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The Citizen

Sapphire Coast photographers visit ocean rescue facility in Rocky Bay [Pics]

THE Sapphire Coast Camera Club ventured off to Rocky Bay to visit NPO, the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI), on May 17. The exciting and informative outing saw the shutter-happy photographers learn about what NSRI does, how the organisation operates, and what its focus is on. Also read: Doon Heights jazz maestro bags PhD NSRI focuses on preventing drowning and saving lives out at sea all along South Africa's coastlines. It carries out rescue operations, educates communities and works to prevent drownings. It works on a volunteer-basis and volunteers are on call 24/7. NSRI is reliant on donations and sponsorships. Wynand Grobler, chairperson of the camera club, said, 'The camera club met the NSRI members at Station 39, Rocky Bay, where they taught us about what they do and showed videos of past rescues. Thereafter, we were able to watch their boat go out. It was an eye-opener to see what they can do and to think that all the NSRI members are all volunteers. We were able to make some good photographs. It was a fun day for us all.' For the early-risers in the club, it was a perfect start, capturing a spectacular sunrise from the beach. Thereafter the group met with Helen Wienand and station commander Kevin Fourie for an in-depth tour of the rescue base, the vessels and safety equipment. NSRI guest speaker Helen Wienand said, 'The close-up views afforded the photographers with plenty of opportunity for creative shots, however, the highlight of the morning was watching the crew ready the Jetrib for training. The visitors were treated to a full display of the Jetribs' capabilities in the surf, resulting in fabulous action photos. It is always special for our volunteers to have an opportunity to meet and interact with the residents who live near the rescue base and support us. We invite clubs and societies to reach out and visit us at our NSRI rescue stations and see what we do.' For more information about the Sapphire Coast Camera Club, contact Wynand Grobler on 084 244 5317 or email sapphirecoastcameraclub@ To learn more about NSRI, visit For more South Coast Sun news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok. Subscribe to our free weekly newsletter and get news delivered straight to your inbox. Do you have more information pertaining to this story? Feel free to let us know by commenting on our Facebook page or you can contact our newsroom on 031 903 2341 and speak to a journalist. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!