Local News
Catamaran ‘Borrowed Bounty’ Sinks Near Seal Dog Island; No Injuries Reported
A 48-foot catamaran named Borrowed Bounty sank near Seal Dog Island on Oct. 21 after breaking loose from its mooring ball and drifting into nearby rocks, according to the Marine Safety Investigation and Reporting Authority (MSIRA) of the Premier’s Office.
The incident occurred around 11 p.m. between Long Bay, Virgin Gorda, and Seal Dog Island. Officials said the collision compromised the vessel’s structure, causing it to take on water and eventually sink. All seven passengers on board were safely recovered, and no injuries were reported.
Chief Marine Safety Investigations Officer Jerome Padmore said the Virgin Islands Search and Rescue (VISAR) responded swiftly, assisting with the recovery of those on board. The vessel was later salvaged by Husky Salvage & Towing.
“Investigations are ongoing regarding the circumstances surrounding the incident,” Padmore said. “The use and condition of mooring balls is becoming a significant safety concern in Virgin Islands waters, leading to vessel losses and severe damage. Increased public awareness and attention from operators and facility managers are needed.”
Padmore added that the MSIRA will conduct a full investigation to identify contributing factors and improve safety standards for mooring systems throughout the Territory. The agency will provide updates as the investigation continues and reminded mariners that marine accidents must be reported to the authority as required by law.
Local News
Governor’s Office Delivers Trauma Risk Management Training to Frontline Officers in Virgin Islands
The Governor’s Office, with support from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, this week delivered Trauma Risk Management (TRiM) training to frontline officers in the Virgin Islands, including members of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force, prison officers and volunteers from Virgin Islands Search and Rescue (VISAR).
The program is designed to help first responders recognize and manage the psychological effects of traumatic incidents encountered in the course of their duties. Participants received instruction on identifying early signs of stress-related responses and providing peer support following critical events.
According to the Governor’s Office, the training forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen welfare and resilience within frontline services across the territory.
“By strengthening welfare and resilience within our front line services, we are ensuring that the people who protect us are supported themselves,” the Governor’s Office said in a statement.
Officials thanked participants for their involvement and acknowledged the trainer for leading the sessions.
Trauma Risk Management, commonly known as TRiM, is a peer-support process used in emergency services and military settings to assess and address the mental health impact of traumatic exposure.
Maya Marcellin, Teen Universe British Virgin Islands, departed the territory on Feb. 22 for Nicaragua, where she will compete in the Teen Universe International Pageant.
Marcellin left the British Virgin Islands on Sunday accompanied by family members and supporters as she begins representing the territory in the international competition. The pageant will bring together contestants from several countries to compete in preliminary events leading up to the final show.
Supporters gathered prior to her departure to offer encouragement as she travels to Nicaragua to represent the British Virgin Islands on the international stage.
Governor’s Office Delivers Trauma Risk Management Training to Frontline Officers in Virgin Islands
Maya Marcellin Departs for Teen Universe International Pageant in Nicaragua
Andrea Wilson brings Caribbean colour to the NYFW debut
