Five Fowey RNLI Volunteers Pass Final Training Milestone

On Tuesday 13th January, five volunteers at Fowey Lifeboat Station were successfully passed out by visiting coastal lifeboat trainers after completing the final stages of their training.

New Launch Authority for Fowey

Christian ‘Branch’ Philp has become a fully trained Launch Authority for the station. Branch has volunteered as a crew member for more than 20 years and received his 20 year service medal in 2024.

Having now stepped down as an active crew member, his new role within the station’s Launch Authority team means that, when on duty, he will be the first point of contact when the coastguard receives a 999 call. Branch will be responsible for authorising a lifeboat launch. If a launch is agreed, the coastguard will page the crew.

As the volunteer crew make their way to the station, the Launch Authority also attends, gathering as much information as possible about the shout. This information is then used to brief the helm and help assemble the crew.

📷Christian 'Branch' Philp - Credit: Fowey RNLI

Shore Crew and Plant Operators Passed Out

Darren Burt and Chris Evans successfully passed out as Plant Operators. As part of the shore crew team, they are now qualified to operate plant during lifeboat launch and recovery.

Owen Burt, Darren’s son, and Geoff Lipscombe were passed out as shore crew. Their role includes assisting with the launch and recovery of the lifeboats during services and exercises, as well as contributing to the upkeep of the station, lifeboats and equipment.

📷Chris Evans - Credit: Fowey RNLI

Recognition of Commitment

Fowey’s Lifeboat Operations Manager, Paul Gamble, said:
‘Very well done to all of you for the commitment and hard work you have put into achieving this’.

The pass outs mark an important moment for the station and reflect the ongoing commitment of volunteers supporting the lifesaving work of the RNLI.

📷Darren and Owen Burt - Credit: Fowey RNLI

📷Geoff Lipscombe - Credit: Fowey RNLI