THE National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) in Jeffreys Bay is set to open a Junior Academy for young people aged between 12 and 15.
An information session will take place at the NSRI Station in Diaz Road at 16:00 on February 4. Those interested are welcome to attend.
According to Jeffreys Bay NSRI Station Commander, Rieghard Janse van Rensburg, the Junior Academy is a great opportunity for youngsters to learn a new skill and build self confidence, all while making a difference in their community.
“Commencing with a Junior Academy is a big step forward for the Station and it is hoped that by attracting youngsters to be trained in the many aspects of sea rescue, we will retain them to become sea-going crew upon reaching the age of 16.”
Youngsters will be trained in the basics of sea rescue work, without going to sea. Basic knowledge of boats, knots, first-aid, radio procedures, and navigation will be covered du-ring the 90-minute training sessions at the Station from 16:00 to 17:30 during school terms.
The Station has been in existence for six years and has grown in stature over this pe-riod. The Station has a crew complement of more than 20 unpaid volunteers who respond to emergencies from the Gamtoos River Mouth to Paradise Beach.
“This past holiday season has been among the busiest yet, with 16 operations and 30 people assisted and lives saved.
For information, contact the NSRI Admi-nistration Officer, Ken Clegg, at 082 608 7187.
