Annual Vintage Afternoon

By CULLEN AND DISTRICT SPECIAL NEEDS ASSOCIATION

Last year had some gorgeous machinery

It’s all systems go in Cullen preparing for our Annual 23rd Vintage Afternoon on Sunday July 16th. It promises to be a fun filled afternoon where patrons will be in for a treat, viewing the spectacular display of magnificently restored machinery -tractors, cars, motor cycles, stationary engines etc,. There will be the usual side shows;

• Live music with Peter Lane and Blackwater Sound and Cullen Pipe Band.

• Raffles for valuable prizes,

• Children’s Sports,

• Balloon Artist- Kenny the Clown, plus Football Darts, Whacca Wall, Kick the Clown,etc.

• mini digger competition and

• New this year – a Travelling Forge and Blacksmith Display. We cover a wide span of Duhallow, Slíabh Luachra and indeed further afield.

This afternoon has become a fixed event in the North Cork calendar, making it a day where people can meet, reminisce and enjoy the days of old in a relaxed atmosphere. Many friendships are renewed and new ones formed each year at this Annual get-together.

This fundraising event is both enjoyable and vital to the financial standing of the Special Needs Association in raising much needed funds to support centres and maintain services for people living with special needs. With serious cutbacks in public funding, much ongoing voluntary effort is required to maintain services for Special Needs at the current level. All monies collected will be distributed to the various local groups caring for our Special Friends on the final night of our Annual Weigh in.

The sun was splitting the stones for the 2022 afternoon!

Since our last Vintage afternoon in 2022, the death of Geff O’Sullivan was greeted with much sadness; he had served the association in many roles including first Chairman in 1973 and was currently Vice Chairperson. He was instrumental in organising the first Old Time Threshing and Vintage display in 1981; it continued for 3 years and was revived again in 1999. He was a popular figure and leader over the years, was most respected for his advice and guidance, his input to the success of this event was immense. Geff was also involved with Millstreet Vintage Club and in memory of him they have generously offered their help and support to us in organising this afternoon.

There is something for everyone at this year’s event. Community input is immense. We are indebted to our sponsors, media and to the many people who give so generously of their time, their talents and their resources over the years to help us in our fundraising efforts and tend not to look for any recognition of their work and help. It is greatly appreciated.

There’s fun for all ages!