Base showcase: Station 28 (Port St Johns)

A small but loyal crew of volunteers stands ready to protect this stretch of the Wild Coast, known for deep sea fishing and shore angling.

Station Commander Vernon Malyon began his journey with the NSRI four years ago when, while operating as a deep sea fishing charter and sardine run operator in Port St Johns, he realised that there was no help available locally if he were to experience a problem out at sea. He volunteered his services to the NSRI, as well as the facilities at a coastal resort he runs: The Spotted Grunter.

In doing so, he revived a station that had gone dormant a few years previously when the former station commander moved on from his role.

“We don’t have a base, as such, at the moment. We are in negotiations with the local municipality to acquire property to develop a proper base,” says Vernon. “Unfortunately, the wheels are turning very slowly. We really need to have a branded base to show the locals that we are serious, and this in turn should encourage people to join, as well as donate. In the meantime, we are making use of the resort as a base. Our most recent development is the acquisition of a JetRIB as well as four new volunteers. So, including me, we are now a crew of five.”

As one of the NSRI’s smaller bases, Station 28 is looking to increase its crew, and Vernon is always looking for opportunities to drive recruitment, one of his biggest challenges as Station Commander. “Most of the locals have their own businesses to run, so they simply don’t have the time to volunteer.”

Vernon’s modest crew trains as often as possible, however consistency is tricky as members are not always able to take time out from their jobs at the same time. “We train as often as we can. One is a local doctor and he especially battles to take time off,” says Vernon.

Although Station 28 is less busy than bigger bases, rescues typically include assisting swimmers and water sport enthusiasts, as well as vessels in difficulty, which require fuel and supplies.

Deputy Station Commander Amanda Weerdenburg, who also happens to be a local estate agent and restaurant owner, joined the NSRI in 2016. “I used to be a scuba dive instructor; I’m an avid lover of the water, so joining felt like a natural progression. Being an NSRI volunteer is a great way to assist in the safety of people and the environment.”

One of Amanda’s most memorable rescues involved a shoot for a tourism video taking place on the beach. “The model thought she could swim, but ended up panicking. It was a swift decision to make a safe rescue.”

Apart from expanding his crew, Vernon’s vision for the future of Station 28 is to be equipped and trained for any emergency they might encounter: “They don’t call it the Wild Coast for nothing. It’s well known to be the most treacherous coast of South Africa!”

Another aim is to incorporate drowning prevention training and skippers’ training for the fishing market. Port St Johns will also provide training and support for lifesaving in the area.

“We have been operating since the beginning of the pandemic, and are proud that we have attended to numerous rescues, albeit with our own vessels and equipment,” says Vernon.

Indeed, the NSRI wishes Vernon and his crew the best of luck in expanding his crew, and are proud to support him in his mission to save lives on South African waters.

If you would like to make a donation or volunteer, call 082 550 5430 or email station28@searescue.org.za.