Portstewart Golf Club raises funds for RNLI

MEMBERS of Portstewart Golf Club have raised an impressive £11,494.20 for Portrush RNLI following a highly successful year of fundraising led by 2025 Men’s Captain, Stuart MacDonnell.
Stuart nominated Portrush RNLI as his charity of the year, inspired by his family’s strong connection to the sea and their longstanding support for the RNLI.
Throughout the year, he organised a wide range of fundraising initiatives, many in partnership with Moraig McCrum, Lady Captain of Portstewart Golf Club 2025, who was fundraising in support of Shine, a charity providing specialist support for people living with spina bifida.
One of the standout events was a golfing marathon, during which members played all three Portstewart courses in a single day.
This event alone raised approximately £3,300 via a JustGiving page.
Combined with the generosity and enthusiasm of club members across the year, these efforts resulted in a remarkable final total for Portrush RNLI.
Bob Milton, Chair of the RNLI Portrush Fundraising Committee, praised Stuart’s dedication and commitment throughout the year. He said:
“It was an absolute pleasure to work with Stuart. His passion for the RNLI permeated throughout the golf club and resulted in a truly amazing amount being raised.
“This money will go towards supporting our crews and ensuring they have the training and equipment needed to be ready at all times to go to the aid of anyone in peril on our seas.”
The RNLI is entirely reliant on voluntary donations to maintain its lifesaving services, and the funds raised by Portstewart Golf Club will make a significant contribution to supporting Portrush’s volunteer lifeboat crews.
Reflecting on the fundraising year, Stuart MacDonnell said: “I know from the experience of my own family how important the RNLI is to those who go to sea for work or pleasure, and I thank all the Portstewart Golf Club members whose support has helped me to achieve this fundraising goal.”
Moraig McCrum, Lady Captain 2025, added: “I have really enjoyed working together with Stuart to fundraise for our respective charities.
“I am extremely appreciative of everyone who supported and worked on the many projects throughout the year, and I am very proud of what we have achieved together for two such worthwhile causes.”