The busiest RNLI lifeboat station on the island has launched a recruitment drive to help find volunteers to help the RNLI save lives at sea – without getting their feet wet. Beaumaris RNLI lifeboat station is keen to recruit some extra pairs of hands to assist behind the scenes.
The station is looking for a Lifeboat Operations Manager to authorise the launch of Beaumaris’ Atlantic 85 RNLI lifeboat and take control of the every day running of the station. Candidates would need some experience in people management and ideally would have a maritime background. Also wanted is a Lifeboat Administration Officer to ensure the smooth running of the station and to ensure all correspondence is dealt with.
Matt Crofts RNLI Deputy Divisional Inspector of Lifeboats for Wales says:
‘Volunteers with the RNLI do not necessarily have to go to sea to save lives. There are a variety of ways people can make sure our lifeboats continue to operate and these roles can in fact be extremely rewarding. We are appealing to anyone in the Beaumaris area with some time on their hands to get in touch and spare a few hours to help an extremely worthwhile charity.’
Beaumaris was the busiest RNLI lifeboat station in Wales during 2009, with 93 people rescued by the volunteer crew. The station is also looking ahead to a busy 2010, with its centenary celebrations on 15 August and the naming ceremony of the new Atlantic 85 lifeboat also planned. Derek Lumb, the station’s current Lifeboat Operations Manager is set to retire from his role in May, so a replacement is being sought prior to the busy summer period.
Derek says:
‘Being part of the RNLI team is extremely rewarding and as Lifeboat Operations manager you have overall responsibility for the station and ensuring that everything runs smoothly. In doing so you make a real difference to the safety of the crew and the outcome of the rescues. There is an atmosphere of real comradeship and a satisfaction from contributing to local community life.
‘I have undertaken the role for nearly three years and now have personal plans that will take me away from Beaumaris but if you are in a position to take on this rewarding role for the next three years then I urge you to get in touch.’
The Lifeboat Operations Manager receives information about manned vessel or lives that are in danger and has the authority to launch the station’s lifeboat. He ensures all operational activities are carried out to maintain the lifeboat and other equipment is in a constant state of readiness for launching on service.
The Lifeboat Administration Officer would provide administrative support to the Lifeboat Operations Manager and would be the primary contact point for members of staff on general administrative matters of interest.
If you would like to find out more about any of these roles either visit the station on an exercise night 1800 – 2000 on Monday or Thursday or ring the Lifeboat Operations Manager, Derek Lumb on 01248 811022.
