Local Notes: Sympathies, new business opens, substance abuse support, positive HIQA report and more
Lots of positive things are happening in the Ferrybank area
Marien Bolger, (née: O’Brien), of St. Killian's Place, Ferrybank and formerly of Fahee, Kilmacow, and Rockenham, Ferrybank, passed away on Thursday, August 7th, aged 74 years. She died peacefully in the tender care of her family and all the staff at University Hospital Waterford. She was predeceased by her husband Eddie, daughter Diana, parents Jimmy and Kitty, brother Joe, sister Kathleen, mother-in-law Biddy, and father-in-law Micky. Marien is deeply missed by her children Edwina, Michelle, Derek, Marie, Katie, and Bríd; her sons-in-law Donal, Paul, Wayne, and Paul; daughter-in-law Bríd; grandchildren Alan, Nathan, Lennon, Reece, Cain, Sean, Alanna, Mia, Alísha, and Lucíe; great-granddaughter Grace; brothers Eugene and Leslie; brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, Tommy Quinn, godchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family, neighbours and friends. Marien reposed at Power’s Funeral Home, Ferrybank, on Saturday afternoon with removal to The Sacred Heart Church, Ferrybank for Requiem Mass, after which Marien was laid to rest in Bigwood Cemetery, Mullinavat.
The Abbey Take Away officially opened its doors over the August Bank Holiday weekend, bringing a new food option to Ross Abbey Retail Park. Despite a few early setbacks, owner Paul Westwood was delighted to finally welcome customers and was overwhelmed by the support from the local community. Conveniently located in the heart of the retail park, the Abbey Take Away is expected to become a popular spot for residents of the surrounding areas. While opening any new business comes with its share of challenges, Paul acknowledges that there are still some teething problems to work through. He’s asking customers for a bit of patience in the early days, as the team settles in and works to deliver a smooth and tasty experience.
Ferrybank Parish was honoured to welcome the Kilkenny Gospel Choir on a recent Sunday morning for what a truly uplifting and joyous occasion for our community. This year, the choir proudly celebrates 25 years of inspirational music, heartfelt outreach, and dedicated spiritual service. Founded in 2000 by Fr Willie Purcell, what began as a small group united by a shared passion for gospel music has blossomed into a dynamic, multicultural ensemble that continues to inspire audiences far and wide. In its early years, the Kilkenny Gospel Choir became the largest of its kind in Europe, boasting over 120 members. Over the past two and a half decades, the choir has welcomed members from every county in Ireland, as well as from numerous countries around the world—truly reflecting a spirit of global unity and inclusion. As a registered charitable foundation, the choir’s impact goes far beyond music. It has raised an incredible €450,000 for charitable causes at the local, national, and international level, making a real difference in the lives of so many. We extend our congratulations to the Kilkenny Gospel Choir on this remarkable milestone and thank them for their continued commitment to music, community, and compassion. Here's to the next 25 years of harmony and hope.
Many Ferrybank residents have recently reached out about substance misuse concerns - whether for themselves, a loved one, or someone they know. Thankfully, support is available through the Cityside Community-Based Drug Initiative (CBDI), run by Waterford & South Tipperary Youth & Community Services (WSTCYS). This free, confidential, and non-judgmental service helps individuals, families, and the wider community. Supports include one-to-one help for people using substances: goal setting, harm reduction or abstinence, psychoeducation, and wellbeing support. There is also family and loved ones support with safe spaces to talk, cope, and access one-to-one or group support. Through community outreach there is training, workshops and early intervention for local groups and professionals. The local contact is Dana O’Byrne, Community Addiction Worker, on email citysidecbdi@wstcys.ie or call 086 8561641
As summer winds down and we start thinking about the changing seasons, it's the perfect time to clear out your wardrobe — and support a great cause while you're at it. Ferrybank GAA Club Clothing Collection is still ongoing and we’re asking for your help. If you have any gently used clothes, paired shoes or curtains please consider donating them. Every item makes a difference. Donations can be dropped off at the GAA grounds most week nights or Saturday and Sunday mornings, 10am to 12noon. We kindly ask that you do not include pillows or duvets as we are unable to accept these items.
Dust off those boots and get ready to dance. A new Beginner Line dancing Class is starting in Ferrybank on Friday, September 5 at Connect Studio, Unit 19, Ross Abbey Town Centre (Eircode: X91 Y09W). Running every Friday from 7pm to 8.30pm, the class is perfect for anyone wanting to learn or get back into line dancing. No experience is needed, and it’s adults only. Just wear comfy shoes, bring your water bottle and you're good to go. Classes are €10 each with a pay-as-you-go system. No booking is required - simply show up and join the fun. It’s a great way to kick off the weekend and all cowboys and cowgirls welcome.
Well done to the staff and the Little Sisters of the Poor, St. Joseph’s Nursing Home in Ferrybank, who received positive results in a recent unannounced HIQA inspection, with all areas rated as 'compliant' or 'substantially compliant'. Inspectors found the home to be clean, welcoming, and well-maintained, with residents praising the kind staff, excellent food, and overall homely atmosphere.
