INTERVIEW: Joanne Murphy talks about her role with Dundalk Sub Aqua Search and Rescue

In March we spoke to Joanne Murphy of the Dundalk Sub Aqua Search and Rescue Club for Louth Life magazine.

As a dedicated member of the Dundalk Sub Aqua Search and Rescue Unit for over two decades, Joanne Murphy has spent years navigating the depths, not just for the love of diving, but also to bring comfort and closure to families in need.

Joanne’s journey into diving began in 2003 when she first discovered the sport while on holiday. Enthralled by the experience, she sought out a local diving club upon her return home and quickly became a committed member. “I remember my first Irish dive in Mulroy Bay, Donegal,” she recalls. “It was cold, but absolutely incredible. It was gorgeous and I remember feeling this is exactly what I wanted to do.”

Beyond the thrill of sport diving, Joanne soon found a deeper calling. By 2005, she had completed her specialist training and became a certified rescue diver. Her role within the unit is both physically and emotionally demanding, often involving the search for missing persons. “There’s always a family waiting, hoping for closure,” she explains. “You realise you’re part of a small group and that you have an important job to do.”

The work of the Dundalk Sub Aqua Search and Rescue Unit is not for the faint-hearted. Recovering remains and aiding in search efforts is challenging, but Joanne finds solace in knowing that her team plays a vital role in helping families move forward. 

“The longer that [a person missing] goes on, the more distressing that is for the family. After we have found them… then they’re able to move forward with their grief and move forward into the next part of the grieving process.”

Over the years, Joanne has been recognised for her dedication, including receiving a ten-year service medal from the Coast Guard. She has also taken on leadership roles within the club, serving as chairwoman for four years, secretary for five, and now as the club’s Safety Officer. 

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After all these years, Joanne remains deeply passionate about diving and encourages others to give it a try. 

“The underwater world is incredible; it's like leaving the planet. There’s a beautiful underwater world that you really can’t believe exists.” 

For those considering joining, Joanne’s advice is simple: “It’s worth a try. The friends that you make and the places you will see are incredible. There’s a great bunch of people there to help you through training. It has been a real joy in my life.”