Bravery in the surf: NSRI lifeguard honoured for rescuing a UK tourist at Wilderness Beach.

Wilderness – [16 April] NSRI lifeguard Channah van Coller has been formally recognised for her courageous rescue of a swimmer in distress at Wilderness Beach earlier this year. The NSRI Chief Executive Officer’s Letter of Appreciation was presented to Channah by NSRI CEO Mike Vonk during a ceremony held in her honour at the NSRI Wilderness Sea Rescue base on Wednesday, 16 April.

On the morning of Friday, 17 January 2025, UK visitor Darren Sutton entered the water at Wilderness Beach before the NSRI lifeguards, officially on duty for the George Municipality, began their shift. Despite being an experienced swimmer, he quickly became caught in a rip current and was dragged over 100 metres out to sea. It was Darren’s wife, Linda, who first noticed something was amiss and alerted the NSRI lifeguards, who were about to start their duty.

Channah immediately grabbed her fins and an NSRI rescue torpedo buoy and launched into the surf. Reaching Darren in the powerful current, she secured him and began the difficult swim back toward the beach. Assisted by lifeguard squad leader Josh Scholtz, Channah battled for over twenty minutes in challenging conditions before returning Darren safely to shore.

“This was an extraordinary act of bravery,” stated Jonathan Britton, NSRI Wilderness Station Commander. "From time to time, a rescue stands out—not merely for the skill and courage it demands—but for the deep impact it has on someone’s life. That day, Darren Sutton’s life was saved."

Jonathan continued: “Channah, we are incredibly proud of you—not only for your courage and composure in a moment of crisis, but for the example you set for your peers. Your actions reflect the very best of what we strive for at Sea Rescue.”

In her remarks, Channah credited NSRI Lifeguard Manager Mike Wood for his role in preparing her for moments like these: “His training is intense and gruelling; yet you walk away feeling empowered and capable of achieving more than you ever thought possible.”

CEO Mike Vonk, who presented the award, praised Channah’s composure under pressure and lifesaving abilities: “Channah’s decisive action, physical endurance, and commitment to assisting others embody the spirit of service that defines the NSRI.”

The NSRI encourages all beachgoers to swim only at beaches where lifeguards are on duty and to remain aware of the dangers of rip currents. 

To support the work of NSRI lifeguards and volunteers, visit www.nsri.org.za to donate.