Coastguard – Recruits needed

Coastguard Hibiscus attended 60 jobs over the December to February period with 155 people assisted and 566 crew-hours on the two Coastguard rescue vessels.

We assisted with jump starts, tows, medical events and coffee stops but all our customers made it home safely, as well as our crew.

The best thing for me was crewing with a professional group of volunteers who are dedicated to helping boaties get home in one piece and saving lives at sea.

Unfortunately over the summer period we had some very experienced crew (and exceptionally good people) stand down from the unit after many years of service, you will all be missed and hope to see you on the water.

This means Coastguard Hibiscus is recruiting for new volunteers to crew our rescue vessels (wet crew). We have a recruitment process to ensure that inductees are safe, but generally all you need is a willingness to help others, reside 15-20 minutes from Gulf Harbour where our main boat is kept, be over 16 years of age, physically fit and able to swim 200m – and of course, be able to spare time to volunteer with us.

If you don’t think crewing a boat is for you, or if you are looking for a way to help the community but don’t necessarily have the time right now to crew monthly, we are also recruiting for shore crew who assist with fundraising events such as local fishing competitions, doing things like organising and staffing the barbecue and tent. This is an essential part of any charity and we appreciate all forms of help.

Also, April is Coastguard NZ recruitment month and Hibiscus will be holding an open day at our Stanmore Bay shed next to the Hibiscus Coast Boat club on Brightside Road (behind the skate park) on Sunday April 15 between 10am and 2pm. We will have the barbecue going so feel free to bring the kids and pop down for a chat. Info: recruitment@coastguardhibiscus.org.nz

This is the final Coastguard column for the summer season. We thank Dale for all his contributions.