Oban RNLI
At the end of a busy year which has culminated in the arrival of our new lifeboat, the seagoing and shore crews would like to thank the many people who continue to support the Oban lifeboat in so many ways.
Thank you to those who donate so generously to us and buy our fundraising items. Thank you to the employers and colleagues who allow our team members to rush off when their pagers go off. And thank you for the understanding of the partners and families of our volunteer crew who see meals go cold and plans put on hold, and can never quite relax until their loved ones are back home safe.
We wish you the very best for Christmas and look forward to continuing to serve and support our maritime, coastal and island communities in 2024.
Robbie Drummond, chief executive of CalMac
As 2023 draws to a close we are reflecting on the year that has passed. We’ve worked hard to minimise disruption on the network. We understand the impact this has on communities and apologise where things have gone wrong.
We have invested a record amount into our annual overhaul programme, ensuring our fleet is as robust as possible. We’ve engaged and supported the Oban and Inner Hebrides communities, such as in July when we sheltered stranded festival-goes after the unfortunate weather-related cancellation of the Tiree Music Festival.
In the coming year, we will continue to work in partnership with local stakeholders and communities to ensure the best possible outcomes for all who rely on our services. We are also looking forward to welcoming six major and 10 small vessels into the fleet in the near future, which alongside ongoing port improvements will build capacity and resilience across our network.
While a lot of people get to enjoy time off with their family over the festivities, many of our crew will be working to ensure we keep passengers and supplies moving and our communities connected. I am proud of every one of them and thank them for their continued commitment. I also extend my thanks to our customers for their ongoing support and patience and wish everyone the very best for the holiday period. We look forward to seeing you on board in what is looking like an exciting year ahead.