All Surf-Ski Paddlers Safely Accounted For After Precautionary NSRI Stilbaai Response

NSRI Stilbaai responded to reports of a potentially distressed surf-skier on Sunday after a stationary NSRI SafeTrx signal triggered concern during a group paddle.

Just before 15h00 on Sunday, 26 April, NSRI Stilbaai crews responded after a stationary NSRI SafeTrx beacon raised concerns for a group of surf-ski paddlers on a downwind paddle from Jongensfontein to Stilbaai.

As a precaution, the rescue craft Breede Rescuer was launched after attempts to contact the paddler were unsuccessful.

During the operation, one female paddler capsized and was safely recovered along with her surf-ski after being unable to remount. A further search located another paddler offshore who had become entangled in his leash rope for approximately 20 minutes before freeing himself. He had not raised an alarm, believing he could resolve the situation independently.

All seven paddlers were safely accounted for and no injuries were reported. 👏

NSRI commended the paddlers for using the NSRI SafeTrx safety system, which played an important role in monitoring the group and supporting the precautionary response.