Every brave soul who gives time and energy to this noble endeavour does so in an entirely voluntary capacity.
The NSRI is a non-profit organisation run by 880 highly skilled volunteers who are on standby 24 hours a day throughout the year. With 29 coastal and three inland stations, the NSRI fleet comprises 72 rescue craft and 21 vehicles. In addition, NSRI volunteers also have access to a range of helicopters. The NSRI believes that it is through team effort that lives are saved and the institute enjoys a good working relationship with other emergency services.
Plettenberg Bay NSRI Station 14 won the award for the best Rigid Inflatable Boat (RIB) Station. On behalf of the crew, Station Commander Deon Truter also accepted a Station Excellence Award for being the best station in the region from Witsand to Plett.
"It is the crew, it is their dedication and commitment that make such achievements possible. Of course our fundraising committee also plays a major role. I am grateful to everyone who plays their part in serving this community," said Truter.
Plettenberg Bay has one of the quickest response stations in the country, averaging five minutes from call-out to having a rescue boat in the water. "That is what makes the difference between life and death," said Truter.
Three of Plett's volunteer crew members received long-service awards. Marty Reddering has been risking his life to rescue others for 40 years, Truter has been a NSRI volunteer for 25 years, and Brian Brink has spent 20 years in service.
According to Truter, most of the Plett crew members have been serving for longer than 10 years. He estimates that 80% of the 34 crew members have been part of NSRI for more than a decade. "It is in your heart to be a part of this. When you make the commitment, you stick to it," Truter concluded.
The Plettenberg Bay NSRI volunteer crew were honoured for their dedication to the service at an awards ceremony in Cape Town on Monday, August 18. The station also received a Station Excellence Award for being the best station in the region from Witsand to Plett. Photo: David Haysom.
ARTICLE: CANDICE LUDICK
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