Honouring the Lifesaving Spirit of the NSRI

Sunday, 20 April 2025 marked Volunteer Recognition Day, a global occasion to celebrate those who dedicate their time and talents in service of others. For the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI), volunteerism is not just a value — it’s the foundation of everything we do.

“NSRI volunteers bring courage, compassion, and skill to every call-out and initiative,” says Brett Ayres, NSRI Executive Director of Rescue Services. “They represent the best of our country — ordinary people doing extraordinary things.”

Since our inception in 1967, the NSRI has relied on the selfless contributions of volunteers. Our story began when two men, determined to make South African waters safer, established the South African Inshore Rescue Service (SAISRS). With the Society of Master Mariners of South Africa donating our very first rescue craft — a modest inflatable boat — the movement took root. That spark soon ignited into the NSRI, now a world-renowned sea rescue organisation.

Today, 1,509 dedicated volunteers serve at 59 stations nationwide, delivering rescue services and life-saving education, from the coastline to inland communities.

“Volunteers are the very foundation of the NSRI,” says Andrew Ingram, NSRI Communications Manager. “They give freely of their time, day and night, to help complete strangers — often in the most dangerous and challenging conditions imaginable. This day gives us the chance to pause and recognise their extraordinary contribution.”

More on NSRI:
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As the NSRI continues to grow, we are creating more opportunities for South Africans to get involved and make a meaningful impact:

Sea Rescue Crew: Be part of our frontline response teams in emergency situations on water.
Pink Rescue Buoy Custodian: Help maintain vital lifesaving equipment at high-risk drowning locations.
Beach Safety Camera Volunteer: Remotely monitor real-time beach footage to spot and report potential emergencies.
Survival Swimming Volunteer: Join our teams teaching lifesaving water skills to children in communities across the country.
Lifeguard Unit: Serve as a trained lifeguard, ensuring safety at designated beaches.
Coastwatcher: Monitor coastal areas and report any potential hazards or emergencies.
Fundraising Volunteer: Assist in raising essential funds to support NSRI operations.
PR and Guest Speaking: Represent the NSRI at events, inspiring others to support or join the cause.
Maintenance Volunteer: Help maintain our bases and vessels to ensure they are always rescue-ready.
Medical Volunteer: Provide medical assessments for crew members or train teams in first aid.

“Volunteering with the NSRI is a calling,” adds Ingram. “Whether saving lives at sea, preventing drownings, or teaching survival swimming, there’s a place for everyone who wants to make a difference.”

Get Involved

To donate or learn how you can become a volunteer, visit www.nsri.org.za or email us at info@searescue.org.za. We’d be honoured to welcome you aboard.