A timely gift for KwaDukuza lifeguards, paramedic

Eleven lifeguards and one paramedic received a heartfelt Russian thank you from a sea-loving local at Salt Rock Beach last week.

Ballito resident and daily Thompson’s Bay swimmer Vladimir Lynov embraced the 12 men as he gave them each a waterproof training watch and thanked them with his proud Russian voice.

“I believe in giving a good present for good work. These guys have saved people and have helped me. Last week, my wife was sitting on a rock and a big wave washed her backpack into the sea. Immediately a lifeguard jumped in and got the backpack for her,” said the 69-year-old Lynov who swam about 90 kilometres in and around Ballito last year alone.

“I know your job is hard. I respect you. I love you and my heart is with you. Be strong like me. Like a Russian.”

KwaDukuza lifeguard supervisor Bongani Xulu said he asked each team from all the KwaDukuza beaches to nominate one lifeguard to receive the gift.

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“We have 26 full time lifeguards, but during the festive season we had 72 lifeguards on duty and only had one drowning, sadly. Most of the guys nominated are temporary lifeguards who helped us during the busy holiday time and were chosen based on their commitment and bravery,” said Xulu.

The 12 men were: Lindo Mncwati from Willard Beach, Xolani Mdanda from Blythedale, Wonderboy Makhambi from Thompson’s Bay, Sakho Ngema from Tinley Manor, Lindo Mhlongo from Salt Rock, senior lifeguard Linda Hlophe, Berrik Mkize from Clark Bay and the four Zinkwazi lifeguards who pulled the drowned teenager’s body out of the sea during the festive season: Sipho Mchunu, Khule Khumalo, Mpou Tau and Mfano Mulundi.

IPSS Medical Rescue paramedic Yasheen Mothiram was also gifted a watch and was nominated for his dedication and reliability.

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