Rovers Search and Rescue has officially taken possession of its new flagship rescue unit.

And they have Cenovus Energy to thank for it, which they did yesterday at the Octagon Pond boat launch in Paradise.

Cenovus, the majority owner and operator of the White Rose offshore oilfield, put up the entire $100,000 for the Rovers’ new rig.

It replaces their original, 30-year-old rescue unit, but with improved capability and reliability when it matters most.

Rover’s director Paul Cook, also eastern director with the Newfoundland and Labrador Search and Rescue Association, says the Cenovus donation was a godsend.

“All of our members have loved ones at home, and they are 200 or 300 years without them,” he said. “And if we had to take on the task of raising $100,000 for a new truck, well something would have to suffer.”

The new rescue unit has actually been in operation for few months, already assisting in several successful rescues.