Mike Vonk appointed as new CEO of the National Sea Rescue Institute

The NSRI is set to welcome Mike Vonk as its new Chief Executive Officer in October 2024. Mike succeeds Dr. Cleeve Robertson, who is retiring after an illustrious tenure of over 11 years.

Mike Vonk, a dedicated NSRI volunteer with 14 years of service, brings extensive leadership experience from his role as CEO of George Regional Hospital.

Speaking to George Herald about his departure from the George Regional Hospital, Mike said he is looking forward to the “challenges and opportunities” that lie ahead.

His passion for the NSRI runs deep, with a family legacy of three generations involved in the organisation.

Mike’s volunteer journey has seen him rise through the ranks, culminating in his recent position as Station Commander at Station 23 in Wilderness.

His hands-on experience and understanding of the operational challenges the NSRI faces make him an ideal candidate to lead the organisation into the future.

Dr. Cleeve Robertson leaves behind a remarkable legacy of growth and innovation. Under his leadership, the NSRI expanded its volunteer base, increased the number of service locations, and achieved significant financial independence.

He was instrumental in strategic shifts towards preventative measures in water safety, potentially saving countless lives. His personal connection to the NSRI, dating back to his own rescue in 1986, fueled his unwavering commitment to the organisation.

As Mike Vonk steps into this role, he is poised to build on Dr Robertson's strong foundation and ensure the NSRI continues its mission of saving lives and creating safer communities across South Africa.

"The NSRI is built on a significant team effort – the NSRI leadership of the board, head office team, station commanders, coxswains, together with all the volunteers, contribute to its tremendous success. I am looking forward to working alongside all of these dedicated individuals," Vonk says.

Click here to read our interview with outgoing president President Robertson

History of the NSRI

The NSRI was founded in response to a tragic maritime disaster off the coast of Stilbaai in 1966, where three out of four fishing vessels failed to return, resulting in significant loss of life.

Moved by this tragedy, Simon’s Town teacher Patti Price, who had once been rescued from a shipwreck in the English Channel by the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI), began a passionate letter-writing campaign advocating for the establishment of a dedicated sea rescue service in South Africa.

Her efforts caught the attention of the Society of Master Mariners of South Africa, leading to the formation of the South African Inshore Rescue Service (SAISRS) in 1967, which later evolved into the NSRI.

Patti Price is celebrated as the founder of the NSRI, with the Simon’s Town base, Station 10, named in her honour, recognising her pivotal role in initiating what has become a vital lifeline for those in distress at sea.