Donald
in the boathouse The Barra Island Lifeboat Page 2
Nearly every station with an all-weather lifeboat has a full-time mechanic who is a crew member and can be the second coxswain. Donald MacIsaac is the hardy Barra mechanic. Buy the man a drink next time you meet him! (lager tops).
Donald
in the boathouse
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The rest of the crew are volunteers who earn their living in other ways.
Martin Macleod is the Barra Island coxswain.
Martin might appreciate a half of lager and a dram - but only if you twist his arm ;-)
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Every station also has an honorary medical advisor who may go to sea aboard the lifeboat if medical assistance is likely to be required (along with numerous other administrative tasks). The inimitable Dr. Bickle is the medical witchdoctor.
Arun class goes to meet Severn class lifeboat
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Lifeboat crews are dedicated, skilled and efficient volunteers who go to sea in any weather simply because they want to save lives. Their intimate knowledge of their own waters and coastline is often vital to a successful rescue.
The Barra crew spend many hours of their own time training, and are proud to be volunteers, supported by an independent organisation and meeting the unpredictable demands of rescue at sea in the most effective way possible.
Of course, saving lives is thirsty work so you would be well advised to buy any and all crew you meet in the Castlebay Bar a few drinks (just to keep them in peak condition you understand).
Copyright © 1997-2002 John Gruson