Sarza steps up rescue efforts with help from community

GEORGE NEWS - Search and Rescue South Africa's (Sarza) Western Cape team in George has made significant strides in enhancing its life-saving capabilities, thanks to the generous support from the community.

Funds raised during Sarza's recent golf day secured new handheld radios to strengthen the Garden Route team's communication network, a critical component of its rescue operations.

These radios have already been used in training sessions, ensuring the team is well prepared for future missions. Radio communication is a cornerstone of Sarza's work, as shown during last year's Victoria Street building collapse, where Sarza facilitated coordination between multiple rescue organisations.

"We are also in the process of procuring stretchers and additional rescue equipment to expand our response ability to emergencies in challenging terrains," says Sarza's Lenore Collett.

The organisation's rigorous training schedule, which includes both theoretical and practical sessions, ensures that volunteers are equipped to handle a wide range of scenarios, from wilderness searches to urban disaster responses.

"We are immensely grateful to the public for their unwavering support," says Collett. "The funds raised have directly contributed to improving our operational capacity, allowing us to serve the community more effectively. We also extend our heartfelt thanks to all sponsors and participants who made the golf day a success."

Sarza is now gearing up for its next fundraising event, a golf day, dinner and auction at Fancourt on Friday 28 November. This event promises to be a highlight on the community calendar, offering an opportunity for residents to contribute to the mission.

For more details or to get involved, contact Collett at lenore.collett@sarza.org.za.

About Sarza
Sarza is a volunteer-driven organisation with regional teams across six provinces, including the Western Cape.

Working closely with entities like the SAPS, the NSRI and the Mountain Club of South Africa, Sarza provides essential search and rescue services in both wilderness and urban environments. Its mission is to deliver a competent, efficient emergency response, dedicated to saving human lives in times of need.

The organisation relies heavily on donations to fund equipment purchases, professional training and operational expenses.

Community support through events like the upcoming golf day ensures it can continue to respond to calls for assistance, many of which require comprehensive emergency intervention.

To learn more about Sarza, donate or explore volunteer opportunities, visit the website or follow @sarzacape on social media.

The organisation relies on donations to fund equipment purchases, professional training and operational expenses. Here, Frederik Munnik, Darren Ternent and Dom Beaumont admire a tactical stretcher.