New Lifeboat Operations Manager among RNLI lifesavers on Lough Ree
The RNLI is launching its Christmas fundraising appeal, as its volunteer lifeboat crews – including Athlone native Dave McCourt, its new Lough Ree Lifeboat Operations Manager - selflessly prepare to spend their Christmas on call.
Dave, who lives close to the lifeboat station and spends large amounts of his time at Coosan Point, will be joined this year at the local RNLI by new volunteers Maeve Kelly, Naveen Marth, Tony Commins, Evan McMickan, Aaron Ruane, Ankur Arora, Jackelin Winnett, Dr. Kate McCormick, Michael Pigott and Mairéad Mallon.
On average, RNLI lifeboats launch over 100 times during the Christmas period every year, with 119 launches in 2024.
Whatever weather winter throws at them, RNLI crews - including those at Lough Ree - are ready to leave their festive celebrations to battle the elements andsave lives on the water.
Dave, who works in social housing and spent 21 years in the Defence Forces Corps of Engineering, said: “I have always been aware of the work of the RNLI since the station was established here, both professionally and with my family, and it was a case of getting involved at the right time.”
At Lough Ree RNLI, Dave is tasked with the leadership of the station’s operations team, ensuring that all operational activities are carried out to maintain the inshore lifeboat and associated equipment, so they are in a constant state of readiness for launching. Dave, along with his fellow Launch Authorities, is also responsible for authorising the launch of the lifeboat.
"I am three months into the role and really enjoying it,” said Dave.
“There's a lot to get to grips with but there's a lot of positivity at the station, and the team are great in embodying a one crew ethos regardless of what volunteer role they have. The team have great ideas and we are also welcoming a lot of new blood into the station,” he added.
As for what he finds most rewarding about giving his time, Dave says: "It's the purpose behind the RNLI - saving lives and keeping the lake safe so people can enjoy it. Knowing the RNLI is there if something happens is important. There's also great camaraderie among the team and everyone works really well together.”
In order to maintain their high standards and to continue rescuing people on the waters, however, the RNLI, however, always require the generous support of the public, who help to fund the essential kit, training and equipment needed to keep crews prepared and protected. To this end, people can make a donation to the RNLI’s Christmas Appeal, and enable the charity to continue its lifesaving work at RNLI.org/WinterAppeal
“There’s no feeling quite like bringing someone home safe to their families – especially at Christmas,” Dave said.
“Even at this time of year, people still get in trouble in the water, and we’re all prepared to leave our own celebrations to help them. But as volunteers we couldn’t launch our lifeboat without kind donations from the public which fund the kit, training and equipment we need to save others and get home safely to our own families.”
The RNLI charity saves lives at sea and volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around Ireland and the UK. The RNLI operates 46 lifeboat stations in the Irish region. The RNLI is independent of Coast Guard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service.