The blessing of 'Free Runner''

Station 14 in Plettenberg Bay has proudly taken delivery of our new Yamaha WaveRunner christened “Free Runner”. The new vessel replaces the “Discovery Rescue Runner” which has been in service at the Station for the past 8 years.“Free Runner” will add an additional dimension to Station 14’s already superb reputation of highly efficient response times.“This new vessel will reduce our response times to ever increasing surf related rescues, and with various rescue specific modifications made to an already extremely competent vessel it will increase crew safety and the chances of those in peril. This is an extremely valuable addition to our fleet” said Marc Rodgers, Station 14 Station Commander.“Extensive testing was carried out both in Cape Town and here in Plett to assess the vessels suitability for our Station’s needs and abilities in our prevailing surf conditions. The powerful vessel comes equipped with critical first response life saving equipment, a rescue sled, tow ropes and search and rescue equipment, it is capable of carrying two crew and a casualty. We are truly excited about adding this state of the art equipment that will increase our crews efficiency during call-outs” Rodgers said.“Station 14 is the first of NSRI’s Stations to acquire the new generation equipment, and it is ideally suited to our needs and beach launch requirement” he added.120 guests attended the launch, amoungst them 16 Life Boat Club members, local supporters, fiends and family of the crew. CEO Dr. Cleeve Robertson, Operations Director Mark Hughes, and Training Officer Graeme Harding came up from head office for the event.The vessel was generously sponsored and donated by the Harold Smith Trust. Life Boat Club members