Slieve Bloom Association looks back on a busy, successful 2025

THE Slieve Bloom Association looked back on a busy and successful 2025 during its recent AGM.
In his Chairman's report Johnny Rigney said it had been another year of growth and dedication within the organisation.
The year began as usual with the Imbolc Festival in February with a great turn out.
The group entered the Rosenallis St Patrick's Day Parade in March, with a lot of time and effort being put into the float.
“In April,” continued the Chairman, “we erected two plaques for the late Mary Ann Lynch and Maureen B Culliton. We also celebrated turning 50 which was a huge achievement for the organisation. A lot of planning and work went into this event which attracted an enormous crowd.”
In May they celebrated Bealtaine in Cadamstown by decorating the May Bush and forming a dancing ring around it. Again, there was a turnout of many people to this, and refreshments followed in Kinnitty Community Centre.
During the Bank Holiday in June the group came together for a popular walk to the Stony Man on the Ridge of Capard, which was followed by a short film and refreshments in Rosenallis Community Centre.
In July the annual tour was a bus trip to Avondale in Wicklow. “We all enjoyed a very informative, enjoyable and sociable day,” said the Chairman. “It was good to once again see a full bus.” At the end of July the SBA climbed Ard Erin (at 527 metres the highest hill in the Slieve Blooms), which was led by Seán and Shane Dowling with refreshments in Camross Community Centre. In September a walk was enjoyed to the Clear Lake, a very popular destination, located on the Slieve Bloom plateau. Cleaning work took place on Holy Wells, the Ridge of Capard amenities (where the group installed benches), the Fanning Pass and the Giant's Grave area. The group received an award from the Laois Community & Voluntary Awards.
The year ended with the Christmas Dinner in November, where food was provided by The Flying Apron and music by Martin Delaney and Paul Murphy.
“Finishing up,” said the Chair, “I'd like to thank Deirdre Vernon for advertising us in the Irish Farmers Journal with the May Bush. Thanks to Charlie White for taking pictures during the year. Lastly, to Derek Fanning for advertising throughout the year.”
The following were elected as officers of the committee: Chair - Johnny Rigney; Vice Chair - Dan Lynch; Treasurer - Christy Conroy; Assistant Treasurer - Michael Gleeson; Secretary - Daniel McAvoy; Assistant Secretary - Mary Rigney; PRO - Daniel McDonald; President - Derek Fanning.
Anyone who wishes to become a member of the group can contact any member of the Association.