The Greg Hughes Podcast | Ep13: The Watchman of Bunbeg – Timmy Boyle

After three decades of unwavering service, Timmy Boyle has officially stepped down as Officer in Charge of the Bunbeg Coast Guard. In this episode, we sit down with the man who helped shape the face of maritime rescue in Donegal.

From the grassroots community fundraising that launched St. Colmcille Cliff & Coastal Search in 1996 to the service’s modern-day evolution under the Irish Coast Guard, Timmy has been the driving force behind the safety of our shores.

In This Episode:

• The Early Days: How a dedicated inshore rescue service was built from the ground up by the Bunbeg community.

• The Operations: Insight into the coordination between Malin Head and Rescue 118 and others, including the grueling search for the R116 helicopter crew.

• The Stakes: The profound relief of finding a stranded kayaker as the tide rises, and the solemn duty of bringing closure to families through body recovery on Lough Swilly alongside Sheepheaven Divers.

• A Call for Change: Why Timmy believes compulsory sea courses should be mandatory and the hidden, terrifying dangers of air beds on open water.

“Boats are much more dangerous than cars. You are always at the mercy of the sea, and if you don’t know what you’re doing, it’s extremely dangerous.”