NSRI Station 4 has a new Station Commander, Nic Stevens, a resident of Langebaan, who assumed responsibilities on Wednesday 1 June.
He told Weslander he joined the NSRI in 2014 as a way of giving back. “I am an avid sailor and spend a lot of time on the water. Being in the marine industry as a boat builder it all just seemed to make sense.”
Before taking full command of Station 4 he served as its Deputy Station Commander. In his new role he will oversee interesting projects that lie ahead.
“We are taking delivery of our 13 m rescue vessel in the next few weeks, which will increase our range and capabilities tremendously,” Steven recounts. “We are also in the process of opening a satellite station in St Helena Bay to improve our response times and capabilities in the area. This will be run under the leadership of Station 4 until it is established enough too run as its own station.”
As Station Commander his primary tasks are to coordinate rescues in the operation area and offer good leadership and guidance to the volunteer crews. Also, ensuring they have the training, guidance and resources to be able to operate to the best of their abilities 24/7.
Stevens says being Deputy Station Commander helped him see what is required by a station commander, enabling him to grow into the position. “This allows me to try and do the best job of leading Station 4. It was a great way to transition into the role hopefully allowing me to be a successful leader of Station 4.”
As for highlights during his time in the NSRI Stevens said the service has been involved with numerous big and technical rescues overs the years, namely the Krotoa grounding, trawlers taking on water or sinking, technical medivacs off ships, sailing vessels grounding or requiring tows in adverse weather.
“We are also lucky enough to have a strong training department within the organisation and give us the opportunity to take part in very interesting and exciting training in various disciplines.”
Joining the NSRI Stevens says it is a great way to give back to the community, “not only by doing rescues in treacherous weather, but by informing people of the dangers in and around our waters and assisting with various projects NSRI runs all over the country.”
He adds that all volunteers would agree it is very satisfying and a great feeling to be part of such an amazing organisation.
