Search & Rescue Dispatches Nov 12, 2016

Grateful.

While one word does not make a sentence, it sums up the feelings shared by all Sunshine Coast Search and Rescue and volunteers, on land and at sea. October and early November presented a bounty of recognition events, community support and generous donor contributions.

Leadership

Thanks to the leadership and initiative of the Sunshine Coast Community Foundation, a Royal Canadian Marine Search & Rescue Endowment Fund was officially established. Three Coast-wide RCM-SAR Societies, representing Gibsons, Halfmoon Bay / Sechelt and Pender Harbour together will benefit from the generosity of our community. Within a week of its formation, a very generous couple (you know who you are) donated $2,500 to help us save lives on the water. Please consider joining them when planning your annual gift giving or estate. The income from this fund will be used for critical operations and equipment requirements.

New Recruits

New recruits to Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue have been busy getting their initial credentials in order, including criminal record checks, self-recovery water practice, extensive reading, and classroom review sessions of the Crew Orientation Manual.  The enthusiasm demonstrated by new members as well as the time and dedication of active crew who help train the next class is both impressive and humbling.

Fundraising

On Nov. 3, Station 12 (Halfmoon Bay / Sechelt) held its 3rd Annual Beer & Burger Night at the Lighthouse Pub. Over 250 guests showed up to support our volunteers and took part in a fun-filled evening that included food, beverages and lots of mingling.  On the fundraising side, guests enjoyed a Silent Auction featuring Crew Favours with a variety water-based adventure packages, Raffle prizes and 50/50 draws. The night was enjoyed by all, generating in excess of $11,000 dollars to support crew training and safety equipment.

Community

On Nov. 5, members of the public joined current and past members of Sunshine Coast Search and Rescue (Land) to celebrate 40 years of community service.  The well-attended Anniversary & Open House featured displays, demonstrations and speeches from dignitaries as well as past members. We sincerely thank all friends and supporters who joined the celebration. Bill Lawson, one of the founding members of Sunshine Coast Search and Rescue (Land), cuts the 40th anniversary cake at the Nov. 5 celebration. Jan Schuks photo (right)

Call-outs & Training

While fairly quiet on the call-out front, several members recently completed a SAR medic first aid course, rope team practice and helicopter evacuation procedures.  The expressions and demonstrations of community support fuel the crews with confidence and affirm our shared belief that what we do actually makes a difference to residents on the Sunshine Coast.

Thank you for your support.