Good cause going to great lengths to raise funds
Members of the Fermoy based Blackwater Search & Rescue have committed themselves to swimming the length of the Blackwater to raise much needed funds.
Established in 1981, Blackwater Search & Rescue Unit started life as a group of friends with an interest in diving. Over time, they’ve developed into a highly skilled organisation, whose expertise ranges from providing cover for water based activities, to the very demanding role of recovering bodies from rivers, lakes and sea.
At the 169 Challenge launch, club fundraising officer, Noel Hayes, told The Avondhu that divers pay for all their own gear, as well as covering costs associated with training and medical expenses.
“Volunteers attached to Blackwater Search & Rescue operate to exacting standards and must have access to the very best equipment. Divers pay for their own personal gear and engage in rescue operations at their own cost. ‘Callouts’ can involve very significant travel, as was the case with the recovery operation involving crew of an Irish Coast Guard Rescue helicopter off the coast of Mayo. Understandably, there is considerable cost in keeping the club going and we’re hoping the public really get behind this initiative,” he said.
Joining Noel at the socially distanced launch was long serving club secretary, Ken Barry. According to Ken, the people of Fermoy and beyond have a track record of support for the activities of Blackwater Search & Rescue Unit.
“Covid-19 related activities have greatly impacted our fundraising activites, so this makes the 169 Challenge all the more important. Feedback to date has been very encouraging and our main task at the moment is getting the word out there. It’s also important to point out that individuals, members of other clubs, businesses and firms can all play a part in supporting the challenge. Over the years, local people, along with those living in surrounding villages and towns, have been very good to us - hopefully, this trend continues in the days and weeks ahead,” Ken said.
WHAT YOU CAN DO
Members of the public are invited to walk, jog, run, swim, row or paddle the 169 kilometres. Details on how to donate are available from the Blackwater Sub Aqua Club Facebook page or from idonate. ie/ blackwater169 challenge. If you have your own ideas about fundraising on behalf of the club, please contact Ken on 086-1018424.
Note: Divers undertaking the challenge will adhere to social distancing regulations and all events associated with the challenge should also comply with current Covid19 guidelines.