The National Surf Centre in Strandhill was alive with energy, education, and community spirit on Saturday, July 26th, as locals and visitors gathered for the highly successful Ocean Safety and Awareness Day.
Strandhill Makes Waves with Ocean Safety and Awareness Day 2025
The event, which ran from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm, brought together emergency services, marine experts, and families for a powerful day of learning, connection, and celebration of our coastal environment.
Attendees were treated to live rescue demonstrations by the RNLI, Strandhill Community First Responders, Fire Service, Ambulance Service, An Garda Síochána, Sligo Leitrim Mountain Rescue and other frontline services. These powerful displays offered a firsthand look at the skill and coordination involved in saving lives at sea.
Ocean education experiences included hands-on learning experiences throughout the venue. The Sea Collective highlighted community-led marine conservation, while Blue Spaces Research with Beth Brown explored the mental health benefits of coastal environments. A special live “Ship to Shore” interview with Marine Scientist Oisín McManus, broadcasting live from the Tom Crean Research Vessel, captivated audiences with insights into ocean science and exploration. Additionally, volunteers of all ages took part in a successful beach clean-up led by Clean Coasts, helping to preserve the beauty of Strandhill’s coastline.
The Water Safety Lecture Series drew an engaged audience, with expert talks on beach safety tips from Water Safety Ireland Sligo and hypothermia awareness from Sligo Leitrim Mountain Rescue.
The closing event of the day was the Sligo Paddle Board Classic, a surf lifesaving competition that marked the 80th anniversary and reinstatement of the historic Dr. Murphy Cup—once regarded as the most prestigious award for lifesaving in Connaught. Originally revived in the 1980s by Dr. Murphy’s daughters, Noreen and Aideen, the cup was once again brought to prominence this year. Dr. Murphy’s grandson, Tom Egan, presented the cup to Scott Reid, Chairman of Sligo Water Safety, symbolising a proud legacy of lifesaving excellence and community dedication. This year’s competition saw outstanding performances from all participants, with Ryan Watts securing first place, followed by Gerry Gannon in second, and Scott Reid taking third. The event drew participants and spectators from across the region, reinforcing Sligo’s reputation as a hub for water sport.
Ryan Watts - 1st Place in the Sligo Paddle Board Classic
Gerry Gannon - 2nd Place in the Sligo Paddle Board Classic
Scott Reid - 3rd Place in the Sligo Paddle Board Classic
Families enjoyed face painting, interactive exhibits, and the chance to meet local emergency responders. The event fostered a strong sense of community and shared responsibility for ocean safety and conservation.
Cllr. Dónal Gilroy, Cathaoirleach, Sligo County Council commented:
“As someone who grew up by the sea, I know how vital it is that we understand and respect the power of our oceans. It was inspiring to see our community come together at the Ocean Safety and Awareness Day, demonstrating the skill, dedication and teamwork of our emergency services. Events like this not only reinforce vital life-saving knowledge but also strengthen our shared commitment to protecting Sligo’s beautiful coastal environment for generations to come.”
Winchman paramedic John Garvey added,
“Today is about education and getting the message across that water safety isn’t the sole responsibility of and one agency. Education is key as we’re an island nation and intrinsically linked to our beaches and oceans. Knowing what to do and more importantly what not to do when visiting the coast should reduce the number of incidents where people require help. We need to understand also that the more we damage the environment around our shores the more we introduce new dangers and therefore uncover new risks”.
“This day was about more than just safety—it was about connection, education, and celebrating our relationship with the sea,”
said Eithne Currid, Water Safety Development Officer, Sligo County Council.
“We’re incredibly grateful to all the volunteers, emergency services, and attendees who made it such a success.”
Sligo County Council and the National Surf Centre extends heartfelt thanks to all participants. Ocean Safety and Awareness Day 2025 served as a powerful reminder of the importance of community collaboration in promoting safety and environmental stewardship along our coasts.
