27th Annual Rotary Wine Auction Raises Crucial Funds for the NSRI

The 27th Annual Rotary Wine Auction, held on Thursday, 4 September at The Westin Cape Town, raised a record of over R500,000 for the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI), underscoring a partnership with Rotary that has supported the NSRI for nearly three decades.

This much-anticipated fundraising event brought together 135 guests for an evening of fine wine, spirited bidding, and heartfelt generosity. Funds raised will be used to upgrade Rotary’s Gift, a key rescue vessel at Station 18, Melkbosstrand, with new engines.

The Wine Auction was filled with laughter, clinking glasses and some very spirited bidding wars. The room buzzed with energy as friends old and new gathered to celebrate and support a cause close to all our hearts. From the first pour to the final gavel, the evening was wonderful. 

In her opening address, NSRI Head of Fundraising Alison Smith said: “On behalf of the NSRI, it is an honour to express our gratitude to the Rotary Clubs of Newlands and Table Bay. Over the past 27 years, your generosity and dedication have kept our volunteers well-equipped and ready to save lives.
A very special mention goes to Richard Burnett, whose vision and leadership shaped the auction into the remarkable event it is today. We also thank Doug Wares for his steadfast support and welcome Andrew Thomson as he assumes this role. Together, you have created a legacy that continues to save lives on our waters.”

In his message from the NSRI, CEO Mike Vonk said: “It is a privilege to celebrate the 27th Annual Rotary Wine Auction in support of the NSRI, made possible through our long-standing partnership with the Rotary Clubs of Table Bay and Newlands.

For more than a quarter of a century, Rotary has upheld this tradition, and we are deeply grateful for the heart and effort you continue to invest in its success. This year, the tradition continues, with proceeds going towards upgrading the Sea Rescue vessel Rotary's Gift with new engines, ensuring that she remains a vital part of our life-saving network.

On behalf of the entire NSRI family, thank you for your generosity, your friendship, and your steadfast support year after year.”

The event was made possible through the dedication of Rotarians from the Rotary Clubs of Newlands and Table Bay, and the generosity of South Africa’s leading wine estates and winemakers, who donate exclusive lots for auction.

Special thanks go to the NSRI Melkbosstrand volunteer crew and The Westin Cape Town, who hosted the event for another successful year.

In their message from Rotary, John Stephenson (Rotary Club of Newlands) and Mandy Allen (Rotary Club of Table Bay) said: “It’s a privilege to continue this proud tradition of bringing people together to enjoy fine wines while raising funds for a cause that truly changes lives.

The NSRI’s volunteer crews embody courage, skill, and unwavering commitment, a perfect reflection of Rotary’s values of Service Above Self. Every bid placed is an investment in saving lives.”

As the NSRI continues its mission to prevent drowning and respond to emergencies across South African waters, support from partners like Rotary and every guest who raised a paddle remains essential.

Special thanks go to Mark Solomon Jewellers, Raka Wines, XL Events, InHouse AV, The Owners of the Super Yacht, Princess Emma, the NSRI Melkbosstrand volunteer crew, our incredible auctioneer – Andrew Koch, and The Westin Cape Town, who generously hosted the event for another successful year.