Baywatch In Africa - South Africa

2,179 views · Published 21 November 2007 · 8:37 · Indexed 20 September 2026

Channel: Journeyman Pictures · 2007 · News & Politics

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June 2001
This is the uplifting story about a group of black South Africans who have set up a professional life saving club. Their aim is to open up the beaches, to educate the local people, and to save lives. 

This is the uplifting story about a group of black South Africans who have set up a professional life saving club. Their aim is to open up the beaches, to educate the local people, and to save lives. As a boy Bongile Ncoyini was barred from the local beach in his home town Port St Johns. Under apartheid, the golden sands were sign posted 'Whites Only'. The oppressive system not only forced black families to dangerous parts of the coast to fish for food but it also left many with a deep fear of the sea. Now, Bongile and his friends have triumphed over their adversity as members of a dedicated lifesaving club, launching rescues and patrolling the beach that was once out of bounds. Bongile's dream is to wipe out the number of locals who still perish in the sea. "Most of the people that drown here are our brothers and sisters, our neighbours, our relatives, people we know. I want to eliminate that number, drop it to zero."

Produced by ABC Australia
Distributed by Journeyman Pictures

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