Grimsay Community Association (GCA) began in 1999 as a way for islanders to discuss local issues and to develop projects to improve amenities and daily life. During our first 15 years, the GCA:
– initiated the Grimsay Boat Project which celebrated the unique Grimsay workboat through the Grimsay Boat Days (1999-2011), and created an archive on the boats;
– supported the founding of the Grimsay Boatshed Trust (2001-present) which preserves the Stewart boatbuilding tradition and maintains the local fishing fleet;
– led the community buy-out and renovation of the Heisgeir Schoolhouse (Monach Isles, 2005-present);
– organised many enjoyable community events from luncheons to ceilidhs – Grimsay’s concerts of traditional Gaelic music and song are well-known in the Uists.
The GCA continues to be an ongoing forum to address issues of island life including water quality, connectivity and development.