The Fair Isle Bird Observatory, a valued Shetland Tourism Association member, are seeking your help to rebuild the Observatory which was tragically destroyed by fire in 2019. They recently launched an appeal to raise at least £650,000 towards the £7.4m cost of the rebuild, which will take place next year.
FIBO has chosen the best-selling author Ann Cleeves as the patron of the appeal. Ann said, “Fair Isle is a thriving community that keeps alive its traditions while being open-minded and open-hearted to visiting strangers. The loss of the building to fire was a tragedy, given its central role in supporting employment and providing a place where islanders and visitors can meet to share stories and expertise. We now hope to replace it with a building that is even more relevant to the island's future and hope that you can help us in any way you can.”
The Observatory is integral to the economic and social wellbeing of Fair Isle. Contributions to the rebuild appeal will be an investment in the overall sustainability of Fair Isle in addition to the provision of significantly upgraded research facilities for world-class ornithological and marine biological work.
The new Observatory is also a key part of the development of the Fair Isle-wide Tourist Action Plan, expanding the scope of eco-tourism in the North of Scotland and will support and benefit Shetland’s Tourism sector overall.
No matter where you are in the world, and no matter the contribution size, the Fair Isle Bird Observatory would be very grateful for donations to their appeal. Please follow this link to contribute.
Also, follow the link to buy a copy of the 2019 FIBO Annual Report, a full-colour publication showcasing the important and varied work of the Obs. It is now available for £12 from www.fairislebirdobs.co.uk/shop_books. All profits will go towards the Rebuild Appeal.
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