There is great excitement in Kommetjie where our crew have secured a “home” while they wait for their boathouse to be built.
The local Shell service station is no longer using their workshop area and have kindly allowed NSRI to use the space.
Last weekend all the volunteers (even those ill with flu) were up bright and early cleaning and clearing the area. There is enough space to house all the rescue boats and vehicles, a washdown area with tiles and drainage, seperate office for meetings/training and a back drivethrough area for washing down equipment.
Before pic - office area
“We’re so excited, this really is going to be good for us.” said Station Commander Tom Coetzee, who had been in the new role for just 10 days.
Not only have they secured the building at no charge, but they have been on a fundraising drive as well:
“All electrical points and wiring have been sponsored as well as the contracting work to fit it all. Plumbing, sinks, taps and 8 showers have been donated as well as the contractors to fit. All paint has been supplied as well as painters to do the work. Lockers for each crew member donated. Computers and screen for tracking purposes have been donated. The alarm system has been donated and will be fitted and linked to armed response. Now we are currently trying to source a donation of 84 square meters of rubber flooring.”
With such enthusiasm who wouldn’t want to help. If you can contribute in any way please get in touch with Tom on 082 990 5979 or call NSRI head office on 021 434 4011, or send an email merielb@searescue.org.za
For 12 years these volunteers have been struggling, please help us to make their base homely.
Before pic of the garage area
this is the next best thing to having your very own purpose built base! I am so hapy for you – I know how hard it’s been to continue your excellent life saving work from the tiny space you had before. All strength to Tom and all his great crew. fancy – now you can finally have a hot shower after a freezing rescue.
At long last a place you can call home. Well done Tom and crew it sounds great.
I visited Stn 26′s new ‘home’ this weekend; courtesy of Tom Coetzee. I couldn’t resist going to have a look, after all these years of so many people trying to get Stn 26 decent premises.
Tom tells me that he has arranged with Shell that the NSRI has free use of these premises. Quite remarkable.