Tri Shaw Partnership Programme launches in Offaly for National Volunteer Week
This week saw the launch of a new community initiative as Offaly Volunteer Centre, in partnership with Tullamore Lions Club, unveiled their Tri Shaw Summer Programme 2026
This week saw the launch of a new community initiative as Offaly Volunteer Centre, in partnership with Tullamore Lions Club, unveiled their Tri Shaw Summer Programme 2026.
Reflecting this year’s National Volunteer Week theme, From Every Corner, For Every Cause, the programme offers carefully planned local itineraries designed to ensure that more people, particularly those who may experience mobility challenges, can enjoy the richness of Offaly’s natural landscape and community life.
The route east or west from Tullamore along the banks of the Grand Canal, is in a word, special. Leaving the town behind and heading east, the canal opens out into a quieter world. Passing the historic Digby Bridge at Cappincur, dating to 1797, riders may catch a backward glance at the spire of Tullamore’s Catholic church framed against the Offaly sky. Heading west, you will find the same hedgerow and wildlife, passing the historically famous Srah Castle and Billaun Stone at Ballydroihid heading further along the path turning for home on the tow path just before Ballycowan Castle.
President of Tullamore Lions Club, Dymphna Bracken, described the initiative as “a very special project”, noting that her previous role as Chairperson of Offaly Volunteer Centre gives her a unique perspective on the collaboration. She added that she is “delighted to help facilitate something that reflects the passion both organisations share for community engagement”. Her presidency also marks a historic milestone as the first female President of the club, in a year when the organisation celebrates a significant anniversary.
Offaly Volunteer Centre Chairperson Seán Ó Cearbhaill, who took on the role in March, said the project captures exactly what drew him to the organisation in the first place. He spoke of the pride in “people giving their time to support others, while showcasing the beauty of our county”, adding that the partnership with Tullamore Lions Club makes the initiative “all the more meaningful”.
At the heart of the programme is Offaly Volunteer Centre’s Community Volunteers Programme, which enables individuals to contribute to their community when they can, in practical and rewarding ways. Programme Co-ordinator Frances Walsh explained that during Tri Shaw training, volunteers spoke about “how much they themselves gained from being involved.” She noted the strong sense of anticipation among participants ahead of the launch, as they look forward to the canal-side journeys. Frances also highlighted that Community Volunteer opportunities extend beyond the Tri Shaw initiative, to include church gate collections, stewarding parades, and bag packing in local supermarkets. Anyone interested is encouraged to get in touch.
Offaly Volunteer Centre Manager Deirdre emphasised both the social and personal value of the Tri Shaw initiative, describing it as “a wonderful way for people, who might otherwise miss out, to get out, breathe in the fresh air, and enjoy an immersive experience of Offaly.” She added that the real value lies in “creating moments of connection, conversation, and shared enjoyment.”
She also pointed to the Tri Shaw Programme as a natural expression of the Community Volunteers Programme, describing it as “people coming together to give their time in a way that has a direct and meaningful impact on others.”
To book a place on a Tri Shaw trip
Contact Frances or Claire
T: 083 1187273 or 083 0154669
A: Offaly Volunteer Centre, O’Connor Square, Tullamore, R35 DE27