NZCT Helps Brighton Surf Lifesavers Stay Rescue-Ready

New Zealand Community Trust (NZCT) has awarded a $10,000 grant to Brighton Surf Life Saving Club in Dunedin to help purchase a new inflatable rescue boat (IRB), strengthening patrol coverage and supporting search and rescue operations along the coastline.

Brighton Surf Life Saving Club plays a vital role along this stretch of coast, responding to incidents during patrol hours and through additional callouts. In challenging locations such as Taieri Mouth, having the right equipment is essential for safe and effective rescues.

Life Member and volunteer surf lifeguard Scott Weatherall says, “This brand-new IRB will not only greatly assist our lifeguards on regular patrol operations but also enable our crews to conduct roaming patrols across all the beaches both north and south of Brighton.”

He says, “The new IRB will also support our search and rescue callouts outside of patrol hours. We’re frequently called upon to assist about twenty kilometres south of Brighton at the Taieri Mouth River Bar, where recreational boating incidents, including vessel rollovers, often occur.”

The club also supports a strong surf sports programme. IRB racing events replicate real rescue scenarios and help build the skills, fitness and teamwork required on the water.

David Clarke, Brighton SLSC power craft officer, says, “This IRB will be instrumental in saving lives at Brighton and nearby beaches.”

Amelia Lane, Brighton SLSC club captain, says, “IRBs are massively important in supporting the retention and upgrading of our incredible volunteers.”

NZCT General Manager of Grants, Marketing and Communications Ben Hodges says, “We’re delighted to help fund volunteers doing vital rescue work. NZCT can fund this community good thanks to the fundraising partnerships we share with Takeichi and The Rope and Twine via their host responsible gaming rooms.