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Irish Independent
15 hours ago
- General
- Irish Independent
Iconic Wexford storytelling house celebrates 25 years – ‘The success is all down to those that attend'
The Thatched house in Lower Oulart, or the Lower Street as its known locally, was there in 1798. That area was the original village of Oulart and in the 1700s the present village evolved around the building of the old church St Mochua's as its known today. In 1995 the thatched house fell into disrepair and local bicentenary committee of 1798 decided to refurbish it. Once the rebuild and thatching was completed, two local women started using the building as a storytelling venue. As such, on June 12 2000 their monthly story nights started, providing music, songs, and tales to members of the community. Eileen Dempsey said that the celebratory night was true to the many nights they have spent in the house over the years. "Last Sunday night we celebrated our 25th anniversary a big crowd attended both old and new friends joined us. Unfortunately only three of the four remaining committee members were present as Jim Mythen the owner of Bygone Days story house was unable to be with us.' "Our local councillor Mary Farrell was present and spoke a few words she also sang Boolavogue, Jim Doyle also sang Galway Bay both those songs were performed on a regular basis by the late Jim Dunne a very good friend to all, but especially to the house,' she explained. Tea and coffee was served in the yard and both the house and the marquee were full to capacity with a large crowd sitting and watching the entertainment. So many people were in attendance that not everyone could be called upon to perform on the night. "We want to thank all who came to celebrate with us, those who brought cakes and those who helped in any way on the night or leading up to the night. A special thanks to those who come every month to make the nights so memorable, your friendship and support – it is very much appreciated. 'The success is all down to those that attend, so here's to the next 25th!' she added.
Irish Independent
06-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Irish Independent
See pictures from Wexford secondary school awards ceremony
This year's event was particularly special, marking the culmination of the school's centenary celebrations and honouring student achievement across a wide range of disciplines including academics, music, sport, and civic engagement, and in the opening proceedings, the commitment of the entire school community was acknowledged by the school's principal, Toni Ormond, as she stated the awards 'celebrate not only academic success, but also the values of kindness, leadership, and participation that define our school.' The ceremony began with a traditional musical performance of Boolavogue by sisters Sarah and Ciara McDonald, accompanied by Sophie Wickham, and it was a powerful tribute to the school's cultural roots. A key highlight of the event was a reflection on the historic centenary concert, which showcased the creativity and spirit of students and staff alike. The contributions of the music, art, and home economics departments were warmly acknowledged, with particular praise for their roles in the concert, opening Mass, and the sixth year graduation. The school's vibrant extracurricular life was also celebrated. Transition Year students were commended for their enthusiastic involvement in the Young St. Vincent de Paul programme and the organisation of popular events such as the Christmas fair and sports day. A special mention was given to Cathleen Aav, winner of the local round of the Soroptimist public speaking competition. In her address, Ms Ormond expressed sincere gratitude to the unsung heroes behind the scenes, such as the office staff, cleaning team, caretaker, and SNAs, whose dedication ensures the smooth running of daily school life. Sustainability and student well-being were also central themes throughout the year and the Green Schools Committee, led by Ms Stafford, continued its vital work promoting environmental awareness, with a renewed focus on sustainable travel. The Amber Flag team, under the guidance of Mrs Byrne, promoted positive mental health through key initiatives such as Well-being Week and International Day. Meanwhile, student leadership was recognised through the work of the Student Council and Meitheal Leaders. The outgoing head girl, Aimee O'Lone and deputy head girl, Laura Doherty were thanked for their dedicated service during the 2024 to 2025 school year, and the incoming leadership team was officially announced with Corah Brazil as head girl and Sophie Wickham as deputy head girl. Senior prefects were also commended for their positivity, leadership, and support. Musical interludes added a joyful atmosphere to the ceremony, with memorable performances by Brooklyn Catt, Ella Yu on the traditional Chinese guzheng, and Angela Miranda, accompanied by Katie Hogarth on guitar. In the sporting arena, students who excelled in athletics, camogie, and basketball were presented with awards, while staff were praised for their tireless coaching and encouragement throughout the year. Special mentions went to Rachel Murphy, named Junior Sportsperson of the Year, and Laura Doherty, awarded Senior Sportsperson of the Year. In recognising academic excellence, Transition Year student, Lily Ryan, was acknowledged for achieving the Best Junior Cycle Results in 2024. The High Achiever Awards celebrated students across each year group who demonstrated outstanding academic results and consistent dedication: 1st Year: Siún Allen, Cora Colfer, Brónagh O'Flaherty, Sasha Slobdianiuk, Olha Luhyna; 2nd Year: Olivia Mullally, Ella Murphy, Saorlaith Mullally, Sadhbh Cooper, Hannah Ryan; 3rd Year: Ciara McDonald, Eve Flanagan, Farah Murphy De Las Casas, Sophie Doyle; 5th Year: Eabha Mullally, Mirabel Chinaka, Lukne Jakonyte, Clara Walsh, Sophie Wickham; 6th Year: Cathy Power, Aimee O'Lone, Ava O'Leary, Cathleen Aav, Doireann Rossiter, Emily Kinsella. ADVERTISEMENT The Spirit of the School Awards recognised those who embodied the ethos of kindness, generosity, and active involvement in school life. These recipients were nominated by both peers and staff, which is a testament to their positive impact on the community: 1st Year: Brónagh O'Flaherty, Cora Colfer, Eimear Rossiter, Ella St Ledger, Leah Barry O'Hagan; 2nd Year: Kate Corcoran, Aine Gaffney, Brooke Banville, Joanne Molyneaux, Aoife Moran, Ewaoluwa Oke, Thea van Schalkwyk; 3rd Year: Ciara McDonald, Jewel Belleno, Ella Talbot, Amy Fitzgerald, Muireann Cooper, Rachel Murphy, Sarah Frisby, Eve Flanagan; TY: Hannah Maher, Lily Ryan, Caoimhe Connolly, Laura Barron, Ruby Murphy, Jane O'Shea; 5th Year: Sophie Wickham, Cora Brazil, Natanya Howey, Leah St Ledger, Saoirse Murphy O'Neill, Kawther Aissiou, Shauna Power; 6th Year: Emily Kinsella, Emily Bown, Aimee O'Lone, Hope Murphy, Cathy Power, Laura Doherty, Sarah Connell, Ava Leacy, Maura Corcoran. The most prestigious award from the ceremony is the Student of the Year, which was presented to sixth year student, Emily Kinsella. She was honoured for her 'excellent attendance, class participation, and unwavering commitment to her studies'. Emily was also described during the ceremony as 'a diligent and conscientious student with a consistently positive attitude', with her work ethic and school spirit making her a fitting recipient of this prestigious accolade. The ceremony concluded with a heartfelt farewell to the outgoing Sixth Years, who were praised for their resilience, leadership, and the legacy they leave behind. As they prepare to take the next step, their contribution to school life will not be forgotten. 'With performances, presentations, and powerful moments of reflection, this year's ceremony was a fitting celebration of a landmark year at Our Lady of Lourdes Secondary School – honouring the past, celebrating the present, and looking with confidence to the future,' concluded Ms Ormond.
