What goes into training an NSRI Station Commander

The NSRI renews its leadership at all coastal and inland stations across the country every three years. Earlier this year, 11 new Station Commanders were appointed – almost a third of the organisation’s 40-plus stations – bringing a fresh burst of energy and determination to the vital work of sea rescue.

To support these new leaders, the NSRI organised specially designed leadership training weekends. These weren’t your usual sit-and-listen sessions; they were lively, interactive gatherings where experience met enthusiasm. Seasoned station commanders, some with five or six years under their belts, as well as regional representatives, joined the StatComs to share ideas,  lessons learned, and to form vital support networks. The goal was simple: to equip the station commanders with the skills and mindset needed to keep their stations effective today and in the future.

Brett Ayres, NSRI’s Operations Director, explained that the training occurred in Durban, Oyster Bay for the Southern and Eastern Cape, and Hermanus for the West Coast and Cape Town. “It was a shared learning experience and very energising,” he said.

Central to the training was a “dashboard” system that the NSRI uses to monitor the operational effectiveness of stations across six key principles:

Running rescues well: Station Commanders learn to balance risk with reward, prioritising compassion for those they rescue, and working well with other search and rescue and affiliated organisations.

Training and developing crews: A solid three to five-year development plan ensures crew members grow through the ranks, supported by conscientious recruitment, retention, and promotion practices.

Engaging and motivating crews: Keeping volunteers satisfied, managing discipline, and navigating conflicts are crucial to maintaining a strong team spirit.

Maintaining equipment: Station commanders are the custodians of assets worth millions — including vessels, vehicles, and buildings — all of which require diligent care.

Administration: Efficient delegation and management structures underpin smooth station operations.

Leadership: Setting a clear vision, fostering a positive culture, and executing actionable steps to achieve long-term goals rounds off and brings the framework together.

Melinda Snyman, the new Station Commander of Station 40, St Lucia, said the experience deepened her appreciation of Sea Rescue as more than just saving lives — it’s about people, purpose, and being part of something bigger than oneself. “The sense of unity, the passion everyone brings, and the chance to grow as a leader — it all reinforced how proud I am to be here and how ready I am to give my best,” she shared. As a woman stepping into this role, Melinda feels honoured. She hopes to lead with heart and purpose, setting an example that encourages other female crew members to step confidently into leadership.

Edrich Kotze, one of the youngest Station commanders heading Station 17, Hermanus, reflected on the value of learning from others and building community. “When you step into a new position, you never know what you don’t know,” he said. On leading teams with more experienced members, Edrich noted, “The leader does not need to be the best in anything; they just need to know how to bring out the best in everyone else.”

With this fresh wave of leadership, NSRI is not just maintaining its reputation for bravery and skill at sea; it’s building on it. By nurturing their leaders with shared knowledge, practical tools, and a clear vision, the organisation is ensuring that every station is equipped to serve its community effectively — today, tomorrow, and well into the future.