MOSSEL BAY NEWS - The National Sea Rescue Institute's (NSRI) Station 15 Mossel Bay officially has a new hand at the helm.
Station 15's former deputy, Brian Cloete, was recently appointed the station commander, taking over this leadership role from two-term commander JC Roos.
The volunteers and management of Station 15 extended their sincere gratitude to Roos for his years of selfless service.
He had joined the station in 2008 as a volunteer, and with his dedication, leadership and unwavering commitment, has helped shape it into a highly capable and respected rescue unit.
Roos sincerely thanked his family, crew, emergency services colleagues and the wider community for the support, encouragement and trust he had received over the years.
"Brian, I wish you every success as you take over as station commander. The station is in good hands; may you lead with strength, humility and purpose as Station 15 continues to grow and serve our community with the same dedication and pride that has always defined it," said Roos. Although currently working abroad, he remains part of the station as class 1 coxswain.
Former station commander JC Roos congratulates his successor, Brian Cloete. Photo: Supplied
As Cloete assumes command, he brings with him a strong commitment to teamwork, growth and community involvement. "Brian understands the importance of maintaining the high standard that has become synonymous with the NSRI while also embracing opportunities for innovation and development," said the station.
Cloete, born in the then Western Transvaal, came to Mossel Bay from Gauteng and became part of the NSRI about five years ago.
"I joined the NSRI not long after we had moved here. Initially, just as something to keep me busy, but it grew into much more," said Cloete.
"My progression in the NSRI was from trainee to controller to deputy station commander to station commander. I am in the process of completing my senior shore controller's qualification, which is in line with being a coxswain."
The NSRI Station 15 Mossel Bay’s new station commander, Brian Cloete. Photo: Linzetta Calitz
Cloete said before he had joined the NSRI, he was lucky enough to retire at the age of 58 (he is now 67) with many years' experience as a senior manager of a financial institution, looking at risk compliance and corporate governance. Along with this experience comes two honours and one master's degree - achieved while working full-time - as well as two years of service in the South African National Defence Force.
Under his leadership, Cloete said Station 15 will continue to focus on volunteer recruitment and development, operational excellence, maritime safety education and strengthening partnerships within the Mossel Bay community.
"We also look forward to an exciting future with the introduction of two upgraded rescue vessels, of which one has already been delivered. This will significantly enhance our ability to respond to emergencies along the coastline. The improved capabilities of the vessels will allow the rescue crews greater efficiency, safety and operational reach, further strengthening the station's ability to save lives at sea," said Cloete.
When it comes to his favourite part of an organisation like the NSRI, Cloete keeps it short and sweet: "Saving lives, changing lives, creating futures."
And there is no single moment that stands out from the last five years, but rather a collection of them. "The NSRI in itself is a vibrant, close-knit community. To select one memorable moment would be unwise. Every call/call-out is different, and a memorable moment in its own right."
The station had these last words for its outgoing and incoming commanders: "To JC, thank you for your outstanding service and leadership. To Brian, congratulations and best wishes as you lead Station 15 into its next era of growth and excellence."
‘We bring you the latest Garden Route, Hessequa, Karoo news’
