Local Notes: Clover site concerns, Peadar's Camp fun, Stan's new book and more from Ferrybank
Jake, pictured at last year's annual Peadar's Summer Camp hosted by Ferrybank GAA. The 32nd camp commences on Monday, July 21. Photo: Joe Evans
Kilkenny County Council has appointed a multidisciplinary design team to develop a master plan for a new community-focused park on a 9.5-acre greenfield site in Christendom, Ferrybank. The land, including sports pitches and a clubhouse, was transferred by the trustees of Clover Meats in late 2023, with the condition that it be used solely for community recreation.
The process began with a public consultation on May 1 at the Ferrybank Primary Care Centre, attended by around 60 people with the design team, Digby Brady. Feedback from this event was reviewed by the design team and Council later that month. At this meeting, former workers were adamant that the grounds be returned to their former glory, incorporating hurling and soccer pitches.
Further stakeholder meetings in May and June addressed local needs, including playing pitch demand, men's and women's shed use, and potential shared facilities. An asbestos survey has been completed on the derelict building on site.
The design team and Council are now assessing constraints and opportunities, with another consultation planned for late July. A conceptual proposal is expected to be presented to Piltown Municipal District members in late 2025. Initial plans seem unable to facilitate a full-sized all-weather hurling pitch, which would be unfavourable to Abbey Community College, who would like to play competition games throughout the winter season, near the school. For the local GAA and Camogie Club, extra facilities are needed, as one full-sized pitch in Ferrybank GAA club is not adequate to cater for the rise in teams playing the sport.
We extend our sincere condolences to the family of Margaret Ann Galvin, formerly of Portlaw, who passed away earlier this month in Toronto. Beloved wife of Kelly and devoted mother to Charlie and Lily, she is deeply mourned by her parents, Esther and Martin, her siblings, extended family, and friends. A celebration of her life will be held in Toronto, with a memorial mass to follow in Portlaw.
Margaret Ann was a proud co-owner of Walshe’s Bar, known as The Briar Rose, a well-loved establishment in the heart of Ferrybank. She became known nationally in 1998 when the pub gained widespread attention after being famously painted in half Waterford and half Kilkenny colours ahead of the much-anticipated Waterford vs. Kilkenny Senior Hurling Semi-Final 1998. This bold and spirited gesture captured the imagination of the public and was featured on RTÉ. There was a bet on who ever lost, the pub would be painted in the winner's colours.
Ferrybank’s own Stan Phillips, Rockenham, will launch his new book, Tales from the Village (Meeting the Inhabitants and a Little More), on Wednesday, July 16, at 6pm in The Book Centre, Waterford. Written during lockdown and edited by Lorraine Dormer, the collection is a product of Stan’s colourful life and creative journey. The event will be hosted by Wayne Power, with readings by Stan and signed copies available on the night (€15). All are welcome.
A hugely successful blitz and raffle raised €3,182.45 for Ferrybank Camogie. Thanks to all volunteers, donors, parents, and participating clubs for making it a memorable day. This money will go back to developing our ever-growing club.
Raffle Winners: Karen Swift won the bike.
Melissa Droney took home the Waterford camogie jersey, while Sharon Jordan won the Kilkenny camogie jersey. Aine Morrissey and Kevin Kehoe each won €50 in cash.
Andrew Kelly won a €50 One4All voucher. Mantas received a voucher for Shades, and Adrian Suchon won a voucher for Ferrybank Barbers. Decky Howard claimed a Coffee by King voucher, and Ciara Freeman won a voucher for Exhale and Relax.
Sinead McGarrity won the Aldi voucher, while Clara Hayden received the Tesco voucher.
Michelle Daly was lucky twice, winning both the gin hamper and a bottle of Captain Morgan. Amy O’Grady won a bottle of pink gin, and Marguerite Haley took home a bottle of Bacardi.
The death occurred of Breda Power (née Ryan), of Newrath Road, Newrath, Waterford, aged 85 years. Breda passed away peacefully on Monday, June 30, surrounded by her loving family and in the kind care of the staff at University Hospital Waterford. She was deeply missed by her devoted husband, Michael, her sons John, Michael, and Mark, daughters-in-law Martina, Kim, and Gayle, and her cherished grandchildren Shane, Jack, Elliott, Vivienne, Alex, and Simon.
Breda was also fondly remembered by her brother Patrick, nieces, nephews, extended family, neighbours, and many friends.
A dedicated member of Suir Bridge Club, Breda spent many years caring for mothers and babies during her time at Airmount Maternity Hospital.
Breda reposed at her home on Wednesday, July 2. Her removal took place on Thursday morning, July 3, to the Sacred Heart Church, Ferrybank, where a Requiem Mass was celebrated. Breda was then laid to rest in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Ballygunner.
Celebrating its 32nd anniversary starting on Monday, July 21, the Peadar Summer Camp at Ferrybank GAA grounds stands as a testament to the dedication of the Ahearne family and the committee. As one of Ireland’s largest camps, it has positively influenced countless children aged five to 15 by encouraging friendships, sports skills, and social connections. With good weather forecast, the camp is poised for another memorable week.
