The new, up-to-date, top-of-the-line Falkins Class Type 1 fast response vessel is about to arrive in Gibsons Harbour.
The current vessel, a Titan 249 XL T Top, acquired 15 years ago, is approaching the end of its operational service life. As it no longer meets the new operational and crew safety standards set out by Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue (RCM-SAR), it would have required an extensive refit to remain in service, hence the decision to purchase a new rescue boat.
The new boat incorporates the proven and reliable performance of the existing rigid-hulled inflatable boats and is also the leading-edge rescue craft design in a shock-mitigating platform whereby the entire crew station will move on a shock-absorbent platform. This is a significant feature that will provide improved crew comfort and significant improvement in safety and reduced fatigue.
Gibsons Marine Rescue Society (GMRS) is responsible for raising the funds necessary to operate RCM-SAR Station 14. GMRS is a registered charitable organization and all donations are tax-deductible. For every dollar raised by GMRS, a full dollar goes to purchasing and maintaining search and rescue equipment.
All members are volunteers. All equipment, including the boats, is purchased by funds raised through public donation. Some operating costs, such as fuel and insurance, are reimbursed by the Department of Fisheries and Oceans on a per incident basis.
RCM-SAR was called out 33 times in 2015, 19 so far this year, and they are heading into the busy season. They maintain an average of 16 minutes from the initial call to being on the water to rescue boaters.
The group is presently raising money to provide a boat house for the new Falkins Class rescue boat. As part of the fundraising campaign, there will be coin collection tins around Gibsons.
If you have questions or wish to have a coin collection tin, please contact Maggie at 604-886-6528.
