Generous Donation Boosts Hout Bay Rescue Base Rebuild

One of the NSRI's oldest and busiest rescue stations is entering an exciting new chapter as the rebuild of the Hout Bay rescue base moves steadily towards completion.

The project, which is expected to be completed by August, will provide a modern, fit-for-purpose facility capable of housing the station's new ORC, a modern, high-tech 14-meter  rescue craft and be capable of supporting rescue operations for decades to come.

Today, the project is more than two-thirds complete, with the structure, roof, boathouse doors and slipway already in place.

"The new ORC will have been in the water for about three to four weeks by the time the building is finished, so the timing should work perfectly. As soon as the vessel is handed over, it can move straight into its new home," says NSRI Project Manager, Willem de Waal.

Why a New Base Was Needed

Like many of the stations that received a new-generation rescue craft, Hout Bay's existing facility was simply not large enough to accommodate the larger vessels and future operational requirements.

Rather than modifying the ageing structure, the decision was made to rebuild entirely.

"We're making sure we have enough space to accommodate the ORC as well as larger rescue craft and operational assets that may be deployed there over the next 20 to 40 years," Willem explains.

The new facility will also include space to function as a Joint Operations Centre during major search and rescue incidents, enabling multiple agencies to coordinate effectively from a single location.

"It will be a better, more welcoming environment for our crew and their families. They've been waiting for this for the last 10 years."

A Remarkable Gift of Generosity

Before construction could begin, the old rescue base had to be demolished – a process made possible through the extraordinary generosity of Demex/Hamilton Plant Hire.

Led by Lester Plasket, Ryan Plasket and Paul Rossi, Demex/Hamilton Plant Hire donated the entire demolition project, valued at approximately R700 000. This included obtaining demolition permits, coordinating asbestos removal and managing rubble removal.

According to Willem, the contribution went far beyond simply knocking down a building.

"They coordinated everything. The asbestos removal, the disposal process, the permits – all of it. It didn't cost us a cent. They deserve a tremendous amount of credit."

Demex/Hamilton Plant Hire's support was strengthened by several specialist partners who also donated their services. Kobus Carstens from Asbes Away, in conjunction with SafeNet AIA and EnviroServ managed the safe removal, certification and disposal of asbestos materials at no cost to the NSRI.

"We literally signed a few forms, and they made the rest happen," Willem says. "We are incredibly grateful."

For Lester, Ryan, and Paul, supporting the project was a natural decision.

"As a Cape Town-based company, we recognise the incredible work that NSRI does for our coastal communities," he says. "Supporting organisations that provide lifesaving services aligns closely with our company values and our commitment to giving back."

He adds: "We are proud to have played a small role in helping deliver a modern facility that will support the NSRI's lifesaving operations for many years to come."

The Spirit of Ubuntu

The Hout Bay rebuild forms part of the wider ORC replacement programme and will ultimately become home to Rescue 8 – the final ORC currently under construction.

Appropriately named The Spirit of Ubuntu, the vessel represents the collective effort that has always powered the NSRI: ordinary people standing together to do extraordinary things.

According to Head of Fleet and Facilities, Graeme Harding, construction of the vessel is progressing well, with approximately 80% of the build now complete. Electronics have largely been installed and wired, and the launch remains on track for mid-July.

While the vessel is well on its way to completion, the campaign to bring this historic project across the finish line continues. The NSRI is inviting corporate partners to help complete what is truly a once-in-a-generation investment in South African maritime rescue capability.

Corporate supporters will receive:

● Permanent name placement on the vessel for 40 years.

● High-impact national visibility through NSRI media platforms – magazine (230 000+ readers), website (2M+ visitors annually), and social channels (150 000+ followers).

● National PR exposure linked to real rescue stories.

● Section 18A tax benefits and B-BBEE points.

● A powerful legacy with South Africa’s most trusted rescue brand.

Many of the NSRI's most successful partnerships have started with a simple introduction.

If you work for, or know of, a company that may be interested in supporting The Spirit of Ubuntu, please contact Brad Seaton-Smith, Head of Marketing and Business Development, at bradley@searescue.org.za or download this brochure.

Thank You for Helping Us Build the Future

Projects of this scale are only possible through partnerships with organisations and individuals who believe in the NSRI's mission.

As the final stages of both the Hout Bay base rebuild and the Spirit of Ubuntu campaign draw closer, the NSRI extends its sincere gratitude to every partner, donor and supporter helping make this vision a reality.