Local Notes: School walk for Solas, Halloween disco, sympathies, 'Indiana Stones' and much more
David Keohan
Ferrybank AFC will host a Halloween Disco on Tuesday, October 29, from 7pm to 9pm at The Rhu Glenn. The event is open to children aged 10 to 14, with an entry fee of €10. A tuck shop will be available on the night. Tickets can be purchased from Sweet & Brew Coffee Unit, Denise Mullally at 087 9436731, or Claire Smith Baldwin at 083 0544449. Everyone is invited to come along for a spooky and fun-filled evening.
It is with sadness that we record the passing of Sean Hennessy, late of Bishopsgrove, Ferrybank, formerly of Sallypark, and late of the FÁS Training Centre, who passed away on Sunday, October 12. Sean made a significant contribution to the Bishopsgrove community and the Dominican Church. He was a dedicated instructor, examiner, and Life Governor of Water Safety Ireland. Predeceased by his beloved wife Noreen (née: Desmond) and daughter-in-law Maria, he is sadly missed by his sons Desmond and Sean, daughters Margaret and Catriona, sons-in-law Michael and Finbar, grandchildren Megan, Mark and his wife Dervla, Ellen, Eve, Ciara, Lucy, Amie and Harry, together with his extended family, relatives, neighbours and friends. Reposing took place at Thompson’s Funeral Home, Barrack Street, Waterford, on Tuesday. Sean was received for a blessing into St. Saviour’s (Dominican) Church, Bridge Street, immediately following reposal. Requiem Mass was celebrated on Wednesday morning in St. Saviour’s (Dominican) Church, Bridge Street, followed by burial in St. Killian’s Cemetery, Ferrybank.
If you’d like to feel more confident using your smartphone, Ferrybank Library is hosting friendly, hands-on sessions to help you get the most from your device. The two-day sessions will take place on Thursday, October 23 and Friday, October 24. Morning sessions will run from 10.30am and 1pm and afternoon sessions from 1pm to 3pm. Booking is required. To reserve your place, call 051 897200 or email Ferrybank@kilkennylibrary.ie.
David Keohan, known as the 'Indiana Stone Lifter', is a celebrated Irish stone lifter and historian dedicated to reviving the ancient tradition of stone lifting. Hailing from Powerscourt, Dunmore Road, Keohan has spent years researching, locating, and lifting historic stones once used to prove strength and manhood in Celtic culture. His project, The Indiana Stones, documents his efforts to rediscover and restore these legendary lifting stones, preserving an important part of Ireland’s physical and cultural heritage. Through demonstrations, storytelling, and collaboration with local communities, Keohan connects modern audiences with the ancient spirit of strength and identity. His passion and scholarship have made him a leading figure in the revival of traditional stone lifting worldwide. He is the son of Dave and Christine (nee: Fleming) and grandson of the late Nell and Andy Fleming (1948 All Ireland winner), Marymount. David works at the paint counter in Morris’s DIY, is married to Breda, and they have two sons, Ryan and Connor and a daughter, Caoimhe and reside in Grange Manor.
St. Mary’s Boys’ National School raised over €550 in its annual charity walk at Ferrybank GAA grounds, held in memory of Margaret Browne, the school’s late secretary, who passed away in 2016. The event supports the Solas Cancer Foundation, with pupils, staff, and families coming together to honour Margaret’s legacy of kindness and community spirit.
With Halloween just days away, Gardaí have issued a reminder that the sale, possession, and use of all fireworks is illegal without a license. Anyone caught breaking these laws could face a fine of up to €10,000 and/or five years in prison. The same punishment also applies to those who aim lit pyrotechnics towards a person or property. Gardai are urging parents to warn children of the dangers of fireworks and are asking the public to report the illegal use or sale of pyrotechnics to their local Garda station or the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111. Halloween is an enjoyable time of year for many; however, it can evoke negative feelings and fears for some older or vulnerable people. Consider spending the evening with this person and be available to answer the door to keep them safe, and do not leave the person alone on Halloween. If possible, arrange for someone to be with them between 4pm and 10pm, or take them to a community event or a family members home and return home after dusk.
Ferrybank GAA Club will host its eagerly awaited social night out on Saturday, November 15, at the Tower Hotel, Waterford. The event promises to be a fun-filled and memorable evening, celebrating the achievements of players and members with the club’s Annual Awards presentations. Guests can look forward to lively music from The Strokes band, followed by an energetic DJ set to keep the celebrations going late into the night. Tickets, priced at €30, are now available and can be purchased from Martin (097 2811604), Kevin (087 9018469), Gillian (087 2414305), Robbie (085 2074288), or Niamh (083 8547293).
Join Slievrue Active Retirement Association on Wednesday, October 22, in St. Mary’s Parish Hall for our regular activities, Chair Yoga at 11.30am, followed by Bingo at 12.50pm. Please note that the €20 deposit for our Christmas Lunch (taking place on December 18) must be paid on October 22. As always, we warmly welcome new members, both male and female. Remember, we’re conveniently located on the bus route with suitable times for travel.
