BP donates IRB to Capital Coast Callout Squad

To mark the 50 year anniversary commemorations of the Wahine Disaster, BP New Zealand has today donated an Inflatable Rescue Boat (IRB) to the Capital Coast Callout Squad.

BP Managing Director Debi Boffa said “The Wahine Disaster is an important part of maritime, Wellington and New Zealand’s history. BP is humbled to play a role in remembering those who lost their lives, and recognise survivors as part of the 50 year commemoration events, and it’s our privilege to mark the occasion by donating an IRB to support future events involving the Capital Coast Callout Squad.”

BP is the principal sponsor of the P.S Are You Prepared? Display at the commemoration, a display where members of the public can come and talk to emergency rescue organisations and find out how these organisations would respond to an emergency today.

After seeing the brave clubbies from Worser Bay Surf Club take their surf boat Miss Europa out in the stormy sea to help with the rescue people from the Wahine, Europa, acquired by BP shortly after, began a nationwide sponsorship with Surf Life Saving New Zealand.

“It is as a result of the heroic rescue efforts on the day of the Wahine Disaster that BP has recently marked its 50 years of partnership with Surf Life Saving New Zealand. We hope our contribution of an IRB to the Capital Coast Callout Squad will ensure there will always be people and equipment available to help anyone who comes into strife while at sea,” Ms Boffa said.

BP is proud to continue its annual IRB donation, recognising they play a vital role in everyday operations at Surf Lifesaving Clubs around New Zealand. BP IRBs are not only used for beach patrols but are part of emergency management and are often called upon in floods and other emergencies.

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