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The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) today announced the winner of its Monthly Giving draw and the winner of the second car in its 2026 Cars4Good competition, both held in support of the organisation's lifesaving work on South Africa's waters.

Eldred van Straten from Gqeberha took home R150 000 in the NSRI's October Monthly Giving grand prize draw. Every month the NSRI gives away R50 000, with three special grand prize draws held each year. By contributing as little as R25 a month, supporters stand a chance to win a share of R1 million while helping to fund the NSRI's lifesaving work.

 

In a separate draw, the NSRI awarded the second of four cars in the Cars4Good competition. Rohan Nel from Johannesburg won a five-door Suzuki Jimny. Cars4Good, run in partnership with Suzuki Auto South Africa, gives members of the public the chance to win one of four Jimnys, with only 45 000 tickets available. Two more draws will take place later this year.

Picture Andrew Ingram / Sea Rescue

“Congratulations to our two winners, and thank you to everyone who supported these draws,” said Mike Vonk, Chief Executive Officer of the NSRI. “Your support makes a real difference to the people we serve. It helps our volunteers get to someone in trouble, gives our lifeguards the equipment they need and helps children learn how to stay safe in the water. We are grateful to everyone who makes this work possible.”

 

By the end of September 2026, the NSRI had responded to 704 callouts, rescued 1 318 people, delivered 12 309 survival swimming lessons and taught 622 870 children about water safety. Funds raised through Cars4Good and Monthly Giving help sustain this work, enabling the NSRI to respond when emergencies happen and help prevent drowning through education and practical skills.

 

With two more Cars4Good draws still to come this year, supporters have further opportunities to win while helping the NSRI save lives.

Picture Andrew Ingram / Sea Rescue

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