Buckie RNLI volunteer Dr Angus Gallacher steps down after 33 years of service

Angus joined the RNLI in 1993, combining his lifelong passion for the sea with a desire to support the charity’s lifesaving work. A keen sailor who kept his own boat in nearby Findochty, he brought both maritime experience and medical expertise to the station throughout more than three decades of service.

His commitment was formally recognised on 13 June 2026 when he attended an RNLI awards ceremony at Hopetoun House in Edinburgh, where he received the RNLI 30 Year Long Service Award in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the charity.

A well-known local GP, Angus combined his medical knowledge with his love of the sea through his long service with Buckie RNLI. He developed a particular interest in maritime medicine and later worked as a cruise ship doctor in the Caribbean, Alaska and Antarctica.

When his work at sea took him away from home for extended periods, Dr Catriona Macdonald joined the station to provide Lifeboat Medical Advisor cover. This allowed the role to be shared while Angus was working aboard ship and gave Catriona the opportunity to learn from his experience before eventually succeeding him as Lifeboat Medical Advisor. Four years ago, when Angus took on the role of Deputy Launch Authority, Catriona assumed responsibility for the Lifeboat Medical Advisor role full-time.

Speaking about the support he received, Angus said: ‘When I began working on cruise ships, I was only able to continue in my role as Lifeboat Medical Advisor because Dr Catriona MacDonald stepped in to share the position and provide cover while I was away. I am delighted that she has since taken over the role and continues to provide that support for Buckie RNLI.’

Reflecting on his time with the RNLI, Angus said: ‘It has been a real privilege to be part of the RNLI and to work alongside such a dedicated crew. Being involved with the lifeboat has been a fantastic experience throughout the years. I have always had a love of the sea and wanted to give something back to an organisation I greatly respected.’

Among his many memories is attending a call out to a casualty suffering from a cardiac condition, an incident which highlighted the unique challenges of providing medical care at sea.

‘I soon discovered that stethoscopes don’t work particularly well on a noisy lifeboat with an engine running and a swell beneath you.’

Angus has witnessed significant changes during his years at the station and spoke warmly of those who have been part of the RNLI throughout his journey.

‘When I joined, I learned a great deal from full-time coxswain Jake Murray and mechanic Gordon Lawtie. Over the years I've seen the station evolve, but what has remained constant is the dedication of the people involved. I'm continually impressed by the commitment shown by today's volunteers in providing a 24-hour service in all weather conditions.’

Dr Catriona MacDonald, Lifeboat Medical Advisor at Buckie RNLI, said: ‘I first became involved with Buckie RNLI when Angus retired as a GP and began working on cruise ships, ensuring there was Lifeboat Medical Advisor cover while he was away. I learned a great deal from his experience and knowledge before he stepped down from the role.

Angus has made an enormous contribution to the station over the past 33 years. It has been a privilege to follow on from him as Lifeboat Medical Advisor, and I wish him every happiness for the future.’

Anne Scott, Lifeboat Operations Manager at Buckie RNLI, said: ‘Angus has been a tremendous asset to Buckie RNLI for more than three decades. His contribution to the station has gone far beyond the roles he has held, and his support and experience have been greatly appreciated by crew and fellow volunteers alike.

'The commitment he has shown over 33 years is truly remarkable. We are incredibly grateful for everything he has done for the station and the wider RNLI, and we wish him a long, happy and well-deserved retirement from lifesaving duties.'

As Angus brings his RNLI service to a close, he leaves behind a remarkable legacy of dedication, professionalism and support. Over 33 years, he has combined his medical expertise with a lifelong passion for the sea, serving as both Lifeboat Medical Advisor and Deputy Launch Authority. Everyone at Buckie RNLI wishes him well for the future and thanks him for his outstanding contribution to the station, its crews and its lifesaving work.

RNLI Media Contacts

For further information, please contact:

Jeffrey Tuckerman, Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer for RNLI Scotland, [email protected]

Richard Smith, RNLI Regional Communications Manager for Scotland, 07826 900639, r[email protected]

Martin Macnamara, RNLI Regional Communications Lead for Scotland, 07920 365929, [email protected]

RNLI Press Office, 01202 336789, [email protected]

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The RNLI is the charity that saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 146,700 lives.

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