The GEMINI GRX 420 rescue boat, worth approximately B700,000, was officially handed over during a ceremony yesterday (July 7) attended by Phuket MP Chalermpong Saengdee, local officials and representatives from both donor organisations.
The 4.2-metre-long vessel, constructed from Hypalon rubber and resin, is powered by a 30-horsepower Suzuki two-stroke engine. Delivered in brand-new condition and equipped with essential safety gear, the boat will support lifeguards and emergency responders in preventing and assisting with accidents in the water off Patong Beach.
The handover ceremony included the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between Tonsai Marine, the Rotary Club of Patong Beach and Patong Municipality to enhance cooperation in emergency response and strengthen the capacity of local lifeguards who work year-round to safeguard tourists on Patong Beach.
The Patong lifeguards put the new rescue dinghy through its paces immediately, with a series of surf rescue training exercises.
President of the Rotary Club of Patong Beach, Alexander Longman, said the donation aligned with Rotary International’s guiding motto of “Service Above Self”.
“Our club is made up of members from diverse backgrounds united by a common purpose ‒ to make a real and lasting difference in our community,” Mr Longman said.
He highlighted some of the club’s key community service initiatives, including:
* Save a Child Swim Programme: Teaching more than 1,000 local children lifesaving swimming skills
* Lenses for Learning: Providing free vision screenings and glasses for underprivileged students
* Scholarships for Children: Supporting students through financial hardship
* AED Pad Donations: Equipping local EMS ambulances with emergency defibrillator pads
* Sustainable Gardens for Special Needs Schools: Teaching children with disabilities about nutrition and self-sufficiency
The rescue boat project, Mr Longman added, was made possible through the generosity of Warangkana Kisby and Daniel Kisby of Tonsai Marine Services. “We are proud to stand with the Patong lifeguards ‒ not just as donors, but as long-term supporters,” he said.
Phuket MP Chalermpong Saengdee praised the initiative, saying it would play an important role in safeguarding both locals and the thousands of visitors who flock to Patong Bay each year.
“This is an excellent example of the private sector and community organisations working together for the public good,” he said.
The event concluded with a message of appreciation from the donors: “We would like to express our sincere gratitude to the Patong Beach lifeguards for their tireless dedication. May this boat be of great use in your mission and help save many more lives in the years to come.”
The donation comes as Patong lifeguards continue efforts to improve safety at the beach, especially during the monsoon season when sea conditions can be dangerous.