The February 2014 recipients of the Highway Hero Award are the volunteers at Rescuetech. Rescuetech received the award from Councillor Rick Crouch earlier this week during a training session at the top of a mountain “in the middle of nowhere”.
In the photo: Back row, L – R: Mark Basson, Daniel Mc Loughlin, Pieter Koekemoer, Nic Holmes, Nigel Tonkin, Jon Sargood and Nic Geere. Front row, L – R: Councillor Rick crouch and Mark Easton
Rescuetech currently has around 10 volunteers who have various qualifications in Rope Rescue and Paramedicine, with a collective experience in excess of 50 years in climbing. All volunteers have a genuine desire to assist those in need and maintain a high standard of service and professionalism.
Rescuetech specialises in high angle rope rescues and works in conjunction with the SAPS, the SAAF and other emergency services. They operate to the highest technical standards according to their own detailed SOP and conduct regular training practices.
Due to the nature of their activities, the Unit requires specialist equipment designed and manufactured to the highest standards. A great deal of their operating cost goes toward the maintenance and resupply of this equipment. At present although they are receiving some sponsorship there is still a financial shortfall which their members are supporting from their own pockets.
“I recently witnessed a Rescuetech training session and was very impressed at the level of professionalism exhibited by the team. This is a worthy organisation for donations and I urge those who can afford it to do so. These individuals do a great job and do not get enough credit for the dangerous work that they do. They are deserving recipients of my Highway Hero award,” said Councillor Rick Crouch.
“I would like to thank Councillor Rick Crouch for presenting Rescuetech with the ‘Highway Heroes’ civic appreciation award. This is a great honour for us especially as most of our members live in the Highway area and very much have the safety and care of local residents at heart,”said Jon Sargood of Rescuetech.
Rescuetech is currently looking for new members who are required to have first aid or paramedic qualifications. Rope skills experience is of great benefit but not necessarily a prerequisite.
If this interests you and you have the required skills, or if your company would like to donate to Rescuetech, call 082 553 8828 or email chairman@rescuetech.co.za.