NSRI Gariepdam Station 51

06/02/2026

Wow… where do we even begin?

Looking back at our journey, it all started with a simple enquiry from a sponsor about opening an NSRI station at Gariepdam. At the time, some of us didn’t even fully know what the NSRI was about — but we were curious, inspired, and ready to take on the challenge.

We were handed a Pink Buoy and thought: “Now what do we do with this?”
Fast forward just over three years, and we are incredibly proud to share what has been achieved from November 2022 to February 2026.

Rescue & Operational Statistics
🚨 45 Operational Cases
• Yacht towing, water rescues & engine failures: 26
• Medical support (heart attacks & vehicle accidents): 17
• Vehicle fires: 2
🎉 16 Event Support Deployments
• Boat races, school trips & swimming events
🔧 4 Maintenance Operations
• Boat and equipment maintenance
🛟 140 Training Sessions
• Water- and land-based training
Community & School Training
🏊 Water Survival Swimming Training
• 6 classes | 34 children
🚸 Drowning Prevention Training 2025
• 6 classes | 140 children & 21 adults
🚸 Drowning Prevention Training 2026
• 3 classes | 149 children & 8 adults

We are deeply grateful to every supporter, sponsor, volunteer, and community member who has stood by us. Your support enables us to continue what matters most — saving lives.

Thank you for being part of our journey 💙

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NSRI

19/01/2026

🌊🏊‍♂️ Thank You – Gariep Open 2026

What an incredible weekend at the Gariep Open 2026.
Thank you to everyone who helped make this event such a success.

A special thank you to the Kovsie Aquatics Committee for the countless hours of planning and dedication behind the scenes.

Our sincere appreciation to Gariep, A Forever Resort for hosting us and for your outstanding support throughout the weekend.

Thank you to our safety and support partners who ensured our swimmers were in the best possible hands:
NSRI Gariepdam Station 51, Free State Life Saving, and ER24.

A big thank you as well to our valued partners and supporters:
Mangaung Aquatics Free State, Polar Ice, aQuellé, and Midmar Mile, Free State Yacht Club and the Department of Water and Sanitation.

A very special thank you to Doug Maycock for the use of his boat and for his invaluable help throughout the event — your support made a real difference.

We would also like to thank Johan Pretorius from Xgrafies Design Studio for the design of the Gariep Open event logo — your creative contribution helped bring the event to life.

And most importantly — thank you to every participant who took on the challenge and brought the energy, sportsmanship, and spirit that make the Gariep Open so special.
We hope you enjoyed your day as much as we did.

📅 Save the date:
Gariep Open 2027
🗓 16 & 17 January 2027

We can’t wait to welcome you back to the water. 🌊💙

13/01/2026

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1ATc614MEt/

🚨🌊 Safety First at the Gariep Open

We’re proud to welcome ER24, NSRI Station 51, and Free State Life Saving to the Gariep Open.

With these experienced teams on site, our swimmers are truly in safe hands.

Thank you for being part of the event and for helping us ensure a safe and well-managed race weekend.

20/12/2025

11/12/2025

Making Waves!
A few of the kids from Gariepdam had an absolute blast with the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) at the Forever Resort, Gariep. From learning how to float and stay calm in the water, to practicing real-life survival techniques, they brought all the energy! It was a day filled with confidence, courage, and unforgettable fun in the pool. ✨
A big thank you to Roxy and Rena for dedicating your time!

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06/12/2025

This week, we took some time out — not to train, but to reflect on a year filled with dedication, love, and passion for saving lives and helping others.

We held our year-end function on a beautiful summer’s evening, blessed with the glow of a full moon.

We looked back on everything we’ve learned — not only physical skills, but also the valuable lessons life has taught us along the way.
A heartfelt thank-you to the Karoo Queen Houseboat Gariepdam for sponsoring our venue, not only for this wonderful year-end celebration, but also for being our training base throughout the year.

To each and every crew member, and to the friends and family who support us with open hearts — thank you for your unwavering support!

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23/09/2025

🚤✨ Welcome to the Fleet! ✨🚤

We are proud to introduce the newest member of our rescue family – Rescue 51A.
This addition to our fleet means faster response times, greater reach, and even stronger support for those in need on our waters.

In true celebratory style, we christened the vessel with a sabrage – marking the start of many safe and successful rescues ahead. 🥂⚓

A big thank you to everyone whose dedication, support, and generosity made this possible. Together, we are stronger, safer, and ready for every call. 💙

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23/09/2025

🌊 Huge thanks to Roxy and Rena for representing our station at the recent Swift Water Rescue Course! Your dedication, teamwork, and commitment to safety make us proud. 👏💪

03/09/2025

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YdydD8RzqVU

The NSRI is building its final Offshore Rescue Craft, the last vessel needed to complete our world-class rescue fleet. But we can’t do it without the support of South Africa’s leading companies.

Watch this short video to see why we’re doing it, and how your business can leave a lasting legacy. To get involved, contact Brad Seaton-Smith, Head of Marketing and Business Development, on [email protected] or call 021 434 4011

Join leading brands who’ve already put their names on our rescue fleet and be part of every rescue that follows.

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The NSRI is building its final Offshore Rescue Craft, the last vessel needed to complete our world-class rescue fleet. But we can’t do it without the support...

18/08/2025

On Friday, 15 August, the NSRI hosted its 58th Annual Awards Evening and AGM at Lagoon Beach Hotel in Cape Town. The evening paid tribute to our dedicated volunteers and courageous individuals who risk their lives to save others on South African waters. It was a celebration of their unwavering commitment and remarkable bravery, recognising the vital role they play in safeguarding lives at sea.

We are proud to have received the award for 'Most Improved Station'.

Well done team!

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