Following an incident where three volunteers from Search and Rescue South Africa (SARZA) were recently robbed in Table Mountain National Park, CapeNature joined forces with Hi-Tec to donate starter kits to the team.

The three volunteers, Reinier Kapp, Zoë Arendse and Zoenell Curry who were returning from a rescue mission, were robbed at gunpoint and had all their belongings, including backpacks and rescue equipment stolen.

Sheraaz Ismail, Executive Director for Eco-Tourism and Access at CapeNature, lauded the volunteers, saying: “We appreciate that these volunteers from SARZA execute rescue missions at no cost and use their own resources and equipment. CapeNature, which offers an array of outdoor adventure experiences, also uses SARZA’s service on our land on occasion, and they are a valued partner when it comes to search and rescue. Hence, it was a no-brainer when we learned of this traumatic incident to see how we can assist.”

CapeNature gifted the three volunteers with rescue essentials such as power banks, headlamps, water flasks, thermal mugs, buffs, caps and many other essentials, while Hi-Tec altruistically donated three high-end backpacks for the trio.

Chairman of SARZA Cape, Mike Muller, expressed his sincere appreciation to CapeNature and Hi-Tec on behalf of the organisation, saying, “It is partnerships like these that enables us to do our work and we are grateful for any contributions. It costs approximately R22 000 to fully clothe and equip a SARZA rescuer for basic operations, thus unfortunate incidents like this robbery really set these three volunteers back. Each volunteer bears their own cost for resources used in a rescue and this contribution by CapeNature and Hi-Tec assists to get them on their feet again.”

“The work done by SARZA and its volunteers is a thankless job, and many lives are saved because of people like them who put their own safety at risk to rescue others. Their bravery and sacrifice are commendable and the goodwill from CapeNature goes far beyond our donation. I urge people, organisations and businesses of the Western Cape to support this vital volunteer group.” says Dr Razeena Omar, CEO, CapeNature.

The SARZA team is comprised solely of volunteers and all clothing and equipment is supplied at their own cost. Should you wish to support SARZA’s rescue operations you can do so as follows:

• Email cape@sarza.org.za
• Support their BuckaBuddy campaign
• Make a donation via SnapScan.