CHRISTIES beach slsc

Members: Richard Nurmi, Hubert (Huee) Deroussent, Kerri-Lee Foale, Llewellyn Jones & Stella Robinson

Club: Christies Beach SLSC

Date: 20 July 2025

Citation:

On 20 July 2025, members of the Christies Beach Surf Life Saving Club demonstrated outstanding initiative and lifesaving skills during a rescue at Christies Beach assisting five members of the public in an overturned vessel.

Volunteer surf lifesavers Richard and Hubert (Huee) were attending the Club’s regular Polar Bear winter swim when a member of the public alerted them to an upturned vessel near the southern end of the reef, with persons in distress. Responding immediately and overcoming some challenges with equipment, they urgently attended the scene along with Kerri-Lee, Llewelyn and Stella offering valuable ground support.

Despite sustaining injuries, Richard and Huee ferried five patients back to shore. Four were found clinging desperately to the upturned hull - none were wearing life jackets and were showing signs of distress, with one semi-conscious. The fifth patient was identified unconscious in the water. All patients were successfully handed over to SAAS and SAPOL.

All members involved acted with composure, professionalism and unwavering commitment to the safety of others while under significant physical, emotional, and operational pressure. Their quick decision-making, situational awareness, and refusal to stop despite injury likely contributed to the survival of multiple individuals.

We commend Richard, Huee, Kerri-Lee, Llewelyn & Stella for their exemplary actions, which underscore the critical role of our volunteer lifesavers play.