DWC sponsors new Coastguard vessel

Development West Coast is to provide $50,000 sponsorship to Coastguard West Coast to assist with the purchase of a replacement rescue vessel.

Coastguard West Coast, based in Greymouth, is responsible for the largest length of coastline in New Zealand, from Kahurangi Point to Milford Sound.

Last year Coastguard volunteers responded to 12 calls for help, bringing 18 people safely home with its current vessel, the Ivan Talley.

However the Ivan Talley Rescue needs replacing and DWC Chairman John Sturgeon says Trustees are delighted to be able to assist with funding for a new vessel.

“Fishing is a major industry on the Coast and Coastguard West Coast provides a critical service and support for the fishing and maritime industry, as well as recreational fishers. We hope this sponsorship will encourage others who use Coastguard’s services to make a contribution,” says Mr Sturgeon.

The 12m Ivan Talley vessel was purchased in 2008 but its condition is deterioriating rapidly, leading to higher running and maintenance costs.

Coastguard West Coast says a replacement vessel, that is suitable to cross the notorious Greymouth Bar and designed for search and rescue work, is available from Coastguard Auckland at a cost of $300,000.

Spokesman for Coastguard West Coast Doug Griffin says it is essential that when a marine emergency happens trained Coastguard volunteers are able to respond with the right equipment.

“Having a reliable, fit-for-purpose rescue vessel that will meet the needs of our community and in particular our challenging marine environment is absolutely crucial. Coastguard West Coast is working hard to fund this vital project for the community and as with any not-for-profit organisation, securing funds for these life-saving assets is challenging. This generous support from DWC has been a real boost, and has given us the encouragement and confidence to launch our fundraising campaign,” he says.

Coastguard West Coast is currently talking to other potential sponsors and funders and with the community’s support hopes to bring the new vessel into service on the Coast in 2016.

ENDS

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