Community rallies to support IPSS rescue volunteers in Ballito

A community fundraiser raised R10 500 for IPSS Search and Rescue on Saturday, while highlighting the critical work of its volunteer-driven team.

Chicken specials and cash donations contributed to the total raised at the event, held outside Mozambik Restaurant.

A range of equipment was on display, including watercraft, 4×4 rescue vehicles, extraction tools, radios, satellite phones, drones and high-angle gear. The display drew particular interest from children, who enjoyed trying on equipment and climbing into the inflatable craft.

Search and rescue volunteer Tereza van den Berg said the event also aimed to raise awareness that IPSS Search and Rescue is a fully volunteer-run organisation, separate from IPSS Medical Rescue and reliant on donations and sponsorships for equipment, training and operations. She added that the organisation can issue Section 18A certificates to corporate donors.

Van den Berg said members are unpaid volunteers with day jobs who dedicate their free time to saving lives and supporting families in times of crisis.

She highlighted training costs, noting that a five-day swift water rescue course at the Vaal River costs about R10 000 per person. The team also conducts high-angle training for rescues involving structures such as bridges, buildings and cliffs.

The organisation has also received corporate donation pledges following the event, which will be added to the total once finalised.