Lord Mayor opens RNLI exhibition in Belfast as part of the charity’s celebration of 200 years saving lives at sea
As part of the RNLI’s 200th anniversary, the charity has created an immersive and exciting exhibition that looks at the Institution’s history, while also encouraging a new generation of lifesavers to get involved. Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Micky Murray officially opened the exhibition today at the city’s 2 Royal Avenue venue, where it will remain until 15th of September.
The RNLI operates ten lifeboat stations in Northern Ireland and has lifeguards on eleven beaches. Since records began, the charity’s volunteer lifeboat crews in Northern Ireland have launched 9472 times, bringing over 8,000 people to safety.
The backdrop to the exhibition is the sound of the lifeboat pager alerting the crew to a callout. Using sustainable materials, historical images and virtual reality technology, visitors are invited to step into the yellow wellies of an RNLI volunteer and learn what it takes to launch a lifeboat in all weathers. They can listen to interviews from the RNLI’s 200 Voices podcast, sit on a seat taken from a lifeboat and wear a special VR headset that puts them in the centre of the action on the high seas. Included are also stunning images and fascinating accounts of some of the most famous callouts carried out by lifeboat crews, including the Princess Victoria ferry disaster in 1953.
Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Micky Murray said, ‘For 200 years, the RNLI has been a beacon of hope and safety for those in peril at sea. From its humble beginnings in 1824, this remarkable institution has grown to become a symbol of courage and compassion. This new exhibition is a testament to two centuries of unwavering dedication, bravery, and service. It not only commemorates the heroic efforts of our RNLI volunteers but also celebrates the spirit of community that defines Northern Ireland.’
RNLI Trustee and a Coxswain at Red Bay RNLI, Paddy McLaughlin added, ‘As a charity with a 200-year history we have a rich archive of images and stories from which to curate an exhibition, but with this we also wanted to look to the future and innovations in technology that have influenced lifesaving. We are delighted to have this exhibition in the centre of Belfast and in such a stunning building. I’d urge people to visit it and I hope some may even be inspired to get involved and start saving lives.’
