The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) station 37, in Jeffreys Bay, recently welcomed a group of new recruits, who have begun training in the hope that they could either join the local station’s seagoing crew or land crew.
According to Paul van Jaarsveld, station commander and class 3 and class 4 coxswain, the local station currently has between 80 and 100 volunteers, which include trainees, coast watchers, seagoing crew, land-based crew and lifeguards.
As part of their 2022 volunteer intake, the station has received many applications and those who have been vetted have begun with their training programme.
Van Jaarsveld said during the training process, which began last month, a wide range of subjects are covered, including nautical knowledge like navigation, practical application of operating with various rescue craft on land and on water, first aid, rope work and fitness, among other things.
“It normally takes about a year for somebody to qualify as a crew member and it depends on how much time and effort they put in and how soon they complete their task book,” said Van Jaarsveld.
He said during the early days of training, all new recruits are given the same foundations to ensure that they are all on the same page, but then at a later stage the recruits are separated into sea going crew and land crew.
Since the training process began, he said the new trainees were growing steadily and their confidence has increased in the water.
He said the recruits recently learnt how things were done at the station including care for vessels, refuelling, and opening and closing the station before and after operations.
The local NSRI recruits year long, and for those interested in joining the team, Van Jaarsveld said applicants can email the station on station37@searescue.org.za or contact them on their emergency number on 079 916 0390.
“New applicants are vetted and once approved, they are given a medical form, a volunteer agreement form and a crew application form to complete, after which they can start to join our trainee programme on Sunday mornings,” said Van Jaarsveld.
He said the main requirements for new candidates is that they need to be 16 years and older and a fitness level appropriate to the tasks.
“Ultimately, we are looking for people who have the time and availability to be volunteering and who will be teachable and faithful to represent the NSRI and what we stand for.
“They must be willing to work as part of a team and be able to follow orders and be held accountable for their actions,” said Van Jaarsveld.
After hard work and commitment, John Cuyler, who is a qualified LSA lifeguard, recently completed his yearlong training and is now qualified as a seagoing crew member.
Van Jaarsveld said Cuyler is eager to learn and grow, and he is often available to assist on short notice.
“John put in the time and effort and has shown the commitment and attitude needed to qualify over the last year. He is always ready to serve and assist and to make things better. We look forward to some great times together,” said Van Jaarsveld.
Cuyler said it was a great opportunity for him to be a part of the local NSRI and as a trainee he loved the call-outs received to rescue or relocate seals, birds, and penguins.
“I joined the NSRI because I love the ocean and I like to help and assist people to the best of my ability,” said Cuyler.
He said at the NSRI he learnt about teamwork and that each life is important.
Cuyler further said that he learnt about the seriousness of respecting people and all that surrounds him and the importance of time management.
“I have learnt a lot and I am looking forward to learning how to skip a rescue boat one day,” said Cuyler.
