Issue 123 - Lisburn BT25 • BT26 •BT27 •BT28 • BT29
First-Ever Cinematic Drone Light Show in NI
A spectacular new experience, Space Safari: The Drone Light Show, is coming to Down Royal Racecourse, Lisburn, on Saturday 5th September 2026.
The Mayor, Alderman Amanda Grehan and Jim Russell, Club Secretary were among those marking the opening of the new Canal Boxing Academy building at Queen Elizabeth II Playing Fields recently.
Canal Boxing Academy opens new Facility
The new Canal Boxing Academy facility was opened by the Mayor, Alderman Amanda Grehan recently. Having outgrown its current location in size, facilities and function, the new buildingat at Queen Elizabeth II Playing Fields will offer the community a fit for purpose space with state of the art equipment, a gym and kitchen.
The new facility was funded by PEACEPLUS and the council’s Community Investment Fund (CIF). This is a project supported by PEACEPLUS; a programme managed by the Special EU
Programmes Body (SEUPB). The building has been welcomed by Canal Boxing Academy, local sporting groups, schools and local community groups who will be able to use its facilities. It will
provide not only two full size boxing rings but a well equipped gym, changing rooms, showers, toilets and storage space.
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Presented by Immersive Drone Light Shows, this visually striking event invites families and audiences of all ages to experience a unique fusion of storytelling, technology, and live entertainment. The night sky above Down Royal will come alive with hundreds of synchronised LED drones, choreographed to a cinematic soundtrack and guided by epic narration from BAFTA award-winning TV presenter Michaela Strachan. Together, they create a mesmerising aerial journey through space and the animal kingdom, delivering a truly unforgettable multisensory experience. Blending cutting-edge drone technology with imaginative storytelling,
Space Safari takes audiences on an inspiring adventure filled with wonder, discovery, and emotion. From sweeping wildlife formations to cosmic scenes unfolding high above, this is more than just a show; it’s a fully immersive experience designed to captivate audiences of all ages. Whether it’s children experiencing a drone light show for the first time, families looking for a unique day out, or adults seeking an extraordinary evening experience, Space Safari is set to become one of Northern Ireland’s most talked-about family events of 2026. Tickets are now on sale. Tickets: From £12.99 Website: https://www. spacesafari.show/
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The Lisburn Advertiser
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Issue 123 - Support Local
Issue 123 - Support Local
The Lisburn Advertiser
‘Gamified’ Programme boosts skills and employability for local residents
Eighty residents took part in the second ‘Gamified Essential Learning Programme’ delivered by the Lisburn and Castlereagh Labour Market Partnership, with 60 participants successfully completing the programme and achieving a recognised qualification. Participants, aged from 19 upwards, embraced the interactive, nonclassroom learning environment delivered by Studyseed CIC on behalf of the council. Following strong demand for the programme, additional funding was secured, allowing participant numbers to double from the originally planned 40 to 80. Funded by the Department for Communities, Labour Market Partnerships create targeted employment action plans for council areas, supporting collaboration at local and regional level to help people move towards and into work. Councillor Claire Kemp, Regeneration and Growth Chair, speaking at the graduation, said: “Once again, our ‘Gamified Graduates’ have shown that numeracy and literacy can be developed in a fun, supportive, game-
style environment. From earning points and completing challenges to levelling up and achieving badges, participants were fully engaged throughout the programme. “We were delighted to expand the programme due to high demand, enabling even more residents to take part. The fact that 60 participants successfully completed and gained a recognised qualification
is a fantastic achievement. “This programme was designed to improve employability in a relaxed and encouraging setting, delivered in venues across the council area. I wish all our graduates every success as they use their new skills and qualifications to access further opportunities and employment.” The council hopes to deliver the programme
again in the next financial year. If you are aged 19 or over and are unemployed, please follow the council’s social media channels for updates. I n f o r m a t i o n on all Labour Market Partnership employability and skills programmes is available online at: https://www. lisburncastlereagh. g o v. u k / b u s i n e s s - a n d investment/labourmarket-partnership
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