Fishguard RNLI celebrates new volunteer mechanic
A volunteer crew member of the Fishguard lifeboat has successfully passed the assessment to become the latest crew mechanic.
Fishguard volunteer Rhys Stilwell joined the crew in 2018, crewing on both the inshore and all-weather lifeboats based at Fishguard. In that time he has spent a significant time at sea, including being involved in 48 service launches.
Locals will recognise Rhys also from the many hours he puts into other local charity work in the community. Recently he made the decision to further develop his skills and take up the challenge to become a qualified mechanic on the charity's Trent class all-weather lifeboat Blue Peter VII.
The role of mechanic is vital to saving lives at sea as one is required on board each time the boat goes afloat. Their role includes starting up, monitoring and shutting down the engines and electronic systems. They will also operate the VHF radio, receiving information from and updating HM Coastguard about the vessel’s movements.
As mechanic they will also be familiar with troubleshooting mechanical/electrical issues whilst at sea, as well as operating the onboard emergency systems.
Following months of training with the current full-time mechanic Chris and attending courses at the RNLI College in Poole, Rhys was ready to undertake the four hour assessment including two hours at sea which culminated in an emergency drill for dealing with a fire onboard the lifeboat.
Having successfully passed the assessment, Rhys is now able to support Chris in his role and provide volunteer mechanic cover at RNLI Fishguard as well as other stations who operate the same class of lifeboat.
Fishguard RNLI volunteer all-weather lifeboat mechanic Rhys Stilwell, said:
‘I initially joined the crew as I live nearby and it was a way I could help the community. As time has progressed, I’ve been able to use my skills to help more, and now as a passed-out mechanic I can provide valuable support to the station.
A big thank you to Chris for the time and effort he has put into my training and familiarisation with the boat, with over 30 years of service she’s an old vessel and there’s always potential for something to go wrong, but here’s hoping for smooth sailing.’
The station wishes to convey its congratulations and thanks to Rhys for rising to the challenge of this role, he has proven himself to be a real credit to his station and his whole community.