Achill Island History

1995  Following a review of lifeboat cover in the Clew Bay area of County Mayo a decision was made on 22 November to place an all weather lifeboat for 12 months’ evaluation at Kildavnet in the southern part of Achill Sound.

1996 During the evaluation period a Waveney class lifeboat and temporary portable buildings for the crew facilities were provided. The all weather lifeboat was kept on moorings where the present lifeboat is anchored.

1997 An Arun class lifeboat was placed on full service on 26 January.

1999 A new Trent class lifeboat, Sam and Ada Moody, was placed on service on 28 April. This lifeboat was funded in memory of Sam and Ada Moody from the generous bequest of Mrs Ada Moody.

 A Silver Medal was awarded to the then Coxswain and Framed Letters of Thanks were awarded to the seven crew for the rescue of three men and the fishing vessel Carrigeen Bay. The trawler was disabled due to engine failure and was drifting rapidly onto rocks in a force 9 strong gale and 7m swells on 27 February. Despite appalling conditions a tow was established and, although this parted on several occasions with the sea breaking over both vessels, the Carrigeen Bay was towed to the shelter of Clare Island. The award of the Silver Medal was uniquely announced at the end of the naming ceremony of ON-1240 on 18 September 1999.

2004  A new permanent boathouse and crew facilities were completed in February.

Station honours

At Achill Island lifeboat station the following awards have been made:

Framed Letter of Thanks 7

Silver Medal 1