Mother rescued from rip current praises NSRI

A harrowing rescue in Jongensfontein saw NSRI Stilbaai and local surfers team up to save a family of three swept out to sea by a powerful rip current.

Retha Oosthuizen, who lost consciousness during the ordeal, was revived on the rescue craft before being transported to a local doctor's practice. Now recovering, she has expressed heartfelt gratitude to the heroes who saved her life and shared a cautionary message about beach safety.

In an emotional statement, Retha thanked the NSRI and local surfers: "I just want to say a big thank you to NSRI for your incredible work." She praised everyone involved, including the surfers and the lifeguard who kept her afloat and calmed her family during the crisis.

Picture: Retha Oosthuizen (third from left), Abigail 14, Lienka 15 and Adriaan back home after their rescue at Jongensfontein.

Stefan Grove, Station Commander of Station 31 Stilbaai, highlighted the factors contributing to the successful rescue. "There were close to 10 calls saying people needed rescuing there. So the Jongensfontein community was really on it."

Grove credited the quick-thinking surfers for playing a critical role. "Without them, it would have been a recovery. [Retha] was lying on the surfboard so they could keep her head out of the water." He added that timing and coordination with lifeguards onshore helped ensure the rescue operation was efficient and successful.

Navigating the rescue boat posed challenges due to waves and multiple people in the water. "There were some waves coming through, and we had eight people in the water, so there was no space to manoeuvre our boat while we were trying to get the casualties on board. Obviously, you don't want to run over anybody in the water, so we needed to time everything and make sure that we got to everyone safely," Grove noted.

The incident serves as a powerful reminder of rip current dangers. "Knowledge is power," Grove stressed. "In a rip current, it's best to stay calm," he added, although he acknowledged that it's easier said than done. Grove further noted that flotation devices can help keep casualties above the water while waiting for help. Finally, it is always best to be aware of the area – if swimming is unsafe.

Retha shared a final reflection: "What should have been a few minutes of innocent fun turned into a traumatic and almost tragic end. It was a terribly emotional, painful, traumatic, and grateful (to be alive) experience. Thanks to everyone. You are and were awesome."

This gripping rescue underscores the life-saving impact of community collaboration, professional rescuers, and proactive safety awareness at the beach.