Live Debate: Nessie, Nonsense or Possibilities?
📅 Saturday 24th May
📍 The Loch Ness Centre
🎟️ Join us for an evening of curiosity, controversy and monster talk
Is the Loch Ness Monster a legendary hoax, a case of mistaken identity, or could there really be something lurking beneath the surface of Scotland’s most mysterious loch?
As part of our Nessie-themed weekend, we’re thrilled to host a Live Debate where three very different voices take the stage to share their stories, theories, and scepticism.
Let’s meet the panel…
🧠 Roland Watson – The Analyst
By day, Roland is a software engineer. By night, he’s a dedicated Nessie researcher, delving into every corner of the legend—from modern sightings to ancient folklore. Originally from Glasgow and now living in Edinburgh, Roland has spent years analysing evidence, gathering reports, and asking one simple question: what if?
“There’s something down there—and it’s big and alive. There are too many eyewitnesses, photos, films, and sonar contacts to simply dismiss.”
Roland’s fascination with Loch Ness stems from a firm belief in the unknown. He’s here to explore the serious possibility that something extraordinary could still exist in our natural world—and he’s never one to turn down a good debate.
🔍 Alan McKenna – The Explorer
Founder of Loch Ness Exploration (LNE), Alan’s mission is to unite believers and sceptics in the spirit of curiosity. His work is voluntary and collaborative, offering a fresh, scientific, and community-led approach to investigating the mystery of Loch Ness.
“Every lost world needs a monster—we just call ours Nessie.”
Alan was drawn to the loch by its sheer scale and dark depths. What began as a childhood passion has evolved into a search for answers. Though his belief in the plesiosaur theory has faded, his open mind and determination remain unchanged.
“I believe in the possibility. I haven’t yet found the answer, but I’m always willing to explore that curiosity.”
For Alan, the debate is about more than Nessie—it’s about sharing stories and passing on a lifelong sense of wonder.
🌊 Gordon Menzies – The Local
Gordon was born on the shores of Loch Ness, and it has shaped every part of his life. From learning to swim in it to becoming a search and rescue coxswain with the Coastguard, and running cruises on the water for the past 25 years—there are few who know the loch like Gordon does.
“I’ve fallen in it, been pushed in it, made my first SCUBA dive in it. Been around the world, but where I was born has always been and still is my home.”
A sceptic at heart, Gordon admits he’d love to believe there’s something yet to be discovered below the surface. He brings a lifetime of lived experience to the debate—and perhaps a dose of Highland humour, too.
“Can I blame the stork for being born here? It’s just a wonderful, beautiful place to live.”
🎤 Join the Debate
Whether you’re a true believer, a curious sceptic, or someone who just loves a good mystery, this live event promises an evening of thought-provoking discussion, unique insights, and perhaps even a few surprises.
Come along, listen in, and decide for yourself:
Nessie—nonsense or possibility?
