Shedders were treated to a thoroughly fascinating and insightful presentation from Dr Charles O’Brien, who shared his experiences as a member of the Mourne Mountain Rescue Team (MMRT). His talk offered a rare, behind-the-scenes look at one of the most committed and highly skilled volunteer emergency services in Northern Ireland.

Dr O’Brien began by outlining the scope of the team’s work. The Mourne Mountain Rescue Team is a fully voluntary, professional emergency rescue service operating 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Despite being unpaid, its members are trained to standards comparable to any frontline rescue organisation, and they respond to incidents in some of the most rugged and challenging terrain in the country.

The team covers a vast operational area, including:

• The Mourne Mountains

• Slieve Croob

• Slieve Gullion

• The Cooley Mountains

These landscapes attract thousands of walkers, hikers, climbers and outdoor enthusiasts, but they also present significant risks — steep slopes, unpredictable weather, rapidly changing visibility and difficult access for traditional emergency services.

Dr O’Brien described the types of incidents MMRT responds to, such as:

• Injured walkers and climbers

• Lost or overdue individuals

• Searches for missing persons

• Severe-weather rescues

• Assistance during floods or major incidents when called upon by other agencies

He explained the complexity involved in these operations: locating casualties in vast areas with limited visibility, stretcher-carrying over long distances, coordinating with the Coastguard and Air Ambulance, and making critical decisions in harsh mountain conditions.

The talk also highlighted the extensive training and preparation required. Team members undergo rigorous instruction in navigation, rope rescue, casualty care, communications, avalanche awareness, and night operations. Much of this training takes place in their own free time, reflecting the exceptional level of commitment that keeps the service running.

Dr O’Brien emphasised that MMRT relies heavily on community support and fundraising to maintain their essential equipment—stretchers, radios, medical gear, rescue vehicles and specialist clothing. Every donation directly contributes to the safety of those who enjoy the mountains.

For the Shedders, the session was eye-opening and inspiring. It showcased not only the technical skill behind mountain rescue, but also the dedication, teamwork and community spirit that enable the volunteers to operate in some of the toughest conditions imaginable.

Talks like this form an important part of our programme at Rostrevor Men’s Shed, helping members learn more about the incredible services and organisations that support our local area.