Bealtaine 2025 Concludes

Photos By Sheila Fitzgerald, Tadhg Curtin & Lenora kelly

Western Duhallow Men’s Shed and Boherbue Men’s Shed

IRD Duhallow’s Lenora Kelly and Shane McHale paid a visit to Boherbue and Kiskeam’s Men’s Sheds.

The latter had their official opening during the Bealtaine festival, Cork County Mayor Cllr. Joe Carroll cut the Ribbon and officially opened the Western Duhallow Men’s Shed in Kiskeam.

Both sheds are a credit to their members.

Bealtaine IRD Duhallow Bingo

Despite the glorious weather and the Cork v Limerick hurling match in May, there was a great turnout for the IRD Duhallow Bingo event. Here’s to it possibly becoming an annual event!

Jack Roche’s Mystery Tour

Jack’s Mystery Tour is always a highlight of the Bealtaine calendar, and this year was no exception. We fondly remembered Jack Roche, former chairman of the Saoi Network, who sadly passed away in January 2024. His spirit was very much with us as we set off on Friday, the 30th of May, for a day full of surprises. Members from various Active Retirement groups boarded the bus and embarked on the Mystery Tour, which this year took us to beautiful County Tipperary. Our first stop was a warm welcome at the Firgrove Hotel, where we enjoyed a mandatory cup of tea and a delicious scone to start the day.Next, we made our way to the historic town of Cahir to explore the impressive Cahir Castle. From there, the journey continued to Cashel Folk Village, rich in history and charm, before arriving at the Anner Hotel for a delightful lunch.After lunch, we visited Lár na Páirce, followed by some relaxed shopping at the Thurles Shopping Centre. Our final sightseeing stop was the peaceful Holycross Abbey, a perfect moment of reflection to close out the day.To cap off a wonderful trip, we headed to the Charleville Park Hotel for a delicious three-course meal.

Newmarket Pitch & Putt

Newmarket Pitch & Putt gave a taster session to newcomers. The session acquainted attendees with the rules and principals of the course. The great weather the beauty of the course.

If you, or someone you know, are interested in signing up for membership this 2025/2026 season phone 029 60633.

Castlemagner Bealtaine Evening Cabaret

The sound of music was definitely heard in Castlemagner for their Cabaret evening, showcasing a wide range of talent.

Arts & Crafts with Jessica Baron

IRD Duhallow’s Jessica Baron hosted a lovely, relaxing Arts and Crafts session. Those who attended painted their own interpretation of a painting Jessica had on display for them.

Light Movement and Education Talk

Nurse Specialist in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy; Alice O’Brien, and Health and Fitness Expert; Siobhan O’Sullivan visited IRD Duhallow to discuss the mental and physical aspects of health. Both Alice and Siobhan are friends of the magazine. Siobhan has contributed many great pieces on physical health over the years, while Alice has her regular column in each issue.