Lough Ree RNLI is inviting members of the local community to explore volunteering opportunities during two open evenings at its lifeboat station later this month. The charity, which provides the lifeboat service on Lough Ree and the River Shannon, is looking to recruit new volunteers across a range of operational and support roles.
The information evenings will take place at the RNLI boathouse at Coosan Point on Tuesday 21 July and Thursday 23 July, starting at 6.30 pm. More than 40 volunteers currently provide a 24-hour, seven-day on-call search-and-rescue service, responding to emergencies on the lake and river throughout the year.
Visitors will have the opportunity to meet existing volunteers and learn about the different roles available. These include lifeboat crew, shore crew supporting launches and recoveries, water safety education, station visits, communications and fundraising.
Lough Ree RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager Dave McCourt, who joined the station last year, encouraged anyone interested to attend.
"Everyone is welcome to our open evenings, and we welcome the generosity of people who are willing to give their time and skills to help save people in danger on the lake," he said. "One of the things I most enjoyed was the varied training I received from the RNLI as part of my role."
The RNLI says no previous experience is required for many volunteer roles, with full training provided.
