Modern life has brought us many things–new tech gadgets, 24-hour news, Zoom–but, unfortunately, not many heroes. That’s about to change with a new hard-hitting documentary series currently filming in Ahousaht.
The series, set to air on APTN and CHEK TV next spring focuses on the action-packed rescue missions of local heroes from the Coastal Nations Coast Guard Auxiliary.
This group of volunteer Indigenous search and rescue workers have been saving countless lives for years. Ocean Warriors – Mission Ready will be an in-depth look into both the make-or-break moments that have made such an impact, as well as the culture of giving back that drives them to protect our communities.
Award-winning producer and director of the series Steve Sxwithhul’txw has said that despite the Auxiliary putting their own lives on the line to protect others, they are extremely humble and see their actions as simply the right thing to do.
“In the past, they haven’t gotten the recognition that they deserve as, I’ll be honest, as heroes. These are people that put their lives at risk every day. First Nation people from small communities who go rushing out in the most atrocious weather — high winds, rain, high surf, fog, you name it. And when a call for a rescue comes in or assistance, they always are there,” he told Cortes Current‘s reporter Crystal St.Pierre.
They’ve helped rescue people from everything from flipped tour boats to plane crashes over the years, and some of the most notable rescue missions include the sinking of the Queen of the North ferry in 2006 near Gil Island, and Levianth II a whale-watching boat which capsized near Tofino, 6 people died within the first few minutes, but the rescue operation recovered 21 survivors.
Namgis First Nation Chief Don Svanvik commented on their work saying “On the ocean, there’s a simple law. You help somebody that’s in trouble.”
This is what drives the Coastal Nations Auxiliary to do the work they do, and we’re excited to learn more.
To help support the series and the people keeping you safe on the Island tune in to Ocean Warriors when it’s released on your local station.
