R Murray introduced our guests:
Terry Cox is an aviation instructor at Seneca College and former District Chief for Quinte West Fire Department for 28 years. Devoted to marine Search and Rescue, Terry was one of our original crew members 12 years ago. Terry now provides his teaching abilities and leadership strengths as Brighton Auxiliary Rescue Unit's Training Leader.
Colleen McCabe is a co-owner of a little sailing school in Brighton and former Advanced Care Paramedic for 12 years. Colleen joined Brighton Auxiliary Rescue Unit about one year ago as a crew member. Having volunteered for a number of organizations raising much needed funds, she was recently promoted to Fundraising Director and given the not so easy task to raise $125,000 for a new rescue boat for our community.
Colleen shared pictures of their existing rescue boat and what they do. Their existing boat is not well suited for rescue, it is a pleasure boat that has been modified. It is 35 years old, slow and not the safest boat in rough waters. It is starting to cost them money to maintain. Last year it cost about $5,000 to get the boat ready in the spring to put in the water.
BARU has been in operation about 11 years, almost 12. It is a registered charity. They are 100% volunteers with 18 active members provided 24/7 service to the boating public. The Canadian Coast Guard are legally not able to help with any capital costs, some fuel and training only. They have responded to 41 calls in last five years, about half saving lives. Often at night in heavy water / waves.
They primarily serve Brighton area, but can go west to Cobourg, south to US side of lake and Quinte region.
They now have an opportunity to buy a proper boat, one suited for their use. But they need to raise an additional $125,000. They have $75,000 and looking to raise difference. This new boat is a 2012 Metalcraft Firestorm 30, built for search and rescue. It will do 40 knots. Brand new this boat would cost up to $800,000. They can get this boat for fraction of that, but they need to act this spring, as they believe it will sell.
They are reaching out to other organizations and they have a Go Fund Me page.
R Daniel thanked Colleen and Terry.