National Lottery Community Fund supports purchase for safety boat for Killyleagh Coastal Rowing Club
Killyleagh Coastal Rowing Club (KCRC) is delighted to announce the official launch of its new safety boat – a Whaly 435 – made possible through funding from The National Lottery Community Fund.
Killyleagh Coastal Rowing Club Launches New Safety Boat Funded by The National Lottery Community Fund
This vital addition to the club’s fleet enhances on-the-water safety for all participants, from beginners to seasoned rowers, and supports the club’s community initiatives across Strangford Lough.
The safety boat will play a key role in ensuring safe training sessions, community rowing events, and environmental activities such as clean-up days around the Lough and its islands.
The Whaly 435 is a robust, low-maintenance safety craft designed for coastal use.
Club members, supporters, and the local community are warmly invited to attend the launch event at 3pm on Saturday 8th November at the Slipway, Netwalk, Killyleagh, where the new safety boat will be officially named and launched.
Chairperson Raymond Dean said: “We’ are immensely grateful to National Lottery players for making this possible.
“The new Whaly safety boat gives our volunteers and crews the confidence to continue growing community rowing safely on Strangford Lough.
“It’s not just a boat – it’s an investment in inclusion, wellbeing, and the shared enjoyment of our beautiful local waters.”
Date: Saturday 8th November 2025
Time: 3.00pm
Location: The Slipway, Netwalk, Killyleagh.
Everyone is welcome to come along, meet the team, and celebrate this exciting new chapter for Killyleagh Coastal Rowing Club. Celebrations will continue in the Smugglers pub following the official launch for KCRC crew and guests.
Check out KCRC on Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/killyleaghCRC
• Funding for the safety boat was provided by The National Lottery Community Fund, made possible by National Lottery players.
• Killyleagh Coastal Rowing Club promotes rowing for all ages and abilities and encourages community engagement with Strangford Lough through sport, wellbeing, and environmental stewardship.
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