Carrybridge RNLI Volunteer Successfully Completes Head Launcher Passout
- Robert Stone
- Sep 19
- 2 min read
Friday 19 September 2025
Carrybridge Lifeboat Station is delighted to announce that one of its dedicated shore crew, Nigel Carson has completed his Head Launcher passout which signifies that he is fully trained to command the launch and recovery of the lifeboat, a significant milestone in his lifesaving journey.
The passout was conducted by Stephen McNulty, Plant and Machinery Trainer, who had travelled up from Achill Island on behalf of the RNLI. Carrybridge RNLI continues to train volunteers in various roles, both afloat and ashore, to the highest standards as part of its mission to save lives on Lough Erne.
As ILB Head Launcher, he will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of ILB launch and recovery. This role includes managing the shore crew and coordinating with the Launch Vehicle Driver to ensure smooth and efficient operations. Nigel volunteered for many years as an Inshore Lifeboat Crew member before moving to the shore side roles and has already completed Shore Crew, Launch Vehicle Driver and Launch Authority passouts.
Following his passout Nigel said: “I’m delighted to have successfully completed all my current training roles at Carrybridge RNLI. I’ve been involved in the station in various roles over the years and really enjoy the camaraderie with the rest of the crew when we meet every Thursday evening for our weekly training exercise. We work together as OneCrew to deliver a 24/7 lifesaving service on Lough Erne and it’s a pleasure to be able to help other people in their time of need.”
Chris Cathcart, Volunteer Lifeboat Training Coordinator noted, “'Having another trained ILB Head Launcher strengthens our capability and enhances our overall efficiency. I’d like to congratulate Nigel and extend my thanks to everyone who played a part throughout his training.”
Stephen Scott, Lifeboat Operations Manager at the station says, “Nigel has volunteered in our station since February 2008 and we’d like to thank him for his outstanding commitment throughout his time thus far with the RNLI. In these 17 years he has operated as ILB Boat Crew, Rescue Water Craft Operator and Casualty Care roles as well as those mentioned above. Nigel completed this passout to an extremely high standard and I’m delighted that today we mark this landmark in his lifesaving journey. Our crew train to an extremely high standard and devote a lot of their time to this charity.”
