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11 Apr 2021

NSRI assists jet-skier at Umkomaas River mouth

(South Coast Herald) Picture: NSRI

The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI), Rocky Bay duty crew were alerted by eyewitnesses to a jet-skier reported to be in difficulty off-shore of the Umkomaas River mouth on Friday, April 9 at 1.35 pm.

“On arrival at Umkomaas River mouth no sign of the jet-skier could be found and it was then confirmed that he had managed to get to shore onto the beach at Woodenham Bridge, Umkomaas,” said Nicky Gibson, NSRI Rocky Bay duty coxswain.

“He sustained only a small laceration to his calf after he had capsized at the backline while trawling for bait.”

He had swum ashore and his jet-ski had washed ashore. Eye-witnesses raised the alarm when they noticed him coming ashore through the surfline.

“Bystanders and NSRI crew, using my own dive charter cruiser, assisted the man, aged 69, from Hillcrest, to recover his jet-ski and he was treated for his laceration,” added Nicky.

He was taken into the NSRI’s care until family arrived to fetch him.

Three local bystanders were commended for assisting on the beach.