The Mountain Club of South Africa’s volunteer Search and Rescue team has received the Mayor’s Medal for Extraordinary Bravery, recognising more than a century of lifesaving work in Cape Town, reports Cape {town} Etc.
The medal was presented at the City of Cape Town civic honours ceremony on 14 November 2025.
The award pays tribute to the club’s 70-strong team of unpaid volunteers who respond to emergencies in mountains, wilderness and other high-risk areas.
Team members provide rescue, first aid and recovery services without charge, and training and readiness form a constant part of their routine.
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City leaders praised the volunteers for their skill and commitment. The club’s Cape Town co-convenor, Brent Russell, accepted the medal on behalf of the team, with Cape Town Section chair Anthea von Wieringen present to receive the honour.
Local residents and social media commenters lauded the volunteers for the many unseen hours of training and rescue work that keep hikers and residents safe.
The City’s civic honours booklet lists the Mountain Club under the Extraordinary Bravery category alongside other distinguished recipients, reflecting the organisation’s sustained public service.
It recognises hours of careful training, the emotional labour of difficult recoveries and the quiet teamwork that turns risk into rescue.
The Mountain Club said it felt humbled by the recognition and committed to continuing its volunteer service.
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Picture: The Mountain Club of South Africa – Cape Town Section / Facebook
