-Edited by Bev Mortimer- A PE paddler, who lost his paddle early yesterday morning, was battling in strong rip currents far offshore of Gqeberha, was aided by a brave surf-skier nearby until NSRI help arrived.
Stephen van den Berg, NSRI Gqeberha duty coxswain, said the incident happened at 7 am off Schoenmakerskop and NSRI volunteer duty crew from the NSRI Noordhoek statellite base responded in the Eddie Beaumont II craft to rescue the paddler who was in danger, far away from the breaker line.
On arrival NSRI swimmers found the paddler clinging to the back of the surfski and both men were in danger of the string rip currents.
The 74 year-old local paddler, was rescued from the water onto the NSRI rescue craft where medical treatment for severe hypothermia and exhaustion was commenced and he was taken to Noordhoek ski-boat club and placed in the care of Gardmed paramedics who continued with urgent medical care en-route to hospital. He was in a critical condition and was treated with rewarming medical treatment.
The surf-skier, who had courageously assisted the man, was guided towards the shore by NSRI shore crew. He arrived safely and uninjured. He is commended for contributing to saving the casualty man’s life.
The swift response by all involved is commended.
