Latest news with #NationalSeaRescueInstitute
The Citizen
15 hours ago
- General
- The Citizen
Successful rescue of distressed sailing yacht near Richards Bay
A local sailing yacht with seven crew onboard was successfully pulled back to safety after it experienced a mechanical failure and was drifting at sea, north of Richards Bay recently. The yacht had departed Richards Bay two weeks when it experienced a motor mechanical failure, forcing them to turn around. 'Nearing Richards Bay, against strong south-westerly winds, gusting in excess of 15 knots and in three-to-four metre rough sea swells, they requested assistance 15 nautical miles north of Richards Bay – about four nautical miles offshore of the lighthouse,' said National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) Richards Bay station commander Norman Rautenbach. He said the NSRI Emergency Operations Centre and NSRI Richards Bay were alerted to reports from Ocean Sailing Association of South Africa, and the Commodore of the Zululand Yacht Club of the sailing yacht. 'Our duty crew responded to our NSRI Richards Bay station 19 rescue base, where the NSRI rescue craft Ocean Guardian was launched. 'On arrival on the scene, a towline was rigged, and we towed them into the Port of Richards Bay to a safe berth at the Zululand Yacht Club, and they required no further assistance.' Don't have the ZO app? Download it to your Android or Apple device here: HAVE YOUR SAY Like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter. For news straight to your phone invite us: WhatsApp – 060 784 2695 Instagram – zululand_observer
IOL News
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Filmmaker, moved by the NSRI camera rescue volunteers, dedicates his time to raising awareness
Filmed at Strand Beach, the video features actress Shiefaa Hendriks in a portrayal that merges realism and symbolism Image: National Sea Rescue Institute SOUTH African filmmaker and ocean lover Kabeer Shaik has teamed up with the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) to create a powerful new awareness video spotlighting the NSRI's Beach Safety Camera Project. He has donated his time and skills to help amplify the story of technology and teamwork saving lives along our coastline. Shaik visited the NSRI's Volunteer Support Centre earlier this year, where he was introduced to the Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) and the Beach Safety Camera Project. What he saw inspired him. 'I'm a filmmaker who spends a lot of time in the ocean, and I wanted to make a piece that supports the amazing work the NSRI does,' said Shaik. 'They're an incredible organisation that saves thousands of lives every year. This was something I knew I had to contribute to.' The creative campaign, now complete, is based on a true and emotional story from Strand Beach. An NSRI camera operator spotted 10-year-old Matthew being pulled out to sea in a rip current. With lifeguards not yet on duty, the operator activated Strand Lifeguards, who arrived in time to save the child. NSRI CEO Mike Vonk explains: 'Our operator never took her eyes off Matthew. She tracked him with the camera and relayed updates as lifeguards rushed to the scene. She was sitting in a control room, but emotionally, she was right there with him in the water.' Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ This emotional tension, the human heartbeat behind high-tech rescue, became the core of Kabeer's visual interpretation. 'It struck me that, although she wasn't in the water, she felt like she was doing the rescue,' said Shaik. 'That's the story I wanted to tell, not just about technology, but about the people who care so deeply and give so much.' Filmed at Strand Beach, the video features actress Shiefaa Hendriks in a portrayal that merges realism and symbolism. The team used rich golden-hour light and a cinematic approach to create an emotional and immersive experience. 'The biggest challenge was the weather. We needed a calm sea and high tide in late afternoon to match the story's emotional tone. After weeks of postponements, we got the perfect window in April and gathered an incredible team to make it happen,' said Shaik. The production was made possible through the generous support of the industry. Post-production partners, technical crew, and cast all donated their time and expertise. 'We are deeply grateful to Kabeer and every member of the team who brought this story to life. This campaign shines a light not only on the Beach Safety Camera Project but also on the heart of the NSRI. These are people who care enough to act, every day,' said Vonk. He added: 'We would also like to thank our friends in the media, television and cinema industries for the generous airtime they are giving this campaign at no cost. Their support helps us reach more people and, ultimately, save more lives.' SUNDAY TRIBUNE
IOL News
22-07-2025
- Health
- IOL News
National Sea Rescue Institute rallies for World Drowning Prevention Day
On July 25th, the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) will unite with communities across South Africa and around the globe to recognise World Drowning Prevention Day—a significant initiative initiated by the United Nations and supported by the World Health Organisation (WHO). On July 25th, the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) will unite with communities across South Africa and around the globe to recognise World Drowning Prevention Day—a significant initiative initiated by the United Nations and supported by the World Health Organisation (WHO). As communities across South Africa and around the globe gear up to observe World Drowning Prevention Day on July 25, 2025 the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) is once again at the forefront of a critical initiative. Under the theme, 'Your story can save a life,' the NSRI emphasises that drowning prevention transcends mere water safety education; it hinges on the power of storytelling. It is explained that sharing personal experiences and narratives has the potential to transform behaviours and influence community actions, ultimately saving lives. This United Nations and World Health Organization (WHO) observance, celebrated annually, aims to foster awareness, remembrance, and actionable measures to combat the silent epidemic of drowning. The institute reveals that drowning remains a grave concern worldwide, claiming over 236 000 lives each year, positioning it as one of the leading causes of mortality for children aged five to 14. 'This is not just a statistic; it's a call to action,' states Mike Vonk, the CEO of NSRI. 'World Drowning Prevention Day reminds us that while anyone can drown, no one should.' This assertion rings particularly true for South Africa, which boasts over 3 000kms of coastline and countless rivers, lakes, and dams, presenting unique water safety challenges. Since its inception, the NSRI has shifted its focus from reactive emergency response to proactive education aimed at preventing drowning tragedies. Leveraging insights from real-life incidents, the NSRI has embarked on several educational initiatives that have had a profound impact: Water Safety Education: The NSRI has reached more than 5.5 million South Africans, imparting essential skills, including bystander CPR. The NSRI has reached more than 5.5 million South Africans, imparting essential skills, including bystander CPR. Survival Swimming: In collaboration with local communities, the NSRI teaches children in under-resourced areas vital survival skills such as breathing control, orientation in water, floating, and swimming. In collaboration with local communities, the NSRI teaches children in under-resourced areas vital survival skills such as breathing control, orientation in water, floating, and swimming. The Pink Rescue Buoy Project: Since its launch in 2017, over 1 800 Pink Buoys have been deployed across South Africa, directly contributing to the rescue of at least 221 lives. Since its launch in 2017, over 1 800 Pink Buoys have been deployed across South Africa, directly contributing to the rescue of at least 221 lives. NSRI SafeTRX App: This free app allows small craft users to log their trips, track movements, and alert emergency services in times of crisis. In 2024 alone, the NSRI delivered an impressive 877 485 water safety lessons and conducted 25 000 survival swimming classes, empowering countless communities with life-saving knowledge. This World Drowning Prevention Day, the institute calls on all South Africans to raise awareness and adopt safer behaviours around water. Here are some actionable steps every individual can take to make a meaningful difference: Learn to swim: Ensure you and your children possess basic water survival skills. Ensure you and your children possess basic water survival skills. Supervise children: Drowning is often silent; always keep a vigilant eye on children near water. Drowning is often silent; always keep a vigilant eye on children near water. Avoid alcohol near water: Maintain alertness and control when engaging around water activities. Maintain alertness and control when engaging around water activities. Check conditions before you swim: Always assess water and weather conditions prior to entering. Always assess water and weather conditions prior to entering. Use proper safety gear: Remember, lifejackets save lives. Saturday Star
The Herald
18-07-2025
- Sport
- The Herald
Gutsy Sardinia Bay rescuer recommended for bravery award
Former lifeguard and Springbok triathlete Mandy Ocean has been recommended for a bravery award in a submission to Lifesaving SA for her daring rescue at Sardinia Bay on Tuesday. Ocean saved the lives of two visitors from George after they were caught in a rip current and about to drown, assisting them onto a rocky outcrop and staying with them long enough for the National Sea Rescue Institute to arrive. In her submission, open water rescue swimmer Billie McNaughton, who was on the scene late on Tuesday afternoon, said the big swell, incoming tide and severe backwash had made the conditions highly dangerous. 'In nothing but her underwear, no support gear and not sure if help was actually on its way, she jumped into the ocean without a moment's hesitation, knowing full well how strong the rips are at that spot.' McNaughton said the condition of the one person rescued, a man in his twenties, attested to how narrowly they had escaped death. 'When he came out, his torso was lacerated, his body soaked in blood. 'His face was grey and expressionless — the look of someone who had stared death in the face. 'The damage to his feet was horrific, clear evidence of the desperation with which he must have clung to the sharp rocks on the outcrop. 'Mandy was standing at the water's edge, soaked and trembling, but cheering, because against all odds, the uncle was alive. 'Everybody cheered, clapped hands and ran to hug the uncle and rescuers as they came out of the water. It was truly a miracle. 'Mandy herself had a gash across her face, and her sarong was stained pink with blood from the wounds on her lower back and thighs. 'We wrapped her in warm jackets and took her up to the car park, where medics cleaned her injuries and bandaged the most serious. 'There's no question that the uncle and his 15-year-old nephew [initially thought to be a father and son] would have drowned, if Mandy hadn't been there. 'Strong, ocean-efficient, with the heart of a sea lioness, she was their only chance, and she gave it her all.' The Herald
IOL News
10-07-2025
- IOL News
Fishermen warned to follow safety protocols after shark-related deaths on KZN's south coast
Strinivasan Pillay, 54, from Queensburgh, died from a heart attack due to the strain he suffered, while he was reeling in a shark at Ansteys Beach on the Bluff. Image: Supplied AUTHORITIES have warned fishermen to heed safety protocols while the shark nets have been removed for the sardine run. This was after two fishermen died in separate shark-related incidents along KZN's south coast. One fisherman was killed in a shark attack, while he was fishing in a shoal of sardines. Another allegedly had a heart attack, while trying to pull a 50kg shark to shore. Last Friday, a 37-year-old fisherman disappeared under water after a shark appeared, while he was fishing near a school of sardines along the coastline of Mfazazana near Hibberdene with two of his friends. His body, which appeared to have shark bite wounds, was recovered on Sunday by the SAPS K9 Search and Rescue units, the SAPS Water Policing and Diving Services, and the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) Shelly Beach. 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Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ Members of the National Sea Rescue Institute searched for the shark bite victim Image: Supplied 'It was reported that three local fishermen were in the water near a school of sardines. One man disappeared under water after a shark appeared to surface where the man was fishing. One of the friends attempted to intervene, but it is believed he was confronted by at least two sharks, and he retreated to the shoreline. It is believed the sharks were feeding on the school of sardines at the time,' said the NSRI in a statement. A week ago, Strinivasan Pillay, 54, from Queensburgh, died from a heart attack due to the strain he suffered, while he was reeling in a shark at Ansteys Beach on the Bluff. His son, Santhan Pillay, who lives in Miami, Florida, said his father died while doing what he loved. 'He had been fishing for the past 45 years. The other fisherman and my family told me that he passed away while fighting a shark on the other end of the rod line. He already had three stents put in 10 years ago. "My mum and dad went to the beach together and he hooked the shark on his first throw. While fighting the shark, he collapsed and passed on. I believe the adrenaline rush caused the heart attack,' he added. He said this was not the first time his dad had caught a shark. 'The shark weighed 50kg and caused him strain, but this was not the first time he had hooked a shark. Over the past four fishing outings, he hooked big sharks and other fish. He passed away while pursuing his favorite hobby. It is bitter-sweet to me,' said Pillay. Jace Govender, the superintendent of south coast beaches for eThekwini, urged fishermen to be cautious as the shark nets have been removed due to the sardine run. Regarding the man who was bitten by the shark, Govender said: 'The shark did not go to attack him. He was a local fisherman and in the wrong place at the wrong time. Both the shark and the fisherman were hunting the sardines. Sharks do not go hunting people. That is not their nature. They were there to feed on the sardines and the sea is their territory. The shark did nothing wrong. When we enter the water during sardine season, we know the risks and we understand and accept the responsibility of it." He further cautioned fishermen, with underlying health conditions, like Pillay, from fishing during hot weather conditions and catching larger species of fish. 'Mr Pillay had a medical issue and underlying conditions, and the excessive strain he faced while trying to land the shark allegedly led to his death. Fishing is straining, especially when you hook a big fish. Fatigue from the sun and not being hydrated are factors that can lead to people with underlying health conditions becoming sick. 'We advise older fisherfolk with underlying health conditions, such as heart disease, cholesterol and high blood pressure, to get advice from a doctor before they fish, or do any extreme sport. We also suggest that they target smaller species and fish close to areas where there are lifeguards who can render assistance should they fall ill,' Govender added. THE POST
