Community, enterprise and tourism leaders gather in Offaly for major conference

THE fully booked ‘Together We Thrive’ conference and networking event, held on Wednesday, 26th March at the Tullamore Court Hotel, was a tremendous success, bringing together leaders in enterprise, tourism, skills and community development with a large and engaged audience, exploring how sustainability and regenerative practices can drive economic growth across the Midlands.
Officially opened by Minister of State Alan Dillon, and Anna-Marie Delaney, CE Offaly County Council, the event featured insightful discussions on key themes, including collaboration, sustainability, regenerative tourism, enterprise and community development. The day provided an invaluable platform for tourism professionals, community leaders, and businesses to exchange ideas and forge meaningful connections.

A highlight of the event was the highly successful speed networking session, which allowed tourism stakeholders to connect, share opportunities, and build partnerships that will support the Midlands’ tourism growth. The energy in the room reflected a shared commitment to working together to create a thriving, sustainable tourism sector.
Supported by the EU Just Transition Tourism Fund and organised in collaboration with Midlands Ireland, ‘Together We Thrive’ showcased the power of collective action in shaping a regenerative tourism future for the region.
“This event demonstrated the passion and potential within the Midlands to develop a tourism offering that is not only sustainable but also deeply rooted in our heritage, culture, and local communities,” said Mary Hensey, Offaly’s Tourism Activator and one of the event’s organisers. “The conversations and connections made here will help drive positive change and shape the future of tourism in the Midlands.”
With such strong engagement and enthusiasm from participants, ‘Together We Thrive’ has laid the foundation for ongoing collaboration and innovation in the Midlands.