Chairman’s Foreword

By the time you are reading this, another season will be underway. Let us hope it proves to be one of fair weather, reliable engines, favourable winds for sailing — and calm conditions for paddleboarders.

On a personal note, we spent only about half of our usual time on the Loch last season due to moving house. After 47 years in the same home, there was understandably a considerable amount of clearing out to be done!!

Looking Back

Last year saw the Loch Lomond Association (LLA) return to producing what we hope you found to be an informative and professional magazine. My sincere thanks go to our Minutes Secretary, Martha, and to Martin at JJR Print for his invaluable support. We are also extremely grateful to all our article contributors and advertisers — without whom the magazine would not be possible. In total, we distributed over 2,000 copies last season.

Looking ahead, we are always keen to receive interesting articles and relevant advertisements. If you have something you would like to see published, please submit a contact form via our website with the details, and we will consider it in our planning for next year’s edition.

Supporting Safety on the Loch

The LLA has long been a key supporter of the Loch Lomond Rescue Boat (LLRB), and we were pleased once again to donate £1,000 in support of their vital work. Thank you to all our members and donors who make this possible.

We also joined the LLRB at their stall during World Drowning Prevention Day last July at Loch Lomond Shores, and we plan to support the event again this year, scheduled for Saturday 25 July 2026.

Working With Partners

We remain in regular contact with the Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park and have been involved in developing educational material to raise awareness of the dangers created by excessive wash, particularly from larger high-speed cruisers.

In addition, we have continued to press for the removal of obstructions in the River Leven to ensure that a clear navigable channel is always available for passing vessels.

Navigation Concerns

During the year, an unauthorised slalom-style buoy course was laid in Mill of Ross Bay. In partnership with the Loch Lomond Angling Improvement Association (LLAIA), we raised concerns about this navigation hazard. As water levels rise over winter, such buoys can become displaced, creating risks including ropes fouling propellers.

Strengthening Representation

Finally, we were pleased to strengthen committee representation this year by welcoming a Rowing Club Representative and a representative for Cameron House Marina members. We have also appointed an adviser from Paddle Scotland. These additions broaden the committee’s expertise and help ensure we effectively represent all Loch users.

Wishing all our members and Loch users a safe and enjoyable season.

Willie Dow Chairman & Navigation Rights Representative Loch Lomond Association