BP presents inflatable rescue boat to popular Surf Life Saving Club

As one of New Zealand’s most popular Surf Life Saving Clubs, Red Beach SLSC has received a special one-off inflatable rescue boat (IRB) thanks to BP.

The one-of-a-kind Surf Life Saving Centenary IRB sports a specially designed logo celebrating the 43 year partnership between BP and Surf Life Saving New Zealand (SLSNZ) and marks 100 years of Lifeguards on our beaches.

To celebrate SLSNZ’s centenary, BP launched a campaign calling on Kiwis throughout the country to vote for their favourite surf life saving club. A clear winner with more than 13,000 votes, Red Beach takes home the centennial IRB.

Since the summer of 1910/1911, Surf Lifeguards have saved more than 50,000 New Zealander’s from drowning, prevented 1.5 million accidents in the surf and provided more than 3 million hours of voluntary patrol service.

Said BP New Zealand Managing Director Mike McGuinness, “We wanted to recognise the local Surf Life Saving Clubs who save so many lives every year, so we encouraged people to get online and vote for their favourite club. The response was outstanding and we are thrilled to be presenting Red Beach with the IRB which will help in the prevention of drownings and rescue of those needing assistance.”

Grant Florence, Surf Life Saving New Zealand Chief Executive added, “IRB’s are critical in helping us save lives. We are thrilled that BP is donating an IRB to Red Beach and recognising the dedication and hard work of the members and volunteers who make Red Beach safer.”

BP primarily sponsors the inflatable rescue boats (IRB’s) that are used in over 60 per cent of rescues each year. “Each year, volunteers are responsible for saving around 1,500 lives. BP is delighted to provide the tools that make these rescues possible,” Mr McGuinness said.

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