van Eyssen and Ian Hamilton… Incredible commitment and loyalty, and a wonderful example of service. They should all get President’s Awards! Our awards have maintained a high standard, and all credit is due to the amazing volunteer effort and service.
was finding Pink Rescue Buoys on beaches and in coves, placed and maintained by local residents, in the most remote areas – a real expression of ownership and commitment. Fantastic to see. I was also really encouraged by the sheer volume of wildlife underwater. We really live in an amazing country with incredible natural resources – something we as an organisation identify with from a conservation angle.
So, to spring! So much to do, so much to look forward to. As I write, that song by Tiësto resonates in my head: ‘Let’s get down, let’s get down to business…’. I suppose it is the typical anticipation of a great season to come. Let’s do it!
DR CLEEVE ROBERTSON, CEO
CAPE TOWN: NSRI, 4 Longclaw Drive, Milnerton, Cape Town, 7441; PO Box 154, Green Point 8051 Tel: +27 21 434 4011 Fax: +27 21 434 1661 Visit our website at www.nsri.org.za or email us at info@searescue.org.za www.facebook.com/SeaRescue
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THE PUBLISHING PARTNERSHIP MANAGING EDITOR Wendy Maritz ART DIRECTOR Ryan Manning ADVERTISING EXECUTIVE Bernice Blundell EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Mark Beare PRODUCTION DIRECTOR John Morkel MANAGING DIRECTOR Susan Newham-Blake ADDRESS PO Box 15054, Vlaeberg 8018 TEL +27 21 424 3517 FAX +27 21 424 3612 EMAIL wmaritz@tppsa.co.za SEA RESCUE OFFICE +27 21 434 4011 WEB www.nsri.org.za FUNDRAISING AND MARKETING DIRECTOR Janine van Stolk EMAIL janine@searescue.org.za MARKETING MANAGER Bradley Seaton Smith bradley@searescue.org.za COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER Megan Hughes EMAIL megan@searescue.org.za PRODUCED FOR THE NSRI BY The Publishing Partnership (Pty) Ltd, PO Box 15054, Vlaeberg 8018. Copyright: The Publishing Partnership (Pty) Ltd 2021. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited without the prior permission of the editor. Opinions expressed are those of the authors and not the NSRI. Offers are available while stocks last. PRINTING Novus Print ISSN 1812-0644
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WINNING LETTER
Thank you, Nina, for sending us this lovely story. Your prize is on its way.
In the first week of October this year, a yellow-bellied sea snake washed up on the beach at Bluewater Bay, Port Elizabeth, near the Bluewater Bay Surf Lifesaving Clubhouse. It had been a windy few days, with an easterly gale blowing off the ocean. That morning it was still quite windy and overcast and, being a weekday, there were hardly any other people about. As I was still working from home, I had decided to go for an early-morning jog along the Swartkops River mouth, and as I headed back towards the beach I encountered a woman who was walking her dog on the beach. She told me of a black snake lying curled up on the beach, and that she had had to keep her dog away from it. I was very curious, because a week or two earlier I had read a report in a weekend newspaper about a yellow-bellied sea snake having washed up on a beach in Cape Town. I jogged along the beach, scanning the sand, and sure enough, there was the serpent coiled up and resting at the high-water mark. It was quite covered in sand and I did not want to get too close to it, so I did not get to see its belly – but I definitely noticed the distinct camouflage-hued ‘paddle’ at the end of its tail. I was fascinated by this rare find on our beach and circled the animal from about a metre’s distance, trying to detect movement. It was perfectly still, but the way it was coiled up suggested that it was still alive. I jogged home and immediately called the local Bayworld Marine Animal Stranding Hotline, after which I called local snake conservationist Mark Marshall from Sandula Conservation. Mark organised for one of his colleagues to collect the snake and the feedback I got later was that they had indeed liaised with Bayworld’s Dr Greg Hofmeyr, who happened to have a colleague who is currently doing research on the yellow-bellied sea snake! What an amazing chance this was to get up close and personal with such a fascinating creature. Not something you would expect to find on a casual morning jog! NINA BODISCH, BLUEWATER BAY, PORT ELIZABETH
PHOTOGRAPH: SANDULA CONSERVATION FACEBOOK PAGE
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LETTERS WHY I SUPPORT THE NSRI As I read the latest newsletter, it occurred to me
with myself tied to the board, my body would be found. The sun was going down as well and I
that perhaps I should take a few minutes to relate my own experience with the NSRI. It dates back many years to the 1980s when I was a young teacher in Walvis Bay, Namibia. As an ardent windsurfer and fairly competent if I may say so myself, I and a number of other lads had set off from the Walvis Bay Yacht Club to enjoy some time out in the bay, with not too much chop and a lovely stiff breeze. Time went by and I lost sight of my colleagues as the notorious Atlantic breeze turned nasty, and I found myself spending more time righting my board and sails rather than sailing. Land was distant and oft not visible as the waves grew and the cold water off the Namib Desert coast began to cause my core temperature to drop. I began to shiver uncontrollably. With no strength left, as those who have experienced this kind of situation will attest to, I tied myself to my board with my harness and resigned myself to the fact that this was probably the end but at least at some point,
must admit to having lost all hope. Unbeknown to me, though, it had been reported that no one knew where I was when the other sailors had returned. The NSRI boat was launched and volunteers began to search for the proverbial needle in a haystack, as the waves were now quite mountainous and chances of seeing me and my board on the ocean were minimal. This was not the attitude of the NSRI crew, however. They crisscrossed the bay, determined to find this errant young man – and some 40 minutes after setting off they came across me clinging to my board and pretty much unable to move myself to grab the side of the launch. I cannot express the feeling I had at that time when the familiar red markings of the NSRI loomed up next to me and strong hands reached down and literally hoisted my board and me to safety. I remember being covered with a number of foil-type and other blankets, and we hurtled back to shore, where things became somewhat blurry. Suffice to say that I believe it was hot
WRITE TO US AND WIN! The writer of the winning letter published in the Summer 2021 issue of Sea Rescue will receive an NSRI hoodie. Email your letters to info@searescue.org.za or post them to Sea Rescue magazine, PO Box 15054, Vlaeberg 8018. (Letters may be shortened and the winning letter is chosen at the editor’s discretion.)
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chocolate that was poured down my throat and, with hot water bottles and blankets on me, my shivering slowed and my blue colour turned a warm red. Since then I have been privileged to be involved in the education of many young people in four different countries as a school headmaster. None of this would have been possible had it not been for the NSRI on that Sunday afternoon. Is it therefore unusual that I support them? BRUCE R PHILLIPS
For NSRI membership or Sea Rescue subscription details: Email info@searescue.org.za or phone (021) 434 4011
LETTERS SUPPORTING LAUNCH A LEGACY The late Dennis Ronald Antrobus (right) was my
be higher than the other tunnel, and the breakthrough produced a significant rock fall from the hanging wall (roof) that would have injured or killed people had Dad not moved them out of the way just beforehand. A few years later, at the geological offices based in an old converted farmhouse, Dad was inspecting the premises when he came across two labourers lying unconscious in a large enclosed water tank. They had evidently climbed down a ladder into the tank to paint it and were overcome by the paint fumes. Ignoring the obvi-
street, where he intercepted a stroller with a child sitting in it that was rolling unattended down the hill right into oncoming traffic. Dad was a geologist by profession. Around 1965 he was attending an event underground at an Evander gold mine, which was then being developed. The stope (tunnel) between two mine tunnels deep underground was being developed to connect them. The mine dignitaries were assembled to celebrate the occasion near the point where drillers from one side were due to break through to the other side. Something made Dad uneasy, and he moved everyone back from the rock face, some distance away from the point where the drill was expected to break through. A wise decision. The incoming tunnel proved to
ous danger to himself and without hesitation, Dad climbed into the tank and got both men out of the enclosed tank and resuscitated them. It was their lucky day that he spotted their predicament. He probably saved my sister’s life too, when she was about seven or eight. One Sunday morning Dad went out to check an exploration borehole, and she went with him. While walking from the truck to the driller’s shack, she touched the corrugated iron wall of the drill shack with her arm and it turned out to be live! It was electrocuting her so she yelled. Dad sprang over and yanked her away from the shack. She escaped with only a burnt arm and a hell of a fright. MARK ANTROBUS SC For more info on Launch a Legacy, visit nsri.co.za.
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father and it is his name I nominated to appear on a rescue vessel. His actions likely saved people’s lives on more than one occasion, which is why I consider his name to be worthy of display on a rescue vessel. I thought it may be of interest to relate some incidents in which his actions saved a life. In the late 1950s on Margate Beach a woman sitting nearby went into convulsions, which Dad recognised as an epileptic fit. He took charge and asked someone to hold the woman’s flailing arms; asked someone else to summon an ambulance; and then held the woman’s head, opened her mouth and got hold of her tongue. He held her tongue until the ambulance and paramedics arrived and took over. This was to ensure that she wouldn’t die by swallowing her own tongue and suffocating on it, as I gather can happen with epilepsy. Also while on holiday on the South Coast, the family was walking along the pavement beside the main road (now the N2) in a hilly coastal town when my mother suddenly saw Dad take off at speed and sprint ahead 50 or 60 metres down the
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RESCUE
A swift response
SAVES LIVES
After heavy rains left a group of people stranded in Riviersonderend, Sea Rescue volunteers from Kleinmond and Hermanus joined the SAPS diving unit to assist in bringing them to safety. By Cherelle Leong
B
Y THE MORNING OF 6 May 2021, the Overberg had experienced 200mm to 300mm of rain in 24 hours – more than double the rainfall that had been predicted.
resources. Station 42, along with Station 17 (Hermanus) were asked to assist. Kleinmond activated with five crew members – Michael Kiesling, Schalk Boonzaaier, Riaan Smit,
With river levels rising rapidly, Regional Disaster Management knew there was a very good chance of people getting stranded owing to flooding and had issued warnings to the public the day before to stay away from rivers and low-lying areas. Station 42 (Kleinmond) station commander Schalk Boonzaaier received a call from the head of Disaster Management for the Overberg region around midday on 6 May. There was a large group of people stranded in Riviersonderend. While police divers were on the scene assisting them, there were concerns that water levels could rise even further. With half the day already gone and only a few hours of daylight left, there was a risk that they would not be able to get everyone to safety before nightfall without additional rescue
Marco Pretorius, Merwe Krige and Jaco Stemmet Jnr – and hitched up their JetRIB to travel to Riviersonderend. Hermanus responded with three crew, namely André Barnard, Antonie de Klerk and Jean le Roux, as well as their 4.2m RIB. Sea Rescue crews are specifically trained in swift-water rescue to be able to assist when inland flooding occurs. Such an operation requires good knowledge of rope work and careful planning, and is a specialised rescue skill.
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DAYLIGHT FADING It was an 80-minute drive to get to Riviersonderend, and daylight hours were fast slipping away. On arrival, the Sea Rescue crew met up with the police divers on the scene to determine how best
Clockwise from left: Sea Rescue crew and SAPS divers worked together to evacuate all members of the community who were stranded.
they could assist. There were 45 people and a dog still stranded on the other side of the flooded river. The water was flowing quite fast and a great deal of debris was being swept downstream in the flood. The deepest and fastest flowing sections were on the far side of the river, and that was where police divers were using their jet-ski and RIB to ferry people to a low-lying island. It was decided that the police would continue to work on the faster-flowing side of the river with their two craft and the Sea Rescue crews, rather than launching their craft too, would work on the shallower side of the island, where they could wade through the water safely. Working in tandem in this way would speed up the rescue efforts significantly. The Sea Rescue team set up a safety line stretching 100m across the water. They then linked the two inflatable rescue crocs together so that six casualties could be ferried across at a time.
These rescue crocs are small non-motorised rescue craft, large enough to accommodate a stretcher or three adults sitting up. They are most often used to recover patients from rocky shorelines but are also ideally suited to swiftwater rescue work. The rescue crocs provide a safe floating platform on which to transport casualties through water, so that they don’t need to get wet in the process. Considering that the stranded group included many children and elderly people as well as SEA RESCUE SPRING 2021
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a pregnant woman and a man with a medical condition, it was agreed that this would be the most effective way to get them all safely across the flooded river. GROUP EFFORT Working in relays and starting with the pregnant woman and the man with a medical condition, the Sea Rescue crew waded alongside the inflatable crocs, ferrying everyone that had been brought to the island by the police divers to the
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Clockwise from top right: The flooded road just beyond the joint operations centre (JOC); volunteer Riaan Smit with the dog that had been stranded along with members of the community; the JOC from where the evacuation was managed.
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rescue craft. This operation is a great example of the success that can be achieved when various organisations work together, each contributing their respective expertise and rescue experience to ensure a positive outcome. Sea Rescue’s mission is to save lives on South African waters and this extends to inland dams and rivers. We’re very glad to be able to assist other rescue organisations when needed and are proud to have helped in getting 45 stranded members of the farming community and a pet dog to safety that day.
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area on dry land where a joint operations control centre had been set up. Here medics waited to assess everyone before they were transported to a place of safety. Only six people could be transported at a time, so it was slow going – but all the casualties participated calmly in the rescue while maintaining high spirits. The rescue was concluded successfully just before dusk. For the police divers on scene it had been a very long, cold and wet day and they were quite relieved finally to be able to recover their
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N
O! IT CAN’T BE, thought Darren Zimmerman. He’d just received a call from the
NSRI Emergency Operations Centre about a kayak in trouble near Bellows Rock off Cape Point. ‘Bellows Rock? Really?’ He asked the duty officer at the emergency operations centre (EOC) to send him an image of the NSRI SafeTrx console’s screen. ‘In the old days we used to be given GPS coordinates and we’d have to get to a chart and plot the position before we could see where it was,’ Darren explains. Seconds later, the image appeared on his phone, showing that the kayaker was indeed nearly 3km off Cape Point. On the SafeTrx screen, Darren could also see the kayaker’s speed and which way it was heading. That kayak wasn’t going anywhere. ‘We always look at the reported speed on SafeTrx because that also gives us a clue as to whether a vessel is in trouble,’ he says. ‘If we can see that, say, it’s a surfski, and that it’s proceeding
at 5 knots towards Fish Hoek, we can be fairly sure there’s nothing wrong.’ In this case it was clear that the kayaker was in danger, so Darren activated his crew on the emergency WhatsApp group. KAYAK FISHING Adurraheem Hoosen, 37, had set out from Buffels Bay at 7am that morning with a couple of buddies, all on fishing kayaks. ‘The yellowtail were running and I caught one just inside Cape Point,’ Adurraheem says. Once he landed the fish, he noticed birds diving into the water a little further out, indicating that the school had moved beyond the point. ‘The swell was bigger, maybe 3m,’ he says. That didn’t bother him, though; there wasn’t much wind. Adurraheem focused on the fish and an hour had passed quickly when he looked around to find himself further out than he’d realised. His buddies
SafeTrx to the RESCUE SafeTrx is still proving to be a lifesaver for those who find themselves in trouble out on the water. Robin Mousley shares the latest story.
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had all turned back at the Point and he couldn’t see any other boats at all.
‘We did a rescue from Smits a couple of years ago,’ Darren says, ‘and on that occasion it made
He’d paddled into an area of rougher, confused water and it felt as though the waves were coming from every direction. He suddenly felt very alone. In that moment he lost all confidence in his ability to paddle back. From paddling and fishing, it had become a matter of fighting to stay upright. Taking out his phone, he pressed the ‘Call for help’ button – and moments later he was talking to the NSRI EOC.
sense to recover the casualty by sea.’ With Smitswinkel Bay being close to Cape Point, it made no difference for the moment – they were on course for either rescue. Moments later Darren was informed that the surfski paddler, although hurt, was able to walk and had been taken to one of the houses in Smitswinkel Bay, where he was being looked after. A Cape Medical Response paramedic vehicle was dispatched to help, so for the Donna Nicholas Adurraheem Hoosen was the priority.
‘IT NEVER RAINS’ As the Donna Nicholas offshore rescue craft (ORC) motored out of Simon’s Bay, another call came in. This time it was a surfski paddler who’d apparently been injured in the surf at Smitswinkel Bay.
The brand-new 14.8m, 18-ton Donna Nicholas, the second of her class in the NSRI fleet, represents a whole new level of capability - including onboard internet connectivity.
SEA RESCUE SPRING 2021
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SafeTrx ON BOARD The brand-new 14.8m, 18-ton Donna Nicholas, the
‘I say it time and time again: SafeTrx takes the “search” out of “search and rescue”, but now it’s
second of her class in the NSRI fleet, represents a whole new level of capability - including on-board internet connectivity. ‘In the past we used to get GPS positions passed to us by radio – the navigator would have to write down the information and then plot the positions manually on a chart,’ says Darren. ‘You can imagine how difficult that is in a noisy, fast-moving boat in bad weather!’ Now, although the radio procedure is still available as back-up, the navigator simply watches the positions live, displayed on an iPad.
even easier to use,’ Darren says. Then came an alarming message: ‘Raheem just called he fell off the kayak trying to get back on to the white kayak’. Then: ‘Spoken to Raheem again he has managed to get back on the kayak’. ‘Ok noted thanks,’ went the reply. ‘We have a rescue swimmer ready’. On the SafeTrx screen, Darren could see that Adurraheem’s phone battery was low, so he didn’t try to call him again. The Donna Nicholas sped on at 21 knots, throwing the spray in sheets either side of her bulbous bow. ‘When we rounded the point into the big swell, we were still able to do 19 knots,’ says Darren. ‘In the old boat, in those sea conditions we’d have had to reduce to 12 knots or less.’ Finally, the Donna Nicholas’ crew caught sight of the fishing kayak, bobbing up and down in the confused sea. Taking control of the big ORC from the helmsman, Darren backed her up to the tiny craft and Adurraheem climbed aboard. ‘After his swim, he was a bit cold and shaken, so we wrapped him in a blanket and made him a hot coffee,’ Darren says. With the kayak on deck, the Donna Nicholas headed back to Simon’s Town and a grateful Adurraheem was given a lift back to his car at Buffels Bay. ‘We commend Adurraheem Hoosen for being properly equipped and for having the SafeTrx app,’ says Darren. ‘It makes our lives so much easier, especially with the Donna Nicholas’ new capabilities.’ Download NSRI’s free SafeTrx app from the Apple App and Google Play stores. Avid kayak fisherman Adurraheem Hoosen.
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RESCUE
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ENVIRONMENT
The
RIGHT CALL When concerned bystanders noticed a turtle in the surf at La Mercy on the KwaZulu-Natal coast, they called Station 41 (Ballito) to assist. While the outcome may not have been the desired one, valuable lessons regarding the fragility of our oceans’ creatures were highlighted, writes Cherelle Leong
I
t was mid-afternoon on Sunday 18 April 2021, when Station 41 (Ballito) station commander Quentin Power received a call from concerned members of the public. They were on the beach at La Mercy and had spotted what appeared to be a turtle floundering in the backline of the surf. Two crew were immediately dispatched to determine whether the turtle was in fact in need of assistance and not just resting. While the Sea Rescue crew were mobilising, a kite surfer made the decision to assist and was able to bring the turtle through the surf onto the beach where it could rest. When the crew arrived, they made a preliminary assessment of the turtle’s condition. The bystanders had been right to make the call, as the turtle appeared to be very weak. There were quite a number of bite marks on her shell as well as several soft spots under her shell, indicating a possible infection. Her head and shell were 18 |
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covered in barnacles, indicating that she had probably been floating on the surface for some time, unable to dive for food. STRANDING NETWORK Sea Rescue Ballito is part of the stranding network that assists KZN Wildlife, uShaka Sea World Aquarium and the South African Association for Marine Biological Research (SAAMBR) with distressed animals that wash up on the KwaZulu-Natal shoreline. In recent months they’ve assisted with four seals and three turtles, of
Wasabi is a green turtle that was rescued in Cape Town. She is still in the care of uShaka Sea World, where she enjoys munching on sea lettuce, getting back scratches and distracting her caregivers.
which this was one. This turtle was originally
would need to be kept in isolation until the cause
given the nickname Gary, but after it was determined that Gary was in fact a female, its name was changed to Gabby. Realising that the turtle would require rehabilitation before being released back into the ocean, uShaka Sea World was informed that there was a green turtle in need of medical attention. They confirmed that they had a vet on duty who would be able to receive the turtle and a tank available – one specifically used to house marine animals in need of recovery. This was fortunate, as the turtle
of her condition could be determined. COMPROMISED SYSTEM The Sea Rescue Ballito crew helped settle the turtle by cleaning the sand out of her eyes and then transported her to uShaka Sea World. On arrival there, she was given a thorough medical assessment by the vet and staff on duty, and a course of antibiotics to help fight off infection. Gabby was already very weak when she was taken into the care of uShaka Sea World. The vast SEA RESCUE SPRING 2021
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ENVIRONMENT
number of barnacles that covered her indicated that she had been floating for months. Some were even found on her head and up her nasal cavity. While she did respond to the first course of antibiotics and started eating on her own, her red blood cell count remained very low. Medical investigations revealed no ingestion of plastic or other blockages, but her system was compromised. At an estimated age of about six years, Gabby was not very old by turtle standards – not even a fully mature adult – yet all indications were that she had been ill for some time. Like humans, marine animals are prone to parasites and their health can be influenced by any number of environmental factors. She was given a second course of antibiotics and fought valiantly for two months, but unfortunately eventually her body simply wasn’t strong enough to recover. She died at the end of June. An autopsy showed that she had extensive tissue damage to her internal organs. While further tests were undertaken to determine the specific cause of death, at the time
LOKI’S STORY Since the start of 2021 Sea Rescue has assisted with four turtle rescues, including Loki which is the most recent. On Thursday 1 July, a male green turtle was transported to uShaka Sea World by Ballito station commander Quentin Power. The turtle had been found on the beach at Zinkwazi by local fishermen who had then alerted Sea Rescue. As part of the KwaZulu-Natal Stranding Network, Sea Rescue is often called to assist
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of writing the histopathology results had not yet been received. The staff at uShaka Sea World were devastated that Gabby did not make it. Her story is a stark reminder that, while we can put every effort into saving these beautiful marine animals, sometimes their illness or injuries are so far advanced that a recovery is not possible. Regardless, the
marine animals in distress and help transport them to facilities such as uShaka where they can be medically assessed, treated and rehabilitated with the end goal being to release them back into the ocean. As another of Quentin’s rescue patients, the turtle was named Loki. An external examination showed no signs of physical injury. However, he appeared to be exhausted and was also positively buoyant, which is not a natural or healthy state for a green turtle to be in. Unlike Gabby, he did not have any barnacles attached to his carapace which indicated that he had not been floating on the ocean surface for any length of time. Despite Loki’s initial unresponsiveness,
Calypso is a young green turtle in the care of uShaka Sea World.
team at uShaka are committed to never giving up, to make every effort to save each sea creature that is brought to them in need of medical care. No one knows exactly how long Gabby had been ill, adrift on the currents, before she washed ashore – but the public did the right thing in raising the alarm. Unless they’re nesting, turtles in South Africa should never be on the beach. If they
If you find marine animals and birds in distress along the KwaZulu-Natal coastline please contact your nearest NSRI station. Other numbers to have handy are: › South African Association for Marine Biological Research (SAAMBR): 031 328 8222 › KZN Wildlife: 033 845 1999 › uShaka Sea World Aquarium: 031 328 8222 are, it’s an indication that they’re unwell. Trying to return distressed turtles to the ocean will only add to their exhausted state, as they will not be able to battle their way through the surf. Rather, people are urged to contact the stranding network – uShaka Sea World, KZN Wildlife, SAAMBR or Sea Rescue – who will be able to assist to get the medical care the turtle most likely needs.
these were all positive indicators that he had a chance at recovery. As part of further diagnostics Loki underwent an X-ray the following day which revealed that one of his lungs was significantly larger than the other. This was an indication of a possible lung infection which fortunately is treatable. He is currently being kept in a shallow pool while he receives medical care and regains his strength. The team at uShaka Sea World are cautiously optimistic that he will be able to make a full recovery. Following his rehabilitation, it is hoped that Loki will be released back into the ocean in a few months’ time.
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In the
NICK OF TIME
A small boat caught in rough surf can mean serious trouble. Fortunately, because the St Lucia crew was alerted by their station commander who was already on the beach for leisure purposes, they were able to respond swiftly and assist casualties with serious injuries. By Cherelle Leong
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permission to return to the beach immediately and asked for medical assistance. THE NEED FOR SPEED Jan knew there was no time to waste and requested the assistance of Netcare 911 paramedics at the same time that he activated the crew. Back at the beach, Jan watched as the skipper cautiously manoeuvred the damaged boat back to shore. Once they were safely on the beach, Jan conducted a medical assessment of the crew and skipper. The skipper was uninjured but in shock. The three crew were not as fortunate and had
PHOTOGRAPHS: GETTY IMAGES, SUPPLIED
O
N MONDAY 5 APRIL 2021, the last day of the Easter long weekend, six Station 40 (St Lucia) Sea Rescue crew members were on their way to Cape Vidal for training when they received a phone call from their station commander, Jan Hofman. Jan was on the beach at St Lucia and had been preparing to launch his private boat when he witnessed another boat being battered badly by huge waves as it launched through the surf. Once through the backline, the stricken vessel’s skipper radioed in, reporting that the boat was damaged and three of the four people on board were seriously injured. He requested
RESCUE
more serious injuries. The most concerning was one casualty with a leg fracture. The other injuries included a dislocated shoulder and sprained ankle. Moving the man with the leg fracture was deemed too risky and once the Sea Rescue crew arrived, they helped to stabilise him on board the boat. The ambulance would not be able to drive on the beach, so they had to wait at St Lucia Ingwe Beach’s parking lot.
PHOTOGRAPHS: GETTY IMAGES, SUPPLIED
RECOVERY CO-ORDINATION Then began the complex task of recovering the casualty boat back onto its trailer with the three injured men and first responders still on board. It was a slow process requiring careful co-ordination and clear communication among everyone involved.
Station 40’s (St Lucia) rescue vessel, Wild Coast Sun Rescuer.
The stricken vessel’s skipper radioed in, reporting that the boat was damaged and three of the four people on board were seriously injured. There could be no hard jolting, and any mistake could increase the severity of the injuries of those on board. But patience and persistence paid off and the boat was successfully recovered onto the trailer. It was then towed across the shallow river mouth and back to the parking lot, where the Netcare 911 ambulance was waiting. The paramedics assisted in extracting the injured from the boat and stabilised those who needed to be taken to hospital. We are pleased to report that although the man with the fractured leg required surgery, all three patients are all well on their way to making a full recovery. The quick response of the St Lucia Sea Rescue crew helped stabilise the men’s injuries until more advanced medical care was available. On this May day the surf was particularly rough. All skippers are urged to assess the surf conditions carefully and consult with local boat charters before attempting to launch in harsh conditions. SEA RESCUE SPRING 2021
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CLUB K I D S CLUB KIDS In this issue we concentrate on
SAFETY FIRST! SAFETY FIRST! Have a look at the picture on the right. The taxi is trying to get across a river, but the river is deep and flowing too fast, putting the passengers in danger.
DON’T TRY to cross the river if the water is higher than your knee and flowing faster than usual.
If you come across a river that is flowing faster than normal, especially after rain, please remember: › SAFETY FIRST! Rather be late or do not attend an event to ensure your safety and that of others in your care. › Don’t try to cross the river if the water is higher than your knee.
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› Keep your shoes on. › If you do try to cross the river, hold hands. › If anyone gets into trouble, call 112. › Use rope or branches to help a person out of the water.
!
Colouring-in competition What important message can you find in these pictures? Please let us know, and send us your completed coloured-in picture. You can choose which one you’d like to enter, Or you can enter both. We will pick three winners who will win some awesome prizes.
EMAIL YOUR ENTRIES TO info@searescue.org.za
SEA RESCUE SPRING 2021
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ENVIRONMENT
Did you know that jellyfish are made up of 95% water and some species boast 24 eyes of varying ability? Naturalist Georgina Jones reveals more about these fascinating and beautiful creatures.
MARINE MEDUSAS
B
each walkers coming across amorphous blobs of jellyfish washed up out of the ocean aren’t likely to think of imageforming eyes, symbiosis or energy efficient movement. Unless it’s associated with the plough snails enthusiastically scooting towards their prey. As it turns out though, some jellyfish have better eyesight than snails, and, apart from the inevitable exception to the group, the stalked jellyfish, have the most energy efficient movement in the animal kingdom. Rather impressive for brainless animals that are almost entirely composed of water. Jellyfish are made up of about 95% water and are related to corals, anemones and bluebottles. The standard body shape is a bell with tentacles,
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in various arrangements; and jellyfish mysteriously manage their lives without many of the physiological systems vertebrates depend on. Like blood, a heart or brains. Jellyfish have a radial nervous system or nerve net, dispersed throughout their bodies. This can smell, respond to stimuli such as food or danger, and detects light. They use heavy crystals on stalks to ensure these eye spots are always oriented towards the sky. Some specialist species, though, have no less than 24 eyes of varied abilities. While most jellyfish have only simple eyes capable of distinguishing between light and dark, box jellies that live in mangrove swamps have eyes that are capable
of distinguishing colour and size. Some of
the reef-building corals, have symbiotic algae
their eyes always face upward toward the sky, others always face downwards, while still others function to avoid obstacles. All these different eyes work together to ensure the box jelly stays in the food-rich mangroves. Just how a creature without a brain manages this is still not well understood, but it may be that having differing eyes that perform only a few specific functions each may simplify information processing. Most jellyfish, like anemones, and bluebottles, get most of their food by trapping and stinging prey in their tentacles. Some jellyfish, like
called zooxanthellae living in their tissues, which provide them with nutrition that the algae generate through photosynthesis. The jellyfish in turn, provides the zoox, as they are known, with minerals that it absorbs from the sea water. These spotted jellies use their light and dark sensing eyes to stay in the sunlight during the day, ensuring that their zoox can maximise their time photosynthesising. That staying in the sun also minimises their likelihood of coming within reach of predatory anemones may be simple coincidence. Or possibly the jellies can also detect this danger. Open ocean jellyfish have less mutually beneficial associations: pelagic goose barnacles may take up residence on their tentacles, benefiting from the plankton swept towards them. There are also several species of fishes that use the tentacles as a refuge, occasionally also nibbling on the jellyfish’s flesh. This refuge, however,
Above: A nightlight jellyfish pulsing elegantly in surface waters. Right: Long trailing tentacles trap and kill floating prey.
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ENVIRONMENT
depends on the little fishes constantly avoiding being stung by the tentacles, either by physical avoidance or else by fooling the jellyfish’s recognition systems by coating themselves with concealing slime. Should these strategies fail, the jellyfish will feast on its uninvited guests. Though they may seem fragile, jellyfish are in fact capable of living in both oxygen-depleted and relatively saline environments, unlike most other marine animals. Their stinging tentacles and accommodating digestive systems are capable of trapping and consuming a wide range of prey animals, from zooplankton to crustaceans and small fishes; some jellyfish will also consume planktonic microalgae. Since they have only one body opening, their mouths function tidally, taking in food and ejecting wastes. Their mouths also function in their reproductive cycle.
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Top: Comb jellies resemble jellyfish but have no stinging cells, a defining characteristic of the group. Above: Box jellies typically have only four tentacles and cuboid bells. vortex is generated, further propelling the jellyfish with no extra expenditure of energy. This form of locomotion is used by all jellyfish except the stalked jellyfish. They don’t use it because, unlike all other species of jellyfish, after a brief career as juveniles in the plankton, stalked jellyfish settle on substrates such as seaweed and kelp and live their lives, from a jellyfish perspective, upside down. Their bells are extended to a stalk which attaches to the seaweed and their mouths face upwards, surrounded by modified tentacles, resembling flowers, if carnivorous ones.
PHOTOGRAPHS: LISA BEASELY
Jellyfish have a rather complex life cycle. They are usually either male or female, and each sex will produce either sperm or eggs that are released according to light cues, usually at dawn or dusk. In most species, the sperm and eggs are released into the water, but some species take sperm into their mouths and so into the body cavity where it can fertilise the eggs. Jellyfish develop through several larval forms before changing into the classic adult jellyfish medusa structure. Almost all jellyfish move using rhythmic pulsations of their bells. This form of movement is extremely energy efficient: muscular contraction of the bell generates a vortex, which propels the animal, and as the muscles relax, a second
NEWS
ORC NO 2 FOR SIMON’S TOWN
ON 1 April this year, Sea Rescue’s second search and rescue (SAR) offshore rescue craft (ORC), the Donna Nicholas, began her voyage to her new home at Station 10 (Simon’s Town) in Cape Town. She is the second of the series of ORCs destined to replace Sea Rescue’s fleet of big boats. The first, the Alick Rennie, was manufactured in full in France, and has been ensconced in her home at Station 5 (Durban) for the past two years. Donna Nicholas was imported as hull, deck and bulkheads and then completed by Two Oceans Marine in Cape Town. ‘The station is very proud that we received this high-tech SAR vessel and we look forward to being able to reach those in need speedily and in all weather conditions,’ says station commander Darren Zimmerman. ‘The vessel has been built for
The station buzzed with activity as final preparations were made for the new vessel’s arrival. The rescue base was renovated and the slipway and winch gear upgraded in order to house her. ‘Our fleet replacement programme will see the entire NSRI all-weather search and rescue fleet replaced with the new vessels over about 10 years, allowing for increased operational capability,’ says NSRI CEO Dr Cleeve Robertson. The new search and rescue vessels can accommodate six crew and up to 23 survivors. ‘Although most rescues are coastal and inshore, an increasing number of our operations require search and rescue vessels with extended range and advanced capability in safety and technology,’ adds Dr Robertson. ‘As the only
the worst of the conditions the Cape has to offer.’ The new self-righting and purpose-built rescue vessel is designed for rescue operations in extreme conditions. At 14.8m long and 4.8m wide, it can be deployed on rescue missions as far as 50 nautical miles (over 92km) from land and has an expected lifespan of at least 40 years. An excited Simon’s Town rescue crew began training on and testing the new vessel, which will be blessed later this year.
maritime rescue service operating in Southern African waters, we needed to make this investment to ensure all-round safety for crew and those being rescued.’ ‘Station 10 is very appreciative of all the efforts that have gone into making the arrival of Donna Nicholas possible and we wish to thank everyone involved, especially Mark Hughes, Executive Director of Capital Projects, who has driven the project for the past five years,’ Zimmerman adds.
HOW YOU CAN SUPPORT SEA RESCUE’S ORC PROJECT NSRI’s ‘Launch a Legacy’ campaign allows donors and supporters to celebrate or commemorate a loved one by making a donation of R2 000 and submitting a loved one’s name that will then appear in the lettering of the third offshore rescue craft in the fleet. To donate to the ORC project, go to nsri.co.za.
SE SA E AR R ES EC SU CU E ES P SR PR I NI N G G2 022012 0 |
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NEWS
THE NSRI OBSERVES WORLD DROWNING PREVENTION DAY ON 28 April 2021 the United Nations General Assembly unanimously adopted a resolution on drowning prevention that would see 25 July observed as World Drowning Prevention Day in order to promote water-safety awareness and encourage national action. According to the World Health Organization, nearly 360 000 people lose their lives due to drowning annually, and more than half of these deaths are among people aged 25 and younger. Drowning is the third leading cause of death in children aged five to 14 worldwide. In South Africa, there are approximately 1 500 fatal drownings each year, about a third of which are children under the age of 14. The impact of 30 |
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lives lost on families and communities cannot be measured, nor can the effects of non-fatal drowning, which may cause lifelong disabilities in victims. 1000 PINK RESCUE BUOYS On 25 July 2021, the NSRI observed the very first World Drowning Prevention Day at Rocklands Beach in Sea Point, Cape Town. The occasion was marked with more than 200 Pink Rescue Buoys and the number 75 displayed on the beach to celebrate the 75 lives that have been saved using the Pink Rescue Buoys since the project was launched in 2017. Currently, there are more than 1 000 Pink Rescue Buoys deployed at beaches, rivers and dams across South Africa. The most recent rescue involving the use of a Pink Rescue Buoy was at Rooi Els just past Gordon’s Bay, where three men launched their boat to rescue two fisherman who had been swept off the rocks. They took the Pink Rescue Buoy with them and used it as flotation to bring the men to
the safety of their boat. NSRI CEO Dr Cleeve Robertson presented Pink Rescue Buoy Awards
As a result, a number of initiatives have been introduced targeting high-risk areas and communi-
to William Boltmann, Francois Koekemoer and Richard Boltmann, who, once they were alerted to the fishermen in trouble, wasted no time in fetching the rescue buoy from the slip and launching their RIB to assist.
ties across the country. These have taken the form of water-safety lessons in schools, pop-up survival swimming classes at public swimming pools, water-safety learning materials that are freely available, and the roll-out of Pink Rescue Buoys at public swimming areas like beaches and dams. To date, we have reached just over 3 million people (mostly primary school children) with our lessons on how to be safe in and near water as well as how to do bystander CPR. You can help the NSRI to save lives by making a donation towards its survival swimming programme or its rescue services. Visit www.nsri. org.za/donate to see how you can help. Please support our drive to include water safety lessons in SA schools’ curriculum by signing our petition at https://bit.ly/3kW7oxC.
‘THINK PINK FOR BUOY’ TO SAVE LIVES The distinctive pink colouring of the rescue buoy is designed to stand out in water and provide emergency flotation. ‘The Rescue Buoys are bright pink so that they can easily be spotted on the water by responding emergency services. There is also a unique location number on the signpost so that crucial minutes can be saved for emergency services to help those in danger of drowning,’ says Jill Fortuin, NSRI’s Director of Drowning Prevention. ‘You’ll find our buoys at beaches along the coast, inland dams and rivers right across South Africa. But please remember that a stolen buoy could be a stolen life,’ she adds.
A water safety instructor demonstrates bystander CPR to school children.
WATER SAFETY EDUCATION The NSRI has made a commitment to drowning prevention through its water safety education programme. Established in 2006, the programme targets the most vulnerable members of the South African community: children. In this country, drowning rates are highest among children under four years of age, followed by children aged five to 14 years. Since its inception, the NSRI’s Drowning Prevention Department has engaged with communities and community leaders, schools, policymakers, municipalities and the public to share knowledge, collaborate, educate and gather and fund resources to address this critical public health issue that is largely underacknowledged and yet highly preventable. SEA RESCUE SPRING 2021
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NEWS THANKS FOR STATION TOUR WE would like to thank the Melkbos station commander for helping us to see how important the job is that you all do. We appreciate it very much and would like to say thank you for showing us what you guys do to keep people safe on the beach and in the ocean. We appreciate everything you do. (We might have some volunteers to join you.) ZONIKA LEE, OCEAN VIEW TUTOR CENTRE, SUNNINGDALE
The NSRI Annual Integrated Report is available to download from our website: nsri.org.za
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THANKS TO LAERSKOOL STELLENBOSCH LAERSKOOL Stellensbosch found an innovative way to raise funds for Sea Rescue. The learners collected coins, with which they filled in the letters ‘NSRI’. Altogether R11 832 was raised. Thank you very much to everyone from the school and community who contributed. The NSRI is unable to accept cash/ coin donations. The school banked the monies raised and transferred the funds electronically.
SPONSOR NEWS
The Gemini team receive their Strategic Partner Certificate.
THANKS TO OUR STRATEGIC PARTNER GEMINI MARINE GEMINI Marine was established by father-and-son team Mel and Jeff Stephens on 1 April 1979 under the name Inflatable Boat Centre, or IBC. Initially they sold and repaired imported rigid inflatable boats (RIBs) while working on developing their own brand. In the early 1980s they decided to test the waters with their own design and approached the NSRI’s Commander Holman with draft sketches
subsequent models (more than 100 to date), the brief has been met consistently for hardy vessels that are able to handle rough seas. Today Gemini Marine provides a turnkey service to NSRI, including professional fleet maintenance in close consultation with NSRI technical personnel led by boat coordinator Phil Ress, and capital projects director Mark Hughes. ‘RIBs go out in all conditions and make up 80% of our fleet. By collaborating, we’re able to improve on the tech all the time,’ says Phil. Gemini manufactures RIBs and inflatables for the NSRI that range in size from 4.2m to the 10.6m Cabin Class. Gemini and the NSRI have a shared goal: safety
of the 5m Waverider RIB. With some persuasion, Commander Holman agreed to review the boat, but only once it was completed. When the first test boat was presented in 1983, it was regarded with some scepticism. However, after thorough sea trials, the boat’s spectacular seakeeping abilities became obvious. ‘The NSRI was Gemini’s first big customer and collaborator,’ says Gerhard Neethling, Gemini’s CEO. ‘The first 7.3m Waverider was purchased by NSRI in 1986. Fitted with an aluminium cabin, it was way ahead of its time.’ Two years later, the prototype 8.5m Waverider was developed and subsequently stationed at the base in Agulhas.’ From the very first RIB, the Bird of Dawning, which was designed to NSRI specs, to all
at sea. Gerhard believes this ethos is the bedrock that has grown and sustained the relationship between the two organisations. ‘NSRI volunteers go out to sea when everyone else is heading to shore – they constantly put their own lives at risk for others,’ Gerhard says. ‘In my eyes there is no better reason for our association with these remarkable volunteers and the organisation they represent. ‘The relationship is one we cherish and, as a manufacturing facility of products that save lives, we have to learn and improve on what we do continuously,’ he adds. ‘Who better to keep on pushing us than the men and women of the NSRI? It is a mutually respectful, cooperative and reliant relationship that will last for many years to come.’
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P L AT I N U M PA R T N E R S
S T R AT E G I C PA R T N E R S
G O L D PA R T N E R S Africa Bunkering & Shipping / Afritech Equipment Solutions (Pty) Ltd / AMSOL / AMTEC / Cyclone Engineering Projects (Pty) Ltd / Denso SA (Pty) Ltd / Denys Edwardes (Pty) Ltd / Freddy Hirsch Group / Höegh Autoliners (Pty) Ltd / Kiddies Rides / Komicx Products (Pty) Ltd / Macs Maritime Carrier Shipping / Marlyn Vulindlela (Pty) Ltd / MiX Telematics International (Pty) Ltd / NCS Resins / Press Spinning & Stamping Co / Producer Ally Pty Ltd / RF Design / Resolve Salvage & Fire (Pty) Ltd / Richards Bay Coal Terminal / Ruwekus Fishing (Pty) Ltd / SMD Telecommunications (Pty) Ltd / Striker Fishing Enterprises (Pty) Ltd / Two Oceans Aquarium Trust / VVM Inc
SWIMMERS AND WALKERS RAISE FUNDS FOR STATION 41 IN May this year six swimmers set out on a 24km open-water swim from Salmon Bay to Umhlanga Main Beach to raise funds for Station 41 (Ballito). The day before, a group of 95 walkers had walked either the whole or sections of a land route covering about the same distance. Nine walkers completed the entire 24km route, but the hopes of the swimmers, who estimated their swim would take about nine hours, were dashed when an uninvited guest showed a bit too much interest in their endeavours. A great white shark, which they nicknamed Gary, was getting too close for comfort, so Sarah Jane Janse van Rensburg, Sarah Swainson, Mike Oberholzer, Jocelyn Attwell, father-and-daughter team Jay and Jordana Azrin, and boat second Nikola Ramsden had to abandon their crossing about five-and-half hours in. Mike said they were ahead of schedule and had made great progress, despite battling tough currents off Umdloti for more than an hour. ‘We were eventually taken much deeper out to sea than expected. That was when we were told by our monitoring crew that a shark was nearby,’ he said. Organiser Mike Gahagan of The Philocaly Trail said they were grateful for the tremendous support and turnout. Station 41 station commander Quentin Power was equally pleased to see the community rally in support of the fundraiser. The combined events raised R27 700 for the station. ‘On behalf of the Station 41 crew and our other bases, we would like to thank every contributor for their support in keeping our rescue boats and crews on the water and trained to be able to be the best at what they do – saving lives,’ said Power. SEA RESCUE SPRING 2021
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AGM AND AWARDS
AGM and AWARDS EVENING Every year, we pause to reflect on the previous year, review the financials, elect the leadership and recognise the bravery and long-service commitment of our rescue crew, and acknowledge the contribution made by all our donors and supporters. On Friday 4 June, the NSRI celebrated its 54th Annual General Meeting and Awards Evening at The Bay Hotel Cape Town.
Geoff McGregor receives the Meritorious Award on behalf of Station 7 (East London). Bravery Bronze: Terry Lester Bravery Gold: Julian Russell Bravery Gold: Lorraine Betts Bravery Gold: Moss Hills Bravery Gold: Robin Boltman Directors’ Thanks: Hilton Schilder, Peter Niemand, Tracy Hills, Tom Hine, Kaszuby II, Nedloyd Mauritius, Reefer Duchess, Great Nancy and FV Anik Meritorious Service Award: Station 7 East London accepted by Geoff Mc Gregor
the passenger ship Oceanos sprang a leak in horrendous weather conditions – hurricane-force winds and 10-metre waves – off the Wild Coast of South Africa on 3 August 1991 and eventually foundered 12 hours later. These are the most Bravery Awards ever issued by NSRI on one occasion to non-NSRI persons. The following persons and ships are honoured and awarded as follows: Bravery Bronze: Geraldine Massyn Bravery Bronze: Lieza Louw Bravery Bronze: Lynne Greig Bravery Bronze: Michael O’Mahoney Bravery Bronze: Neal Shaw Bravery Bronze: Piet Niemand 36 |
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The Bronze Gallantry Award is presented to Phil Ress. BOS 400 rescue Bronze Gallantry Award: Phil Ress For his courage and determination on 26 June 1994 when he was instrumental in saving 18 crew from the deck of the crane barge BOS 400, adrift in gale-force conditions in Maori Bay, near Llandudno, Cape Town. Directors’ Thanks: Howard Godfrey, Captain Brent Curtin and Jannie Jansen.
PHOTOGRAPHS: SIMON MCDONNELL
BRAVERY AWARDS Oceanos civilian recognition In recognition of their courageous actions when
STATION AWARDS The Most Improved Station: Station 31 (Still Bay)
Captain John Pocock receives the Directors’ Thanks on Vellum for his part in the BOS 400 rescue. Table Bay rescue: Yacht Savannah The swift reaction of two couples on the local yacht Savannah contributed to saving the lives of a man and a woman who capsized on their sea-kayak near Robben Island.
Deputy station commander of Still Bay Stefan Grové receives the award. The Best RIB Station: Station 36 (Oyster Bay) Lodewyk van Rensburg, station commander of Oyster Bay, receives the award. The Pat O’ Sullivan Trophy, for the best Class 1 Station: Station 17 (Hermanus) Hermanus station commander Andre Barnard receives the award.
PHOTOGRAPHS: SIMON MCDONNELL
Directors’ Thanks are presented to all four crew of the yacht Savannah: Paul and Jennifer Morris, and Jean-Louis and Sandrine Rabier. Jeffreys Bay rescue On the afternoon of 6 February 2021, the quick actions of four Jeffreys Bay teenagers saved a life. Directors’ Thanks presented to Abbygail Janse van Rensburg for her part in saving the life of a casualty in Jeffreys Bay.
Strand rescue Vincent Landman helped save a young female in the early evening of 27 February 2021 at the Strand. Directors’ Thanks presented to Vincent Landman, Station 9 (Gordon’s Bay). SEA RESCUE SPRING 2021
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SPECIAL-SERVICE AWARDS Water Safety Recognition Award: Station 23 (Wilderness) For innovation and commitment to place lifeguards on Wilderness Beach after the traditional lifeguarding season ended in mid-January 2021. Marmion Marsh Trophy awarded to Brad Geyser for his individual noteworthy service to the cause of Sea Rescue in South Africa over many years. Alric Simpson Trophy awarded to I&J Limited for rendering distinguished service to the NSRI.
LEFT: Brad Geyser receives the Marmion Marsh Trophy. RIGHT: Rob Landman receives the Alric Simpson Trophy on behalf of I&J. › Directors’ Thanks to Clifford Ireland – on the occasion of his standing down from the Awards Committee › Directors’ Thanks to Mark Hughes – on the occasion of his standing down from the Awards Committee › Directors’ Thanks to Dave Roberts – on the occasion of his standing down from the Awards Committee › Directors’ Thanks to Ivor Sindler – on the occasion of his standing down from the Audit Committee Honorary Life Governor Awards › Brad Geyser › Mark Koning 38 |
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Station commander Garth Dominy receives the Water Safety Recognition Award on behalf of Station 23 (Wilderness).
LONG-SERVICE AWARDS
20 YEARS Busisiwe Guga: Head Office Robyn Silverstone: Station 3, Table Bay Barry Purdon: Station 8, Hout Bay Jacobus Smit: Station 9, Gordon’s Bay Grant van Staden: Station 12, Knysna Jerome Simonis: Station 12, Knysna Marc Rodgers: Station 14, Plettenberg Bay Neal Stephenson: Station 14, Plettenberg Bay Jeremiah Jackson: Station 20, Shelly Beach Dirk Manten: Station 22, Vaal Dam Reinard Geldenhuys: Station 30, Agulhas 25 YEARS & HONORARY LIFE MEMBERSHIP AWARDS Pamela St Clair-Laing: Station 5, Durban Deon Langenhoven: Station 17, Hermanus, and Head Office Rhine Barnes: Station 18, Melkbosstrand 30 YEARS Darren Zimmerman: Station 10, Simon’s Town Graham Anley: Station 14, Plettenberg Bay Antonie de Klerk: Station 17, Hermanus 35 YEARS Andy Connell: Head Office Mark Thompson: Station 2, Bakoven Paul Jordaan: Station 14, Plettenberg Bay 40 YEARS Andrew Ingram: Head Office 50 YEARS Howard Godfrey: Station 3, Table Bay Patrick van Eyssen: Station 3, Table Bay Ian Hamilton: Station 15, Mossel Bay
PHOTOGRAPHS: SIMON MCDONNELL
AGM AND AWARDS
LONG-SERVICE AWARDS
50 YEARS
and going strong Pat van Eyssen Pat van Eyssen is still an active crew member at Station 3 (Table Bay). Pat has clocked in excess of 10 000 sea-going hours. What inspired you to join Sea Rescue? I was born in Bloubergstrand and grew up with the beach and sea as my playground. At low tide I would go to the little island with my mother and we would catch crayfish from under the rocks in the rock pools. My father had a little fishing boat and we would launch from the beach and go fishing. When my late brother-in-law, Peter Bestbier, invited me to join Sea Rescue, I didn’t waste any time. That was 4 June 1971; I was 18 years old. A few years later I became a skipper and, now, 50 years later, I am still very much involved.
PAT VAN EYSSEN
At NSRI’s AGM and Annual Awards evening, special honour was given to three NSRI members who have served the organisation for 50 years: Pat van Eyssen, Howard Godfrey and Ian Hamilton. We chatted to them to find out what inspired them to join Sea Rescue and to share memorable moments from their careers. What positions did you hold at Sea Rescue? I held the position of station commander at Station 3 (Table Bay) for many years but realised the importance of encouraging the younger crew to take over the reins. It’s important for me to share my knowledge and encourage our new trainees to learn and get involved as much as possible.
Is there a memorable rescue you can single out? There were many. In the earlier years we had the Chinese fishing trawlers running aground off Woodstock Beach. While waiting for a decision from the authorities, we were told that NRSI was not allowed to go out to the vessel. We had to go privately. Peter and I stripped out of our NSRI uniforms and walked out and boarded the vessel. All were rescued safely. We’ve also spent many hours at sea searching for little fishing boats that became lost in the fog SEA RESCUE SPRING 2021
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LONG-SERVICE AWARDS
to an emergency at sea. But, I will continue my service with the National Sea Rescue Institute
but every crew member was saved. How important is family support when you’re a volunteer? Very important. I am grateful to Jill and my children – Tracy, Karen, Candice and Patrick James – for the times they had to make sacrifices when plans had to change because I had to dash off
for as long as I am needed and for as long as my health allows.
Ian Hamilton Ian served Station 15 (Mossel Bay) until he retired from active duty in 2013.
deputy station commander, station commander, controller, director, member of the Awards Committee and Honorary Life Member.
When did you join Sea Rescue? I became involved in November 1969 when the Mossel Bay Rotary Club was asked by the town clerk of Mossel Bay (Mr Hofmeyr) to investigate the necessity of forming a Sea Rescue station here. The station formally opened on 1 May 1971, with Keith Burchell as Statcom, and I was a crew member. I was 33 years old.
How are you currently involved? I help out at the station when asked, but because of Covid-19 I do not go down to the station as often as I would like to.
What made you want to join as a volunteer? Probably my love for the sea and wanting to help. For how long were you an active crew member? From 1971 until I turned 75 in 2013. Describe your journey through Sea Rescue. I fulfilled quite a few positions, including crewman, coxswain,
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What is your ‘day job’? I’m retired and often at the rescue base to help out during office hours! I drive vintage sidecar motorbikes for Cape Side Cars. But business has been quiet due to Covid-19.
Any special moments during your time that you’d like to highlight? A highlight was attending the USA Coast Guard Conference in Los Angeles with Ian Strachan in September 2002. Any advice or motivation you can share with younger recruits? We are part of an incredible family of like-minded, caring volunteers in an organisation that is respected globally, and being a member is both an honour and a privilege – something to be really proud of. Never do anything to harm that reputation.
PHOTOGRAPHS: SUPPLIED
IAN HAMILTON
off the West Coast. In 2009, the Seli ran aground off Bloubergstrand. The operation took all night,
Below: The SA Seafarer grounded off Green Point Lighthouse. Howard Godfrey Howard’s career with the NSRI began in 1971. He considers it an honour to be of service.
PHOTOGRAPHS: SUPPLIED
What made you want to join as a volunteer? As a young boy living opposite Three Anchor Bay, I was always on the beach helping others to launch boats in the hope of getting a ride. What really got me going was the grounding of the cargo passenger ship SA Seafarer 50 metres off Green Point Lighthouse on 1 July 1966. I was there on scene just after the grounding and watched the entire rescue operation by the SAAF helicopters. It was a dramatic rescue as she was breaking up in the stormy seas. This was before
Bob Deacon and Ray Lant. I served as station commander, as well as a national operations technical committee member and then board member. I am currently an Honorary Life Governor.
HOWARD GODFREY
When did you join Sea Rescue? I joined unofficially as a helper at Station 3 (Table Bay) in 1968 and then officially January 1971, 50 years ago. I was 16 years old.
For how long were you an active crew member? I was active crew for more than 40 years. Any special moments during your time that you’d like to highlight? I was instrumental in moving us into the V&A Waterfront and helped to raise funds by running
Sea Rescue was formed in 1967 (then called the South African Inshore Rescue Service), but as a young enthusiastic boy always hanging around for some action, it sparked my interest to join.
the then Radio 5 Pledge Week with 12 telephones at a makeshift call centre in our new rescue base in 1991. This really helped NSRI at a difficult time, and our team at Station 3 did an outstanding job.
What was your first callout? My first unofficial callout was for the oil tanker Kazimah that ran aground off Robben Island in November 1970. As a junior crew member, I was lucky to even go; my joining papers were still in the base cabinet and weren’t processed until January 1971.
Any advice or motivation you can share with younger recruits? Sea Rescue is an amazing volunteer organisation that offers young people a world-class training programme in helping to save lives at sea and on inland waters around South Africa. You will meet people from all walks of life. You are not paid for your volunteer service but it will enrich you as a person. It can be a life-changing experience for all young South Africans. To assist in rescuing others is an honour.
Briefly describe your Sea Rescue journey. After joining as junior crew, I became a full crew member, trained by the founders of Sea Rescue,
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‘We are sinking!’
‘W
hat is your position?’ ‘We’re somewhere between East London and Durban.’ ‘No, I mean your coordinates.’ ‘We don’t know.’ ‘What rank are you?’ ‘I don’t have rank. I’m a guitarist.’ ‘What are you doing on the bridge? Get me the captain. Who’s there with you?’ ‘Er, it’s me, my wife and a … magician.’
to side – more than one would obviously expect during a storm. From the entertainers’ dining hall, Moss could hear the sound of plates and trays being dropped by the waitstaff in the main dining area, something he’d never experienced before. Moss began to wonder whether they’d even be able to play and decided to check on their equipment. ‘Stuff was sliding around the stage.’ And then the lights went out. The entire ship was in darkness for a few throat-constricting moments
This interchange between entertainer Moss Hills and Captain Detmar from Nedlloyd Mauritius might sound scripted from a comedy, but the events unfolding on board the Oceanos on the night of 3 August 1991 were anything but funny. The cruise ship had left East London Harbour earlier that day en route to Durban. As she headed into the open ocean, weather conditions became increasingly foul. Traditionally, the entertainers would host a sail-away party on the deck, but the weather was so bad, they relocated to the Four Seasons Lounge. ‘The ship really comes alive at night,’ says Moss, ‘and there was a great vibe despite the weather.’ The plan was to wrap up their session, have dinner and get changed for the evening show. Around this time, the ship began heaving from side
before the dim emergency lighting came on. People began to spill out from the dining room and their cabins to gather in the Four Seasons, which was getting fuller. By this time Moss was joined by his wife,Tracy, and magicians Robin Boltman and Julian Russell. The group thought they’d entertain the passengers while waiting for an announcement from the captain. Then a loud rumbling noise drew everyone’s attention to a large window. A lifeboat was being lowered into the water. While Moss’s first thought was ‘don’t panic’, he knew they needed to find out what was going on. The ship was listing to starboard and everything that wasn’t fixed began sliding and collecting in one area of the room. Moss and Julian decided to investigate what was happening in the shaft
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PHOTOGRAPHS: COURTESY OF MOSS HILLS
It’s been 30 years since the dramatic events that led to the sinking of the Oceanos off the Wild Coast. Moss Hills recalls the events as if it were yesterday. By Wendy Maritz
PHOTOGRAPHS: COURTESY OF MOSS HILLS
HISTORICAL RESCUES: THE OCEANOS
tunnel, a descent that would take them through the engine room, which was ominously empty. In
seemed to vanish as the drama unfolded.
the tunnel, they came across a large steel door. ‘I thought I could hear water sloshing on the other side,’ Moss says, ‘but I couldn’t be sure.’ Right then he realised ‘we had to get everyone off this ship’. What followed was a harrowing few hours of organising passengers into manageable groups and lowering lifeboats into the stormy sea below. The ship was listing so badly that the lifeboats, once lowered to the embarkation deck, were swaying out and then bashing against the side of the ship. Moss stabilised the lifeboats by hooking one leg into the lifeboat while holding on to the railing so passengers could get on, one by one. They filled and launched the lifeboats on the starboard side, then went to portside to launch those. The problem, however, was that the lifeboats were taut against the side of the ship as it leaned to starboard. They did manage to launch one with about 50 people in it, but only because the ship had rolled, allowing them to release the cable. ‘That lifeboat plummeted into the ocean,’ Moss recalls. ‘It was awful. I honestly thought people had
Moss remembers helicopters started arriving in the early hours of the morning. At that point, everyone was ordered on deck. Moss did one last check on the water levels, and as he got to the Cruise director Moss Hills. dining area he could see the water in the stairwell – everything was glistening in the semi-darkness. Back on deck, two navy divers had been lowered from the helicopters and airlifts were organised with 114 people each on the bow and stern. One diver launched a Zodiac boat, the other ran the stern airlift. Moss and Tracy ran the bow airlift, and one by one, the passengers were airlifted to safety. When there were only 12 people left, the ship started to tip up at the bow. ‘We scrambled to the back of the ship and then finally we were off too,’ says Moss. Every one of the 571 souls on board was saved. Moss has high praise for his wife, Tracy,
lost their lives.’ It was too dangerous to launch anymore. And so it was that Moss, Tracy and Robin were on the bridge sounding the Mayday alarm. There were still 228 people on board. As it turned out, the captain had already sent out a distress call and the South African Airforce had been mobilised. His crew had notoriously abandoned ship. The captain had one foot in the lifeboat himself when someone spotted him and asked what he was doing. He had remained on board, but
in particular. ‘You don’t know what a person has inside of them until there is a crisis.’ Of his friend, the late Robin Boltman, Moss says, ‘You’re unlikely to meet a funnier guy. He really helped keep people calm.’ (Robin famously uttered the words ‘Ons is nou almal in die k*k’ from the bridge.) It took the Oceanos about 45 minutes to disappear. Incredibly, it was down to a group of entertainers to organise one of the biggest civilian maritime rescue operations in history.
THIS YEAR, we had the honour of recognising the Oceanos entertainment crew who mobilised the rescue of more than 500 passengers onboard the stricken vessel. For the full list of recipients of the bravery awards, please see page 36. For indepth accounts of the rescue, read Andrew Pike’s Against all Odds and Robin Boltman’s Do these stairs go up or down, available at https://shop.searescue.org.za/collections/books. SEA RESCUE SPRING 2021
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HISTORICAL RESCUES: THE BOS 400
Taking on the BOS 400 If there is one rescue that stands out for experienced NSRI crewman Phil Ress, it was the evacuation of 18 crew off the crane barge BOS 400 in 1994. The mission was a success but, to date, it remains his most harrowing encounter at sea. By Wendy Maritz
commander Howard Godfrey knew something was amiss on the morning of 26 June 1994 when he was driving along Sea Point’s Beach Road and noticed what appeared to be a crane barge about 1.3nm miles offshore. Howard was on his way to watch The Ice Show with his family, but the sight of the barge, which was ‘a bit too close to shore for comfort’, prompted him to call Port Control. A MERCILESS STORM There clearly was a drama unfolding. The 100m crane barge BOS 400 was being towed by a Russian tugboat, Tigr, but the operation appeared to be in extreme difficulty as a merciless storm was battering Cape Town’s coast. A northwesterly wind of 44 |
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more than 50 knots was blowing, and swells were peaking at eight metres. But Howard was told he’d be informed of further developments. That update came in about 10 minutes into The Ice Show and both he and Phil Ress were asked to report to the Court Helicopter base in Paarden Island. They were to get a taste of what was to come later in the day when they were tasked with evacuating a pilot from a freighter. Howard recalls that the sea off the breakwater was huge. Once the pilot was dropped ashore, Phil, Howard, and the Court Helicopter crew – captains John Pocock and Brent Curtin, and engineer Jannie Jansen – were asked to fly over BOS 400 and report back. The tow line was intact, but the tugboat was having difficulty making her way out to sea. The helicopter returned to base and the crew reported their findings.
PHOTOGRAPH: AFRICAN NEWS AGENCY/ANA
F
ORMER STATION 3 (Table Bay) station
PHOTOGRAPH: AFRICAN NEWS AGENCY/ANA
THE INEVITABLE MAYDAY Call it gut instinct, but everyone knew it was just
The tow line had broken and BOS 400 was heading to Oudeskip, in danger of running aground with 18 crew on board.
thrashed around by the wild seas and wind. Phil
a matter of time before the Mayday call came in, and it did around 3.30 that afternoon. The tow line had broken and BOS 400 was heading to Oudeskip, in danger of running aground with 18 crew on board. Phil vividly remembers the flight to the barge. ‘The weather was atrocious. The sea was wild, and the northwester had picked up to 60 knots, with rain squalls and swells of nine metres. We had to fly under the clouds, about 200 feet from the water. We found BOS 400 hard aground off Oudeskip Point, just past Sandy Bay,’ he says. The barge was equipped with a helicopter pad, but it would have been too dangerous to land. ‘She had a massive crack in the centre of her hull and we knew we’d have to evacuate the crew using the hi-line equipment, as we feared she would break in half.’ It took great skill from both pilots to keep the helicopter hovering over the barge, which was at the mercy of the seas and hitting up against the rocks offshore. The crew, who were all wearing lifejackets, were lined up along the walkway ex-
remembers thinking she was going to break in two, because the crashing sound of the crane being whipped from side to side was so violent and deafening. The helicopter returned and the hoisting began, but about halfway through the operation, a huge squall swept over the barge and the helicopter had to fly another circuit, leaving Phil and the remaining seven crew on the violently heaving barge, now about 200 metres from her ultimate resting place in Maori Bay.
tending from the vessel’s bridge to the helipad. The double strop was lowered, but the crew were so unfamiliar with using it that they tried to climb into the strop, rather than securing their upper bodies, with the strop under their arms. Captain Pocock suggested Phil be lowered on deck to assist the crew, two by two, into the strops so they could be hoisted up. Phil agreed, but as soon as he reached the helipad, which he remembers was covered in netting, the barge broke away from the rock and a massive squall hit the deck. She began heaving from side to side at a 35-degree angle, turned 180 degrees as her overhead gantry smashed onto the rocks. The helicopter flew a circuit around the barge as she was breaking free of the rock and being
life going down on deck to make sure everyone was hoisted up properly. For Phil, it was thanks to the efforts of a superb helicopter crew of two pilots and the engineer, and Howard, his friend and mentor, that the operation was a success.
A LIFETIME IN 20 MINUTES All 18 crew were eventually hoisted up to the safety of the helicopter. Phil was the last one to leave the barge. The hoisting operation lasted about 20 minutes. For Howard, this rescue was by no means business as usual. The helicopter crew was exceptional, he says, and Phil risked his
RECOGNITION For their roles in the successful evacuation, Phil Ress received a Bronze Gallantry Award, Howard Godfrey, Captain Brent Curtin and Jannie Jansen received Directors’ Thanks, and Captain John Pocock received Director’s Thanks on Vellum.
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NSRI BASE LOCATIONS The NSRI is manned by over 1 350 volunteers at 44 bases around the country, including five inland dams. Our volunteers have day jobs but will always respond to your emergency.
43 Port Nolloth
NORTHERN CAPE
Strandfontein (West Coast) 45 Lambert’s Bay 24
4 Mykonos Yzerfontein 34 Bakoven Hout Bay
ASR
Kommetjie Simon’s Town Strandfontein Monwabisi (Satellite)
WESTERN CAPE
Melkbosstrand
18 29 3 Table Bay 2 16 Theewaterskloof Dam 38 8 10 9 26 Hermanus 42 33 17 30
Kleinmond Gordon’s Bay Strand (Satellite)
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Agulhas
Knysna
Mossel Bay 15 31
Witsand
Still Bay
23
12 14
Wilderness Sedgefield (Satellite)
46
35 Witbank Dam
25 Hartbeespoort Dam
27 Gauteng
NORTH WEST 22
MPUMALANGA
Vaal Dam
St Lucia
KWAZULU-NATAL
FREE STATE
40
Richards Bay 19
41 Ballito
Durban 5 39 Rocky Bay 20 Shelly Beach 32 Port Edward
Port St Johns 28 [Aux]
EASTERN CAPE
Kei River Mouth 47 (Aux]
7 East London Plettenberg Bay Storms River [Aux] 46
36
37 21
11 Port Alfred
6 Port Elizabeth Jeffreys Bay
St Francis Bay Oyster Bay
In an emergency
call 112 from your cellphone
or NSRI Emergency
Operations Centre (EOC)
087 094 9774 Find a location on this map or on our website nsri.org.za
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GENERAL NEEDS PLEASE CONTACT ALISON SMITH IF YOU CAN ASSIST WITH ANY OF THE FOLLOWING: › Data projectors and speakers or flat-screen TVs for training › GoPros or similar waterproof devices to film training sessions › Good-quality waterproof binoculars › Prizes for golf days and fundraising events › Towels for casualties › Groceries such as tea, coffee, sugar and cleaning materials
› › › › › › › › ›
Long-life energy bars Wet and dry vacuum cleaners Dehumidifiers Small generators Good-quality toolkits Top-up supplies for medical kits Waterproof pouches for cellphones Tea cups/coffee mugs/glasses for events Training-room chairs
TEL 082 992 1191 OR EMAIL ALISON@SEARESCUE.ORG.ZA
RESCUE BASES NORTHERN CAPE 43 063 698 8971 Port Nolloth WESTERN CAPE 45 066 586 7992 Standfontein (Matzikama) 24 060 960 3027 Lambert’s Bay 04 082 990 5966 Mykonos 34 082 990 5974 Yzerfontein 18 082 990 5958 Melkbosstrand 03 082 990 5963 Table Bay 02 082 990 5962 Bakoven 08 082 990 5964 Hout Bay 26 082 990 5979 Kommetjie 29 082 990 5980 Air Sea Rescue 10 082 990 5965 Simon’s Town 16 082 990 6753 Strandfontein 09 072 448 8482 Gordon’s Bay 42 063 699 2765 Kleinmond 17 082 990 5967 Hermanus 38 072 446 6344 Theewaterskloof Dam 30 082 990 5952 Agulhas 33 082 990 5957 Witsand 31 082 990 5978 Still Bay 15 082 990 5954 Mossel Bay 23 082 990 5955 Wilderness 12 082 990 5956 Knysna 14 082 990 5975 Plettenberg Bay
EASTERN CAPE 46 076 092 2465 Storms River [Aux] 36 082 990 5968 Oyster Bay 21 082 990 5969 St Francis Bay 37 079 916 0390 Jeffreys Bay 06 082 990 0828 Port Elizabeth 11 082 990 5971 Port Alfred 47 076 100 2829 Kei Mouth [Aux] 07 082 990 5972 East London 28 082 550 5430 Port St Johns [Aux] KZN 32 082 990 5951 Port Edward 20 082 990 5950 Shelly Beach 39 072 652 5158 Rocky Bay 41 063 699 2687 Ballito 05 082 990 5948 Durban 19 082 990 5949 Richards Bay 40 063 699 2722 St Lucia MPUMALANGA 35 060 962 2620 Witbank Dam GAUTENG 27 060 991 9301 Gauteng NORTH WEST 25 082 990 5961 Hartbeespoort Dam FREE STATE 22 083 626 5128 Vaal Dam
EMERGENCY OPERATIONS CENTRE DUTY PHONE: 087 094 9774
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MAKE A DIRECT DONATION ON OUR WEBSITE OR USE ONE OF THE OPTIONS BELOW. FOR DEPOSITS AND EFTS: ABSA Heerengracht Branch code: 506 009 Account number: 1382480607 Account holder: National Sea Rescue Institute Swift code: ABSA-ZA-JJ DONATE ONLINE: https://www.nsri.org.za /support-us/donate If you choose to do an EFT, please use your telephone number as a unique reference so that we are able to acknowledge receipt, or email your proof of payment to donations@searescue.org.za.
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Scan this QR code or visit the link below to pay using SnapScan. https://pos.snapscan.io/qr/ STB4C055 Please use your cellphone number as base/project reference so we can acknowledge your donation.
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