Irish Scene July August 2016

Western Australia’s

Vol 18 Number 5

Registered with Australia Post PP100003914

July/August 2016

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3

Claddagh puts Association in good hands

Liz O’Hagan

by Lloyd Gorman The ability of the Claddagh Associations to help even more members of the Irish community in crisis has been strengthened with the recent appointment of Liz O’Hagan as Coordinator.

The full time role comes as the WA based support group has experienced one of its busiest and most challenging periods since it was set up in 1997.

Claddagh President and founding member Joan Ross said the committee was pleased with the appointment, with Liz to take up the role from July 4.

“It’s nearly 20 years since we first began providing support to members of the Irish community in Western Australia,” she said. “We have supported thousands of individuals over that time and the committee is eager to build on what we have achieved by growing our offer of support to those in the community who need it via the appointment of a dedicated Coordinator post, to be funded solely from our dedicated grant funding.

“As the day-to-day Coordinator, Liz will be responsible for all operations including visits to clients in prison, hospital and helping with the repatriation process.”

Attracting and managing funding, donations and support has been and will continue to be an essential part of the Claddagh’s operations.

As well as providing a valuable service to those who contact the Claddagh or need its support, Liz will play a secondary role growing the organisation.

“Liz will also work with partners in the Irish community in Western Australia to raise awareness about The Claddagh and the excellent work we do...and be responsible for ensuring the association follows all governance rules and is accountable to transparency to its members,” added Joan.

“We all join in wishing Liz all the very best in this new role.”

A long term committee member and vice-president of the Claddagh she has stepped down from both roles to take up

the post. She also closed her migration business to focus solely on the work in hand. In a sense it is a job her careers as a volunteer and professional have been building up too.

“My first real taste of the difference The Claddagh makes was when I assisted in my first case, a young girl who had a serious accident while working in a regional area,” said Liz. “For several weeks I supported her here in Perth as well as her family back home in Ireland until she was fit to fly home to Ireland. I felt privileged I could assist this family in what was a very scary time for them all. The role we play in assisting people can be very difficult as you are assisting people at their most vulnerable, however, I get great comfort out of knowing we are making a difference and our support is appreciated and needed. Even in the most saddest of cases I come away feeling proud of what we are able to do. I have spent 17 years assisting Irish people with visas and now it is a time for change.

I can make a positive difference assisting people through The Claddagh and this is what drives me. I believe in what we do, why we do it and how we do it. I was a very active member of The Claddagh Committee spending many hours each week assisting with the background management of The Claddagh as well as client visits such as prisons and hospitals and the repatriation process. I want to take The Claddagh to the next level and be out in the community creating awareness of what we do as well as broadening the spectrum of people we can assist”.

4

Two Kinds of People

by Ella Wheeler Wilcox

There are two kinds of people on earth to-day; Just two kinds of people, no more, I say.

Not the sinner and saint, for it’s well understood, The good are half bad and the bad are half good.

Not the rich and the poor, for to rate a man’s wealth, You must first know the state of his conscience and health.

Not the humble and proud, for in life’s little span, Who puts on vain airs is not counted a man.

Not the happy and sad, for the swift flying years Bring each man his laughter and each man his tears.

No; the two kinds of people on earth I mean, Are the people who lift and the people who lean.

Wherever you go, you will find the earth’s masses Are always divided in just these two classes.

And, oddly enough, you will find, too, I ween, There’s only one lifter to twenty who lean.

In which class are you?

Are you easing the load Of overtaxed lifters, who toil down the road?

Or are you a leaner, who lets others share Your portion of labor, and worry and care?

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GOOD LINKS AND STRONG CONNECTIONS

by Lloyd Gorman and Fred Rea

Joseph Thompson As featured in the last edition of Irish Scene the Claddagh Association were the organisers and hosts for the 10th annual Link Conference, which took place in Perth at the end of April. This bringing together of the various Irish support organisations across Australia is a valuable opportunity for the different groups to learn from each other’s experiences and share strategies for how to deal with the difficult and challenging situations that inevitably arise for members of the Irish community. As well as a great opportunity to swap notes it is also a good excuse for these committed and caring volunteers to catch up and see a different part of Australia.

Joseph Thompson, originally from Co. Tyrone but now based in Brisbane, was one of those conference delegates to come here especially for the event. He had some interesting observations to make following his visit.

“I thought the Link Conference was fantastic and I want to extend congratulations to Joan Ross and the Claddagh Association,” Joseph told Fred Rea. “We organised it here in Brisbane last year, so I know what it takes to put on a programme, a programme that will catch people’s attention, and the programme Joan and the Claddagh put on was absolutely fabulous.

There were a number of highlights for me, including the number of people they were able to get from Ireland, especially Colin and Eithne Bell from the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust.”

The parents from Newry, Co. Down lost their son Kevin when he was killed in a hit and run incident in New York in June 2013. They got that dreaded call on Colin’s 60th birthday. Fund-raisers which were quickly organised by friends and family of his in Ireland, New York

and Melbourne raised $150,000 to get him back to Ireland. Kevin’s employers paid for the cost of sending his body back to Ireland and with the funds raised the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust was born.

“Since they set it up the bodies of 170 Irish people have been flown back to Ireland, this is something they do for nothing at home around the kitchen table.” Colin and Eithne were recognised by the Claddagh Association with a specially commissioned award, sculpted by Charlie and Joan Smith. “Eithne said the figure of the wild goose was very meaningful because she would watch the birds in their garden at home and they would remind her of Kevin flying home”, added Joseph.

The award was kindly sent back to Colin and Eithne’s home in Ireland, no charge, by Vince Gallagher of Australia International Express.

Clare O’Connell from the Irish Council of Prisoners Overseas also spoke at the conference. This service was set up in 1988 by a Bishops Conference to help Irish citizens imprisoned abroad and their families, including inmates who have never lived in Ireland.

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Marion O’Hagan, Australian Irish Welfare Bureau and Irish Consul Marty Kavanagh

“We had a situation here in Brisbane where a chap who was an Irish citizen - his citizenship came through his parents - but never took out Australian citizenship. He went to jail and served his time as soon as he was released he was deported to Ireland and he’d never lived in Ireland. The Council of Irish Prisoners Overseas was able to assist him and help to get him settled and with things like accommodation.”

Other groups to speak at the conference were Sarah Owen from the Cross Care Migrant Project which provides information and help to people before they emigrate but particularly for when they return to live in Ireland.

Fidelma Brian, an academic from the Adelaide University spoke about her thesis called Economics and Emotions - the Irish in Australia 2000 to 2015, a comprehensive survey and study of the issues facing Irish migrants.

Hon. Consulate Marty Kavanagh spoke with his lawyer’s hat on and looked at the difference between Irish and Australian law and areas of specific interest, such as the custody of children and child abduction and divorce.

The Claddagh Association’s Liz O’Hagan also spoke about various issues in her field of expertise such as visas, as a migration agent.

Eimear Beatty, one of the founders of Irish Families in Perth spoke about the work of that group and how it tries to reach out and include as many people as possible.

Ciara Kenny, who is responsible for the Irish Times special forum Emigration Generation was also a key speaker at the conference.

“I came back to Brisbane on a high, I was so pleased I was able to participate in this event and the wider community,” said Joseph. “In

this area there is always something new to learn or remind oneself of. One of the things that struck me when I was in Perth was the connectedness of your community there. I don’t know if it was just because of the particular week and events that were taking place but at the performance of the Patriot Game play (by playwright Tom Murphy) you had all the people of the various Irish groups there at the State Theatre Centre. There were Irish people, Irish Australians and second and third and fourth generation people. The Patriot Game was one of the best theatre experiences I’ve had in a long time.

The young lady who was the narrator helped carry the show and I was in awe of her. And then there was the Sense of Ireland concert [in the Octagon Theatre, UWA April 30th).

That concert really showcased the extent and talent of the Irish and Irish Australian community and a strong sense of Ireland. I was amazed to see so many people at the play and the concert, they were packed out. We had a reception for the conference on the Thursday night and then there was the Irish Night at the Trots in Gloucester Park. That sense of connectedness again struck me, we don’t seem to have that in Brisbane and I don’t know why, you would have a lot of Irish people here in Brisbane as well, but they seem to be doing their own little thing. Another thing that hit me about it was the support you get from public servants and politicians. There were two politicians at the Sense of Ireland concert and Alannah McTiernan MP. The fact you have the Honorary Consulate (Marty Kavanagh) here might act as a focal point for them, I can’t be sure, but you have wonderful support from the public representatives.”

Joseph used the visit to Perth to catch up with some old friends and people he hasn’t seen in a long time (sometimes even decades) He also took a little bit of time out to enjoy his new surrounds. “I was in Perth before but didn’t get a chance to see Kings Park, I made a point of going there this time and I spent a whole afternoon just walking around it

8

Joan Ross with Conference delagates

and enjoying it, and Perth. I only saw a very small bit of it but it was beautiful.”

A pharmacist back in Ireland Joseph also worked for pharmaceutical company Wellcome Ireland in Dublin for about six years in the late 1960s and early 70s. “By the grace of God I just missed three bombs that went off in Dublin in May 1974,” said Joseph who comes from Dromore, Tyrone. “That was the deciding factor for us to come to come to Australia, we wanted to take the kids away from that so we came out in 1976 and I worked as a pharmacist for many years again until I decided to give that away and I got a job with the Catholic Archdiocese of Brisbane, in their fundraising section. I was involved with the Australian Support Association when it was formed about eight or nine years ago and I’ve been the secretary of that now for about five years. So I’m very much invalid with that and commit a lot of time to it, thank God I’m retired because I wouldn’t be able to give it the time others.”

Thanks to Derek Walsh and the staff at the Novotel Langley Hotel for their wonderful service during the conference.

(Editor: There is plenty of support work that needs to be done in Brisbane and other parts of Australia and we should all be grateful for the small army of volunteers and supporters who step into the breech when things go badly wrong for Irish people in Australia. We are all connected in one way or another and it is impossible to predict if or why we might need one day to fall back on that interdependence.)

Thank you to the Bell Foundation

Colin and Eithne Bell from the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust are presented with the Joan and Charlie Smith sculpture for their support of Australian Link groups.

Sculptors, Joan and Charlie Smith at the Catalpa Memorial in Rockingham. The Bell Award was based on the same concept of the wild Geese.

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Ireland was a very hot issue in around 1890. We know nothing of his views on the matter, but he could have been so very useful in the corridors of power…

(Part four)

by Peter Conole Sir William Robinson in about 1890.

Sir William Robinson received his highest imperial honours in May 1887 during his time as Governor of South Australia. At the same time he was offered the governorship of Hong Kong, but he refused it because of previous health problems while serving in a similar climate. One should add that the Irish couple of Sir William and Lady Olivia Robinson were also hugely popular and probably wished to remain in Adelaide.

Then as always the governor was known to be warm and kind in his personal relationships but reserved and dignified in dealings with officialdom.

Robinson finally left when news arrived that the Earl of Kintore had been appointed to the South Australian position. Sir William went to Victoria instead to serve as Acting Governor from March 9, 1889. Experience told and his management of affairs there attracted praise. Both the premier and the leader of the opposition expected him to be given the position on a substantive basis. To general surprise it was bestowed on another relatively inexperienced aristocrat, the Earl of Hopetoun. On November 11, 1889 and Robinson and his wife and younger children sailed for England.

The outcome of that transaction was no slight on Robinson. The Colonial Office in London valued his abilities and decision making skills and put them to use in difficult crown colonies where he could exercise real power. Victoria, plus all other Australian colonies except one, could make do with less experienced figureheads. Sir William flatly refused a posting to

Mauritius in early 1890: possibly he knew something was up in Western Australia, the last crown colony in the country. Governor Sir Frederick Broome’s regime had been bedevilled by wasteful squabbling with and among local politicians and officials. The time had come for radical change.

Responsible government on the same basis as other Australian colonies was on the agenda and a three-man delegation left WA for London to argue the case in December 1889. They had a daunting task ahead of them.

Robinson offered his services in February 1890 and threw himself into the work with enthusiasm.

The next few months turned into hard slogging as constitutional arrangements for WA were proposed, argued, debated in parliament and constantly reviewed and amended.

There was some practical and determined opposition to the idea of home rule for WA and Sir William’s personality and negotiating skills became vital to success. Early historians of WA, those writing in the late 1890s and early 1900s, had no doubts regarding his major impact in resolving key problems.

The irony will not be lost on readers.

Robinson was Irish. Home rule for

10

An Enabling Bill to provide a constitution for WA was finally passed by both houses of parliament and received the vital Royal Assent on July 25, 1890.

Sir William Robinson was then given a third term as governor.

The Colonial Office believed his administrative skills and local knowledge would smooth the way during the transition to selfgovernment. Robinson and his ever popular wife Lady Olivia arrived in Fremantle to great acclaim on October 20, 1890.

The next day, October 21, Sir William proclaimed the constitution from a balcony facing the old esplanade in Perth. A day of pretty wild celebrations followed. They had begun with the singing of the royal anthem and a band performance of Robinson’s song ‘Unfurl the Flag’.

Afterwards, probably at a banquet in a crowded Government House ball room, some lucky performers offered a new song of his, ‘Rouse thee Westralia’. He had composed it to mark Proclamation Day. The implementation work then began. Robinson’s key tasks were to: arrange the first elections for the Legislative Assembly; choose a suitable premier; carefully select and nominate all members of the upper house, the Legislative Council. Such choices, of course, had to be ratified by a general election and appropriate legislation. The Governor thus minimised risk by refusing to let anything resembling party politics or personality clashes to have any impact until everything was in place.

After assorted negotiations and explanations elections for the Legislative Council were held in December, 1890. Robinson and his Executive Council then chose members for the house of review, now to be a Legislative Council.

Later it also became an elected body. A week later he offered the ambitious and capable Surveyor General, John Forrest, the position of Premier. On December 29 the Governor’s Executive Council was abolished and Sir William arranged for his old friend Forrest to take the oath. Both houses of the new parliament were sworn in on the following day.

Robinson’s decision to maintain control of the Council until a general election was called turned out to be a prudent move. He also successfully lobbied London to give a knighthood to Forrest in May, 1891. Under the new system the Governor had a watching brief and a lot of reserve power, which he used to good effect.

At the opening of parliament on January 29, 1891 he delivered a great speech and proposed a huge programme of public works for WA, especially railways and harbours.

Taxes and special loans made a lot of things possible. Both Lady Olivia and Sir William were admirers of another notable Irishman, C.Y.O’Connor, and they presided at a formal event to mark the beginning of his work on the reconstruction of Fremantle Harbour in 1892. A year later the Governor also had the pleasure of presiding at the opening ceremony for a new Perth to Bunbury railway.

Behind the scenes other things were going on which still have the capacity to raise eyebrows. One of Robinson’s duties involved sending confidential despatches to London about matters which affected both WA and imperial political and economic interests. The Governor clashed with Premier Forrest on such issues as the appointment of a deputy governor and some contentious legislation. He thought Forrest was becoming a little arrogant and wrote in 1894 that “personally, we are excellent friends, but as Premier he is now a difficult, indeed an unpleasant man to deal with”. All the same the efforts

Governor Robinson (in plumed hat) delivering his Foundation Day speech

of both men were commendable when the Gold Rush of 1893 began; efficient government meant that the fields were well managed, secure and relatively free of the chaos of similar epic events in Australia and other parts of the world.

As was quite natural (and as he expected) Sir William’s political powers gradually declined under self-government, but in colonial WA he already presided over a very different and perhaps more agreeable realm. There is little doubt that no other governor of our State has done more for high culture than Robinson, especially in the field of music. He seemed to be everywhere and able to do everything. As early as July 1891 some waltzes he composed for string orchestra were performed at a major public function, the first civic ball given by a mayor of Perth. They were published in Melbourne in the same year as a set simply called ‘Valse’.

In 1893 the governor conducted the Perth Choir at a rather large-scale music festival in the city. A year later he accepted the position of Director of the Perth Amateur Operatic Society. More popular parlour songs followed, such as ‘My Rose’ (1893) and ‘Imperfectus’ (1894). An earlier ‘smash hit’ song, ‘Remember me no more’, did very well when it hit Britain. Over one hundred thousand copies of the printed version were sold by 1897. Another high point of Robinson’s musical career followed on January 24, 1894 when

11

a large, enthusiastic crowd attended the premiere of his operetta ‘The Handsome Ransom’ at Government House. A modern assessment marks it down as both tuneful and well-orchestrated.

The amusing and satirical Gilbert and Sullivan style libretto was by Robinson’s friend Francis Hart. In November that year – renamed ‘Predatoros’ after its bandit antihero – the work was well received in Melbourne.

Sir William Robinson retired on December 22, 1895. He and Olivia returned to Britain and settled in South Kensington, London. The former imperial official won further plaudits from South and West Australians for toil on their behalf as an unofficial ambassador on various boards and committees.

The musical links also continued.

His second operetta (‘The NutBrown Maid’) was performed with critical acclaim in London during 1896. Ada Crossley, a then-famous Australian contralto, sang the lead role. It is remarkable that Australian reference works, regardless of the evidence, dismiss the work as one that was never performed. An English politician said Robinson “was the greatest governor who was ever a musician, and the greatest musician who was ever a governor”.

Time and trends make it unlikely we will ever hear a note of his music either in live or recorded performance.

Sir William’s always rather frail health gave way not long after retirement. He died in London on May 2, 1897. Lord Ripon, a former Viceroy of India and Secretary of State for the Colonies, stated he had pursued “a career of some 33 years of almost unbroken service, and certainly of unchequered success”. It is not easy to think of another public official who gave better service to the community of WA than that now obscure Irishman of the Victorian Era.

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The Irish golf club would like to thank the following businesses for their support of the Annual St Patricks Day Golf Charity Day. Sponsors: • McLoughlins Butchers, • DCI Electrical, • UON Power and Water, • Complete Cabling and

Construction, • BC Formwork, • Border Real Estate and The Children’s Garden Day Care Centre.

Without whom the donations would have been a pittance.

As a result of the day, donations were made to • The Irish Club of WA • The Charlotte Foundation

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It is said that...

• A TRUE IRISHMAN considers a bore to be someone who keeps constantly interrupting.

• A TRUE IRISHMAN considers anyone who won’t come around to his point of view to be hopelessly stubborn. and • A TRUE IRISHMAN has so much respect for the truth that he uses it only in emergencies.

Presentation at Irish Club (L-R) Mary Maguire Ned Carroll Sean Daly, Club President Jack Ebbs Tom Quinn Peter McKenna

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Dermot Byrne

The Irish Quiz Wiz! a.k.a. Dermot from Lesmurdie on ABC radio Nightlife program.

My thanks to Fred for filling in for me for the Quiz in the last edition of the Scene while I was away in Ireland. For the questions this time I would like to find out what you know about some of the places I visited and some of the songs I heard.

1. In what county are the Fields of Athenry?

2. What county was I in when I visited Lissadell, the home of Countess Constance Markievicz and her sister Eva Gore-Booth?

3. In what county is Athy where Lanigan’s Ball was held?

4. What county would you be in if you were kissing the Blarney Stone?

5. In what county are the Cliffs of Moher?

6. In which two counties is the Erne Hydroelectric Scheme?

7. In which county is the Giants Causeway?

8. What county are you in if you visit Croagh Patrick?

9. Where would you go to see the Treaty Stone?

10. Carrickfergus is in which county?

Answers: 1.Galway 2.Sligo 3.Kildare 4.Cork 5.Clare 6.Donegal/Fermanagh 7.Down 8.Mayo 9.Limerick 10.Antrim.

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This months guest...

with Synnott

MICHAEL CLUSKEY Michael Cluskey and Irish International Rugby player Paul O’Connell

way possible.

8. Do you use Social media? If so which one?

I have to say, I am really into Facebook, it’s the only real way I can keep in touch with relatives and friends.

I tried twitter But really################ what the hell is all this!!!!

9. If you could be famous for a day who would it be?

Sorry, I don’t do famous.

10. What are you most afraid of, or who?

My mum, because she tells it as it is!

11. Where do you get your news from (TV, Internet or papers)?

First thing on in the morning, and last thing off at night is the Sky News Channel!

12. Who is you favourite actor, and what is your favourite film?

Clint Eastwood is my favourite actor.

Gene Wilder’s version of Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory is my favourite film.

13. If there is one place you could visit on earth, where would it be?

I have always wanted to go to the Arctic Circle to see the Northern Lights.

14. What is your impression of Australia from the Irish Scenes point of view?

Having never visited Australia, my only real insight comes from the regular copies of the Irish Scene kindly sent over by you. I’m jealous of the community spirit, and comradery that seems to abound within the Irish society, over there.

NEVER LOSE IT!!

Michael is the eldest son of the late Drogheda poet Paddy Cluskey. His mother Peggy Cluskey (nee Bowler) hails from Dingle in the Kingdom of Kerry. Michael was born in Lincoln in England in 1962. Due to work commitments the family lived there until 1974 when the family moved back home to Drogheda in Co Louth.

Paddy’s poems hit a cord with many people both home and abroad, even to the point of reading one of them for the President of Ireland in Aras an Uachtarain.

Paddy was a very strong advocate for all Senior Citizens, ensuring they were heard within the community.

Michael tries to continue in his footsteps helping wherever he can. He lives in Drogheda with his wife Elaine and sons Mark and Kyle.

He loves nothing better than receiving a copy of the Irish Scene, which he reads from cover to cover. He highly commends the publication and congratulates the editor Fred Rea for such a professional magazine.

1. What was your first job?

My first job was as a radio DJ on a pirate station called Boyneside Radio, They say I had a face that suited radio (to this day I can’t figure out what that means) 2. Do you have an iPhone or laptop?

I have a Samsung Galaxy 6, Is that good or bad?

3. What has been the best year of your life?

Impossible to say, I have realised now to be grateful for every day, too many people I’ve loved have gone too soon, I now wake up each morning and just say thank you God and Padre Pio for letting me and my family see another day.

4. What is your favourite sport and sporting Hero?

Soccer is my favourite sport (although supporting Everton you wouldn’t think so).

My sporting hero is Jason Smith from Derry, he is a legally blind Irish sprinter who has won gold in both the 100m and 200m Paralympics and has ran 10.22 for the 100m 0.04 short of qualifying for the Olympic games itself!!

5. What is your favourite song and singer?

One of the most powerful songs I’ve ever heard is “The Voyage” by Christy Moore. I challenge anybody to listen to the words of this song and not be moved. (Go on, give it a listen, you’ll thank me).

My favourite singer, well what can I say, but for the first time in over 30 years he and his band are back on tour.......

AND l’M GOING TO SEE THEM TOMORROW NIGHT IN THE 3 ARENA DUBLIN!!!I!! JEFF LYNE and ELO. 6. What is your earliest childhood memory?

Weekend trips away to Southport Beach in England, with my mum, dad and brothers, eating a mixture of ham, sand and cheese sandwiches.

7. What is the best TV program and why?

Everybody loves Father Ted, revolutionary TV when it came out first. But as the years have gone on, it’s taught us how to laugh at ourselves in the best

Thomas FARRELL

1949 - 2016 To his wife Kathleen, children Darren and Nikki, son-in- law Paul and grandchildren Kate, Emily, Ciaran and Clare our deepest sympathy. The family wish to acknowledge his Irish heritage and family. Tom was a great GAA man!

“Ar dheis De go raibh a anam” (May his soul be at the right hand of God)

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by Fred Rea and Lloyd Gorman

h s i r I Connor Clancy

Connor Clancy one of many helped by the Eagles…

It would probably be fair to say that the vast majority of the West Coast Eagles 60,000 members are unaware of a deepening and developing connection between their club and the west coast of Ireland.

It is a working relationship that you could argue gives the Eagles a bit of Irish luck.

“The University of Limerick has had a great link with the Eagles, I’m actually the sixteenth Irish student they’ve had now, they take someone on every year,” Connor Clancy, a native of Newmarket on Fergus, Co. Clare told Irish Scene. “I’m doing sport and exercise science and it’s been a massive opportunity to come over here and get involved with a professional team and see all the goings on of an elite team, it’s been

a fantastic experience. It’s probably gone above and beyond what I expected in terms of the professionalism and how much detail every department goes into and how well the players are looked after, it’s been crazy, especially coming from my sports background in hurling, an amateur sport, it’s blown me away.”

Hurling is Connors self-confessed first love but his appreciation and admiration for Aussie Rules and its players has rocketed since he got here in mid-January. “I played a bit of club hurling in Clare and I keep up to date with all the goings on with them. I believe my old club aren’t doing too well but hopefully when I get back in August I might get to see Croke Park for a day or two for a day out with the Clare team, they are not going too bad. And even while I’m over here I got to see the first round of the Munster Championship and I was recently in Melbourne with the team and Clare played against Waterford and I got to see that. Be-

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fore I came over I saw a couple of AFL games, TG4 used to have it on in the morning and I’d watch the highlights and how the Irish lads in it were going. I knew it was going to be a physical game like Gaelic football but it’s blown me away in terms of how fit the guys are, they’re machines, they can cover 15 to 16km in a game and take some hits. I’ve actually loved the game out here with the guys every day, seeing them training, two games a week and I’ve absolutely loved the game. I’m not sure it’ll surpass the hurling but it’s right up there. I’m actually planning to go with an acquaintance to play a game of hurling but we work long hours and it’s hard to get time away.”

As well as learning on the job, where one of his jobs is to help track the data of the players, Connor has also been learning about the game in a very practical way. “A few weeks ago I got into training with an Aussie Rules side, a local team, it’s a goal of

mine to play a game before I go back home. We always say hurling is one of the most physical games in the world, but you’d know all about it after training with the footy, you’d have a sore body after it. Some of the hits the blokes take are phenomenal and the injuries they come out with, they are a tough group. They’d definitely fend for themselves in a game of hurling I’d reckon.”

Since being out here has also given him an even deeper respect for the likes of Patrick Dangerfield with Geelong “a brilliant player and a pure athlete”, Pearce Hanley and Zavier Toohey and how well those guys have integrated into Aussie Rules and carved out a reputation for themselves.

Connor said the welcome mat

Paddy Brophy: An Eagle with an accent

“I’m in my second year now, I’ve been here about 18 months and am really enjoying it, playing lots of footy mostly with East Perth who got an average stat this season so hopefully we can turn around,” said Paddy Brophy who has been described as West Coasts first Irish experiment. The international rookie has learned much in his time and continues to show strength and ability. “Its about more than disposals, its about your team and how you can help the team. I’m the trainer so I need to defend first and then if the ball comes my way and I’m lucky enough…I love it, really enjoying it, I love the area, love the climate and loving the footy club, its a really good footy club.”

Paddy has played 23 games for East Perth in 2015, is a strong tackler, has good skills and is deceptively quick.

Paddy said it took Tadhg Kennelly about two years before he made his debut with the Sydney Swans and it was similar for Pearce Hanely and Zach Touhey “Hopefully I can get a crack in the next while

has been put out for him, even before he came to the Perth, and the Club. “I’ve been lucky, one of the guys I work with in the sports science department actually had a room available before I came over and he held it for me. I’ve been staying with him and it’s nice to get a lift into work down the road. It can be an expensive part of the world, especially for a student, but I’ve been well looked after by the staff and I’ve no complaints.”

Connor turned 21 in April and celebrated the occasion here. “I’m sure I’ll celebrate it when I get back too, I’ll get the double party out of it and I’ve been shown around the city by the boys and I’ve seen all the Irish pubs and all the night clubs and night-life. But the time is flying and push on from there,” said the eager 22 year old. “I’m always training with the first team and play our games with East Perth and the unity between the two clubs is really

in with games running into games every week.”

He said he stays in regular contact through Skype and phone calls with his family and that they are happy for him to be over here.

When he does return to Ireland Connor will have to do his final year and once he graduates he is going to see what happens. No doubt his studies will be interrupted along the way by the fortunes of the Eagles as they hopefully battle their way to a place in the AFL Grand Final. Whenever they play the Eagles can be assured of at least one ardent fan barracking away for them in whatever pub Connor can find matches being shown. good. This is home now, I’ve moved in with Xavier Ellis in Scarborough and this is home. I’m really enjoying it out here, my family are happy too that I’m out here, so that helps.”

Happy 80th Birthday to the ageless Fr Laurence Murphy. Fr Murphy celebrated the big event in Dublin, where else! A great Dub and proud of it!

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CORRINE McGOWAN

At home in Subiaco Oval or Croke Park While Conor and his predecessors spend about eight months every year working for the Eagles from their base in Subiaco Oval (Domain Stadium) the Club has another member of staff who brings a distinctive Irish influence to the job.

Corinne McGowan is head trainer for the boys in blue and yellow. “Basically I’m a physio’s assistant, so whatever the physio needs doing, we treat the players, whether it’s taping or massage and any injury treatment and we provided all the drinks on game days. I did sports science at university and I really enjoyed it, I went to work in a WAFL (West Australian Football League) club - the Perth Demons - while I was at college. I was there for eight or nine seasons and then did a heap of different sorts, BMX, touch rugby, softball. When I finished uni I got a job working for Sports Medicine Australia, which is an educational company, teaching people to be

by Fred Rea and Lloyd Gorman sports trainers and I did that for about eight years. Then I knew the physio’s here through that job, they were all members of SMA and used to lecture at our educational courses. They were looking for trainers here and I applied, and got the job.

This is my seventh season and I had a little bit of a break last year after the birth of my daughter.” For someone so involved in the game it is surprising to hear Corinne say that she was 15 years old when she discovered the Code. “We had followed soccer and cricket really,” she said.

She - and her two siblings - were born in Sydney but they could grew up in an Irish household. “There’s that much Waterford Crystal in our house, I don’t know if there’s any left in Waterford,” she joked. “Both my parents - Theresa and Michael McGowan - come from Dublin, they came out in about 1973 on the boat

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when the Australian government was looking for people, so they paid for their fare. They had the three of us in Sydney and then came here in the early 1980s. Mum would go back tomorrow, but dad wouldn’t.

When we were younger they went to the Irish Club a lot to try and keep that connection with home but probably about 15 years ago our neighbour who moved in was Irish, so they’ve got a community of their own in their backyard. They actually built a gate in the back fence so that they wouldn’t have to jump the fence or go around the long way. So we grew up in an Irish family, the socialising and the singing are what I love about the Irish, have a few drinks and enjoy a song. I joke that we get two lots of potatoes for every meal, roasts and mash, Mam does the Coddle, bacon and cabbage and the soda bread and all those sorts of things, which I love, especially in the winter. We get three lots of rel-

were kids. I think I was about ten the first time I went and they took the family, when the airfares started to come down. Now mum and dad will go back together about every two years.”

As if that wasn’t enough of an Irish connection, Corinne’s partner Aaron went to Craigie Senior High where Alan Healy was his best mate and he lived with him for a little while. “Nigel and Alan and Gavin (the Healy Brothers) are some of his best mates and we often go JB O’Reilly’s on a Friday night and see the boys play or we get down to Leederville for the St. Patrick’s Day festival.”

On one of her trips (home) to Dublin Corinne has taken in a game at Croke Park and enjoyed the atmosphere and buzz created by the masses of supporters walking to the famous northside stadium. “I feel like a Dublin person,” she added. “I have had a lot of chats with Paddy Brophy since he’s been over, talking about home and music and that sort of thing.”

lies coming out a year, some will be in April, the middle of the year and then for Christmas, so we’ve always got people over. I’ve been to Ireland about three or four times, mum would go back on her own a lot when we

I train and I go home, and when I’m home, I think about training. That’s my life every day, and that’s it.

Conor McGregor

LIVE at

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AN

By Marie Moloney

Excellent JOB

Many of the memories of growing up in a large extended family are still with me. During my childhood in Dublin Ireland I spent a lot of time at the home of my paternal grandparents. Often I would stay there for a few days at a time. Doris and Rory, the two youngest of my father’s siblings, were still living at home, Bella, the first born of the family, also lived with her parents. She had learning difficulties and had never gone out to work; consequently her world was contained within the family home. For me it was the place to be, a house with a front and back garden and Rover the dog. I also liked collecting the eggs from the hen house and picking a cabbage from the vegetable garden for dinner.

It provided a wonderful change from the dull daily life cooped up in two small rooms in inner city Dublin all day, with just my mother and, at a later stage, my younger siblings. I loved my sisters and brother dearly but they were too much younger than me to be any company. In a household of five

people and the constant flow of visitors from the extended large family there was always something interesting happening.

There were of course rules to be obeyed; I was frequently told by all and sundry to be a good girl and do what I was told.

Grandfather, (Ta Kelly to us grandchildren) was different, he expected obedience but he did not just issue orders, he explained things to me and told me to always do exactly what I had been instructed to do.

Early one morning while I was in the kitchen talking with Ta Kelly, Aunt Doris came in carrying a pair of white canvas sandals, a block of whitener and a small piece of sponge. She put these on the kitchen table and got a little bowl of water, she then told me to whiten the sandals and showed me how to wet the whitener, dip the sponge into it and apply this to the sandals. As she left the room she instructed me to do the job properly and promised severe punishment if one spot was left uncovered. In the corner

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by his bench Ta Kelly stood head bent over his array of tools. I stood across the room at the kitchen table doing what I had been told to do.

When finished I stood back and proudly viewed my work. Not one spot on either sandal was left uncovered by the whitener. I put the dazzling white footwear on the window ledge to dry and patiently awaited my aunt’s reaction.

A couple of hours later Aunt Doris returned, when she saw her sandals, she became angry and lurched toward me but before she could take any action her father said in his quiet, authoritative voice “She did exactly as you told her to do”.

The great hunger: Ireland’s historic heart

By Andrew Tyndall

Mass graves are a result of the Great Famine. Picture: Andy Tyndall

A workhouse brings Andy Tyndall face to face with the dispossessed.

It’s funny what you come across when off the beaten track. And sometimes it really is not.

We’re visiting a Community Resource, Training and Heritage Centre (to give it its official name) for a tour which is not likely to be jolly.

We are about to be guided around a former, partially renovated workhouse. Workhouses appear to be places which are muttered about quietly but about which we know very little (except for small mentions in novels by, for example, Charles Dickens and Thomas Hardy.) It should be enlightening.

It is.

The enormity of the workhouse is the first shock. The massive building, a short distance from the

centre of Carrickmacross, just over an hour’s scenic drive north from Dublin, we learn, is only one-third of what once stood there. Three storeys high at the highest, 100m long, the original complex — for that is what it was — has been partially restored from dereliction, turned into a community support centre and opened for tours for those brave enough to learn a bit more about one of the most sorrowful parts of Ireland’s history. There are plans to restore the second, larger, derelict building that looms behind.

The third building was demolished for its stones after the workhouse closed between the wars.

About 130 workhouses were built in Ireland in the early 1840s to help alleviate the distress of destitution suffered by one-third of the country’s population of nine million.

The adult quarters at the old workhouse.

Picture: Andy Tyndall

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It was a time when Britain ruled and owned Ireland. They were there just in time for the famine that ravaged the country, killing a million citizens and forcing a mass emigration.

I’m braced for a bout of Britbashing, for it is well known that Britain did little, if anything, to alleviate the famine, preferring instead to export the produce that could have fed the populace. But our guide carefully steers around apportioning blame, instead concentrating on the workings of the establishment.

The Hotel California it ain’t. You couldn’t even check in anytime you liked. You certainly couldn’t leave freely.

There were strict rules: everyone who entered as a group had to leave as a group — that must have restricted an inmate’s (for that is how they were titled) ability to find work or betterment.

The genuinely dispossessed, having renounced all claims to land and possessions, were admitted for assessment and eligibility. If accepted, personal clothes were removed and a standard outfit was issued. Then men and women, boys and girls were separated. Children were housed in the renovated building, adults in the second, which sported a watchtower. The third was the Fever House, which included the Death House.

The “work” part of the system meant, among other civil projects, building roads (you can still drive down famine roads today) and the women learnt to make lace to sell to the affluent: in fact Carrickmacross lace is still highly valued to this day.

Our first port of call is a look at the adult building, its sightless windows and forbidding, gaunt skeleton serve as a reminder of all the souls who must have gazed out, trapped inside beneath a watchtower.

The building that currently stands is only one-third the size of the original.

Picture: Andy Tyndall

A small pile of rubble and an indent in the long grass at the back of the complex mark the site of the Fever House. Beyond that, in the

corners of the paddock, crosses stand tall. They mark the mass graves where countless unknown

people were buried in pits after succumbing to the Potato Famine or its related diseases.

Our tour took us to the girls’ accommodation, on the third floor.

It is sparse: bare boards, bare walls, sombre windows. The girls, locked in at night, had no access to toilets: the floor was sloped and channelled to deal with the obvious results.

The whitewashed walls and smooth boards belie the sheer misery and filth in which the inmates must have lived.

A small pile of boxes, the top one opened, a yellowing sheet of paper detailing its contents, sits below a plaque with 38 names on it. These are the names of the girls who were sent from the workhouse to colonies, such as Australia, where females were needed to settle with the men and help populate the regions.

The box contained finery with which the girls were issued to help them get a decent start after initial housing in a camp in Sydney. It was understood that once overseas, these girls were never coming back.

Downstairs we look at the huge cauldron from which the sustenance would have been ladled to the queuing children. An artwork, The Last Resort by Orlagh MeeganGallagher, evokes poignantly the misery that prospective inmates must have felt on reaching this point of last resort. An example of girls’ and boys’ issue outfit hangs dejectedly on a wall. But a colourful tapestry, The Land of Plenty by the same artist, draws us in. The accompanying fact sheet about

the produce available but never released is stunning, the figures shocking.

During the famine years three million live animals were exported, together with tonnes of vegetables and dairy produce (more than 800,000 gallons of butter to Liverpool and Bristol alone). Well over 800,000 gallons of porter, 250,000 gallons of Guinness and 175,000 gallons of whiskey were exported — all made from grain.

And troops were brought in to protect the produce from the starving.

Just as we leave, still pondering the callous injustice to the hungry and dispossessed, it is mentioned almost as an aside, that Sting dropped by for a private visit early last year while on tour. He had come to pay his respects to his third great-

Girls were sent from the workhouse to Sydney with a box containing items to help them make a new start.

Picture: Andy Tyndall

grandmother Mary Murphy from Inniskeen, who had been admitted and died in the Carrickmacross workhouse in 1881.

You never know what you may find when you leave the beaten track.

Visit Andy’s website: www.andytyndall.com

Ireland Western Australian Forum Promoting business, professional and cultural links between Ireland and Western Australia IWAF Networking Event is on Thursday 21st July, 6.00pm at the Richardson Hotel, 32 Richardson St, West Perth

Guest Speakers: Mary Kinnane, Enterprise Ireland: Enterprise Ireland is the government organisation responsible for the development and growth of Irish enterprises in world markets. EI works in partnership with Irish enterprises to help them start, grow, innovate and win export sales in global markets. In this way, EI support sustainable economic growth, regional development and secure employment.

Morgan O’Shea, ALDI: Since their first store opened in 2001, ALDI has played an important role in the Australian community. Each day, their operations improve the livelihoods of local businesses, create employment opportunities and deliver high quality products to Australian families at everyday low prices.

Tickets cost $70, with canapés and drinks included.

Limited number of tickets available and previous events have sold out well in advance. It is advised to purchase tickets online at the IWAF website. www.irelandwaforum.org

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26

The Irish Bishop who made Bunbury’s St. Patrick’s Cathedral Shake

By Lloyd Gorman

It was with great sadness in early May that Bishop of Bunbury, Gerard Holohan, announced the passing of his Irish born and much revered predecessor, Bishop Myles McKeon, aged 97. He was ordained for the Archdiocese in 1947and then in May 1962, at the age of 43, he was appointed the youngest Auxiliary Bishop of Perth, Western Australia. Seven years later he became the Second Bishop of Bunbury and he served in that role until 1982 when ill health forced him to resign.

“Bishop McKeon is well remembered still as a kind and caring pastor,” said Bishop Holohan. “He was also one of the four Western Australian Bishops who collaborated for the founding of the Catholic Education Commission and the Catholic Institution of Western Australia, both of which were unique in the world of that time.” Even in retirement he continued his work for the commission.

Bishop McKeon was also the last surviving Bishop of the Second Vatican Council in Australia and the last living Irishman to have taken part in Vatican II. Myles McKeon was born at Drummin, Westport, Co. Mayo, Ireland on April 3, 1919, to John and Bridget McKeon (nee O’Toole). He attended secondary school at St. Jarlath’s College Tuam and then studied at University College Dublin and All Hallows Seminary in Dublin. Once ordained he set sail for Australia.

He last visited Ireland in 1995 but kept in regular contact with family and friends. His sole surviving sibling, Mrs Shelia Conway, and her family still live in Westport but his nieces and nephews (the McKeons, Sheerins, Reidys and Tallons) can be found around the world.

Bishop McKeon - or Bishop Myles as he was fondly called by many - was a wise and spiritual man but also had a warm sense of humour.

In an interview with The Record newspaper in 2012, retired priest Fr Noel Fitzsimons, who worked with Bishop Myles when he was first appointed to Bunbury, said that the happiest years of the diocese were when Myles McKeon was Bishop.

“Myles furnished the diocese… we had the Brothers looking after school leavers and the senior schools, we had the Blessed Sacraments in the marketplace, we had the Carmelites praying for the diocese and, with Myles

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as Bishop, the Irish priests were really happy,” Mr Fitzsimons said.

“The Bishop’s anthem, his friends recalled, was Sippin Soda and he would often sing the song at the request of others, who were happy to join in at the chorus.

“Bunbury priests affectionately described Bishop Myles McKeon as both a warm and gracious man whom you would not want to crack an Irish joke in front of, and as “the man who changed the face of the south-west diocese”.

Tom Dillon, former City of Bunbury councillor and member of the John Boyle O’Reilly Association and dedicated supporter of the annual JB O’Reilly commemoration at the memorial site on Buffalo Road in Australind recalled a close friend of his family’s and a proud Irishman.

“Bishop McKeon was a very passionate Irishman through to the core,” said Tom. “Bishop McKeon developed a very strong rapport with our parents, John and Catherine Dillion, since deceased. In fact dad used to cut Bishop Myles’s hair. The bishop was a very popular person amongst parishioners across the diocese. He was the initiator for bringing the Carmelite Sisters to the diocese, firstly to the former Sisters of Mercy convent in Dardanup and later had them relocated to their own monastery in Gelorup, just south of Bunbury, where they still reside today.

“Bishop Myles was always extremely vocal in his sermons and prior to the devastating cycles some years ago, he caused the rafters in the old St. Patrick’s Cathedral to shake and quiver when he spoke. He was highly respected and was very close to the late Dr Ernie Manea and every other civic leader and dignitary in the area. The local connection between this area and John Boyle O’Reilly hadn’t quite been resurrected in his time but if it had he would have been a leader of it. The thing he liked the most was when the Irish Gaelic football team came to Bunbury back in1981.

Kerry after winning their fourth successive All-Ireland championship toured by playing matches in New York, San Francisco, Hawaii and also Australia. There were no official matches played here and little promotion.

The VFL however did assist with functions honouring the visit and a tour of VFL Park at Waverley. The games played in Australia were chiefly under GAA rules. The

Tim Kennelly (right) with his san Tadgh following a Kerry’s All Ireland win.

game drew a crowd of 10,000. The whole team went up to see him at the monastery and Tim Kennelly from Listowel and Jack O’Shea, the captain of the team, came with him for afternoon tea in mum and dad’s house. I went and visited Tim Kennelly in 1993, when he had his own hotel. Tim’s son, Tadhg later played in the AFL with the Sydney Swans. In 2005 he became the first Irishman to win an AFL premiership winners’ medal. It was an honour for our family that Bishop Myles presided at my dad’s funeral, we

Former Perth Auxiliary Bishop Myles McKeon, who was also the second Bishop of Bunbury, will be well remembered as a sociable individual who loved surrounding himself with people. Born in Drummin, Ireland on 3 April 1919, Bishop McKeon passed away on 2 May 2016 at the age of 97. Photo: Sarah Motherwell Photo From The Record website

were privileged.”

A Solemn Pontifical Funeral Mass for the repose of the soul of the Most Reverend Myles McKeon, was celebrated in St Patrick’s Cathedral,

Parkfield Street, Bunbury on May 18, 2016. Following the Mass his Entombment took place in the Crypt of the Blessed Sacrament Chapel in St Patrick’s Cathedral.

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Sadness descended on Westport in Mayo and the Perth live music scene in March when news broke of the passing of Rory McNally (56) following an illness. Always a Covey at heart, Rory was born and reared in Mayo but had spent most of the last three decades in Australia, where he had relocated and set up home with his future wife, rearing a family of four children.

A teacher by profession, Rory was well-known for his love of music, and he was a regular performer in local venues in Australia and on his visits back home to Ireland, where he still has many friends.

A left-handed guitar player he was as adept at singing As Gaeilge as he was walking through Irish historical and Republican songs from the likes of Christy Moore and Paul Brady. I have a short recording of Rory belting out Christy Moores Ordinary Man in the Best Drop in Kalamunda. He was a keen Bob Dylan admirer, a family trait, and reworked Dylan’s Forever Young into a classic Irish sean-nós style. Leonard Cohen’s “Halleujah” was Rory’s signature tune. He also wrote songs and composed poems, many of them inspired by his emigrant experience. His good friend Enda Condron and other muso mates will sadly miss him.

Rory took great pride in promoting his father’s CD (Songs and Poems for Your Pleasure) in Perth. We at the Irish Scene promoted that CD (I still have a copy) and Rory was kind enough to call me and say thanks for doing so.

Rory is survived by his partner, Donia (and family), former wife Jo and his four children, Aoife, Dave, Darragh and Declan; parents Joe and Peggy, brothers Micheál, Liamy, Tadhg, Seosamh, Cormac; sisters Maire, Daire and many nephews and nieces, relatives and friends, too numerous to list, in Ireland and Australia. May he have peaceful rest.

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ULSTER

Rambles with David MacConnell

Simon Reeve and SBS have been to Rathlin, HAVE YOU? I thought I had witnessed most parts of Ulster when I lived there but the travels of Simon Reeve (viewed on SBS a few weeks ago ) surprised me when he visited parts of the Province that I had not even contemplated. I wonder how many of you have been to Rathlin Island.

Yes this was the unusual place where Simon Reeve went with his camera crew.

Of course it is not as well-known as say The Aran Islands off Galway and Doolin. To me it looks very like our own Rottnest but with a very different climate as you can imagine. Rathlin Island lies just 6 miles north of Ballycastle, eight miles long and less than a mile wide it has for many years been considered part of the Glens. Rathlin is the only inhabited offshore island of Northern Ireland, with a growing population of around 145

people, and is the most northerly inhabited island off the coast of Ireland. The reverse L-shaped Rathlin island is 4 miles (6 km) from east to west, and 2.5 miles (4 km) from north to south.

If you would like to visit the island (well why not) a ferry connects the main port of the island, Church Bay, with the mainland at Ballycastle, 10 km away. Two ferries operate on the route - a fast foot-passenger-only catamaran ferry called “Rathlin Express” and a larger ferry, owned by the Scottish Government, called “MV Canna” which carries both foot passengers and a small number of vehicles, weather permitting of course.

In 1306, Robert the Bruce sought refuge upon Rathlin, owned by the Irish Bissett family, staying in Rathlin Castle, originally belonging to their lordship the Glens of Antrim. The Bissetts were later dispossessed of Rathlin by the English, who were in control of the Earldom of Ulster, for welcoming Bruce. What were we meant to say.

“Sorry Bruce, you ain’t welcome here!”

Simon Reeve’s documentary highlighted the non-sectarian life on the island due to integrated schools. He also showed how the locals had used their initiative to cultivate seaweed or more specifically kelp which is (apparently) a highly nutritious food.

Simon then visited the area in Antrim where they filmed the “Games of Thrones” and then on to Belfast. Unfortunately, he arrived on the 11th July where he filmed the “goings on” around that time. Enough said. He then left the province for other pastures; Dublin and Wicklow to be exact.

It left me wondering about how many places he could have visited. What a great part of the world we left behind. Well, I am

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sure you would agree if it was only for some decent weather.

Let’s leave these ramblings for a while. Y E S. We have just beaten Ukraine. Euro soccer if you were doing a wee bit of wondering what I was on about! After a pretty pa-

thetic display against Poland, and lots of criticism about our credentials of being in the competition, we answered with a fine 2-0 win.

Well done lads. By the time you read this we may have just won the event or not but who cares. We got there and had at least one fantastic win.

A wee sad note here; a few Sundays ago I learned of the sudden passing away of Dr. P. Yes, the one who I often mention in my Ulster Rambles. Doctor Pat was of course from Ulster. He went to St. Malachy’s School and studied medicine at Queens University. I never met him at Queens (I had just left as he was starting) but he has been my Doctor for many years. Patrick not only cared for people, he cared about them as well. He was simply a wonderful Doctor and I know there are hundreds of patients and friends out there who will miss him dreadfully. (For more on this please refer to Page 48 in this magazine.)

Now to finish off, if any of you out there have a favourite spot in the Province that you particularly like, write to the Irish Scene on face book and let me know.

I wrote a song (one verse and chorus below) after living in Australia for a few years. It is such

www.dan-dooley.ie 31

a fabulous place but yet there were always a few regrets (which luckily did not last for long) as it is so far away from the other places I had lived in.

I’m far away far away in Australia, No ties, blue skies in this land But still I miss, still I miss the friends I once loved I’m so far away in Australia.

Land of the kangaroo where there’s plenty of sun It’s good to live here, it’s always been fun But sometimes I miss the cold and the rain The warmth of good friends well you know what I mean.

You can find the rest of the song using the web page listed below. http://maccdouble.com/ Songs/Far%20away%20 in%20Australia.htm

David MacConnell

IN MEMORY OF

Dr. Patrick McGonigle 20th April 1953 - 29th May 2016

After consultations with Brendan Collins and Desi Cormican I am particularly proud to write this memory of my Doctor and friend Patrick McGonigle; Pat as we all knew him.

I know that there are many of you out there who could write about Pat. Equally, I am sure that all of us have stories of his friendship, kindness, competiveness, medical mastery and his jokes. Pat was a student at St. Malachy’s College in Belfast and later attended Queens University in the same city. We all nearly missed out as at one stage the medical field was not his first option.

Pat and his wife Yvonne with young Michael set off for Perth in 1983. In an earlier edition of the Irish Scene, I wrote about how he made the big decision in choosing Perth to further his talents.

Pat was devoted to Yvonne and his children; immensely proud of Michael, Catherine and Matthew and also of their academic and many other achievements.

Pat was an outstanding doctor.

I first met him when he had his practice in Kingsley and had no hesitation in following him when he moved to Gwellup. He was also an exceptionally gifted teacher. He became an invaluable doctor to patients in a number of nursing homes in the northern suburbs and was always available for his patients.

He was never motivated by money.

His upbringing in Belfast in a loving and close-knit family taught him the value of family and friendship over material wealth.

Pat loved his work and loved working with his colleagues in Gwelup Medical Centre to whom I extend my deepest condolences. No matter how ill, it seemed to me that his patients

32

always left the surgery with a smile as Pat’s jokes were legendary.

Of course his jokes and high spirits were part of the art of medicine that he practiced. Alongside this, he was exceptionally thorough and an excellent diagnostician.

Pat was a true sportsman right through his life. When he could not compete in team games, he took to marathons and mountain climbing. In recent years, he successfully climbed Mt. Kinabalu in Borneo and then Kilimanjaro.

Pat’s latest ambition was to beat his friends at golf. I believe he only took up the game in recent months along with Yvonne but was still using his dad’s old clubs, a set of Sam Sneeds which went out of production in 1962!

I was pondering about my Ulster Rambles article on the Sunday night of 29th May when I received the news that he had suddenly left us while playing on Hamersley Golf course with Yvonne at his side.

As his friend Brendan said, “I will miss him terribly and I know so will all his family and friends. He was truly one of life’s great characters and an inspiration to all who knew him. God bless and Farewell Pat. As Desi said “Pat you stand tall as a human being of unique qualities, love, the very core of your being, your marvelous sense of humour, the mischievous sparkle in your eyes and your boundless energy, this unique, extraordinary, beautiful, irreplaceable Patrick.

Slan leat Padraig cara maith.”

Dr. Pat, Father Joe did you proud and we spontaneously clapped as you left the church in Greenwood for the last time. Farewell old son. I will miss you forever.

David MacConnell

PADDOCK TO PLATE AT BALLYMALOE

By JOHN HAGAN One of the most dog-eared books in my library is Tim Allen’s ‘Ballymaloe Bread Book’. It’s my bread making bible. I find something therapeutic and mystical about mixing flour, water and leavening to see it ‘grow’ into a loaf.

Hand kneading the dough from a shaggy, pliable ball and forming it into a recognisible loaf shape is sensuous and satisfying. Few things are as pleasurable as taking freshly

Darina & John Hagan

baked bread out of the oven and being overcome by the heady aroma. So, while on a recent trip to Ireland, and presented with the opportunity to visit the Ballymaloe Cookery School, I jumped at the chance.

The Cookery School, situated near Shangarry in the east of County Cork, boasts an international culinary reputation, attracting students from all over the world.

Like many successful enterprises it was born out of adversity. Tim and his wife Darina had, for many years, been successfully farming on the 400 acre family homestead at Ballymaloe but due to a national turndown in agricultural revenues, they were forced to seek another avenue to boost their diminishing income. Darina’s interest and expertise in cooking was stimulated, and fostered, through working with her mother-in-law, Myrtle, a

Cooking demonstration at Ballymaloe

renowned cook, who ran the nearby Ballymaloe House restaurant. So, as the chosen revenue raiser, Darina, Myrtle and Tim devised a twelve week cookery course which, when launched in 1983, attracted an enrolment of nine pupils. From these humble beginnings the response has snowballed. Today, with its international reputation well established, Ballymaloe is able to offer three, twelve week courses annually, each accommodating 64 students, in addition to numerous short courses lasting anything from half a day to one week.

On my arrival at Ballymaloe (pronounced ‘Ballymaloo’), I am greeted by general manager, Toby Allen, who shares with me one of the school’s success secrets. ‘We teach a very important food philosophy here’, he stresses. ‘The emphasis is on ingredients and where they come from. The less we care about where ingredients are sourced, the better it is for industrial food production. If you can’t cook you are outsourcing your health and nourishment to a company which doesn’t have your best wishes at heart’. At Ballymaloe, the emphasis is on obtaining, and cooking, the best and freshest produce either from the school’s own farm, or from local, quality, organic suppliers.

Following a much needed cup of coffee, Toby takes me on a walk around the school’s farm. Firstly, we visit the dairy where the six cows are only able to generate a

33

fraction of milk, yoghurt, cream and butter required for use in the kitchens. The shortfall is obtained from local organic farms, or in the case of butter, from Kerrygold. The size and scope of the school farm takes me somewhat by surprise as we wander through glasshouses of tomato and salad crops, a fruit garden boasting figs, blackcurrants, apples and peaches, extensive plots of burgeoning root crops, and a herb garden based on the Villandary Palace in France’s Loire Valley. Free-range hens supply eggs while Ballymaloe’s pigs meet the teaching and course demand for fresh pork, bacon and sausages.

‘We love to host schools here’, Toby informs me. ‘We like to let them see how their food is produced and where it comes from. Sadly, some children have no idea that carrots grow in the ground, and just how good it is to eat a fresh carrot’. As it is now time for lunch, exploration of the 100 year old Flower Garden and the farm’s Celtic Maze, will have to wait for another day.

Lunch, served in the dining room, is both convivial and succulent. It has been prepared, during the morning by certificate students on the twelve week course, who join guests (like me),

and other Ballymaloe staff in sampling their fare. We tuck into, among other dishes, ruby grapefruit sorbet, lightly spiced chicken breasts with avocado, cabbage salad with raisins and herbs, new season’s potatoes with mint, pan grilled spring onions, rhubarb tart and apple crumble with calvados cream. Coffee and biscuits complete the repast. During the meal I have the chance to talk to some of the students, who seem to come from an array of backgrounds, and with a diverse spread of motivations for studying at Ballymaloe. Gloria, who sat next to me during the meal, is a retired librarian from Georgia (USA). ‘I’ve always wanted to improve my home cooking’, she confides. ‘And now I have the time and money to do it’. Bernadette, a 20 year old from County Galway, saw the course as being the first step on a culinary journey to becoming a hotel chef. Mike, from Santa Fe (USA) was one of the original nine students in 1983, and he continues to come back to Ballymaloe every second or third year, either to complete one of the schools many short courses, or just to call and see the family. ‘After all this time I think of the Allen’s as friends. Coming here is just part of my lifestyle. Ballymaloe is my second home’, he informs me.

Following lunch, it’s time for the cooking demonstration. I must admit that, as a student, I was less than alert in afternoon lectures following a large meal, and I half expected the Ballymaloe students to be similarly lethargic during the session. Not a bit of it! All were alert and attentive as RTE-TV chef, and Darina’s brother, Rory O’Connell, led us deftly and expertly, through the preparation of the 20 dishes which the students would cook next morning for that day’s lunch. O’Connell has been head chef at Ballymaloe for a decade and has twice been awarded the prestigious title of Ireland’s ‘Chef of the Year’.

For the next three hours in the hi-tech demonstration kitchen, O’Connell moves with skill and

Herb garden at Ballymaloe

good humour from one dish to the next. ‘He makes it all seem so easy’, the young Swiss student sitting next to me hisses in my ear. ‘Don’t you just hate him?’ While O’Connell shoulders the bulk of the certificate course demonstrations, Darina, and daughter-in-law, Rachel Allen, are also involved. Both are also high profile TV chefs and prolific cook book writers.

Later that afternoon, I have the opportunity to meet Darina who still remains passionate about her paddock-to-plate ethos, about sourcing the best ingredients and cooking them simply. She is arguably Ireland’s most famous cook, with twelve best selling books to her credit, and also the country’s most notable TV chef. Like ‘Nigella’ or ‘Jamie’, she needs no surname. ‘I think what makes us so special is that we are a cookery school in the middle of an organic farm,’ says Darina. ‘Most of what we use is our own produce or locally sourced.

Our students regain a sense of connection to their food. They can help out in the garden, feed the hens, milk the cows, butcher the animals – it all adds that extra dimension’. While her influence has been most notable on Irish cooking, Darina is open to learning from the cuisine of other countries – even Australia. ‘Maggie Beer and Stephanie Alexander have both visited Ballymaloe and held cooking demonstrations with our students’, she states.

What Darina, and her family, have created at Ballymaloe is something unique, and I am enthused by its paddock-to-plate philosophy which focuses on sourcing the freshest, most wholesome ingredients, and cooking them simply. My brief visit has reminded me of the way my mother used to cook; basic skills which seem to have been lost in the tsunami of the processed food revolution.

For further information about long/short courses at Ballymaloe Cooking School, or attending the afternoon cooking demonstrations, visit www.ballymaloecookeryschool.ie For tourist information on Ireland, visit www.ireland.com The author gratefully acknowledges the support of Tourism Ireland

Once you get a spice in your home, you have it forever. Women never throw out spices. The Egyptians were buried with their spices. I know which one I’m taking with me when I go.

Erma Bombeck

34

By Lloyd Gorman

ISTEACH SA TEACH A vote is like an invite – its a question of being in or out

Around the same time this edition of Irish Scene was on its way to the printers there was a ground shift in the landscape of local government in metropolitan Perth. On July 1 the City of Perth Act came into force, officially crowning Perth as the official capital of Western Australia - as if there was any doubt. The controversial capital city legislation was hatched out of the ashes of the Barnett government’s failed council cull policy, a politically driven move, asked for and backed by developers, to halve the 30 metropolitan councils.

The state government came perilously close to realising the development sector’s wish list item with many of the would be sacked councils virtually on their knees in anticipation of being decapitated. Only a handful of local governments were given the right to a local referendum on the issue of the council change but it proved to be enough to be a game changer. In those areas a sizeable majority of voters told the state government to keep its hands off their councils.

So strong was the result that Premier Colin Barnett was forced to raise “the white flag” and call off the cull policy. Councils were feebly invited to continue voluntarily with their own annihilation but of course none did.

If the turkeys weren’t going to vote for Christmas the Barnett government didn’t give up hopes of salvaging something from the entire and expensive fiasco. The City of Perth Bill was born and this time things would be a little different. Perth City Council Lord Mayor Lisa Scaffidi wanted it as badly Barnett (and local government minister Tony Simpson) so the state

had a willing and strong ally on the ground, half the battle was won already. Instead of taking on a gaggle of councils and their communities in this case ultimately just one council, Subiaco, who shoulders a boundary with Perth City Council, needed to be bruised. The premier has shown very little affection for Subiaco in recent years as it battled with him over the future of Subiaco Oval and resisted him on other issues.

The City of Perth Bill set its eyes on expanding PCC by expanding its borders to include Kings Park, University of Western Australia and Queen Elizabeth Medical Centre Perth’s biggest cluster of hospitals.

As well as these big ticket items - acquired to increase the glory of Perth - about 3000 Subiaco residents, mainly living around the university and QEII also found themselves on the front line of this council takeover.

They should have been given a vote but were denied that right. The Nationals - who are the Liberal Party’s partners in this alliance government - did not support the legislation. The bill only passed through parliament with the support - you might call it collusion - of the Labor Party who never adequately explained why they voted for it.

Subiaco - which did everything it could to protect its sovereignty and residents - did have some allies in parliament, even within the ranks of the Lib’s themselves. The very Irish named Simon O’Brien, a disgruntled former Cabinet minister who was sacked from the portfolio by Barnett, was one of them. He stood up and spoke fiercely for Subiaco’s independence. On February 23, 2016, as the bill came close to being passed he even dragged yours truly (wearing my other hat as a reporter on the POST newspaper in

35

Subiaco) into the debate.

“I have the POST newspaper, and if members have not seen it, they really ought to have a look at the headline on page 1 of the edition of 21 November 2015; it is a pearler,” Mr O’Brien said. “It is a story by a Lloyd Gorman, titled, “Labor shafts Subi’s south ward voters”. That is not the most dignified expression, but what it lacks in dignity it wins points back with a charming lack of ambiguity. There is no doubt where he is coming from with this. Mr Gorman - not O’Gorman - writes: “Labor leader Mark McGowan has dumped thousands of Subiaco residents in favour of the University of WA. Earlier this week the Opposition leader threw his party’s support behind the Barnett government’s push to ram through its City of Perth Perth, forcing part of Subiaco into Perth without vote.

Labor bartered a deal with Mr Barnett that excludes the Burswood Peninsula form at the proposed City of Perth’s boundaries but did nothing to protect the interests of almost 3000 Subiaco residents. There will be not be a poll on the boundary change, despite an undertaking by Mr McGowan not to support any law that denied residents a vote in their future.”

By good fortune I was in parliament for the debate that day and even managed to meet Mr O’Brien in person briefly afterwards. I was curious why he referred to me as Mr Gorman not O’Gorman - and asked him. “We used to have a Labor party member here, Tony O’Gorman, it was a reference to him,” he told me. Tony (no relation) is of solid Irish parentage and heritage and used to feature in these pages, until he lost his Joondalup seat in the March 2013 election.

As it happens Tony’s name was

heard again in parliament on June 22 in a debate about hospitals. Jan Norberger, the Liberal candidate who took the seat from him at the last state election, was talking about Joondalup hospital when the treasurer Mike Nahan pipped in with one of those sort of silly private in house jokes politicians play with themselves.

“Was the members predecessor in the Labor government, Mr O’Gorman, a supporter of the Joondalup Hospital Campus.” Isteach sa Teach ran into him at the Rose of Tralee ball - an event he was a judge at for some years - earlier this year and he was looking well, maybe even the better, for not being engulfed by this gut snipping stuff anymore.

Talking of being immersed by politics, it is impossible to avoid Brexit. A decision by the majority of UK voters to leave the European Union is one of the most interesting political episodes in modern times.

Certainly the proverbial has hit the fan and within hours of the result there have been multiple and many unforeseen consequences. There are a lot of headless chickens running around right now and there is only room enough here to look at some of the impacts it will have on Ireland, and Australia.

During the course of the referendum campaign Sinn Fein had argued and even campaigned for the United Kingdom to stay in the EU. Perhaps it is indicative of how much things have changed and the political debate in Ireland has matured that the Republican movement - which once repeated the mantra Brits Out ad nausea - could look at the issue in a new way. In fact, SF made the case that Brexit could see the return of stricter border controls for the six counties and would be a disaster for the Northern Ireland peace process. One of the many ‘dividends’ of the peace process was the lifting of checkpoints by heavily armed British army units on the border. Nobody wants or needs a return to those days, but it is now a real and frightening prospect, especially when you consider that a big majority of voters in Northern Ireland (like Scotland) voted to stay in the EU. It also puts something of a new spin on the traditional view of Unionism. Should the North be given the right to decide its own status - as the Scots seem determined to do

(especially after the referendum last year on remaining within the UK - is a live issue that Sinn Fein looks set to pursue. No one knows but the UK vote could potentially spark a series of other referenda across Europe that could spell the end of the EU which was essentially started after World War II as a way to try and avoid another similar conflict from ripping the continent apart. Basques in Spain - who Sinn Fein have long supported as a good case for independence from Madrid - might well cry foul now, amongst others.

But the biggest victim of the vote may well be the United Kingdom itself. The UK has survived hundreds of years and multiple wars - including WWI and WWII and historical resistance in Ireland - but its own people could be the force that brings it down if there is a split between England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. It is not beyond the bounds of possiblity that the Queen, and Royal family, could now preside over the break up of the United Kingdom and perhaps even the Commonwealth. Gary, my middle brother has lived in England since he was a teenager and he voted to stay in the EU but the vast majority of his Kent neighbours voted to get out. It is probably a typical example of how the Irish and other nations see the Brexit issue differently to the British. Certainly tens of thousands of Irish people, or citizens with Irish roots, have been applying in their droves for Irish passports and the Department of Foreign Affairs in Dublin has employed an extra 200 staff to cope with the demand from people who want - and are entitled to the rights (freedom of movement being a big one) they have enjoyed up to now as EU citizens. There must be a similar response across the board from people living in the UK who have or can claim dual nationality within Europe.

Certainly claims by the likes of former London mayor Boris Johnston that the vote marks the United Kingdoms ‘Independence Day’ could be premature and highly overstated.

Nazi Germany would never have been beaten without Britian’s unwavering resolve and the day that happened

36

is what started the whole European project. The end of World War II (V-E Day) was much more Englands Indpendence Day. There are bound to be further repercussions from Brexit that have yet to reveal themselves in Ireland but the ripples have already travelled as far as Australia. The movement for Australia to become an independent republic - rather than a Commonwealth nation with the Queen as the head of state - sees this as a well of opportunity to break the traditional link with the Monarchy.

And why not? there have been some high profile scalps - including a Prime Minister - in the hours and days after the outcome and more may follow. It has become a hydra with heads going in directions no one - even the leave activists - could have predicted or even imagined.

Finally, in another case of being in or out the former minister for the diaspora Jimmy Deenihan - whose term in office included a tour of Western Australia and the rest of the country – lost his seat in the recent general election. A GAA legend from Kerry in his own right Mr Deenihan made a good impression on the ground while he was out here.

His successor - only the second to the role - is Joe McHugh, a former Donegal geography teacher who has also lived abroad as an emigrant. He taught in Dubai in the mid 1990’s and while there set up the first GAA club in the United Arab Emirates. In the last several years Dubai has become an important hub for returning (holidays and otherwise) Irish to Ireland.

Hopefully the new man in the top job will make Australia a priority and visit sooner rather than later. If there is a stable Fine Gael led government and he remains in the job for the duration then maybe some good can come of his appointment. No Irish government can now afford to turn its back on the Irish diaspora. Voting rights for the Irish abroad will be one of the first major issues to cross his desk.

The whole question about who gets a vote – and just as importantly who doesn’t – and what happens to that vote can be a really interesting proposition.

Perth’s Finest Irish Pub & Restaurant Eatin’ and Drinkin’ Emporium “May your heart overflow with health and happiness” JB O’Reilly’s is Perth’s best Irish Pub and Restaurant where you’ll always find a warm welcome. Located in Leederville, JB’s is a place where you can enjoy the craic whether you fancy a few rounds with friends, a spot of lunch with colleagues or a cosy meal for two.

At JB’s you’ll find live music, frequent events, promotions and and sport to lift your spirits... where the banter flows as freely as the Guinness.

JB’s is one of those rare pubs and restaurants that can be both a local haunt and a tourist destination!

Just drop by and make yourself at home

37

Irish Scene helps dig up evidence about

Irish in WA police

By Lloyd Gorman

For years now Irish Scene has been regularly publishing the brilliantly written, well researched and thoroughly informative ‘Irish Lives in the Western Police’ by Peter Conole. Now that long standing and much enjoyed column has sprung out of the pages of Irish Scene and into the covers of a book dedicated to the cause, in an extension of the collaboration between the magazine and Peter. This new publication captures Peter’s exhaustive collection of stories about law enforcement from the very early days of the colony into one place. Indeed, it is dedicated to the myriad of Irish people who have contributed so much to the state and community.

Peter Conole was born and educated in Western Australia and graduated from the University of Western Australia with a Master of Arts degree in 1978. After working as a tutor at the University of Queensland he returned to his home state and eventually joined the public service. He spent the last decade of his career as the WA police historian.

Peter has over 400 publications to his credit on various subjects.

Irish Lives in the Western Australia Police is his twelfth book. All of the sections in the book were previously published in the journal Irish Scene between the years 2008-2013. They have been drastically revised and expanded to bring fresh insights and information to the reader.

“The founding of the colony of Western Australia coincided with the passing of the Metropolitan Police Act in England during 1829,” writes Peter. “Carefully regulated arrangements for policing work in Britain and her colonies became

the norm over the next few decades. Things evolved differently in the fledgling WA settlement: it took decades to create a stable law enforcement establishment simply because financial backing and personnel were inadequate.”

A makeshift constabulary system was set up by Governor James Stirling and the colonial gentry in 1829 and in 1834 a Mounted Police Corp was formed to stop conflict between settlers and Aborigines. It was disbanded within two years as local tensions decreased.

“Throughout this period Irishmen began to make their presence felt in WA law enforcement work. Soldiers of Irish origin from the garrison companies of the day sometimes served as constables,” adds Peter. “Furthermore most of the senior officers of the Mounted Police Corps were either Irish born or had strong connections with the Emerald Isle. They included Superintendent Theophilus Ellis and his deputies Richard Meares and Charles Norcott.”

Peter brings this level of knowledge, insight and detail to every era of an evolving police force until just after World War II. Then as much as before, the Irish influence is plainly evident.

“During the 1920s and 1930s, however, most senior men of the rank of inspector are identifiable as both Irish and Catholic. One of them, John Doyle of Wexford, emerged as commissioner in 1946. It may well be true to say that not even places like Boston and New York could reveal such a remarkable pattern of Irish high achievement and power in their police establishments.”

As well as Peter’s concise and

easy writing style the book benefits from a fascinating forward by another keen observer – albeit from a different perspective – of WA police.

“Peter Conole’s stories of the lives of individual officers of Irish origin provide an extraordinary window through which to observe how Western Australia and its policing evolved,” writes POST Newspaper editor Bret Christian. Bret is also the author of Presumed Guilty: When Cops get it wrong and courts seal the deal. His tenacious journalism has helped overturn a number of miscarriages of justice in WA. “There are tales of heart-breaking hardship, of breath-taking bravery, of endurance and persistence in the most appalling conditions,” Bret adds. “All this while officers had to juggle their time tracking criminals and enforcing the strict liquor and gambling laws and those concerning indigenous people with the demands of raising their own families, even forcing themselves to do their duty in times of personal family tragedy. Typically, as Peter Conole writes in his biography of Chief Inspector William Charles Sellenger (born Wexford), police work for all officers was ‘chaotic, intense and hazardous’. Their living conditions and pay were often atrocious. In extreme circumstances too many paid with their own lives.”

“Irish Lives in the Western Australia Police” is published by Gaelforce Media and is available from Fred Rea on 0418 943 832 ($27 incl postage) 38

July 30th-31st

“VISIONS PAST AND PRESENT” SEMINAR 1916 CENTENARY

The Australian- Irish Heritage Association is pleased to announce its final event to celebrate the centenary of the 1916 Rising.

Location: NOTRE DAME UNIVERSITY Fremantle Tannock Hall of Education Cnr Cliff and Croke Street, Fremantle Registration fees: $20 one day $30 two days. Starting at 9am and concluding at 5pm Full details to be released later on our Website

Eminent lecturers from across Australia will inform and discuss from various viewpoints not so much the basic history of the Rising but how it impacted the country and its people as well the diaspora overseas. Richard Kearney suggests: ‘there is no unitary master narrative of Irish cultural history, but a plurality of transitions between different perspectives.’

The role of women, almost written out of the Rising story, but more recent revisions are correcting this. An important aspect of the story also is the distinct absence of the Northern Irish voice in the narrative of 1916. The place of violence and of the arts in Irish Nationalism as expressed by Irish writers such as Yeats is worthy of discussion.

Left and Right: Pro and Anti-Home Rule postcards from the period. (Linen Hall Library, Mid-Antrim Museum)

AUSTRALIAN-IRISH HERITAGE ASSOCIATION Non Political-Non Sectarian-Emphatically Australian PO Box 1583 Subiaco 6904. Tel: 08 9345 3530.

Email: aiha@irishheritage.net Web Page: www.irishheritage.net Membership Due in 1st January.

Family membership $65, Concession $55, Membership fee includes tax deductible donation of $20

Looking for a Mobile Mechanic?

BVM Barton Vehicle Maintenance CARS - TRUCKS - 4WD’S

Michael: 0413 889 501 mickcarb@iinet.net.au

ON SITE SERVICE TO ALL MAKES

QUALITY MECHANICAL REPAIRS

The Australian-Irish Heritage Association was founded in 1993 as an inclusive organisation which encourages and promotes an awareness of Australia’s Irish Heritage and Culture. To this end, the AIHA creates opportunities for all to learn about, participate in and enjoy this distinctive heritage.

Licence No MRB 3939

39

Martin Kavanagh Honorary Consul Of Ireland

Thank You...

Ambassador Noel White and Nessa Delaney On behalf of the Irish Community in Western Australia Richard and I would like to express our sincere thanks and appreciation to Noel and Nessa for their wonderful service to Ireland and the Irish community over nearly five years in Australia. It has very much been a team effort.

From the very outset Ambassador White was committed to doing everything in his power to ensure WA was a top priority during his term. Noel has visited WA very regularly and has been unrelenting in his support for the Irish in WA. Among his many, many achievements the Irish community in Perth in WA has benefited from Noel’s efforts in: • Implementing in co-operation with the WA Health Department much increased awareness in WA hospitals of the rights of Irish citizens under the Reciprocal Health Agreement.

• Ensuring that those engaging publicly in lazy stereotyping of the Irish were called out.

• Fully supporting the Irish Club of WA and advocating for its future.

• Successfully advocating for WA to receive its fair share of funding from the Emigrant Support Program (“ESP”).

• Successfully advocating for funding to Claddagh to receive a full-time administrator so that the Claddagh volunteers can concentrate on directly helping those in need.

• Specific assistance via the ESP for many organisations including the Claddagh, The Irish Club and the Ireland WA Forum (“IWAF”), St Patricks Day Committee and Irish Families in Perth.

• Tireless support for Irish companies through Enterprise Ireland and the IDA. • Supporting IWAF as WA’s leading Irish Business group.

Noel and Nessa have combined their formidable intellects, diplomatic nous and their kindness and decency to the service of Ireland. To and to use a sporting analogy Noel and Nessa “left nothing on the pitch.”

You will be sorely missed but remembered with great fondness and respect.

1916 Events

Abandon Theatre Players treated us to a very exciting Patriot Game in April. Congratulations to Ivan Motherway and his team.

The 630 people who attended the Sense of Ireland concert at the Octagon Theatre in April witnessed a fantastic night of Irish Culture. Frank Murphy and the AIHA did us proud. A 5-minute standing ovation was a sure sign that something very special has happened. There were many Irish hearts bursting with pride on the night. I hope we can have… “A further Sense of Ireland” in the not too distant future.

Perth Office: 1/100 Terrace Road East Perth WA 6004 Tel: (08) 6557 5802 - Fax: (08) 9218 8433 Email: info@consulateofirelandwa.com.au Website: www.consulateofirelandwa.com.au Office Hours: Mon-Fri 10.30 - 2.00pm by appointment only

40

Some of the many events the Ambassador attended in Western Australia during his visits...

Letter from Irish Ambassador Mr Noel White As some of your readers will already be aware, my term as Ambassador to Australia will conclude at the end of August. The time has come to say farewell. Thank you for giving me this opportunity to do so through the good offices of the Irish Scene.

WA has featured prominently in my work over the last four years. When I arrived in 2012 it was already fast becoming the preferred destination in Australia for Irish emigrants. There is precedent and tradition in this: Irish people have been a part of the story of WA going back many years. Western Australia has been good to the Irish. The Irish, for their part, have been good to Western Australia too.

Shortly after I arrived in Australia I travelled out West. I have been there many times since. I have been the beneficiary of, and enjoyed, the consistent and unhesitating encouragement, support and backing of the Irish community in Western Australia. I have enjoyed the company too.

Over the years I have seen the strength of spirit in the Irish community - the many acts of kindness: tireless support for the less fortunate, for those who have suffered loss, experienced tragedy or fallen on hard times. I have seen the generosity of so many people giving of their time and talent to run events, to organise sports and other activities, to set up and run support organisations.

The practical benefits that this delivers are clear. But it also speaks to a sense of community self-awareness, a vibrant and vital sense of national identity, undimmed by distance from home.

The Irish Embassy in Australia, like others around the world, exists to serve Ireland and the Irish community, whether developing trade and business; promoting cultural and sporting activities; providing consular services and support; or, most importantly, helping those in need. It plays a representational role too, often trying to find the words to reflect the views of the community in a way with which the community can identify. But its core mission is one of service.

For me, working to meet that objective, help has come from many quarters; too many to mention here. But it would be beyond remiss of me not to mention my wife, Nessa Delaney. I want to thank her dearly for her support; for her understanding and encouragement; for her (very) honest advice and guidance; for the lengthy periods of abandonment and lone-parenting borne without complaint or hesitation; and for the frequent, random acts of kindness. I also want to thank her for the substantive work that she has done in her own right, with and without me, in the service of the State that would otherwise go unrecognised and unacknowledged.

I can only hope that I have served the community well. I can only hope that my efforts have made some small contribution to the work of the many individuals and organisations and to the general wellbeing of the community.

I can only hope that I have lived up to and done justice to the support that was generously offered to me.

It is a privilege to represent Ireland. It is a trust. It has been my privilege to represent Ireland in Australia. In doing so it has been my great good fortune to have met and worked with so many good people in Western Australia. It is a memory I will long cherish. I want to thank the Irish community with all my heart and to convey my sincere best wishes for a prosperous future to one and all.

Beir bua agus beannacht.

Yours sincerely, Noel White

41

Local News of Interest from the Past

ECHOS OF THE PAST RE SE ARC HE D

BY

REA

hogsheads of whisky; they put strange notions into the heads of elderly female lunatics; and they talk treason against the Queen, rank, foul, abominable. No, let Bridget, if she pleases, give her pence to build our churches and maintain our priests and support our Voluntary schools, but she shall not pollute our English homes, not even by scrubbing our doorsteps. If Bridget would only go back whence she came, taking with her all her countrymen and countrywomen, including, of course, bishops, priests, monks, and nuns, she would do Catholic England the only service for which Catholic England could be grateful. If we all acted in the noble and heroic spirit of Mrs. B., this consummation would soon be brought about—I remain, Sir, your obedient servant, JOANNA CROMWELL. West Hampstead, 5th Feb., 1895.

The New York Times has proved definitively that the phrase “No Irish need apply” (NINA) was in widespread use in the middle of the 19th century in the United States.

The newspaper has identified at least 29 examples of the phrase in its classified advertisements. A variation, “Irish need not apply,” turned up at least seven times, and there were other examples, from “No Irishman need apply” to “Irishmen need not apply” to the phrase “No Irish.”

One advertisement was for a “young girl, 14 or 15 years old, either American or German, to take care of a young child. No Irish need apply.”

This was widely reported in Australian newspapers also and the following examples make interesting reading and not just the Irish...

North Australian, Brisbane Sat 12 Dec 1863

NO IRISH NEED APPLY

Mr. Editor. — Will you permit me through the medium of your esteemed journal, to inform the public of the following fact: — Messrs. Stewart and Hernmant issued an advertisement for one or two assistants. I applied for the office, and was informed by those gentlemen that they did not engage Irish hands. I trust a discerning public, particularly the Irish will know how to appreciate the honour thus conferred upon them by the above Firm. I may add that many of my Irish friends have already taken the hint, and will know where to make their purchases in future. AN IRISHMAN.

Freeman’s Journal, Sydney, Saturday 24 January 1885, page 5

NO IRISH NEED APPLY

“Mr. Bannerman, the new Secretary for Ireland, is, like Mr. Trevelyan, his predecessor, a Scotch member, a son of Sir James Campbell, of Forfarshire. He assumed the surname oi’ Bannerman. He is forty-eight years old, and belongs to the Radical section of the House of Commons. It seems strange that Ireland, which contributes an Irishman to every point of difficulty—a Wolsely to Egypt, a Dufferin to India, and a Robinson to South Africa — should not be permitted one of her own sons to manage her own affairs.” This remark, from the New York Sun, is true enough. ‘No Irish Need Apply.’

NO IRISH NEED APPLY’

To the editor of the Bendigo Advertiser Sir, Truly this must be the case, as on looking over the list of members at present in the Borough Council, it is easy to see the “ No Irish Need Apply”. I, as a fenale priding myself on my nationality and knowing that no country has produced greater orators, statesmen, or soldiers, feel that the way to which Mr Buckley expressed himself on Friday evening, when he was called to meet the ratepayers of Sandhurst, proves that he is a credit to his country, and should he be returned, there can be no doubt that, as an Irishman and a gentleman, he will fulfil the promise he has made. This is my sincere opinion.

Yours &c, MARIEN 6TH August 1871.

Advocate, Melbourne Saturday 6 April 1895

“NO IRISH NEED APPLY.”

The following advertisement appeared in the “London Tablet” of 2nd February:— “Wanted, at once, for Chester, a thoroughly experienced Nurse. Catholic and Not Irish. Age not under 26. Apply Mrs. B., 158, Boughton, Chester.” In the next “Tablet,” 9th February, this letter was published:— “WANTED A NURSE CATHOLIC. NOT IRISH.” “Sir,—In reading the above advertisement in your issue of last Saturday, I felt with delight that I was back to the good old days, when my eyes were frequently gladdened with the warning, ‘No Irish need apply.’ I am rejoiced that one lady in the land has still the courage of her convictions, and that Mrs. B. will have none of your nurses Catholic but Irish. We all know what Irish nurses are. They turn babies into pincushions, they drink the medicines of their patients, diluted with

FRED

News Published Every Two Months

Evening News, Sydney Tuesday 23 October 1883

NO ENGLISH NEED APPLY

42

A cablegram in yesterday’s Melbourne ‘Age, dated London, October 21. says :— “The Irish national journals insist that the Roman Catholic Archbishopric of Sydney, recently rendered vacant by the death of the late Archbishop Vaughan, should be conferred on an Irishman.

Inquirer and Commercial News (Perth, WA : 1855 1901), Wednesday 26 August 1885, page 5Sir, — I am an emigrant. Coming up the Clackline new road to Newcastle a little while ago, I saw a number of men at easy work on it, and hearing they got 6s a day, those with teams 20s. I told the friend that nominated me that I should like to get a job on the road too. “Oh, be replied, “you are English, you will never get 6s. on the Toodyay roads ; don’t you that know all the men you saw at work doing the Government stroke were Irishmen with 4 votes apiece, and it is the Irish vote that forms the Roads Board. Many English and Scotch settlers have no vote at all, and why should you get a job when you can’t vote?’ If this-be true, Mr Editor, Irish emigrants alone are adapted for the requirements of this Colony.

— Yours, etc., JOHN HOLSGROVE, Old Toodyay.

years. The only restriction is that no ordained priest of the Church of Rome can occupy the chair,” Times and Northern Advertiser, South Australia Fri 26 Auggst 1927

NO IRISH NEED APPLY.

A remnant of dark ages gone, an echo of the penal days.

New films of time are putting on That glimmer through a murky haze— Of pagan pomp there is a cry that booms, “No Irish need apply.”

In ev’ry land beneath the sun, None can deny the solemn facts, The Irish there have honours won In spite of bigotry of pacts— And yet’there is a heathen cry Proclaims “No Irish need apply.”

In this new land it’s sad to hear, in jealousy and ignorance, How gloating mortals jeer and sneer To block the Irish from advance— A right of freedom they’d deny.

To croak “No Irish need.

Signed: Augh

Melbourne Punch Thursday 13 December 1883

NO ENGLISH NEED APPLY

THE Roman Catholics protest against an Englishman being appointed to the Archbishopric of Sydney on the ground that it is virtually an Irish Archdiocese. They are perfectly right. Not only in New South Wales, but in Victoria, and all over Australia, the faithful are Irish first and then Catholics. Just as they suggested boycotting the Pope for trying to put an end to murders in Ireland, so they would be prepared to boycott an Archbishop in Australia who honestly tried to carry out the views of His Holiness. In Ireland the priests connive at and encourage crimes and disorder in spite of the Pope’s directions to the contrary. The Australian Irish don’t want an Archbishop out here who would attempt to interfere so cruelly with the liberties of the subject race. The Presbyterians considered that one of the qualifications for the office of theological professor was that the man who held it should be able fight well, and the Australian Irish appear to think that their Primate should be able to teach them how to leather the Saxons, and keep their childer from being polluted by being brought into contactin school wid the chider of Prodestans.

Mudgee Guardian & North-Western, NSW Thurs 29 March 1917

NO AUSTRALIAN NEED APPLY (To the Editor).

Sir, The appointment by the Holnan –Fuller Government of an immigrant, Mr. Forrest to the position of Stamp Commissioner, in the place of Mr. R. A. Johnston, who was a native of this State, shows how the power is held in the National party. This appointment follows the old and bad practice of the Liberal party, “No Australian Need Apply”There are plenty of men trained under Mr. Johnston capable of filling this job. They suffered, however, through not having come from England, and from not having passed through an English University. No man quite develops the necessary degree in snobbery until he qualifies through an English University, and it goes without saying that a man to get an appointment from our local ‘snobs’ Government, he must of necessity be a Snob’.

Mr. Holman has now come out in ‘his true colours as the grand master of the order of snobs.

Yours, etc., W. P. BEAHAN.

Daily Examiner, Grafton, NSW Wednesday 10 May 1916

GERMANS AND IRISH. DIFFERENTIAL TREATMENT. “NO IRISH NEED APPLY.”

The Rt. Hon. Harold John Tennant, Under-Secretary for “War, states that since the failure of the Irish rebellion the Germans are no longer differentiating in favour of Irish soldiers who have been taken prisoners of war.

Visiting Ireland?

North Eastern Ensign, Benalla, Vic. Friday 28 July 1899

“NO IRISH NEED APPLY.”

“The Sydney correspondent of the Melbourne Age writes as follows: The Presbyterian Assembly of New South Wales has received a communication from the council of St. Andrew’s College with regard to the appointment of a professor of Oriental and Polynesian languages. The council had decided to institute a professorship in accordance with the provisions of the Hunter-Baillie bequest, end the Assembly was invited to nominate a suitable man. The salary is £500 yearly, the first appointment to be for a term not exceeding three

Gerry & Elsie Tully will give a great welcome!

DIVINE M E R CY BED AND BREAKFAST Airport Road, Knock Co Mayo Phone: (094) 9388 178 International: 0011 353 94 9388 178

43

’ G da FROM MELBOURNE.

y

By Mike Bowen

Another story about another extraordinary Irishman.

Welcome to The Mountain Lodge that is nestled in the mountain ranges of The Macgillycuddy Reeks just outside Beaufort, only a hop skip, and jump from Killarney in Co Kerry. This place is so beautiful even God comes here for his summer holidays.

It is also the home to Irelands most successful Adventurer and Mountain Climber Pat Falvey. It’s Sunday morning and I’m sitting here at Pats kitchen table with my computer at the ready, having a nice warm cup of tea with some Irish wholegrain biscuits and looking out over the spectular cinemascope landscape. Even with the rain pouring down and the wind howling, it takes none of the shine off the breathtaking view. Pat has seen some of the most amazing landscapes on earth from the highest peaks and it says a lot of Co Kerry that he chose this piece of heaven to be his base of operation. This is also his home, the place that he loves to put his head down at night after enjoying an evening with some of the many friends that he has here in Gods playground.

I am his guest for the next four days and with Pats help, I am going to give you a bit of an insight into his achievements and what makes this extraordinary man tick. Pat Falvey is no ordinary man; he is the perfect description of an extraordinary man. Pat grew up in the unfashionable north side of Cork City in the suburb of Gurranabraher. This was also my old playground more than a few years before Pats arrival on earth.

Pats mom Bina, sent him to keep his grandmother Mary B O’Callaghan for company at the tender age of six. I suppose you could say he was babysitting his grandmother for his mom and what an extraordinary benefit that turned out to be for the young Pat Falvey.

It so happened that his grandmother, Mary B as he called her, was an amazingly astute businessperson. She sprinkled the young babysitter with her magic success formula over the years that he spent with her, moulding her ‘never say die and everything is possible attitude’ into the young lad. This saying became his driving force for the rest of his life.

Pat and School were never the best of friends and he says he received his university education and degree from Mary B and the surrounding environment also known as The University of Life. He and I have that also in common.

An amazing success driven Pat Falvey wanted to become a millionaire by the time he reached twenty-one, through Pat Falvey

44

sheer determination he achieved his ambition dead on time. Pat worked hard at his craft as a bricklayer and later on as a foreman in his father’s building and Development Company, he then moved on to becoming a builder and developer in his own right. Now married with two children a big house, a money tree, and a pot of gold down the back garden he was living the dream life.

That was until the 1985 recession hit Europe and found its way to Ireland and finally on to his kitchen table. By August 1986, at the age of 29 his world came crashing down, the money stopped growing on his tree and the pot of gold at the bottom of his garden disappeared. He had gone from turning over the equivalent of seventy two million pounds a year and having two hundred and twenty men employed down to zero. He went from Hero to Zero in almost a flash.

Plagued by lawyers and debtors demanding money, his life became a life of misery while trying to juggle ten balls in the air at any one time. How could he tell his wife and children that all he worked for was now gone?

Depression was his constant friend and his thought of ending his life was forever real as he aborted his attempt at the last second. At his lowest ebb, his mom Bina handed him a poem that would remain with him to this day.

When things go wrong, as they sometimes will, When the road you’re trudging seems all up hill, When the funds are low and the debts are high And you want to smile but you have to sigh, When care is pressing you, down a bit, Rest if you must but do not quit.

Life is queer with its twists and turns, As every one of us sometimes learns, And many a failure turns about When he might have won had he stuck it out.

Don’t give up though the pace seems slow You may succeed with another blow.

Success is failure turned inside out The silver tint of the clouds of doubt, And you can never tell how close you are, It may be near when it seems so far.

So stick to the fight when you’re hardest hit It’s when things seem worst that you must not quit Enter Gods messenger, Val Deane the father of one of Pats secretaries who was a hill walker. Pat he says you should come out with a few of the lads and myself next Sunday for a bit of walk / climb and some fresh air. It would do you good and it wouldn’t do you any harm, to get away from your desk for a while. The leisurely countryside brake would help take your mind off the troubles of business.

Pat took up Val’s offer and that set a completely new agenda in his life. While climbing Mangerton Mountain on his first adventure to the hills of Kerry he sucked in some fresh air, felt the texture of grass, and appreciated the colours of nature for the first time. He saw a new life and purpose through the eyes of nature and on his second weekend’s trip to the mountains in Kerry he climbed Carrauntoohil Irelands tallest Mountain at 3,414 feet and declared to Val on reaching the summit that he was going to climb Mount Everest.

Val was in shock with Pats outrageous declaration, and assumed that Pat had lost his mind somewhere on the climb. If a straight jacket had been available and an

ambulance passing by Val would have had Pat sent off to the nearest Asylum. So Val is now thinking a couple of weeks walking in the Kerry hills my boy and you think, that with little bit of experience, you can climb Mount Everest, one of the greatest challenges known to man.

Pat set about his challenge by joining the Kerry Mountain Rescue Team to learn the craft of mountain climbing and rescue. With the sevenyear learning experience he achieved there, he was able to transform some of the skills into his revamped business that had now paid off all its debts.

Now heading into a new world with a completely new set of skills for a new adventure and a second chance at life, the caterpillar was emerging as a butterfly leaving the troubles of the past behind and full of expectations of what the new challenges might bring.

After some backbreaking trials on Mount Chamonix in Switzerland’s Alps Pat was ready to plan his assault on Mount Everest. Pat and some of his Kerry Mountain Climbers, friends led by Con Moriarty would tackle Ama Dablam at 6,856 meters or 22,494 feet before tackling Everest.

While the Irish team were successful, Pat did not reach the summit due to the inclement weather.

In 1993, Pats first attempt on conquering the Mountain of all Mountains ended in tragedy when he and some colleagues had to abort there summating only 650 meters from the top to go to the aid of a fellow climber Karl Henize who was in trouble. Karl Henize an American and ex NASA astronaut who was meant to be measuring atmospheric radiation for a design project was in serious trouble suffering from high altitude sickness. In spite of all efforts to get Karl to safety sadly on Oct 5th 1993 at 1 am he died on the icy slopes of the mountain that shows no mercy to anyone.

After Pat recovered from the trauma of seeing his colleague and friend tragically taken by the Goddess Mountain, he decided to embark on the seven-summit challenge that is to climb the seven tallest mountains in the seven continents. Starting with Mount McKinley (Denali) in Alaska at 20,320ft or 6,194 meters is the highest mountain in North America.

14th of June 1994 at 2 JoeOn withthe U2 painting 45pm Pat Falvey conquered the first

of his seven summit challenge.

On the Jan 4th1995 at 10 am, Pat conquered his second mountain Kilimanjaro in Tanzania Africa, standing at 19,340ft, two down and five to go.

Then it was back to finish some unfinished business with the most famous mountain in the world the Goddess Mountain, Mount Everest in Asia standing 29,035feet or 8,850 meters.

Climbing Everest is not what you might call a casual stroll in the park or a gentle little climb on a Sunday afternoon. Everest takes no prisoners and looks for every opportunity to take the life from anyone that tries to conquer it. To those who wish to conquer beware of every step, for it may be your last.

Everest stands there in all her seductive glory beckoning and taunting climbers from all nations to come and woo her. Like a spider she then weaves her magic web around unsuspecting pray and taunting them as if to say, come into my parlour and let me hug you while sucking the life out of those who dare to.

With that in mind and the memory of Karl’s tragedy Pat set out to finish his unfinished business. Pat Falvey now a much more experienced and confidant climber finally conquered Mount Everest at 9am on the 27th of May 1995, while singing I do like to be beside the seaside for the last hundred meters of the climb.

He became the first Irishman and a Corkman at that to stick the Irish Tricolour flag on the roof of the world. Yes, I know Dawson Stelfox was the first Irishman to summit but Pat was the first to hold the Tricolour aloft at the top of the world, three down and four more to go. This historical occasion for Pat and Ireland was marred by controversy.

There were those who thought Pat was claiming to be the first Irishman to summit Everest. In fact, what Pat claimed was that he was the first Irishman to Raise the Irish Tricolour on the roof of the world and stake the summit with the Tricolour, three down and four to go.

Next on Pats list was Mount Aconcagua in Argentina, standing at 22,834 feet or 6,960 meters is South America’s highest Mountain.

Sometimes called the Slack pile because of the eight tonnes of rubbish that was removed from its base some years ago.

45

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Aconcagua also boasts to having the highest alpine hut in the world at over 21,000 feet. Another day another mountain and the only thing that was bothering Pats climbing companion Con Collins was what kind of eggs they were having for breakfast. Bloody cold ones what else. Being Christmas Eve they were dreaming of a white Christmas and that is exactly what they got,

Clare O’Leary & Pat Falvey

Pat Falvey

a soft blanket of pure white snow accompanied by a glowing sun.

Snow White would have been in her element.

Mid afternoon Sunday December 31st 1995 after taking the customary photos and raising the Irish flag Con Collins and Pat Falvey hugged one another in jubilation on conquering South Americas Slack pile, four down and three to go.

Mount Elbrus at 18510 feet or 5,642 meters in Russia/Georgia is Europe’s highest mountain and is the fifth challenge on Pats quest.

This part or the world was and still is in the mist of conflict and immersed in corruption and at times not unlike the Wild West of many years ago.

This made the challenge even more challenging. Paying bribes and sometimes playing dumb proved the best way to fast track things in situations like this. It was also a huge advantage to have a local friend and a mister fix it in George Kotov, who was streetwise and could talk his and Pats way out of any situation.

Pat says George could talk under water and not drown. George also had a bit of Irish in him, as he liked a drop of anything that would make him sing. It was the day after fool’s day April 1996 at 10.30 when Pats and his vodka swigging colleague George kotov stood on top of Mount Elbrus and again Pat thrusts the Irish Tricolour into the heavens, five down and two to go.

You would think the weather in Antarctica would not be to extreme to an Irishman, considering the winter’s winds that the west of Ireland can throw up sometimes.

Well how wrong can you be for thinking that? Pats sixth challenge in his quest is, Mount Vinson at 16,066 feet or 4,897 meters and the highest mountain in Antarctica. Preparation for time in Antarctica in a meat freezer is not what the average person would call normal now is it?

Well where else could you prepare for such extremities in Cork? Well, where else? But in a freezer. Confined for two days in a freezer with good friends Con Moriarty, Mike O Shea, and Gene Tangney and with the constant interruptions of media

people and the entire community of Cork lending their support to Pats team it made the atmosphere more like a schoolyard playground rather than a reflection of the harsh land of Antarctica.

Landing at Patriot Hills was more like an exhibition of carnival on ice and with the winds sounding like a hundred Harley Davidson motor bikes in your lounge room. Pat said at that stage, he had an unmerciful urge to reach for the rosary beads.

The team was welcomed by the most excruciating cold that the Antarctica could serve up; when the doors of the aircraft opened and cold beyond belief is the only way to describe it.

In spite of the extremities, Pat and the team reached the summit of the coldest Mountain on the coldest continent on earth on January 24th 1997 and so Pat achieved his sixth summit of his quest.

This time Pat had two photos taken on the summit one with the Irish tri colour and one with Jack, a toy Seal belonging to the students of Clogagh who had asked him to take Jack as a mascot and then return him to them after he returned home so Jack could be reunited with his other half Jill.

Yes a real Jack and Jill story, six down and one to go.

Mount Kosciuszko in the Snowy Mountains at 7,310 feet or 2,228 meters is the highest mountain on the continent of Australia and Pats last to conquer. Even though it is the smallest in the seven-summit challenge, that does not make this mountain any less dangerous, one wrong step on any mountain can cost you your life. On this special occasion, it was real fun as Pat is accompanied by some of his old friends Gene Tangney, Con Moriarty and Mike Quirke.

Australia known as the land of sunshine greeted the team with rain and more rain, which confused Pat and his pale skin friends as they had expected to get suntans before returning home. With so much rain, it felt more like being at home in Kerry for the team rather than being in the land of bikinis and the famous Bondi Beach. However, rain or no rain and baring a major catastrophe nothing was going to stop Pat achieving this historical milestone and so on February 14th 1997 Pat Falvey create history by becoming the first Irishman to climbed the seven summits and became number

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32 in world ranking. Bingo.

Pat set about to prove that this was no fluke of an achievement and created more history for the books by climbed the seven summits again for a second time, completing the seven-summit challenge on the 16th Dec 2005 and raising his world ranking to second.

Dr Clare O’Leary from Bandon in Co Cork and Pat were the first Irish man and woman team to conquer Mount Everest on the 18th of may 2004 at 6.45am.

Having been to the South Pole in 2008 as (Expedition leader 1st Irish team) and having conquering the seven highest Mountains, the North Pole is the last card in his pack.

Pat Falveys life has gone from zero to hero and back again to zero and then back again to hero again.

O what a life and who was it that said life was boring? Certainly not Pat Falvey, for his has been the ultimate rollercoaster of a lifetime.

Pat Falvey has now done over sixty-five worldwide adventures, he is involved in making documentaries on adventure and climate change he also heads a motivation company.

He is truly one of the world’s great adventurers; who has walked in the footsteps of heroes and has now surpassed many of those who went before him.

Now it’s time to turn off the computer and thank this extraordinary man who lives in Gods playground for sharing his extraordinary story with us, it’s also time for Pat and I to wonder off down the road to Kate Kearney’s Cottage for a few drops of the good stuff and a chat with the locals. I now leave you to ponder about Pat Falveys adventures.

I will have more stories for you when I return after my birthday bash, that that I will be celebrating here in Cork among my lifelong friends.

So until I talk to you again, be good to those who love you and Slainte from Co Kerry and Melbourne.

Happy 70th birthday Mike, sorry I couldn’t join you...Fred

ST FINBARRS CELEBRATE 40TH

Tony Sheehan, Peter McKenna, Adrian Magennis and Denis Bratton

St Finbarr’s Gaelic Football Club had their 40th Anniversary at the Irish Club in Subiaco on Friday June 3, 2016. It was wonderful to see so many old friends catch up after so many years. What do friends do when they catch up? Chat about events and happenings that happened near 40 years before. Steve O’Sullivan and Tony Sheehan particularly caught my eye and I am not privy to the conversation but it must have been a good one because it went on for hours. Of course all the chatter between friends did not help those making the very important speeches but it all added to a wonderful night of friendship and mateship.

St Finbarr’s are a very successful club and have won numerous state titles, both ladies and men’s over the last 40 years. It was suggested on the night that they had a recruitment officer at Perth airport grabbing the lads and girls as they stepped off the plane. Whatever the reason St Finbarr’s is more than a club, it’s a family and a very proud family of men and women and also a new generation of players and supporters. That new generation are some of the children of the founders of the club and the continuity is a credit to the way the club has organised itself. My own daughter Fiona and her band The Hold entertained on the evening and there is another example of the next generation being a part of our Irish/Australian community in Western Australia.

I have always said that the club GAA scene in Western Australia are the envy of many and what I witnessed on the night reinforced that opinion.

The club has asked that I pass on their thanks to the following people…

A big thank you to all those that help make the night a big success either by organising or speaking on the night or else supplying old photos and jerseys. These include Sean and Siobhan O’Casey, Peter McKenna, Vicky Arvidson, Adrian Magennis, Mick Morgan, Kieron Burke, Tom Quinn, Mick Lynch, Michael O’Connor,

Michael McCallin, Sean McGovern, Paul McGovern, Paul Dillon, Dennis Burke, Bill Ross as well as our current committee members of Edel McBarron, Alan and Jenny Burke, Cliodhna Farrell, Brian Cooney and Eileen Walsh.

Also, thanks to Sean Daly, Mary McGuire, Dermot Costello, Malachy McAleer and the rest of the committee and staff members at the Irish Club for the hospitality as well as Fiona Rea and The Hold for the entertainment.

Lastly, the club would like to express thanks to Sorcha Burke for the fabulous birthday St. Finbarr’s birthday cake, which was enjoyed by those present.

A great night was had by all so thanks to everyone for showing up and particularly all those that travelled long distances. Looking forward to the 50th!!!

See photo from night the on following pages.....

Fred Rea

May those who love us love us.

And those that don’t love us, May God turn their hearts.

And if He doesn’t turn their hearts, May he turn their ankles, So we’ll know them by their limping.

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club and at their concert they acknowledged the wonderful welcome they received along with a wonderful lunch.

Bob extends an invitation to drop into the Celtic Club.

The Club’s central location makes it the ideal place to host a meeting or special event, meet colleagues, develop new business partners or simply relax in comfort with today’s newspaper, the latest business publication or lifestyle magazine.

Bob added, “Our superb Restaurant serves an a la carte style lunch Monday to Friday and the Bar area, with separate lounge features a number of specialty beers on tap, and is ideal for a relaxing beverage, light luncheon or coffee”.

The club is open Monday to Thursday 8.30am to 6pm and 9pm on Fridays. The club is closed on Saturday and Sunday. It is situated at 48 Ord Street, West Perth and you can phone 9322 2299 or email celtic.club@bigpond.com. It is a wonderful venue for private functions and weddings.

Fred Rea

Bob Johnston elected President of the Celtic Club Congratulations to Bob Johnston who has been elected as President of the Celtic Club of WA, a club which he joined on his arrival in Perth in 1970.

Bob has previously occupied the position of President from 1996-2000 and 2004-2008 at the club which is one of the oldest in WA, founded in 1902.

Bob said, “I see his appointment as a challenging one at a time when clubs, generally, face dwindling membership and a struggle to make ends meet”.

“We have a prestigious club with excellent facilities, moderate membership fees and the fortunate position, due to prudent management, of being debt-free,” The Celtic Club has a proud history spanning over 100 years.

The Celtic Club has recently enhanced the front of their premises for the benefit of members and their guests with an alfresco area. Bob added, “We are actively seeking new members, especially from the local West Perth business sector”.

Bob is also a Past President of the Claremont Football Club and former Chairman of the WAFL Council of Presidents.

Bob would like also to express his thanks to our outgoing President, John Devine, for the considerable work and effort that he has put in on our behalf over many years.

“I look forward to working closely with our

A strange Irish wedding proposal: An luífeása le mo mhuintirse?

Would you like to be buried with my people?

Frank Murphy presents

107.9fm Fremantle Radio Saturday 8am to 10am IRISH MUSIC • INTERVIEWS • LOCAL & IRISH NEWS

Is drinking costing you MORE than money?

Help is available!

Alcoholics Anonymous is a fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength and hope with each other that they may solve their common problem and help others to recover from alcoholism.

The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking. There are no dues or fees for AA membership; we are self-supporting through our own contributions. AA is not allied with any sect, denomination, politics, organisation or institution, does not wish to engage in any controversy, neither endorses nor opposes any causes. Our primary purpose is to stay sober and help other alcoholics to achieve sobriety.

Bob Johnston with Mick Foster and Tony Allen

incoming Committee in growing membership and providing new and exciting events at our Club”.

Bob’s first official duty as President was to host Mick Foster and Tony Allen (Foster & Allen) at the

Contact: Alcoholics Anonymous,

24 Hour Helpline Ph: 9325 3566 • www.aaperth.wa.org

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The Celtic Club • Perth •

BAR • RESTAURANT • FUNCTIONS

Function Rooms

The impressive Jarrah lined Presidents Room can seat up to 30 guests theatre style or up to 24 guests for a private luncheon.

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Located on the first floor, the main Function Room can comfortably seat 125 delegates theatre style or 120 for a banquet.

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The two function rooms have a comfortable sophistication that lend themselves to a variety of uses such as presentations, training events, Annual General Meetings, Boardroom Meetings. Fully fitted with Wi-Fi, ceiling fitted projectors and screen and speaker system.

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The Clubs central location in West Perth with onsite parking and close proximity to Red and Green CAT bus routes makes it easily accessible to everyone.

Our superb restaurant serves an a la carte style lunch Monday to Friday and the bar area, with separate lounge, features a number of speciality beers on tap, and is ideal for relaxing, a light luncheon or coffee.

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Location

Bar & Restaurant

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The Club welcomes new members so please feel free to call in and have a look at our facilities or ask for a membership application form. We have several types of membership available including Retiree, Ordinary and Corporate. We also work in conjunction with other local business to offer additional external benefits such as discounted gym packages, corporate teambuilding and wine of the month. We also have affiliated membership with other organisations in other cities so you can still enjoy the benefits of membership when on the move.

The Club is a great place to network, meet new people, entertain clients, or just get away from the office to have a brainstorm session.

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Membership

Doing Business

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The Celtic Club has a proud history spanning over 100 years. Presently the Club has a membership of approximately 700, and appeals to a wide range of individuals, all of whom enjoy the friendly and personable hospitality of a private member’s Club.

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History:

A: 48 Ord Street, West Perth, WA 6005 P: Phone (08) 9322 2299 E: Email: celtic.club@bigpond.com Start enjoying this great Club and become a member today! F: Fax (08) 9322 2899 W: www.celticclubperth.com

Tony and Veronica McKee PO Box 994 Hillarys WA 6923

info@mckeefamilyfunerals.com.au www.mckeefamilyfunerals.com.au

Tel (08) 9401 1900 • Fax: 9401 1911 • Mob: 0413 337 785 51

Irish Saying:

Tá trí shaghas bean ann: bean chomh mí-náireach le muc, bean chomh crosta le cearc agus bean chomh mín leis an uan.

There are three kinds of women: a women as shameless as a pig, a woman as contrary as a hen and a women as gentle as a lamb.

Bands and Brothers

by Fred Rea and Lloyd Gorman Irish Scene caught up recently with long time stalwart of the live music scene around Perth Declan Kenny for a catch up and yarn about life as a band, the highs and the lows.

“We call ourselves a rebel Irish band,” Declan said about the Ironbark Bushband. “We do a lot of older stuff from the Dubliners, Fureys and rebel songs, and sometimes we like to throw in a bluegrass bracket. We don’t do U2 or the Hothouse flowers.

Sometimes when you’re playing in a pub you can’t play the slow stuff.

I used to play a bit of music with Joe Brennan and Tony Cusack, we would play pubs or anything like that and I started to play with my brother in law Shay Burke - who plays mandolin and Dermot in the Blarney Castle on Sunday nights, they Shay asked me to fill in for him on a gig in Fremantle with the Ironbark Bush Band, he couldn’t make it. He just told me to play some Irish stuff and I’d get along.

I met with Greg Orgles and Rudy Knuvelder, Lee Mathews and played with them. They asked me to join with them in the Fremantle Hotel on Sunday afternoons and I was in the Blarney Castle on Sunday nights and started to do a few other gigs here and there and I’ve been with the Bushband since the early 1980’s, a long time.”

Over such a long time it is only natural that the make-up of the group would change from time to time. About two years ago the group suffered a terrible blow when Greg

Orgles was on holiday in Thailand when he had a massive stroke.

“He’s in a nursing home now and will never come out of it, paralysed down one side, he can’t speak but he’s still fully aware of what goes on around him and listens to his Irish music on his ipod. He understands if you talk about things that happen but he just can’t say yes or no. We had to reform the band.”

As well as occasionally calling in to see Greg, Declan went with the other members of Ironbark to visit Greg in the nursing home recently and played a concert for him and the other residents. “It was a tribute gig to Greg, a founding member of the band. We didn’t know how he’d take it but he was singing along, not words, but with sounds, he was perfectly in key. He enjoyed it and we were happy with it. We’ll do it again.”

Scores of freshly minted Australians - at least the ones who become citizens in the City of Cockburn every year on Australia Day - are treated to the sounds of the Bushband. “That citizenship ceremony is one of our regular gigs and its probably one of the best ceremonies you could go to, they really put on a big spread and a great day. We’ve been doing that for the last six years. We’ve also played the Moon and Sixpence in the City on Paddy’s Day for the last five or six years and after a break of about two years we were back in there this year and there was great craic.

And we’ve played the Woodvale on Paddy’s night for the last two years.

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We don’t chase gigs or look for them but if someone rings up we’ll do it.”

When Declan first came to Perth in November 1979 you would be more likely to see him playing Gaelic sports than music. He played football and hurling with St. Finbarr’s for a couple of years and then football with Greenwood. “I was the third ‘Kenny’ to come out here. I left Perth then and went to Cockatoo Island for BHP, that was $400 a week, which in 1980 was pretty good money and I lived up there for a year and loved it, it was the best job I ever had in my life.”

Declan comes from a well-known and established musical family. One of the other Kennys he mentioned was brother Enda who went to Melbourne where he has carved out a career as a singer songwriter.

“I was playing music (in Dublin) before Enda, in fact I started him off when he was only a toddler. We used to sit on the top step of the stairs and he used to have the sweeping brush in front of him and I’d say, “hey, this is your microphone and he’d sing into the top of the broom handle at the top of the stairs, and then he seemed to want to sing all the time then. I learned tin whistle and guitar and gave him a few cords and a guitar and it started him off,” said Declan. “Then he went to a hostel in the mountains, in Glencree, and played guitar all day long and then he got into a musical society and peace group and he blossomed from there. Ken (another brother) has written a lot of verse and books and Enda, who

used to work for the department of housing in Melbourne, is a full time muso now. As well as playing gigs he sells a lot of CDs to China and Japan.

Playing together was something that eluded the Kenny boys, at least until last year when they were all back in Ireland for a wedding.

“We had a big family reunion in May (2015) in Galway, my brother’s daughter got married” he said.

“It was the first time in 37 years we were all together in the same place. The oldest person there was 96 and the youngest was six weeks old. Even when our parents died there was always someone missing. When my dad died Enda had just come back out to Australia and when mam died I was just here so I couldn’t get home for my mam’s funeral. But that night, the night of the wedding around midnight I said to Enda there’s a grand garden out the front because you know for a big wedding they have a big noisy band playing and Enda had his guitar with him and we went out the front bar and it started off with two or three of us, I just played a couple of songs on his guitar and he started playing for the rest of the night and we stayed out there and had a great ould sing song. But other than that I’ve never played on stage with him or he’s never played with me because we do totally different stuff. I like the Fureys songs, I like slow Irish ballads and I like the rowdy rebel songs but he won’t do anything like that you know. (Indeed Enda Kenny might be known to some readers for regular tours of Western Australia, look out for his next tour, he is a wonderful singer, artist and storyteller.)

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Link between Martin O’Meara and Michael Collins

By Ian Loftus

General Michael Collins and Martin in Australia c. Oct 1915

Sometimes historical research unearths some particularly interesting things.

Whilst looking at the history of the Irish Volunteers and Sinn Fein in Lorrha, County Tipperary, during the First World War period as part of my biography of Martin O’Meara VC, I found an interesting link between the Australian war hero and General Michael Collins of the Irish Free State Army.

As a youngster Martin O’Meara lived in the same parish as another boy named Felix Cronin, son of the local National School teacher (who was also Felix Cronin). They would have attended church together and possibly school as well. Felix was five years younger than O’Meara.

Felix Cronin was active in the Irish Volunteers and later Sinn Fein in the Kitty Kiernan parish during the First World War, and ended up as a Major-General in the Irish Free State Army in the 1920s.

In 1925 he married Kitty Kiernan, who had been fiancée of General Michael Collins. Collins had been assassinated by anti-treaty rebels in 1922.

Martin O’Meara had left the parish sometime before 1911 and travelled Lorrha IRA: Martin Needham, Jim Carroll, to Australia. He had unknown, Felix Cronin. enlisted in the Australian Photo: Nancy White Imperial Force in 1916.

He served in Egypt in early 1916 and then on the Western Front in France and Belgium in 1916-18. He died in Perth in 1935.

Two boys from the same parish but such different outcomes ….

Ian Loftus, Perth, Western Australia +61 417 674 974 ianloftus@gmail.com - www.ianloftus.com

Kitty Kiernan: So which one of you gunslingers is going to ask me to dance?

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By Lloyd Gorman

In the last Irish Scene this column ended with mention of Australian director Peter Weir’s 1981 classic Gallipoli, which has its own Irish themes running through it. The night after that (April 23) GEM showed a very different type of war movie: Kelly’s Heroes. Clint Eastwood and Telly Savalas and Co. go behind enemy lines and steal tonnes of gold bars from the Nazi’s. Their actions are mistaken for courage by the unwitting Major General Colt played by John Carroll O’Connor who orders a full scale attack to support them. Carroll O’Connor failed to make the grade for the US Navy during WWII but did his bit by enrolling in the US Merchant Marine Academy. After the war he went to an American university where he would meet the woman who would later become his wife - in Dublin.

O’Connor had left college to go to Ireland with his younger brother Hugh was got into medical school there. O’Connor finished his studies at University College Dublin and in 1951 he married his girlfriend. It was in Dublin that O’Connor started his acting career and he would go on to star in a raft of films and TV shows. He spent about five years in Ireland before returning to America. He was ranked by TV guide in 1996 as one of the top American actors of all time and died in 2001, aged 77.

A week later (April 30) two more war films had an Irish influence of their own.

The Cruel Sea (1953) was a major hit in its time, resonating with audiences who were all too familiar with the horrors and helplessness of war. Chief engine room artificer Jim Watts - who has the job of keeping the ship running at all costs - was played

by Irish actor, Liam Redmond. Redmond was born in Limerick but attended UCD where he studied medicine and then discovered drama. His was quite an entrance to the world of acting. He was personally invited to join

the Abbey Theatre in 1935 by William Butler Yeats who wrote his play Death of Cuchullain and the part of Cúchullain specifically with Redmond in mind.

Later that year he was in Sean O’Casey’s The Silver Tassie. Before very long he was catapulted from the stage to the big screen which included Irish based films such as Captain Boycott (1947), Playboy of the Western World (1962) and his last major film and a real classic with Stanley Kubrick, Barry Lyndon (1975).

Redmond popped up in another all-time war classic as a brigadier on May 14, on Gem, in Ice Cold in Alex (1958).

He died in Dublin in 1989, at 76.

The same night on SBS there was a repeat of We Were Soldiers (2002) with Mel Gibson. A dramatisation of the first major battle fought in the Vietnam War the American unit was the modern day unit of the fated 7th Cavalry Regiment which adopted the Irish air “Garry Owen” as its marching tune in 1866 and also gave the regiment its nickname.

The night before on 11, the 1992 American hit film Far and Away told quite an Irish story and featured plenty of sweeping shots of the Irish countryside, landscape and backdrops, as well as plenty of Irish actors.

Another romance based story, Leap Year (2010) sees the love interest come this time from America to Ireland and the majority of the filming done in Ireland,

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again some great vistas of the country (Wicklow, Dublin, Mayo and Galway) and plenty of misadventures along the way. My then five year old year old daughter Molly was home sick from school that day and I was minding her and I was delighted to happen upon this soft film at the start, a nice way to introduce Molly to a bit of home.

There was a lovely moment as we watched it together that made laugh.

The male lead, English actor Matthew Goode, made a great fist of playing an Irish guy who the American pays to take her to Dublin in pursuit of her partner, to propose to him. Goode is reluctant to go and at one point tells her that ‘Dublin is full of cheats, liars, snakes and backstabbers’, to which Molly looked up at me and asked if that’s what it was really like. The innocence of it!

On Sunday 15 May 60 Minutes (Channel 9) did an in-depth interview with George O’Dowd aka Boy George. Naturally enough there was some discussion and interest about his growing up in a very Catholic upbringing and photographs produced of the young Irish lad who didn’t quite fit in with that society. The news and current affairs programme also looked at the nightmare experience of an Australian gay couple (one of them Irish) trying to adopt a baby in Mexico, which eventually turned out ok for them.

The Guard (2011) with Brendan Gleeson was on SBS2 on May 16, an absolute gem of a movie that is a bit like an Irish Tarantino and black comedy and well worth a watch.

Gleeson is excellent in the role of this morally bankrupt Gardai who actually turns out to be the most honest thing in the whole story.

Another great Irish movie - The Commitments (1991) - was on SBS on May 21 and enjoyable to watch as ever.

On May 30, TV presenter Simon Reeve took SBS (originally BBC) viewers on a two part tour of Ireland which was informative and interesting in its own right. Ross Kemp was in Northern Ireland the next night with is Extreme World series. Kemp is in Belfast for July 12 and does a great job of exploring the issues and explaining the situation to a general audience.

A softer side of Ireland was on show that night too as the choir from the Presentation Girls School in

Kilkenny - all aged 14 - 18 years - and their teacher Veronica put on a stirling performance that earned them a place onto the next round of the Britain’s Got Talent competition and a standing ovation from the judges and audience.

I have yet to see this film from the start, but the bits I have seen of it I have enjoyed. Alive and Kicking (Channel 9/June 5) is a black and white (1959) comedy about three English women who break out of their retirement home in England and escape to Ireland, and the island of Inishfada, where they set up a successful business producing aran jumpers, while a major man hunt is underway to find them. Hardly surprising that Liam Redmond plays a role in this harmless and happy bit of entertainment.

Braveheart (1995) a lot of which was filmed in Ireland and has some Irish content to the story was repeated on One, June 6.

Closer to home, Masonmill Gardens featured prominently on Destinations WA on June 12. This TV show which promotes different parts of the state as spots to visit gave viewers a good look at the popular restaurant and function centre which its Irish owners - the Holmes have worked so hard to create as one of the best new attractions around the metropolitan Perth area. As well as fast becoming a must see for many Irish living or visiting WA, rumour has it the former Rose nursery with even deeper Irish roots will next year even feature in the new season of My Kitchen Rules.

A lot like Leap Year, PS I Love You (2007) set in Ireland and America screened on Gem on June 18, a good chick movie but one that blokes could easily enough sit along and watch as well and maybe even enjoy a little.

But on the same night but over on SBS Two there was another movie that you probably wouldn’t want to bring a girlfriend to watch.

Van Diemen’s Land is the true Story of Alexander Pearce, an Irishman and convict who was sentenced to forced labour on the island of Van Diemen’s Land (Tasmania); a gruelling film, very well shot and produced and quite a story about their bid for freedom. It even has Irish being spoken which adds to the sense of authenticity and ruggedness of the story.

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A Great Artist’s Gift for Ireland John Lavery was a famous Irish and international artist who passed away on the I0th of January 1941 .

So, who was John Lavery, what were his origins, how had he become a famous artist what was his influence on Irish Affairs. It should be noted that John Lavery, was a freeman of both the City of Dublin and the City of Belfast, the only person ever to hold such high distinction. How did all that come about and why is it that the Lavery’s are almost written out of Irish History, even though Hazel Lavery, John’s wife, adorned our Irish Currency for over fifty years. You will have to wait for our next edition for the full story of John Lavery but the following will explain why he should be remembered in Irish History, especially for his artistic contribution around the time of the tumultuous years of the Easter Rising, the Treaty and the Irish Civil War.

was enlarged from a study actually filled in day by day during the trial in the Court of Justice. The judges in their scarlet (Darling, Scrutton and Lawrence), the various counsel, and the prisoners friends are done from life.

Most recognisable is F. E. Smith seated and Sergeant Sullivan, haggard and drawn, making his last appeal standing in the packed court. Never before has a State trial been faithfully and accurately worked out from life to the last detail.

Ireland and the Irish in Art

SIR JOHN LAVERY AND THE IRISH NATION (By Shane Leslie in the “Irish Independent, 1922)

Ireland has so often been reproached for her excess of scribes and poets over her artists and painters that it is worth chronicling the fact that her great portrait painter probably reached the climax of his life’s work within a few hours of the great settlement. In fact, soon after the Irish Free State had been added to the hope and happiness of the world, Sir John Lavery was putting the last touches to his painting of Michael Collins. There are different tools with which to serve Ireland, and for some years back Sir John has used his to bring before English sympathisers and Irish posterity the lineaments of the Irish protagonists during the struggle of the past few years. For him Ireland is a unity, and the President of the Belfast Fine Arts was as ready to paint the Sinn Fein leaders as he was to paint Carson, and as he is to paint Craig.

The One Inspiration.

For him Ireland has been the one inspiration of the last phase of his art. His soul is no longer stated with limning pretty women in Mayfair or colouring instantaneous landscapes. In his minds eye always lies the tragic landscape of Irish history, and he has flung his whole genius into recording the features of those who have wrought the last chapter of her tale.

The Casement Trial.

The earliest in point of time was of the appeal made by Casement against the sentence of death and

Terence MacSwiney Funeral As a pendant is the picture of the Lord Mayor of Cork’s lying-in-state in Southwark Cathedral, painted first in rough from the dark organ gallery during the actual service. So dark was it that the painter could not see his colours and painted by memory of their position on his palette. The result was little less than a miracle.

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A La Messe.

Archbishop Mannix blessing the Irish flag is a lifesized portrait on the heroic scale. A kneeling soldier of the I.R.A. proffers the symbol of the Irish Nation

to the stern-faced ecclesiastic, who, in cope and mitre, performs the ritual of benediction. It is an illustration of the old French saying: The mediaeval and the modern meet.

exchanged with Birkenhead or Winston. But, as a whole, it is heroic. The familiar and much-described features of Michael Collins are there, but the artist has found something which sculptors call Hellenic. It is a most lonely face, the sad dark face of Cuchulain staring out of a modern frame, and men looking at it clench their fists, and women sigh.

A Gift to the New Ireland.

So a great Irish artist has completed his life’s work.

Heedless of the protests of friends of the reproaches of enemies and of the scorn of the scornful, he set himself with his brushes to gather a part of Irish history together as faithfully and fearlessly as the Four Masters once strove to do with pen in the seventeenth century. In his mastery lie has had to work alone, hut the work is done to the glory of God and the honour of Ireland, and is to be presented to the Irish Nation as John Lavery soon as the new Government assign a habitation for the Arts on the banks of the Liffey. A magnificent gift for the coming of age of the Unaging One — et in saecula. (in a century of centuries).

Researched and written by Fred Rea

“The Revolution has come to Mass!” without clashing.

The portrait of Eamon de Valera was painted during the negotiations, and is being exhibited in the Paris Salon at present. It has been described by a French critic as intellectual sorrow personified, or like a great mathematician puzzling over perpetual motion. Keen and alert, it shows a man who has put aside earthly happiness in the search for some mysterious goal. It has the effect of giving a much more Irish expression of countenance than his photographs. Since then, Sir John has painted Griffith, Duggan, Barton and Collins in quick succession.

Portrait of Michael Collins.

There will be dispute about the picture. It is no pliant reproduction.

It is an idealisation.

It was painted when both artist and sitter were under great strain— in fact, while the Conference was still on the lap of destiny. There is not a single touch of colour in this study in grey.

Dark are his clothes, greyish his features, dark his hair and grey the background.

It might have been painted in chalk and ashes. His black tie against a white soft collar adds to the sombre background.

The pallid hands are clasped together with a wrist watch secured to one, and the sitter is watching, perhaps watching the artist with the corner of his eye by instinct on the door, or perhaps he is looking into the, future. It is a tremendously serious face, except for a cynical memory about the mouth of some last repartee

MICHAEL COLLINS The bark of a dog breaks the silence like a bitter last hurrah

And a raven spreads its wings for flight over fields near Beal Na mBlath With a rifle still clasped to his breast, but hanging low his head A black August day in the County Cork, Michael Collins is dead Working over in London town when he joined the IRB Sworn to use, both, deadly force, his native land to free His squad is ready and willing to strike, his love for his ruthless charm The Laughing Boy smiles at the castle it’s a smile to cause alarm A British intelligence agent is working from a Dublin room Michael Collins adds a name to a list that will take men to the tomb A spy slowly rises from his chair and walks across the floor A man with a parabellum is knocking at the door Returning then to London town, who will take the blame?

The Treaty lies before him, Michael Collins adds his name A darker time lies across the land, who will bear the load?

An awkward hero in an armoured car on an Irish country road Hang out your brightest colours, his memory now recall Each one wants a part of him but no-one wants it all The bark of a dog breaks the silence like a bitter last hurrah And a raven spreads its wings for flight over fields near Beal Na mBlath 57

From the hills of Donegal to the “Heights” of Perth

By Lloyd Gorman/Fred Rea

Hospitality is something that I came home and ran that for nine comes easily to the Irish. So much so years,” he said.

McLaughlin’s painting of the old Mt Barker thatHenry you could say making friends Terri admits Philip “took a shine” station 1868 is some- to her when she came to the Heights and police visitors feel of welcome thing of a national pastime. Provid- as the chef. “We closed that down ing a homely environment for all and came over here,” she said. “I comers can even become a profes- came over in October 2012, I was sion - you might even say vocation sponsored over from Ireland by a lo- for some. That is certainly the case cal Irish pub, I started as chef partie for Terri Greene and Philip McFad- and after a month and a half I was den, the owners and operators of promoted to head chef. I was there Perth’s newest establishment – The for three years and left in December, Heights. in January we bought this place.”

Nestled in the northern suburb Philip worked for the ALH Group of Alexander Heights the couple which runs a range of bars and hoactually started their life togeth- tels in Australia. He was manager er in Foreland Heights in Bloody of the Belmont Tavern for a while Foreland, Gweedore, Co. Donegal. and ran the iconic Albion Hotel in Terri went to Tourism College in Cottesloe for the two years before Killybegs where she trained to be they took on their joint venture in a chef. Her first workplace experi- Alexander Heights. ence was in the award winning and They have made it their own and much sought after Danny Minnies a little bit Irish. “We’ve modernised restaurant in Annagry, Donegal. The the place, painted it all ourselves chef there - Brian O’Donnell - was and brightened it up,” said Terri. a school teacher in Dublin and a “We also built a new bar with some maestro in the kitchen. In between help from Ciaran (Sweeney) he’s these two busy callings he had a local land from home who is out his own cooking show on TG4. Af- here now, and his brother Liam, ter that formative experience she and Martin Gallagher, they built our worked in a few more premises be- fireplace and they are all boys from fore destiny brought them together. my hometown. Its going to be very Philip has been in the business family-orientated. We’ve got a famsince 1994 when he worked in Scot- ily of our own - a daughter Kelsea, land, Newcastle and London before 6, and Caleb whose 18 months. You heading off to New York where he want somewhere comfortable to go worked at a bar for eight years. “I with your kids and be able to relax. bought the Foreland Heights when The food won’t just be Irish based,

its going to suit everybody.”

While Terri will cater for a wide palette you can be assured that traditional Irish dishes will still be on the menu. She promises to cook the best seafood chowder, lamb shanks, cabbage and bacon, Irish pork sausages and beef and Guinness pies around, and of course her own brown bread.

“It is going to be the kind of place where you can come in for an enjoyable cup of coffee in the morning and read of the newspaper, light lunch, a drink or just to relax,” she added. They can accommodate functions for up to 60 people, such as weddings, christenings, Christmas parties and birthdays. As well as laying on music at the weekends locals in the area have already requested the new owners to have a regular quiz night, which they are happy to oblige.

As well as opening The Heights, Terri and Philip are also building a new home of their own for their growing family, which they expect to be finished about the same time.

“There’s certainly a lot going on,” they laughed.

• Quiz Night Wednesday • Karaoke Friday • Live Music Saturday

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Sunday Roast with all the trimmings!

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Alexander Heights Shopping Centre Mirrabooka Ave, Alexander Heights

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Seán Doherty Branch Dedicated to the preservation and promotion of Irish traditional music and dancing world wide.

Page Sponsored by: Reid’s Bootmakers

Quiz Night a great Success...

Thanks to all who attended and supported with prizes!

Comhaltas Perth, Sean Doherty Branch had a very successful quiz night on Friday night at The Irish Club of WA. Hilary McKenna was an excellent, funny quizmaster and stumped a lot of people on his ingenious questions!!

The table “Cool as Folk” won the quiz and “Happy Bloomsday” came in second and they won lovely hampers filled with lots of great prizes!

• Rita Fallon won the British Travel $250 voucher.

• Brendan Doherty won the Walton’s Bodhran.

• Alex O’Meara won a huge bag of Taytos.

Dympna Finch won a $50 McLoughlins meat voucher

Grace Hare won an Entertainment book worth $65

There were more prizes won but everyone had such a great night that I have

forgotten now who else won what!! Someone from the “Happy Bloomsday” table won the Whiskey in ‘Closer to the Whiskey’ game. Yvonne Jones won the heads and tails game.

It was lovely to see all the regular Comhaltas faces like Rosaleen Easton, Eddie and Pauline, Ned and Maura and many more can’t name everyone! But there were also a few tables with new faces that were new to Comhaltas nights. There was even another Hilary at the quiz - she plays accordion so hopefully we will see her at a session soon!!

We had a nice little session afterwards with Brendan Doherty, Rob Zelinski, Fiona

Doyle and Dympna Finch.

I know cut off to get in for the next scene was Saturday - but was hoping this late addition might make it in?!

SAUSAGE SIZZLE!!

Come along and support the Comhaltas Fundraiser Sausage Sizzle at Bunnings Homebase Wembley on Saturday 24 July!

WEEKLY IRISH TRAD MUSIC SESSION EVERY MONDAY AT THE IRISH CLUB

Comhaltas Perth meets on Monday nights. Come and learn a tune.

8pm in the committee room or join in the session (starts off slow).

You don’t have to be a member of Comhaltas to join in.

There is also set dancing most Mondays about 8.30 pm. It’s great fun, beginners welcome.

For news updates visit: www.facebook.com/perthcomhaltas

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land of

&

Ireland

honey

THE NATURAL DISORDER OF THINGS....

that, proof of title from a now “foreign government”. - Horror of horrors!!! The waiting time for a reply to that request to Government should take about four and a half years and that would be an efficient Government. Really when you think about it “Efficient Government” is the classic oxymoron. My relatives and friends As I write Sean O’Casey’s words in England and Ireland tell me that uttered by Boyle spring instantly there are long lines queuing for to mind – “The whole world is in Irish Passports a terrible state of chassis’’ and since most Well indeed it is. Is it of the English not? Markets collapsing, population currencies crashing, people have Irish roots wondering if they can stay or at least in a place they considered connections home. Frightened holiday through investors wondering if the marriage. Irish villa in Spain or France is Civil Servants accessible without a Visa will now have and a Passport or, a distinct and even worse secure career than path. “It’s an ill wind” as the saying goes.

I must admit that the thought of the resumption of smuggling across the border in Ireland causes a chuckle.

I know it’s quite serious and one should not make light of it but in a little island like

Ireland the ramifications are odd and unknown. Dublin is ever so popular for prolonged and noisy “Stag Nights” They come from Belfast, London, Glasgow and even mainland Europe for what rampaging “Man Boys” call “The Craic”. It’s a rite of passage thing and quite ghastly but extremely profitable for Dublin landlords. I wonder if it would be half as much fun if you had to get a Visa… I think not. The English and Irish have had a love/hate relationship for hundreds of years and it had just taken a turn for the better and if The Border goes up again, as it well may do, chaos will reign. There are so many pensions paid in Sterling going into Ireland that a plunging pound matters more to a pensioner than it in reality it does to those anonymous things called “The Markets” where The Big Boys play No doubt it will get worse before it gets better. My faith is in the Irish… somewhere in a little town in the west of Ireland there is a man rubbing his hands in glee because he has spotted “The Loophole” before anyone else. Trust me, there is always a loophole.

Sally Desmond

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60

Opening hours: Mon - Wed 8:00am to 6:00pm Thursday 8:00am to 7:30pm Friday 8:00am to 6:00pm Saturday 8:00am to 5:00pm Sunday 11:00am to 5:00pm

Sr Brendan Curtin celebrates

100th Birthday

Sr Brendan with grand nephew Peadar and his girlfriend Amber

On June 23rd Lilly and I were privileged to attend the 100th birthday celebration of Sr Brendan Curtin.

It was held at Margaret Hubery House in Shelley and was attended by a large gathering of sisters from the Presentation order. There was great anticipation in the room as we waited for Sr Brendan to be brought in from her room and there was to a great round of applause when she entered. It was a wonderful celebration with many letters of congratulations read out from her friends in the room. She received congratulatory letters and cards from, Pope Francis, Bishop Ray Brown Bishop of Kerry, Queen Elizabeth, President Michael D. Higgins, State Governor Kerry Sanderson, Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull, Governor General Peter Cosgrove, WA State Premier Colin Barnett, Mark McGowen WA Leader of the ALP and many others from home and around the world. Sr Brendan had no difficulty in blowing out the candles on her cake and even read out one of the cards.

Amazing!

As I looked around the room I couldn’t help but think back to May 1891, when the Presentation Sisters left Sneem in Co Kerry and Michelstown in County Cork, Ireland and sailed to England before making the long journey by ship and train to Geraldton, arriving in July 1891. The Sisters sailed from Ireland to England then to Albany.

From Albany they travelled to Perth by train and finally by boat to Geraldton, arriving in July 1891. They commenced work the day after they arrived! During the next 78 years the Sisters from that original group opened a further 21 schools in some of the remotest areas of Western Australia.

They “followed the mining towns, opening and closing schools wherever there was a need, even taking their

convent and school by ‘jinker’ (a wheeled flat topped conveyance) from one mining town to another. They reached out to country children by taking boarders, both boys and girls, and taught many Aboriginal children”.

Catherine Curtin (Sr Brendan) was born on the 23rd June 1916, twin sister to John and the youngest of a family of eleven.

There were six girls and five boys - three sets of twins - all three sets of twins were a boy and a girI. Her parents were farmers from near Castleisland in County Kerry. She is the only living member of the family. She attended the local primary school and then went to the Presentation Sisters in Castleisland. Her childhood days are happy memories of playing with her brothers and sisters Sr Assumpta with Sr Brendan especially with her twin brother John. She also loved helping around the farm feeding the animals and being out in the fields in summer during hay saving times (if it was not raining) She left Ireland on November 5th 1936 travelling by ship to Perth arriving on December 8th and entering the Presentation Sisters on December 15th 1936. There were ten young Irish women on that ship coming to join the Presentation Sisters at Iona in Mosman Park.

Another of those ten was Sr Assumpta who was present at the celebration.

Musical Entertainer / Teacher

David MacConnell

0413 259 547 wdmacc@bigpond.net.au www.maccdouble.com

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Sr Brendan in the early days (2nd row 5 in)

Two of her brothers became priests and her twin brother became a Brother. She has many nieces and nephews who love her dearly and often send cards and photos.

One of the highlights of Sr Brendan’s years was meeting and shaking hands with Pope John Paul 2nd when he visited Perth. Another highlight for her was when she was given permission to visit her

There is always the danger that we may just do the work

for the sake of the work. This is where the respect and the love and the devotion come in - that we do it to God, to Christ, and that’s why we try to do it as beautifully as possible.

brother Fr Tom in Trinidad during a home visit to Ireland. Her third is having the Chapel and Mass here daily.

In some ways Sr Brendan never left Ireland as each day when she came home from school she would check the mail box in the hope that there was an Irish letter. Sr Brendan was a junior primary teacher in many schools in WA including Iona,

Sr Brendan talks to family in Ireland on Skype

Sr Brendan is congratulated by the Italian members of the community

Mother Teresa 62

Sr Brendan’s father and mother

Cottesloe, Beverley, Collie, Bruce Rock, Goomalling, Boyup Brook, Brunswick and Mandurah.

I do not imagine that the computers could even count the number of rosaries she has said - not· to mention the number she started and slept through. She has spent the last 10 years in nursing care and is always so grateful for the kindness of the staff and the visits from the Sisters.

Thank you Sr Brendan for all you have been to the Presentation Sisters and to your family for generously giving you to the Church of Western Australia.

Sr Brendan is the first Presentation congregation sister in Western Australia sister to reach 100.

Thank you to the Presentation sisters for affording Lilly and I the opportunity to attend the celebration, we really enjoyed ourselves

I want you to be concerned about your next door neighbor. Do you know your next door neighbor?

Mother Teresa

EXECUTIVE

President: Hilary McKenna ADCRG Vice Presidents: Teresa McGorry TCRG & Eileen Ashley TCRG Secretary: Samantha McAleer TCRG & Alison Johnson TCRG Treasurer/Booking Secretary: Deirdre McGorry TCRG Venue Secretary: Sinead Hoare TCRG AIDA Inc Delegate: Hilary McKenna TCRG Registar: Caroline O’Connor TCRG Grade Exam Co-ordinator: Rose O’Brien ADCRG

SCHOOL CONTACTS

SCOIL RINCE NI BHAIRD Lynwood Tony Ward TCRG 0427 273 596 SCOIL RINCE NI CEIDE/UPTON Subiaco & Woodvale Samantha McAleer TCRG 9405 6255/0414 188 784 Lara Upton - Kalamunda 0409 474 557 EIREANN SCHOOL OF IRISH DANCING Como/Jandakot/Rockingham Siobhan Cummins TCRG 0422 075 300 KAVANAGH STUDIO OF IRISH DANCE Osborne Park kavanaghirishdance.com.au Teresa McGorry TCRG 0412 155 318 Deirdre McGorry TCRG Caroline McCarthy TCRG O’BRIEN ACADEMY OF IRISH DANCING Butler, Kinross, Subiaco Rose O’Brien ADCRG 9401 6334/0423 382 706 O’HARE SCHOOL OF IRISH DANCING WembleyDowns/OsbornePark Jenny O’Hare TCRG 0422 239 440 SAOIRSE SCHOOL OF IRISH DANCING Caramar Sinead Hoare TCRG 0414 647 849 THREE CROWNS SCHOOL OF IRISH DANCE Kingsway & Landsdale threecrownsirishdancing.com Eleanor Rooney TCRG 0449 961 669 TRINITY STUDIO OF IRISH DANCING Morley Eileen Ashley TCRG 0413 511 595 WA ACADEMY OF IRISH DANCING Malaga Glenalee Bromilow ADCRG 9276 3737/ 0410 584 051 Sue Hayes TMRF 9377 5600/0412 040 719

Australian Irish Dancing Association Inc. As the temperature drops the Irish dancing calendar heats up. Some Perth teachers take advantage of the cooler months by bringing teachers out from Ireland and America to run intensive Irish dancing workshops and many dancers travel east for Championships like the Australian International Oireachtas in Queensland, and the McAleer Feis and Pacific Belt in Victoria.

Congratulations to all the dancers who competed locally and interstate over the last couple of months. Here are some of the results: McAleer Feis Isobel Ashley 13yrs 8th - Trinity Studio Tara Collis 13yrs 10th - Trinity Studio Darcy Guazzelli 14yrs 7th - Trinity Studio Stella Ashley 11yrs 9th - Trinity Studio Keiva Young 17yrs 2nd - Trinity Studio

Australian International Oireachtas Isabella Campeotto 9yrs 9th - WA Academy Lachlan Moroney 12yrs 6th - WA Academy Adam Robinson equal 13yrs 5th - WA Academy Trinity Ryan 14yrs 8th - WA Academy Luke Hanson 15yrs 4th - WA Academy Brittany Pymm 16yrs 3rd - WA Academy Taylor Pymm 18yrs 6th - WA Academy Austin Ryan 18yrs 5th - WA Academy Shannon Kennedy Over 23yrs 2nd - Kavanagh Studio

The Western Australian State Solo Irish Dancing Championships are on Saturday and Sunday 13th & 14th August at the John Curtin Performing Arts Centre in Fremantle. The Perth Premiership and the Western Australian State Figure and Ceili Irish Dancing Championships are on Saturday and Sunday 27th & 28th August at the Morley Recreation Centre. If you’d like to see some amazing Irish dancers come along to one of these events, they are all open to the public.

Teresa Fenton

Shadow Minister for Mental Health; Disability Services & Child Protection PO Box 2440, SOUTH HEDLAND WA 6722 stephen.dawsonmp@mp.wa.gov.au (08) 9172 2648 • 1800 199 344 (toll free)

63

SUPPORT IN THE WA G

IRISH COMMUMITY

The following letter from Ian’s mother was read out at the mass…

Ian came into my world on Thursday 2nd November 1989 and life as I knew it completely changed. Right from the start Ian had a huge impact on everyone who was lucky enough to be part of his life.

One of the most special relationships was that of Ian and his Granddad Con Redmond. A bond was formed between them that lasted right up to my father’s death in September 2000.

Ian was a very cheerful and funny child who was always happiest when he was busy doing outdoor activities. He enjoyed sport and was an avid supporter of Liverpool Football Club and soccer and rugby in general.

As Ian grew older he began a close friendship that lasted all his life with Greg Nation who was also from Cork. He was the type of person who drew people to him because of his caring and loving nature and had a huge circle of friends.

In December 2010 Ian’s own life changed when he became a father for the first time to baby Alisha who became the light of his life.

IAN REDMOND

1998-2016 Fr Tadgh Tierney offered a Mass for Ian Redman at Infant Jesus Catholic Church for a gathering of Ian’s friends. It was organised by the Claddagh Association who worked tirelessly to help the family and his friends in this tragic situation. Ian lost his life in an accident east of Perth on a farm where he worked. It was a very moving service by Fr Tighe and he finished by quoting the words of the song about the Lord Mayor of Cork Terence MacSwiney, Shall My Soul Pass Through Old Ireland…

Ian was a very brave character and nothing showed this more than when he made the monumental decision to move to Australia last September (2015) to seek out a better life for himself and his daughter through with the help and support again of his great friend Greg.

My thanks and prayers go to each and every one of Ian’s wonderful friends in Australia who made Ian’s experience there a time of great happiness and personal growth.

A special word of thanks to Sam McNamara and his family on whose farm Ian worked and where Ian spent one of the happiest times in his life which gave him the opportunity to discover what he truly wanted to do with his life and his future.

Shall my soul pass thru old Ireland pass thru Cork city grand Shall I see the old Cathedral where Saint Patrick made his stand Shall I see the little chapel where I placed my heart in hand Father tell me when I die shall my soul pass through Ireland

In conclusion there is an empty space in my life which nothing again will ever fill but I am proud and happy to have had such a special gentle and loving son as Ian in my life and I give thanks for the time albeit far too short, that we· spent together.

Thank you to the Claddagh Association of WA, Fr Tadgh Tierney of the Infant Jesus Parish in Morley and all those who supported Ian’s family and friends in Australia. Ian is now back with his family in Cork.

Ar dheas Dé go raibh a anam.

Goodnight and farewell my beautiful and wonderful son, Ian love you always and forever love Mam. Thank you to the Claddagh Association for giving us permission to print this letter from Ian’s Mother!

If you can Lend a Hand to the Claddagh Association in any way, donations or as a volunteer, please call the office.

PO Box 3069 /193c Flinders St, Yokine WA 6060 (08) 9345 1713 admin@cladddagh.org.au • www.claddagh.org.au 64

clients.

The Claddagh Association offered free membership last year, however as of 1 July 2016 we are introducing an annual fee of $10 to help support the association.

Without the support of our members, sponsors, volunteers we would not be able to carry out the work we do.

If you are interested in joining please contact admin@ claddagh.org.au or go to www.claddagh.org.au and fill in the online membership form.

New Claddagh Co-ordinator The Claddagh Association have appointed a new coordinator Liz Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Hagan who will start on the 4th of July.

Information about Liz is on page 4.

Christmas in July The Mighty Quinn

Aine Bannon - Acting Co-Ordinator

We are delighted to announce the Annual Christmas in July Lunch for the Claddagh Seniors will take place on the Monday 25th of July at the Mighty Quinn.

Three course meal, live music and games. This is a guaranteed afternoon of fun with entertainment by Fred Rea and special appearance by Santa.

The event will start at 11.30am and the price is $15.00 per person.

This is always a popular event so please book ASAP to avoid disappointment on 0497 446 531

Claddagh New Membership and Upcoming Renewals We are inviting new members to come join the Claddagh Association and welcoming existing members to renew their membership for 2016-2017.

As a member of the Claddagh Association, you will receive a membership card, you will be entitled to vote at our annual general meeting and you will also receive our monthly newsletter. By becoming a member, you will be helping us to support your Irish community in Western Australia. Our aim is to provide a fund for the provision of financial assistance for those in need. This objective is achieved through fundraising, donations and membersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; fees.

100% of your donations go directly to help our

Bookings 9381 5213

McLoughlin Butchers Malaga Proud Supporters of the Irish Scene Drop in and see our range of Irish prepared meats 58 Westchester Rd, Perth WA 6090 mcloughlinbutchers.com.au Like us on facebook 65

From Michael Blanch of the National Famine Memorial Day committee in Ireland...

Dear Editor Dear Editor,

A Sense of Ireland, but I thought I’d share my thoughts with your readers on this amazing event.

I’ve been in Australia now for about 32 years and I’ve never been so proud of the Irish community and its contribution to the commemoration of 1916. From the outset, I said I didn’t want to be involved if it turned into a “brit bashing” exercise. And it was not that.

I think Frank Murphy did an outstanding job in respectfully acknowledging the military fiasco - which the rising was - while at the same time recognising the emergence of a new Ireland, one that was more determined than ever to chart its own way in the world.

Each one of these segments in a Sense of Ireland attested to how much the Irish nation has grown and how its citizens have taken on the world, so to speak. There is nowhere in the World where you will not find an Irish person taking their place alongside leaders from business, medicine, politics and indeed sport.

The CY O’Connor dance segment was for me the highlight of the night. I thought the choreography was outstanding and the execution by those young dancers was flawless. The story of O’Connor was told in a way that was dramatic, poetic and respectful. It was a triumph!

Well done.

Gerry Gannon

Fred Rea, Editor, Irish Scene 7 June, 2016 RE: AN IRISH ORPHAN’S ODYSSEY - MARY ANN TAYLOR EXHIBITION

Dear Fred I am writing to express our appreciation and gratitude for all your efforts that helped so much to bring the Mary Ann Taylor story into reality through the Travel Box and all the associated garments donated to the Residency Museum. It is in great part thanks to your interest that there was so much enthusiasm for the project. The exhibition provides a rich and realistic representation of the life story of Mary Ann which I am sure will enthrall visitors for a very long time.

Please accept our thanks and appreciation for your kindness in helping to make it happen.

Yours sincerely Carol Littlefair Curator, Cultural Heritage Shire of York

66

Can you please pass on my our thanks to all thos involved in commemorating the An Gor Mor (The Great Hunger) in York.

Full credit to yourself, Mark O’Brien, Bill Marwick, Fred Rea and all those involved in the York 2016 National Famine Memorial Day. I could see it was a huge success by just looking at the video.

Your U Tube video has come back to me from another source so its doing the rounds.

You have sown the seeds in Perth and York for future annual NFMD Commemorations. The victims, emigrants and the women/girls taken from the workhouses will never be forgotten.

The NFMD Pins we sent you went down well by the amount of people I saw wearing them on the video.

Michael Blanch Chair, Committee for the Commemoration of the Irish Famine Victims. (CCIFM)

The glory of the old Irish nation, which in our hour will grow young and strong again. Should we fail, the country will not be worth more than it is now. The sword of famine is less sparing than the bayonet of the soldier.

Thomas Francis Meagher

Noel found landmarks and legacies waiting for him in Dublin

By Lloyd Gorman/Fred Rea

Noel Aspill’s heart swelled with pride and the sense of occasion earlier this year. The Dubliner turned long term Australian resident was back in his native city for

Noel’s uncle William John Murphy

the main part of the national commemorations of the 1916 Rising an impressive military parade that meandered 5km throughout the Irish capital ultimately passing the GPO on O’Connell Street, the HQ of the historic uprising. A former member of the Irish Defence Forces himself Noel was invited to attend the high profile event as a VIP and as a family representative of a man who fought in the GPO a hundred years earlier and played an extraordinary part in the struggle for Irish independence and would go on to rub shoulders with the goliaths of that fight.

“I was in a fabulous position, sitting about 15 metres away from where Nelson’s Pillar used to be,

the ‘Spire’ is there now, it was a great experience,” Noel told Irish Scene. “You had to have an invite to get into the enclosure for families and other guests, a Gardai checked the invites and you took your seat.

I was full of pride and thought to myself about all the things my mother used to tell me in my teenage years about her brother, my uncle William John Murphy. I got a lump in my throat and I looked up at the GPO and I started to imagine what it must have been like for him, he was on the top floor of the building. He was beside a guy called Captain (Lewis Rea) at a balustrade window for the full time he was there and Desmond Fitzgerald - the father of the late Taoiseach Garrett Fitzgerald - was in charge of the area upstairs.

He was born on the 29th of April 1901, so he was just 15 years old.

I know that two of the people he was there with were Seán Lemass (the future Taoiseach) and his brother Liam. My uncle spent all his time there until he was ordered to stand down by Padraig Pearse and was told to evacuate the building with Desmond Fitzgerald. They attempted to get into the Coliseum Theatre beside the GPO, but the fire and shooting was so bad they went through an alleyway, near the Adelphi Cinema and attempted to escape by getting to O’Connell Bridge but they were captured by the British. Desmond Fitzgerald was taken to the Rotunda area where all the older men were kept, my uncle was taken to the barracks near Parliament Street and he was detained there for a few hours and then let go, because of his young age and I believe the two Lemass brothers as well, who lived in Capel Street, about 500 metres away from Dublin Castle.”

His involvement as a volunteer fighter in the 1916 Rising was not the young William Murphy’s first encounter with the military push for Irish independence. Two years before the Rising, he took part in another famous historic milestone Rob Zielinski on the escalating path to freedom.

“He joined Fianna na hEireann - a nationalist youth organisation in 1912 and served under Sean Hueston and Con Colbert, both of whom would later be executed and went on to be involved in that

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Noel with his invitation to 1916 event.

fateful day when they got guns at Howth. He was one of the buys who brought some of the guns back to Dublin.”

Some 900 Mauser rifles (weapons from the 1870-71 Franco-Prussian war that still worked) were smuggled into the fishing village on 26 July 1914 and would later be used in the GPO. Murphy’s commitment to the cause remained intact following the military failure of the rebellion of 1916. “My uncle went on to join the Irish Republican Brotherhood, the Fianna Circle. He was arrested in 1918 in Skippers Alley, Merchants Quay. He was training a few of the boys and he was arrested with another guy, called Tobin, and he was sentenced to six weeks in a Belfast jail and he said he refused to recognise the authority of the court. In 1920 he was arrested again, this time in his rooms, by the Black and Tans and was detained and sentenced to 12 months penal servitude at Brixton Prison. Before he was deported he was held in Mountjoy prison. Kevin Barry (who would become the first Irish Republican to be executed in 1920 after the Rising) had been arrested

Unaccompanied baggage

Noel with his chauffeur Dermot Brophy and his wife Annette

and he, and a another guy tried to organise an escape for Barry, with a cleaner, unfortunately the plan didn’t work because the cleaner didn’t turn up for work that day. On Williams arrival in Brixton Terence McSwiney had died after 74 days of hunger strike and my uncle was one of the pall bearers from the prison mortuary who carried the coffin to the front of prison where they handed McSwiney’s remains over to the civilian authorities.”

When William Murphy returned to Ireland in 1921 he served with the Dublin Brigade according to Noel.

“William and a hand-picked group of IRA men were formed as the Dublin Guards by Michael Collins to look after civil administration buildings, barracks, the Bank of Ireland and other important places in Dublin and to provide escorts.

When the Civil War broke out [1922] my uncle stayed loyal to Collins. He served right through and

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Noel uncle William Murphy in the Dublin Guards (2nd from right top)

he was an adjutant at Beggars Bush Barracks until it was shut. Then he was officer commanding the Dublin Metropolitan Police at Howth. In 1924 he was on his way back to his post in Howth when he and his lieutenant were involved in an accident. His lieutenant was killed and my uncle was seriously hurt in the accident and he spent three months in St. Bricins Military Hospital, Arbour Hill, and was discharged medically unfit in 1924.”

Murphy would later apply for a pension and was given a reference by the captain who accompanied him at their elevated post in the GPO. With a life of

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soldering behind him Noel’s uncle went on to adapt to civilian life quite well. “He was the first Catholic to be employed by Eason and Son in Dublin as an apprentice bookbinder. He went to America in 1927 with his wife to the University of Michigan where he was a book binder and he stayed in the US until his death in 1965. Once he went to America he never returned to Ireland. He’s got a son living in America and two daughters who are still alive but who are quite elderly now.”

Noel never met his uncle but he did visit his grave in 1996. “I got a lot of his stuff that time that was in a suitcase. William was very involved and active in the Order of Hibernia, he was proud of his Irish heritage”.

Noel has a sister Laura Gibson who lives in Fremantle. He contacted the Department of Defence in Ireland after it advertised in the Irish Times for relatives of those who took part in the Easter Rising to join a state dinner in the Royal Dublin Showgrounds (RDS) in Ballsbridge on the Saturday night before the Sunday morning parade through Dublin. An invitation was extended and Defence asked him to send a photograph of his uncle. “The dinner was a great experience. I had a Returned Services League badge and everyone was asking me what it was because it has a shamrock on it. I explained to them all about the RSL and what it was and how a lot of Irish, English and Scottish blokes helped form it. It was a big event with a lot of people, the place was packed. It was very well organised. A large screen was turned on and it showed photographs the relatives had sent it, and sure enough there was the photograph of my uncle when he was 18.”

The trip home gave Noel a chance to see some old familiar sights, and to see how some of them have disappeared. “I was born in 31 Arran Quay, not far between Collins Barracks and the Four Courts, on the Liffey. It was wider than I remembered. I lived there until 1961 when we moved to Finglas,” he said. “In the meantime I joined the army and did my training in Cathal Brugha Barracks (Rathmines) and McKee Barracks (beside the Phoenix Park). Collins Barracks (close to Hueston Station) is a must see for anyone going back to Dublin. I was so happy they didn’t knock over Collins Barracks.

It was built in 1780 and is quite a place and you could spend hours and hours just wandering around it. I have to complement the government on keeping it and developing it this way.” Collins Barracks forms part of the National Museum of Ireland.

Noel was reminded of the places he stayed in Dublin before going on duty with the United Nations to the Congo in June 1962, with the 37th Infantry Battalion.

A section of the special Easter parade was made up of Irish soldiers and vehicles representative of that peace keeping mission. Another section O.N.E represented retired and former personnel. If Noel’s uncle was a direct inspiration for the entire event, then Noel himself could rightly stake a claim to the occasion in his own right.

“I stayed in the Castle Hotel, for them that know it, its beside Barry’s Hotel. Michael Collins stayed in the Castle Hotel and it was one of the places he used to stay. The owner came up to me one day, I was wearing my service medals and he shook my hand. Everyone in Dublin was so friendly and helpful to me, it was great.

A friend of mine Dermot Brophy is a taxi driver and Dermot chauffeured me around the place. But because I was in the centre of the city it was easy to get around as well. I couldn’t get over how friendly the people were, and helpful. A lot of the old places I knew in my youth are gone now and Cleary’s (department store on O’Connell St) was just an empty shell. But there were some really great new things Reading of Proclamation outside the GPO too like a walkway along the wall of the Liffey from about Capel Street down to O’Connell Bridge which had a lot of people on it. I couldn’t believe the difference in the place.” Fittingly Noel also visited the Garden of Remembrance (at the northern end of O’Connell Street) a memorial dedicated to the memory of “all those who gave their lives in the cause of Irish freedom”.

Given his personal connection to some of the most important events and characters involved in the bracket of Irish history, a trip back home would not have been complete without a visit to the grave of Michael Collins. “I went to Collin’s grave and they’ve really outdone themselves with it. In it the old days it was just a flat piece of ground with concrete surrounds but they’ve reorganised the entry area of Glasnevin Cemetery [often called Dublin’s City of the Dead as it has more than a million graves] and its full of flowers.”

Noel has asked that we passed on his sincere thanks to Dermot Brophy and driving him around Dublin and to Moira Smith, the best friend of his late wife Kathleen for all her help before and during his vidit to Dublin.

The Merry Ploughboys in Dublin

Dermot Byrne, Pete St John, Paschal Clarke and the Lord Mayor of Dublin, Críona Ní Dhálaigh

Our own Dermot Byrne and Paschal Clarke also made the trip to Dublin for the 1916 commemorations.

Paschal is an uncle to the Lord Mayor of Dublin and Dermot told me that they had great seats at the event outside the GPO. They also met with the legendary and great friend of The Irish Scene, Pete St John. In our next issue we will have a story from the boys!

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A Message from President,

Claire Wynne As part of an initiative to connect with new audiences and encourage engagement with the Irish Club of WA, the Irish Theatre Players recently presented our “Ballroom Blitz” beginners’ dance competition. In the end we had 8 complete beginners who trained for 8 weeks, under the guidance of Ryan from Gilkison’s Dance and our very own Ballroom champ and committee member Shannon Murphy, to compete for the coveted “Killarney Autos Cup”. We transformed the theatre into a glittering red velvet ballroom and along with fantastic Latin-style music provided by Joe Southwell’s band, our fantastic compere Christian Gerrish, and the infamous ITP hospitality as always, a fabulous night was had by all. Many thanks to Neil at Killarney Autos and his continued support of the Irish Theatre Players and also Lyndsey and all at Masonmill Family Restaurant who kindly sponsored one of the dance teams and were here to cheer them on in front of another full house here at the Irish Club of WA. What a great night, and definitely something different for the ITP. We hope to bring it back next year!

Coming up next for the Irish Theatre Players is our One Acts Season 2016. We held auditions last month at the Irish Club and the turnout was fantastic – a great mix of new and old faces, all willing to give it a shot.

Now we’ve officially started rehearsals and are excited to bring you a fun trio of short plays written by Bruce Kane – “The Case of a Tale Told by an Idiot”, directed by Lisa Reilly; “Under the Balcony”, directed by newcomer to the ITP, Pete Nettleton and “The Real Problem”, directed by Rachel Bartlett whom you may remember acted with us in WAG at the One Acts in 2015. All 3 plays are about 30 minutes long and promise a hilarious twist on the works of Shakespeare. Our One Act Season starts on August 17th – so make sure you check out our website or our facebook page for more details www.facebook.com/irishtheatreplayers.

We’re also excited to announce that later this year we’ll be joining forces again with Noel O’Neill when he

comes on board in November to direct Roddy Doyle’s “War”. “On the first Monday of every month, these two giants of the Pub Quiz lock eyes across the five feet of drink dampened carpet that divides them…” That’s bound to be one we can all relate to!

I’d like to take this opportunity to thank my fellow committee members here at ITP for all their incessant hard work, as well as the fantastic volunteers (and contestants!) for their energy, enthusiasm and contribution. We’re always happy to welcome new people, so if you fancy getting involved, either on-stage or Front of House, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. itp@irishtheatreplayers.com.au. And, of course, thank you, our audiences, for your continued support and we look forward to seeing you for our One Act Season 2016, here at Irish Club of WA.

Check out the Irish Theatre Players facebook page or website - www.irishtheatreplayers.com.au - for information on forthcoming plays and productions

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Good old rhubarb & custard Ingredients (Serves 6)

FOR THE RHUBARB 800g rhubarb, washed and cut into 8cm pieces 4 tablespoons caster sugar Zest and juice of 2 oranges 1 thumb-sized piece fresh ginger, peeled & finely grated 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar FOR THE CUSTARD 500 ml organic semi-skimmed milk 568 ml single cream 5 tablespoons caster sugar 1 vanilla pod, scored lengthways and seeds scraped out 8 free-range egg yolks

with Marguerite O’Dwyer The Cure Tavern Irish bar & restaurant

Irish Lamb Stew

1. Preheat the oven to 200ºC 2. Place the rhubarb pieces in an ovenproof dish or tray and sprinkle over the sugar, orange zest and juice, grated ginger and balsamic vinegar. Cover with foil and cook in the oven for 15 to 20 minutes, until the rhubarb has softened.

3. Have a taste and add more sugar if it is too tart for you. Pop the foil back on top to keep the rhubarb warm while you make the custard.

4. To make the custard, mix the milk, cream, 3 tablespoons of caster sugar and the vanilla pod and seeds together in a saucepan.

5. Bring just to the boil, then remove from the heat and leave for a couple of minutes to cool slightly and allow the vanilla flavour to infuse. Discard the vanilla pod.

6. In a large mixing bowl, whisk the egg yolks with the 2 remaining tablespoons of caster sugar until pale.

7. Ladle a little of the hot milk mixture onto the eggs and whisk immediately. Continue to add the milk, a ladleful at a time, whisking each well before adding the next.

8. Pour this mixture back into the warm saucepan and cook very gently for a few minutes, stirring constantly with a rubber spatula or wooden spoon. The eggs should cook just enough to thicken the custard, but not enough for it to scramble. If you start to see flecks or lumps of egg in your custard, don’t panic – just take it straight off the heat and pour into a cold saucepan to cool it down then strain through a sieve into a clean jug.

9. Serve the rhubarb at the table with a good drizzle of your warm delicious custard.

Hearty and wholesome, my slow-cooked lamb stew is the ultimate taste of Ireland.

INGREDIENTS (Serves 6) 1½kg lamb knuckle (extra trim – diced) 175g streaky bacon, 3 tbsp. olive oil 12 shallots, peeled, 18 button mushrooms, left whole 3 carrots cut into quarters or 12 baby carrots, scrubbed and left whole Salt and freshly ground black pepper 1 tbsp. chopped thyme, 2 tbsp. chopped parsley 10 cloves of garlic, crushed and grated 425ml red wine, 425ml chicken or beef stock FOR THE ROUX 50g butter, 50g flour Champ, to serve 1. Brown the lamb and bacon in the olive oil in a heavy saucepan.

2. Transfer the meat to a casserole dish.

3. Toss the onions, mushrooms and carrots into the heavy saucepan, one ingredient at a time, seasoning each time.

4. Place these into the casserole dish, along with the meat, herbs and garlic.

5. Cover with red wine and stock and simmer for one & a half hours or until the meat and vegetables are tender.

6. To make the roux, in a separate pan melt the butter, add the flour and cook for two minutes.

7. When the stew is cooked, remove the meat and vegetables.

8. Bring the remaining liquid to the boil and add one tbsp. of roux.

9. Whisk the mixture until the roux is broken up and the juices have thickened, allowing to boil.

10. Add in the meat and vegetables, and taste for seasoning.

11. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve with champ

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“The secret of success in life is to eat what you like and let the food fight it out inside.”

-Mark Twain “It’s difficult to think anything but pleasant thoughts while eating a homegrown tomato.”

-Lewis Grizzard

2016 Famine Commemoration in York, Western Australia Ireland’s Great Famine or The Great Hunger, as it is more commonly referred to today, ranks among the worst tragedies in the sweep of human history. Between 1845 and 1852, approximately 1.5 million Irish men, women and children died of starvation or related diseases.

By 1855, more than two million more fled Ireland to avoid a similar fate. This decimation of the population makes Ireland’s Great Hunger both the worst chapter in the country’s history, and arguably, the single worst catastrophe in 19th century Europe.

The 2016 National Famine Memorial Day Gordon Marwick Western Australia on Sunday 8th May at St Patrick’s Catholic Church, York was dedicated to Mary Ann Taylor who arrived in Western Australia in 1853 as an 18 year old.

The principal Celebrant at the commemoration was. Father Stephen Cooney OPraem, Parish Priest of York. Our sincere thanks to Father Cooney for his support and for also allowing the use of the parish hall for a singalong the night before the commemoration.

pin drop.

A Travel Box made especially for the occasion by inmates from Arbour Hill Prison in Dublin, was brought to Altar and Gordon Marwick will read names of ALL women who travelled on the ship The Palestine with Mary Ann Taylor.

Father Cooney blessed Travel Box. This was followed by specially and carefully made garments Jenni Ibrahim, Convenor, Irish Special Interest Group WA Genealogical Societybrought to altar and placed in Travel Box by ancestors of Mary Ann Taylor - Father Cooney will bless contents of Travel Box Mark O’Brien Assistant Chief Officer, Arbour Hill Prison gave a

Mary Ann Display in Residency Museum

The Master of Ceremonies was former York Shire President, Gordon Marwick. We were privileged to have Mrs Alfreda (Freda) Screaigh (nee Marwick) present also. Mary Ann Taylor was born around 1837 and Freda was 13 years old when Mary Ann, her grandmother passed away. Freda is the last surviving grandchild of Mary Ann and William Marwick and will celebrate her 103 birthday in this July, congratulations.

Bill Marwick gave a history of the Famine and Mary Ann Taylor at the service and you could have heard a

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Fr Cooney blessing the Travel Box

stirring account of the making of the travel box and how he got involved in the project. This was followed by an address my Marty Kavanagh. The Hon Consul of Ireland in Western Australia who thanked all involved

Aunt Freda, Mark O’Brien, Bill Marwick and Fred Rea

for remembering the Famine and especially Irish woman, Mary Ann Taylor.

The service was followed by morning tea at the church hall, compliments of the York Parish.

So many to thank for their

Donna Marwick-O’Brien for the song “Mary of York”, Michael Blanch of the Committee for the Commemoration of Irish Famine Victims for sending NFMD badges, Bill and Bernice Marwick for the welcome BBQ and his support throughout. Carol Littlefair, Curator The Residency Museum York for organising the Exhibition

Marty Kavanagh, Hon Irish Consul speaking at Service

support of this project, Mark and Carmel O’Brien for making the trip from Dublin, Vince Gallagher of Air Express for transporting box to Australia, Jenni Ibrahim, Convenor, Irish Special Interest Group WA Genealogical Society for coordinating the making of the contents of the Travel Box.

Mark O’Brien makes presentation to Shire President, Cr. David Wallace

at the York Residency Museum recognising the epic journey of Mary Ann Taylor and the Launch of Bill Marwick’s book “Mary Marwick of York”. and the many others who helped with the project.

Bill Marwick & Mark O’Brien

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He said he knew immediately what he had discovered almost 5 metres underground and contacted the local Cavan Country Museum. Bog butter is found every year by turf cutters in Ireland.

By the way in 2009 a 34-kilogram 3,000-year-old oak barrel of bog butter was found in County Kildare, and in 2013 a turf cutter found a 45-kilogram, 5,000-year-old chunk was unearthed.

Tourists are now visiting Ireland for… the butter!

nd

Irela m o fr

Ireland has long attracted tourists for its breathtaking natural beauty, castles, history, and unique culture, but one little known draw is the country’s butter, made from the fresh milk of pasture-grazing cows. Ireland even has a few tourist attractions devoted to the yellow gold. And by the way, in the 1700s, the city of Cork was home to the largest butter exchange in the world. Today, it boasts the Cork Butter Museum, complete with a keg of 1,000-year-old butter that had been buried in a bog.

Only in Cork...

It appears that a postman from the Cork, one Martin Busteed of Mayfield, appeared in court over an unpaid speeding fine that Two people were arrested he claimed he didn’t receive... because it following an outbreak of got lost in the post. Not surprisingly, the violence at a funeral in courtroom descended into laughter upon Shannon on Sunday afternoon hearing Martin’s excuse but while many in May this year. The of them would have naturally assume incident occurred following the removal that Martin got Busteed, it seems as if the of the remains of Martin ‘Red Breast’ judge took pity on him and accepted his McDonagh who lived at St Helen’s Park plea. in Ballymurtagh in Shannon. During the And another classic form Cork is a removal, a collision occurred at the nearby tale of a criminal gang who Aidan Park junction. It’s believed that was attempted to steal animals from a deliberate ramming linked to persons a Cork farm but were foiled in attending the funeral. It’s understood two their attempts to do so... after cars were involved and that one narrowly being attacked by a ferret. missed the hearse. By the way, the funeral And there’s more, a newspaper continued on to Ballyhaunis on Sunday carried the quite brilliant story of afternoon for Mr McDonagh’s funeral at St a farmer who recovered his stolen sheep Patrick’s Church. All this at a funeral, what after one of his lambs recognised him at a next I ask? sales market.

Arrests following trouble at Shannon funeral

Butter, still edible after 2000 years!

PHOTO: While the butter is still edible, it is not advisable to have a munch, a historian said. (Cavan County Museum). What weighs 10 kilograms, smells like cheese, is up to 2,000 years old and “still edible”? Answer, a ball of butter. The large lump of butter was unearthed from a peat bog in Ireland by turf cutter Jack Conway while he was working near his home in Emlagh Bog, County Meath.

And again from Cork…

A “super pod” of dolphins, an extremely rare sighting, was spotted off the coast of Baltimore, County Cork, in May 2014.

Richard O’Flynn managed to record on video the amazing natural phenomenon.

O’Flynn and his family followed the dolphins throughout the afternoon, from Baltimore Harbour to Cape Clear Island.

Where are USA Scots/ Irish gone?

The 2013 USA census survey showed 3 million Americans with Scots Irish

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ancestry in 2013. That’s way down from 5.4 million in the 2006 census. It is not clear what caused the drop, but it does seem that Scots Irish ancestry is far less valued than it used to be or people are just referring to Irish ancestry if the census figures are correct. In 2013, 33 million Americans were of Irish descent according to the latest figures. The combined total is 36 million of Irish extraction if you include the 3 million Scots Irish.

Rush for Irish Passports

The Irish government has been forced to hire 200 extra workers in its passport office as British citizens, worried about the UK departing the European Union, seek Irish passports in record numbers. Irish Foreign Minister Charlie Flanagan said on Monday there has been a huge renewed interest in Irish citizenship this year. He said: “We’ve had an unprecedented level of applications. We’ve had in excess of 200 new staff on a temporary basis in our passport office.”

And speaking of Irish Passports…

Ireland’s Department of Foreign Affairs has expressed its concern with regards to the “significant and increasingly sophisticated” threat of Irish passport fraud. In briefing notes, seen by the Irish Times, Minister Charlie Flanagan has warned of the urgent need for changes to the passport application system, which is currently paper-based. The department has called the current system inadequate and said it fails to deal with the increase in demand.

Irish dancing a big hit among middle-aged Chinese Although their fellow competitors may be a few decades younger, the spirit of China’s latest up and coming dancing troupe keep them quick on their feet.

The Rainbow Troupe is made up of eight middle-aged Beijing residents who lined up for their first Irish dance competition this month in the Chinese capital Hong Kong. “I am in pretty good shape for a 50-year-old because there are endless health benefits to Irish dance,” said Wang Weidong, who has a busy lifestyle advising clients who wanting to invest in global stock markets. It’s a case of Well Dong Wang!

The origins of Murphy’s Law?

It comes from an unlikely source. In 1948 and 1949, tests to see how humans could tolerate G forces on impact and while flying at high speeds were being carried out at Edwards Air Force base in the Mojave Desert, in California. Dr. John Stapp, a U.S. Air Force colonel and Flight Surgeon in the 1950s, was in charge. Research and Development chief Edward Aloysius Murphy, a New Jersey native and decorated World War II pilot, was also involved in the highly complex testing phase. A key sensor was installed completely backwards, allegedly

by Murphy, who never checked it before it was made operational. As a result the test went utterly haywire much to the embarrassment of everyone concerned.

Stapp used the term “Murphy’s Law” in a subsequent press conference saying the incident had taught them to assume whatever could go wrong would and to plan for it.

Why is Diarmuid MacMurrough hated?

He invited the English to Ireland in 1169 after losing his throne as King of Leinster. King Henry II took him up on it and the Irish have been trying to get rid of the British ever since.

Do Leprechauns exist?

One third of Irish people believe that leprechauns exist, according to a survey conducted by Cooley Distillery. Over half of respondents said they believe that leprechauns existed in Ireland in the past.

Leprechauns are small, smart and devious little characters, usually dressed from head to toe in green and with ginger hair and a ginger beard. They date back to Irish mythology and were described by many as “wee folk.” Bearing testament to this fact, leprechauns are protected under EU law thanks to the people of Carlingford, Co. Louth.

Liam Neeson: The greatest of them all, Muhammad Ali As a promising amateur boxer in his native Northern Ireland Liam Neeson was fascinated and star struck by the late

Muhammad Ali who was just coming to prominence in the early sixties, Neeson says he remained so all his life. “He was my hero from when I was a young amateur boxer, and schoolboy, back in Ireland. I’ll never forget hearing that he had beaten the unbeatable Sonny Liston. It was 1964 and it was a cold wet February in Ballymena. What’s more, genealogist Antoinette O’Brien discovered that one of Ali’s great-grandfathers emigrated to the United States from County Clare, meaning that the three-time heavyweight world champion joins the likes of President Obama as prominent African-Americans with Irish heritage.

Maureens O’Hara’s daughter found dead Hollywood actress Maureen O’Hara’s only daughter has been found dead in a property owned by the family at Glengarriff, Co Cork. Bronwyn Fitzsimons (71) was Mrs O’Hara’s daughter with American film director William Houston Price. Ms Fitzsimons was staying in the family home in Glengarriff.

No Bull!

Brazilian bull causes more damage than Mayo’s celebrity shop crasher Scenes in a São José do Rio Preto, Brazil clothing shop were reminiscent of Ballinrobe, County Mayo’s SuperValu supermarket in 2009. In Brazil, a runaway bull found its way into a clothing store in 2011. The bull had escaped after a serious accident on the highway nearby.

After an hour in the shop the bull escaped by ramming through the window display.

A similar situation arose in County Mayo in 2009.

Locals flee from angry otter in Tulla County Clare It was back in 2011 but it’s still a great story! An Otter put the wild into wildlife in County Clare village Tulla when locals tried to help it return to the waters. It had been found shuffling up the main street of

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Tulla with its head stuck in a bag of Tayto crisps. The resourceful animal then made a dash for freedom half a mile back towards Tulla, before a Mr Burke was able to catch it under a traffic cone.

President’s House for Sale Ireland’s first female President Mary Robinson has put her west of Ireland estate up for sale. Quoted at a price of $3.1 million, the 113-acre Massbrook House in Co. Mayo enjoys almost a mile of lakeshore frontage along the beautiful shores of Lough Conn, looking back on to a stunning mountainous backdrop. Robinson was the seventh person to serve as President of Ireland and the country’s first female President, holding office from 1990 to 1997. She was also the first President not to have had the support of Fianna Fáil. Robinson instead stood as an Independent candidate nominated by the Labour Party, the Workers’ Party and independent senators after rising to prominence as an academic, barrister, campaigner and member of the Irish Senate. It is described as a late Victorian house and was the seat of the Walsh family. In the early 1990s Mrs Robinson purchased the house from previously owned by Denis Ferranti.

Facebook posting cost lots for Monaghan man!

An Irishman has been ordered to pay €75,000 in damages for defamatory Facebook postings.

The man was ordered by the Monaghan Circuit Court to pay damages after he posted comments on the social media platform about the National Director of the National Association of Regional Game Councils.

The Irish Times reports that Desmond Crofton, 63, from Stonestown, County Offaly, took the civil action against John Gilsenan, from Castleblayney, County Monaghan, in relation to a Facebook comment posted on or about December 22, 2015. Beware of your Facebook comments I say!

Peter Murphy at one with nature!

Undermining Your Rights

BY Peter Murphy There’s been much kerfuffle lately in the media about ‘fracking’.

Only the other day when shopping in Bunbury I ran into a group of elderly ladies who refer to themselves as the ‘Knitting Nanas’.

They were manning an information stall warning landowners of the perils in allowing ‘coal seam gas’ companies to ‘frack’ for gas on their land.

‘Sign our petition!’ shouted one.

‘A donation for one of our beaut signs!’ shouted another.

When I did hand over my small donation for their beaut canaryyellow triangular sign - which incidentally read: “Lock the Gate to Coal and Gas Companies” - from experience I couldn’t but help notice how their sign could do with some minor refining.

It was during the late 80s, when on my way home to our bush block near Donnybrook, I came across the gate (normally closed) to our property wide open. Half way up our driveway, I discovered a 4 wheel drive Toyota utility blocking my path - while in the near distance I could hear the roar of a chainsaw coming from a creek-bed adjacent to the driveway. On further investigating, I came across a couple of blokes in hard hats merrily clearing bush in the creek-bed.

Hey! What the f... do you think youse are doing!! I yelled, while at the same time waving my arms wildly in the air.

Startled, they both stopped what they were doing and stared up at me from the creek-bed as if they’d just seen a ghost.

‘You’re on private property and I demand to know what the hell youse are doing here!!’ I yelled at the top of my voice.

‘We’ve got a licence to prospect for minerals here!’ yelled back the bloke holding the shovel.

‘What!!’ I yelled over sound of the idling chainsaw.

‘Yeah that’s right... You would have received a letter some weeks back saying we intended to carry out exploration on your land for minerals. However we never heard back from you...and when we don’t hear back from landowners; then we presume we’ve got permission to carry out the work!’ yelled the bloke holding the now silent chainsaw.

‘You have two minutes to pack up your things and get off the property before I call the police!’

‘You can’t just kick us out just like that!!’ yelled the bloke holding the shovel.

‘This is private property and you’re trespassing, and not only are you trespassing, you’re also damaging the bush!’

‘No worries we’ll be on our way... but you’ll be hearing from our company’s lawyer!’ yelled the bloke holding the chainsaw.

‘And what company might that be! ’ ‘Southern Goldfields!’

After they’d left, I surveyed the damage to the bushland and creekbed, and sure enough, down were some peppermint trees, a couple of holes had been dug in the creek-bed and a huge chunk had been taken out of a large jarrah tree, I suspect to help them get survey bearings.

On reaching our house, I explained to my partner Sallie what had just occurred. We were both very disturbed: how someone could just walk onto your land without permission and dig holes in a creek-bed and chop down the bush.

Then there was the threat we’d be

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hearing from a lawyer.

And sure enough, about a month after the incident we received a card from our local post office alerting us there was a registered letter waiting to sign for. It was from Mineral House (Perth), stating they had received a complaint from Southern Goldfields how we as landowners had prevented their employees from going about their lawful business on our land, and that we would have to appear before the Wardens Court (Mineral House, Perth) to explain the reason why.

We just couldn’t believe what we were reading: being summoned to appear in court for defending what we believed was our right to protect our land.

I was aware that Donnybrook in the late 1800s had been the centre of a mini-gold-rush with over 1000 ounces of gold discovered. However, by the early 1900s any gold left in the ground was mostly in tailings and hardly worth the expense and effort in setting up a serious mining venture. This however, would all change in the early 1980s when the price of gold began to go through the roof prompting a flurry of junior mining companies to descend on the Shire of Donnybrook in hope of making a killing from old tailings, disused mine shafts and whatever else they could lay their hands on.

Panicked, we began to explore our rights to see if we could defend ourselves and our land without having to pay a solicitor versed in

such things truckloads of money.

And Sallie (who is excellent at research) began to examine what rights we had as landowners should a mining company come knocking on our gate. However, according to her research it was squat, as under The Mining Act 1978 all cards appeared to be stacked against us, while all aces were in favour of the junior miner.

This would leave us with three possible scenarios: 1: Purchase a mining lease and become a miner on our own land; however, we must show yearly capital and expenditure for our venture (at that time around $25,000pa).

2: Allow the miner to prospect on our land for minerals and, should enough samples be found to make mining viable; the miner could apply for a mining lease and had an obligation to pay us compensation for any damage done to our land.

3: Should we refuse the miner’s offer of compensation, the miner then had the option to buy us out by offering us up to two and half times what our land was supposedly worth according to shire rates.

However, should we decide to dig our heels in and ignore the above 3 scenarios, the miner could then go running to the state government crying foul, which could (on behalf of the miner) begin proceedings to acquire our land.

In the meantime, we’d found out that our next door neighbour had given the miner permission to prospect for minerals on their land, and should a viable gold deposit be found; there was nothing we could do to prevent the miner from tunnelling beneath our land (to a depth of 30m). The cards it seems

were truly stacked against us.

Not to be intimidated we soldiered on while looking closely at the Mining Act for clauses, amendments or any loophole that may help stave off this ‘mining madness’. In the meantime Sallie as part of her research - paid a visit to the Battye Library (Perth) in the hope of finding a case similar to ours to use as part of our defence.

And it wasn’t too long before Sallie’s file began to resemble that of a phone book. Then one evening, when browsing over her notes, she became excited.

‘Didn’t you say you came across those two blokes in the creek bed?’

‘Yes.’ ‘Well it seems there is a clause in the Mining Act that states: should a mining activity interfere with a landowner’s water supply, then this could have bearing on whether the company could obtain a mining lease.’

Sure enough, it had been the creek bed where I’d come across the two mining blokes. This was the very same creek where we did source our water. Incidentally, I had taken photographs of the holes dug in the creek bed including damage done to the bush. Here we thought was an outside chance: if we could prove (in court) that mining activities in that particular creekbed was to interfere with our water supply.

Court Day I remember the day clearly: sitting on the pew-like hard wooden bench at the Wardens Court waiting to be called before the judicator, the Warden. From memory he didn’t look anything like a judge you’d expect to see in a court of law adorned with wig and gown; for he wore a shabby suit that didn’t seem to fit over a plain shirt and tie.

First up was the mining company’s representative who told the Warden what had occurred that day: how the company’s employees had been abruptly ordered off the land and how his client had supposedly sent us a letter seeking permission to carry out prospecting on our land.

‘Do you have a copy of that letter?’ asked the Warden to the miner’s rep?

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‘I’m sure there’s one here somewhere...’ replied the rep as he fumbled through his iceberg-size stack of notes.

‘I can make sure you receive a copy, Sir.’ ‘Never mind,’ replied the unimpressed Warden.

The miner’s rep then recited the Mining Act: reminding the half a dozen people in the courtroom on how the Act was clear as to whom rightly owned the minerals beneath the ground, and on how those holding a Prospecting License had every right to go about their lawful business unhindered.

It was then our turn. I began by explaining to the Warden how we had never received a letter from the miner seeking permission to carry out prospecting on our land. I then went on to explain how I’d come across the miner’s two employees on our land; in a creek bed digging holes; clearing the bush. I then (through a clerk) handed him photographs clearly showing the holes dug in the creek bed and damage to the bush.

‘For what reason did you see fit to order the men off your property, Mr. Murphy?’ asked the Warden.

‘The creek where the men were prospecting happens to be where we source our water.’ I simply responded.

It was all over within a half an hour: two months of angst, countless hours of research including inconvenient travel to Perth; all of which had taken its toll on us.

Then more angst: we would have to wait on the Warden’s decision which could take up to a month.

On the way home from the city my mind like a wily wily swirled.

What if we were to lose I thought; what then would become of the land including all the orphaned wildlife we had cared for over the years?

Never once did we see ourselves as owners of the land, just custodians.

And what about Sallie and me; where else in the world would we ever find another paradise which to live?

The wait for a decision I recall was excruciating. In the meantime, Sallie continued on with her research in case we lost our case

and had to lodge an appeal.

It must have been about six weeks after we’d been to court when one day on my way home I checked our letter box, and there it was: a windowed envelope addressed to us with the Mineral House insignia on it. I didn’t have the heart to open it without Sallie being there. And with my heart almost bursting through my chest, I came thundering through the front door waving the envelope in my hand, while yelling, ‘It’s the decision from the Warden’s Court!’

Sallie’s research it seemed had paid off: the Warden (bless his heart) had decided the case in our favour, all because we used the creek for our water supply and the mining company had already (without permission) caused damage in the creek bed. The mining company (according to the letter) now had four weeks to appeal the Warden’s decision.

We deservedly celebrated our win. However, in the back of our minds there was still the possibility the miner may appeal. Then there was the additional concern minerals

might be found on our next door neighbour’s land; this wouldn’t stop the miner from drilling beneath ours. Meanwhile, the price of gold began to plummet and it wasn’t long before most of the junior miners went bust. We never heard back from Southern Goldfields again.

Fast forward 30 years and the miners are again knocking on doors. Only this time, they’re not prospecting for gold, but for coal seam gas and bauxite. Also too in their favour is Colin Barnett’s attempt to amend the Criminal Code Act, which could see those intending to ‘lock their gate’ face up to two years jail and fined $25000.

Now back to the ‘Knitting Nanas’.

We suggest you add to your beaut canary triangular sign: Lock the Gate to all Mining Companies. For more information: wwwlockthegate.org. au Peter Murphy, a Dubliner, lives just outside Donnybrook in WA and is a member of the John Boyle O’Reilly Association Inc (Bunbury) and a regular contributor to the Irish Scene.

DEVASTATION

by William Worthless

Worlds in devastation floods and hurricanes Rainfall far to much filling up the drains People going fracking digging up the sea Why cant they just go home and let nature be Culling all the badgers, wildlfe in distress Worlds in devastation causing such a mess Global warming changing polluting all the air No body seems to know whats going on out there.

Nature it is changing getting worse each day The world has changed so much and gone the other way

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Goodbye Mick 1944 - 2016

I received an email from Jimmy Rogers, living in Rosslare Harbour, Wexford these days, on the passing of our good friend, Mick McAuley.... Jimmy said:

“Sad news of another old trouper on the Rocky Road to Dublin has left us. I remember the night in Mulligan’s when Mick was introduced as new singer with the Quarefellas, he could belt out a good rhythm on his lagerphone. Please give him a great send off Fred. And tell him, farewell until we meet again down by your Liffey waters”. And so say all of us Jimmy.

Mulligan’s in Milligan Street was the place for the Irish Craic in the early 70’s. Alannah McTiernan speaks of happy days there, singing all those rebel songs during her University days.

Lyn Barry wife of the late Liam Barry tells me it’s where she met Liam. I wonder how many others have fond memories of that time? Friendships started at that time have endured!

I joined the Quarefellas when they had moved to the Railway Hotel in Beaufort Street and from there we went to George Sassala’s Alberts Tavern. The front man was Mick and could he get the crown going. Happy days indeed and as the song goes, “We thought they’d never end!” It was more than a band for me, it was a family I joined and they made me feel at home. As many migrants would know, being so far away from friends and family can be tough and it was good to have people like Mick around to make one feel a little better.

We said goodby to my old friend on Friday 10th June at Karrakatta Cemetery. Jimmy, we did give him a great send-off and we will all miss him!

Mick passed away peacefully on Wednesday 1st June 2016 aged 72. He was husband to Linda (dec) and Father-in-law to Steve (dec). To Brenda, Daniel, Megan and grandkids Erin, Bindi and Troy please accept our deepest condolences.

Mick, you were a great mate and proud member of the Irish community.

On a visit to Ireland I went to visit his mother and his family did likewise on his trip home.

Slan abhaile a Chara Fred Rea

New book from Lawrence Clarke Lawrence Clarke has a new novel ‘ASHER’ out and is available from a UK publisher, Feed-A-Read, as are five others of his books.

This book can be ordered directly from the site www.feedaread.com and costs approx. $14.00. If you wish to order the book, type Lawrence Clarke in the search box, (not the name of the novel).

Book Synopsis...

The life and times of Asher Witham. Born to poor parents in a hillside cottage above the city of Belfast. At an early age, his father, Samuel, recognised the boy’s special, artistic talent, as does the head of Harland and Wolff Ship Builders. The two men set about nurturing the talent.

Asher, possessing little education, is introduced to the upper crust of Belfast society and eventually becomes a successful portrait painter.

Tempering his success, along his path through life he encounters bigotry, love, heartbreak, disappointment and serious, personal injury.

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The Federal Election is just over so this might explain how the system works....

POLITICS AT ITS FINEST

A very simple way to explain how politics works....

I told my son “I want you to marry a girl of my choice!

He said “NO!” I told him it’s Bill Gates daughter!!!!

He said “OKAY!” Got in contact with Bill Gates and told him “I want your daughter to marry my son!”

He said “NO!” Told him my son was the CEO of the World Bank!

He said “OKAY!” Went to the President of the World Bank and told him to make my son CEO of the Bank!

He said “NO!” Told him my son was Bill Gates son-in-Law! He said “OKAY!” That’s exactly how Politics works…..

Meath Melody maker much more to say and sing by Paula Xiberras

From Tasmania with Paula Xiberras

Mister-meaner!

by Paula Xiberras Mister Thomas Campbell will return to Tasmania to play at the Theatre Royal as the cast, yes, you read that right, of the Enda Walsh’s Irish drama ‘Misterman’.

Thomas grew up in Tassie, attending Lansdowne Primary School, Taroona High and Rosny College.

For Thomas a love of acting began at Taroona High the ‘feeder’ school for Hobart College. However, Thomas discovered that Rosny College offered ‘a gifted and talented program’ with a strong drama component, so it was here he applied when finishing high school.

Through his TCE drama course Thomas acted in a number of school plays including a production of My Fair Lady in 1999 for The Gilbert and Sullivan Society in Tasmania. When school was over Thomas headed to NIDA. This experience gave Thomas experience in classic techniques of movement, a high percentage of Shakespeare, classical theatre and screen techniques.

The movement technique is very important in Misterman, a play in which Thomas describes as ‘an energy fuelled 75 minutes’ of himself as the coincidently named Thomas, playing a number of characters that he captured on a particular day through a variety of recording equipment.

Thomas says the director has honoured playwright Enda Walsh vision of the ‘dissection of a small town community’ in the also aptly named Innishfree in which the main character Thomas’s religious zealotry ensures is not so free, as he offers his views and recommendations for the various transgressions of the town’s people including alcoholism and profane language, while at the same time not seeing that he himself exhibits some of the most unsavoury human behaviour.

Thomas the actor achieves an amazing feat or should that be ‘feet’ in playing all the characters, including men, women, a dog and an angel!

Misterman appeared at the Theatre Royal Backstage Theatre in June.

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Its late night Irish time when I ring Irish musician Nigel Connell for a chat. He’s just returning from a night at the cinema seeing ‘Deadpool’, the superhero spoof. Nigel is somewhat of a superhero himself demonstrated in his running of marathons, usually for charitable causes, and his music supporting issues such as suicide prevention and neurological disorders in children.

Nigel hails from Meath, the ancient home of Ireland’s high kings, appropriate for this ruler of rhythm!

The songwriter and performer manages to juggle his marathon running with his eclectic work as a musician.

To most people in Australia (apart from his cousins in Canberra and Brisbane) Nigel was probably best known as the drummer in Daniel O’Donnell’s band but Nigel also works in Ireland as a wedding singer and in his own Pearl Jam tribute band called ‘Pearl Gem’.

Nigel always had a keen interest in exploring every city he visited when on tour with Daniel, including Tasmania, and for that reason he has become well known to many of us here. More than a visiting performer we can happily call the affable Irishman a friend. Not feeling the necessity to change his routine when on tour. Nigel continues his marathon running, wherever he might be, when he’s in Hobart, he utilises the streets of Sandy Bay. Not content with just knowing our roadways Nigel is also familiar with many businesses along the way.

The last time he was in Hobart he even had time to pop in to the local village cinema to catch a movie! With his wife of German heritage it means Nigel has an appreciation of German cuisine, especially bakery items, so when he’s in Hobart he lists the Brezel Backerei at Sandy Bay as one of his favourite eateries! Ironically even before he made his first visit to Tasmania Nigel already had a friend who had spent time here doing agricultural work and suggested to him Tasmania would be a place he felt at home!

This year Nigel added another string to his already seriously stretched bow as he participated in ‘The Voice Ireland’. Nigel thought it was time to extend himself even further by doing something different that would benefit his own musical journey, Nigel knows all musicians/performers crave the widespread exposure such programs as ‘The Voice Ireland’ grant. Indeed, Nigel’s experience of ‘The Voice’ has created a buzz with offers

of interviews from a number of Irish papers including ‘The Independent’, ‘The Sun’ and ‘The Daily Mirror’.

Nigel tells me ‘The Voice’ has showcased him to a wider audience and he is enjoying new popularity with his 16 year old niece who thinks her uncle is ‘great’ and ‘cool’.

Nigel’s album is called ‘Nothing more to say’ but in this instance Nigel has just began, with much more to say and sing.

Learn more about Nigel and his music here http://nigelconnell.com/

Tuneful Tony and Mick Foster-ing tradition

By Paula Xiberras Last week I had the pleasure of talking to one half of Irish singing duo Foster and Allen, the lovely Tony Allen. Tony tells me the duo and their group love Tasmania and adds the venues, including the casino in Hobart are beautiful, not to mention the wonderful audiences.

Tasmania reminds Tony very much of Ireland, especially the friendliness of the people.

To top off the connection to Tasmania is the fact that their tour manager, Michael Hayes, is a Tasmanian!

Mick Foster and Tony Allen are legends in the music industry and unique in creating a bridge between easy listening music and Irish music performed with traditional instruments.

Mick and Tony always employ a rigorous schedule when touring, in this particular five week tour they will perform 29 shows all over Australia. This touring also means there won’t be a lot of sightseeing except of course of the incidental kind while driving in blocks of two or two and half hours from venue to venue. When they do get the opportunity to stop in smaller villages they like visiting various eateries

and meeting the locals.

That’s the easy part of the tour because when the boys do arrive at the venue there is the problem of choosing from a list of song titles from over 30 albums and 13 videos of which to perform! I ask Tony about the group’s favourites from this extensive list, wondering if it might be one of their two most known signature songs, ‘A Bunch of Thyme’ and ‘Maggie’.

Tony, while acknowledging these songs as well as another favourite ‘Black Sheep’, tells me that one of the most requested songs is ‘I will love you all my life’ because it is a favourite of so many, performed for birthdays and anniversaries.

As well as making sure all the favourite songs, which number about 12, are covered Tony says they do some ‘expectations’ as well as ‘a few nice tracks’ off the newest album.

Always keen to evolve and extend their reach, Foster and Allen have done a duet of ‘Galway Girl’ with Shayne Ward (winner of second series of X Factor UK) and sang with British TV personality Gloria Hunniford. Most recently on the new album the duo have done some jamming with those other traditional Irish musicians The Chieftains and Mick has had the honour of performing a duet of his fathers with Jimmy Shand Junior.

Tony himself is a lover of all

For the Seniors….

kinds of music including The Beatles, Elvis and country music and have covered songs from The Beatles and Dire Straits among others.

He doesn’t believe in putting music into genres and uses the analogy of someone who loves Gaelic football but also loves golf and horse racing.

They all come under the umbrella of sport and he doesn’t believe anyone needs to choose one favourite, similarly a person can love more than one type of music.

Tony always loved music from the time he was at national school and to the time he worked at the hardware store. In a family of nine kids who all played and sang including his brother, who performs under the name of T. R. Dallas and was ‘the brave one’ who wasn’t afraid to get up and sing. Ironically on the morning we speak Tony said he had a call from T. R. Dallas who didn’t realise his brother was in Australia, himself being in New York working on one of the entertainment cruises.

Like his brother Tony still loves travelling and says he can’t understand how some entertainers bemoan the travelling aspect of the business. That being said it looks like we are set to enjoy the combined talents of Foster and Allen and their merry band for many years to come. They have just completed their 20th Australian tour.

A dear old lady goes to the bar in Waterford and orders a Powers whiskey with two drops of water. As the bartender gives her the drink she says “I’m celebrating my 80th birthday and it’s today”.

The bartender says “Well, since it’s your birthday, I’ll buy you the drink, it’s on me!” As the woman finishes her drink, the woman to her right says “I would like to buy you a drink, too”.

“Thank you” says the old woman. “Bartender, I want a Powers with two drops of water”. “Coming up”, says the bartender. As she finishes that drink, a man to her left says, “I would like to buy you one, too mam”. The old woman says thank you. “Bartender, I want another Powers with two drops of water”. “Coming right up” the bartender says. As he gives her the drink, he says: “Missus, I’m dying of curiosity, why the Powers with only two drops of water?” The old woman replies, “Sonny, when you’re my age, you’ve learned how to hold your liquor... Holding your water, however, is a whole other issue”.

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WAGS Western Australian Genealogical Society Inc. How Irish Are You?

Many readers will answer this question quickly - 100 per cent!

But what if you were not born in Ireland? Can you still feel Irish? Maybe your parents were born there, so you feel Irish (and Australian).

What if your parents were not born in Ireland either, but you know from your family that there’s an Irish connection? Just how Irish are you?

This diagram is aimed at helping you work out just how Irish you might be, based on how many Irish born ancestors you have. This is not a scientific estimate, just a back of the envelope method, based on birthplace. It has nothing at all with DNA. If you were adopted you could apply it to either your adoptive parents’ ancestry or - if you know it - your birth parents’ ancestry.

And we all know that birthplace isn’t everything.

You might have been born at sea, but that doesn’t make you a fish.

Back to the guestimate of your Irishness. Each generation we go back, the number of ancestors at that generation doubles. I am one person, but I come from two parents, from four grandparents, from eight great grandparents, and so on.

We have 64 great great great great grandparents, sometimes written as great X 4 grandparents. That’s true unless some were cousins married to cousins, and then the number would be less than 64 since cousins have at least two common ancestors. So, lots of people of people who lived before you contributed to who you are, not only to your DNA. Some of us who have been researching our ancestors for a long while, can put at least a name to most of our 32 great X 3 grandparents. I can tell you something about 27 of mine (and nothing at all about others).

So to apply this “Irish by birthplace” method of estimating your Irishness, go to the generation of your ancestors where you know something about each of your “greats”. Go back as far as you can, as long as you are pretty sure of the birthplace of all your “greats” at that generation. Maybe you can only go back to your grandparents; each of them contributed 25% to you. By this method, if one of them was born in Ireland, then you would be one quarter Irish. If three of them were Irish, then you’d be 75% Irish.

If you know the birthplace of the parents of all four

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grandparents, then you would count 12.5% for each great grandparent born in Ireland.

Perhaps an example would be clearer. Not one of my eight great grandparents was born in Ireland. Many Western Australians who consider themselves part Irish might say something similar.

But two of my 16 great great grandparents have Irish ancestry. One great X 2 grandmother, on my mother’s side, Ann Nester, was born in Ireland and migrated to South Australia in 1854. And another - on my father’s side - Alicia Kirby, was born in Liverpool, England in 1836 to Irish-born parents. If the name Kirby doesn’t sound too Irish, it’s the English equivalent of the Gaelic name Ó Garmhaic.

The Kirby family, with three young boys, had migrated from Dublin a couple of years before Alicia was born, joining the thousands of Irish already living in the north of England and Scotland. Their families had been in Ireland since at least the 1700s, as far as I’ve been able to discover. The Kirby family left Ireland well before the potato blight hit, sending thousands and thousands more. In 1847 at the height of the Great Famine 300,000 starving Irish arrived in Liverpool!

Alicia Kirby never lived in Australia though she did visit. She travelled around the world as the wife of a sea captain. They called in to Australian ports a number of times in the 1860s. Their first three children were born at sea - off the coast of Mauritius, off Indonesia and off South Africa.

But I’m in no doubt Alicia would have considered herself Irish.

So I count two great X 2 grandmothers as Irish.

While the generation of great X 2 grandparents is off the chart to the right, it’s easy to calculate the contribution of each. It would be half 12.5%, or 6.25%. So each of my Irish great X 2 grandmothers contributed 6.25% towards the making of me. By my calculation that would make me 12.5%, or one eighth, Irish.

So how Irish are you? When we did this exercise at an Irish Special Interest Group meeting a while back a few people said this method did not work for them, because different generations moved between England, Scotland and Ireland. But can it work for you?

IRISH SPECIAL INTEREST GROUP MEETINGS On 17 July July Anne Walsh will present her deferred talk about the Easter Rising and after the meeting we’ll spend some time working on our own family history research using the WA genealogical Society’s resources, such as the Ancestry and FindMyPast subscription sites, and books in the library. Some will work on the county research guides. Four have already been completed.

On 25 July we will again hold our Four Courts Memorial Lunch, this time at an Irish pub in the CBD, commemorating the (sadly) lost genealogical records.

Last meeting for the year will be on Sunday 16 October at 2pm at the WA Genealogical Society, 48

•

May Street, Bayswater. More information on the WAGS webpage under Events. Visitors and new members always welcome. Gold coin donation for afternoon tea.

MARY ANN TAYLOR TRAVEL BOX Elsewhere in Irish Scene there will be plenty of coverage of the Irish Famine Commemoration in York over the weekend 7-8 May. The Irish Special Interest Group was represented in York too. The replica garments made by Irish SIG members for the Mary Ann Taylor travel box were sent to York, blessed in St Patrick’s in the morning of Sunday 8 May and then displayed in the new exhibition at the York Residency Museum. We were excited and proud to be able to contribute to this interesting display. Do drop by the Irish Orphan’s Odyssey display at the museum in York and see their skilful handiwork. Opening hours on the website listed below.

(May I take this opportunity to thank you sincerely for your contribution to the Mary Ann Taylor and Famine Commemoration event in York, Go Raibh Mile Maith Agat! Fred Rea)

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Irish SIG webpage see http://membership.wags.org.au Online Forum http://membership.wags.org.au/forum/irish-sig (free registration, open to anyone) Reference www.irish-genealogy-toolkit.com/Irish-immigration-to-England.html www.surnamedb.com/Surname/Kirby www.york.wa.gov.au/york-museum-home.aspx

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83

Around the Irish scene Compiled by Fred Rea

(L-R): Patrick (Paddy) Cannon, Ann McVeigh, Mary Mogridge, Susy Vaughan, Dennis McNerney, Doug McGlade, Teresa Phillips, Mike Carrol and Errol Gough.

In May I was invited by Paddy Cannon to visit and entertain at Tuart Place in Fremantle. The governing body of Tuart Place is Forgotten Australians Coming Together Inc. FACT is WA’s representative body for people who were in out-of-home care during childhood, including former child migrants from Ireland, UK and Malta, and Indigenous and PJ Malone and his mates enjoying a pint at the Bailey non-Indigenous Australian-born care leavers.

During his visit for the Famine event in York, Mark O’Brien dropped in on Henry McLaughlin who kindly gave Mark an Irish Oil painting as a gift!

Pete St John and Michael Blanch remember the Famine (An Gorta Mor) victims in Dublin at the annual commemoration

Irish Club Seniors enjoying their monthly get together at The Irish Club. With a few tunes from John O’Connor of course who recently celebrated his 80th Birthday!

BEST OF MATES! Perth men and old mates Bob O’Connor, left, and Ciaran Ahern - both originally from Limerick - went to Canberra earlier this year for the Anzac commemorations and to catch up with Bob’s son, Robert (who took this photo). As well as paying their respects on April 25, they enjoyed the sights of the national capital and tucked into a few decent meals, including in Irish bar, King O’Malleys.

Interestingly, the National Memorial to the Australian Army [inset] in Anzac Parade, Canberra is the handiwork of Perth based Irish sculptors and husband and wife team Charlie and Joan Smith. The couple won a national competition in 1988 (for the 200th anniversary of European settlement in Australia) to design and create a memorial dedicated to all the “Diggers”. The two 4.5 metre high bronze uniformed figures represent the mateship Australian troops pride themselves on while the rest of the monument seven cylindrical pillars and 36 panels - documents the history of the Australian Army.

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Proud grandparents Ann and Keith Saunders celebrate a birthday with their grandkids!

Bruce & Denise, parents of Daniel Morcombe, and friends of mine on Facebook, enjoying a pint of the black stuff and spending time in Ireland.

Message from Sean Daly President of the Irish Club of Western Australia

Who is this supporting Ireland at the Euros?

IRISH CLUB AGM...

JOIN NOW AND BE PART OF THE DECISION MAKING! Two old friends from the Irish Showband era Sonny Knowles (Pacific) and Jim Harte (Miami) met up in Dublin recently. Jim lives in Mandurah and was visiting. Below is a pic of Jim with the late Cilla Black taken not that long ago!

The Kanes, Betty, Martin and Carmel, visiting from Dublin enjoy a get together!

Sean McDonagh enjoying farewell drinks with his mates prior to heading to Ireland for a very special visit!

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The Annual General Meeting of the Irish Club will be held at 3.00pm on Sunday 21 August 2016. This will mark the end of a busy year for the current committee. As detailed in previous reports, much has been achieved this year in terms of changes to how we operate and bringing some stability to the Club finances, but there will still be a huge task in front of the incoming committee to steer the Club forwards. With ageing premises and declining membership, hard decisions may need to be taken. The Club will only remain viable if the expressed ongoing support from the wider Irish community translates into increased membership and turnover. Annual membership is from 1 July to 30 June, so now is the time to renew or join. Details are on our website and forms are available at the bar.

I urge members to attend the AGM next month and to consider nominating for the committee. After four years on the management committee, I will be stepping down, but will be on hand to assist with the handover to a new committee with a new president. I firmly believe in the value of the Irish Club and will, of course, remain a staunch member.

As this will be my last report as President, I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge and thank this year’s committee as well as all the people throughout the Irish community who have supported our efforts to make improvements to the operations of the Club, and I wish the incoming committee well for 2016-2017 and beyond.

Sean Daly

SEARCHING FOR JOHN BOYLE O’REILLY

This piece is a reflection on the process of preparing a talk on John Boyle O’Reilly. The talk itself may be found in the July edition of the Australian-Irish Heritage Association Journal.

Many thanks to Mr Fred Rea for inviting me to engage in this reflection.

As a year three student in country New South Wales I was familiar with stories of ‘the Irish’. An avid reader with a father who loved to tell stories and delighted in their embellishment, I thought I knew all about them. There was Peter Lalor waving a flag for Australian independence on the goldfields of Ballarat at the Eureka Stockade.

Then there were our bushranger heroes: Bold Jack Donohoe, Captain Thunderbolt (alias Frederick Ward), Brave Ben Hall and of course, Ned Kelly and his gang.

Mysteriously, all were either Irish or Irish-Australian. By the age of thirteen we’d all read Moondyne; it was on the school syllabus. I well remember our singing lessons and the song book containing the lyrics of ‘The Catalpa’, upon which was superimposed a ghostly image of a ship on a rough sea beneath a clear blue sky. We belted out the chorus:

Then here’s to Brave John Boyle O’Reilly, Who first blazed a trail o’er the sea, By escaping from Bunbury to Boston, And vowing his comrades to free.

I don’t know why I remember this but I do. And it matters.

Recently, I was invited to give a talk on J.B. O’Reilly at the Fremantle Heritage Festival and I jumped at the opportunity. Since my ‘migration’ to Perth many years ago I had become more familiar with the Catalpa story and the folk hero status now accorded to O’Reilly. I had included snippets of his work – a poem or two – in the course on Irish Literature I teach at a local university. Yet there was something missing. I have since realised that it was a sense of the core of the man, the heart if you will. So this is part of my story of the search for J.B. O’Reilly.

Context is paramount if we are to understand any narrative. I would have liked to begin my research in Drogheda, the place of his birth. As it

Professor Chris Wortham, Trish Bratton, Denis Bratton and Dr Angeline O’Neill

was, I immersed myself in books by O’Reilly and about him. It wasn’t long before I found myself stepping into the texts and observing from a safe distance. I watched as he joined the Fenians, was arrested for ‘seditious behaviour’, sentenced to death and finally transported to Fremantle.

There was O’Reilly’s fellow Fenian John Devoy; the prisoners on board the convict transport Hougoumont; the Convict Establishment; the real Moondyne Joe; Fr Patrick McCabe helping engineer O’Reilly’s daring escape aboard the Gazelle; James Wilson, John Breslin, Captain Anthony and many more who contributed to the Catalpa’s success and the escape of the Fremantle Six… and the adventures continued, always underpinned by O’Reilly’s engagement with issues of social justice. Throughout this time he wrote and wrote. There were letters and poems, and later editorials, novels and lectures. Each was a piece of his own story, as well as contributing to the larger narrative of Irish nationalism.

In the year when we commemorate the 1916 Easter Rising O’Reilly’s ideals and actions are a powerful statement on the contribution individuals might make to the lives of future generations. It seems to me that his writings are themselves actions foreshadowing the narratives of the

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Rising, as performed and written by the idealists, artists, academics and soldiers who took part. We see this readily in such poems as ‘Ireland 1882’ and ‘The Patriot’s Game’.

As my research continued I found myself intrigued by this multifaceted individual: an intellectual, a soldier, a writer not afraid to ask challenging questions of himself and others. His escape from Western Australia and the subsequent rescue mission by the Catalpa is indeed the script for a Hollywood blockbuster. At the time, however, there was no script.

O’Reilly and his colleagues lived lives of hardship, danger and uncertainty.

They saw men and women broken by circumstance and they did their best to change it – for O’Reilly this involved writing such poems as ‘Released January 1878’ and ‘The Mutiny of Chains’. Less well-known but equally important are his poems concerning First Nations.

‘The Dog Guard – An Australian Story’ depicts a horrifying scenario of the imprisonment of Aboriginal people on Rottnest Island. ‘A Song For Soldiers’ concerns itself with the treatment of the Cheyenne Indians in North America. Pieces such as these make it clear that he identified with those who suffer and are oppressed, regardless of ‘race’ and ethnicity.

J.B. O’Reilly seems not to have been afraid of change and not afraid

to change. While he always upheld Irish nationalist ideals, for example, in later years he resigned from the Irish Republican Brotherhood and Clan na Gael. In his capacity as editor and part-owner of the popular newspaper the Pilot he engaged with uncomfortable religious and political questions. Perhaps this is another reason for the extent of his appeal, from nineteenth century Even today - more than 120 years after his death - county Meath born John Boyle O’Reilly would be much better known in America than he is Ireland or Western Australia where he would spend a short but significant chapter of his life. O’Reilly’s profile in America is understandable as it is where he spent the better part of his fascinating life and accomplished many of the things for which he is still remembered. Even most punters who frequent JB O’Reilly’s pub on Cambridge Street probably wouldn’t have attached much thought to the origins of the pub’s name. If he is not as well known here (in WA) or back in Ireland, that could be about to change.

Whenever most people casually or accidentally discover the story of O’Reilly they become hooked and are generally intrigued to find out more. There are devotees of O’Reilly’s in Drogheda where his life story starts and a dedicated circle of Irish and Irish/Australians here (particularly in the south west of the state) who work tirelessly to promote his local connection and influence. The late Liam Barry was instrumental in the establishment of the John Boyle

soldiers and sailors to university students of Literature in the twentyfirst century. It is also evident in such poems as ‘Night Thoughts 1’ and ‘Night Poetry 2’ that, like most of us, he was a flawed and often troubled individual.

Well this is the place to which my journey has brought me. It would, of course, be rewarding to conclude the reflection with some definitive

Time to get reel about O’Reilly

By Lloyd Gorman

O’Reilly monument on the outskirts of Bunbury, on Buffalo Road, Leschenault and championing him through an annual commemoration.

Historian Ormonde Waters, also sadly no longer with us, dedicated book after book to O’Reilly and the Fenians. Musician and former Fremantle Prison guide Brendan Woods has written a play and music about him. These local men are not alone in using their talents to try

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statement or profound quotation.

In this instance, however, to give the impression that the journey is complete would be dishonest. As a wise old nun once told me, the more you know, the more you realise you don’t know. My own search for John Boyle O’Reilly has only just begun.

Angeline O’Neill

and tell his story. Indeed, the song “Van Diemen’s Land” on U2’s Rattle and Hum album (1988) mentions O’Reilly and is even dedicated to him while Co. Clare singer Sean Tyrrell has set some of his poems to music for a 1994 album which bears the name of an O’Reilly work, Cry of a Dreamer.

Now another local (WA) enthusiast is taking on the JB O’Reilly story in a different format. Peter Murphy, who lives and works in the region as a tour operator, and who is a member of the John Boyle O’Reilly Association, wants to take the story of JB O’Reilly to the big screen.

For years, probably decades, people associated with O’Reilly have said his adventures and achieve-ments had all the makings of a blockbuster.

Wearing a hat as script writer and director Peter with documentary maker Kim Redman is taking on that challenge of making a movie about his remarkable life. It will be called “Rebel with a Cause” and there is no shortage of great material to work with.

O’Reilly was born in 1844 and would therefore technically become a survivor of the Great Hunger even though he came from a well to do, but fiercely nationalistic family. The Famine would also consolidate his political views and world outlook.

As a young boy O’Reilly learnt about printing and journalism and in later life (America) he would become the editor and part owner of an influential newspaper. During his transportation to Western Australia O’Reilly was, with the help of another convict John Flood, able to produce seven editions of The Wild Goose, a

handwritten newspaper - an incredible testament to his ability, convictions and resourcefulness.

O’Reilly was transported to Australia for his part for recruiting up to 80 fellow soldiers in the 10th Hussars in Dublin to join the Irish Republican Brotherhood. The IRB - or Fenians - were a secret society dedicated to the overthrow of the Crown and British rule in Ireland. He was originally sentenced to be shot by firing squad but after two years in prison this was commuted to 20 years penal servitude. Hougoumont, the ship that brought him - and a group of fellow Fenians - to Western Australia was the last convict ship to land anywhere in Australia.

Hougoumont arrived in Fremantle in early January, 1868. O’Reilly was just 24 years old.

In his first weeks at the Convict Establishment in Fremantle he worked with the chaplain, Father Lynch, in the prison library,” the Australian Dictionary of Biography states. “O’Reilly was transferred to a road party at Bunbury but was soon given clerical duties and entrusted to deliver the weekly report to the local convict depot. Befriended by the priest, Patrick McCabe, and a settler, James Maguire, O’Reilly planned to escape. Foiled in his first attempt, he hid on Maguire’s farm until he could board the American whaler Gazelle on 18 February 1869. After narrowly escaping capture at Roderiquez Island, transferring to the American Sapphire at St Helena and joining the Bombay as a deck-hand at Liverpool, he arrived at Philadelphia on 23 November”.

This account of O’Reilly’s brief time in WA skims over a lot of detail and barely hints at the high drama, organisation and daring of his bid for freedom which balanced on the edge of failure on more than one occasion. But having made good his escape and new life in Boston O’Reilly - who became a firm believer in democratic change through peaceful means after witnessing the failure of the Fenian invasion of Canada (worth another movie in itself) did not falter in his resolve to break his former comrades in arms from the British colony a world

Cinephotographer Kim Redmen on set

Actor Lynda Tink aka Jessie Woodman

away.

“In 1875 he and others devised a daring scheme to rescue six Irish political prisoners still in Freman-tle gaol,” the Australian Dictionary of Biography adds. “The plan involved the purchase of the American whaler Catalpa, which was sent to Bunbury to await the arrival of a whaleboat bringing the escapees from Fremantle. Nearly foiled by squally weather and a skirmish with the government ship, Georgette, the mission was successful and the Fenians reached New York safely on 19 August 1876.”

To pull off a complex and risky operation like that in a time when letter was the only means of communication is mind boggling. Indeed it has elements of Shawshank Redemption about it. A movie aimed at modern day audiences could have the power to make O’Reilly a household name.

“Kim Redman and I have been working on a movie idea for a number of years,” said Peter. “It’s an amazing story of hope and survival with a love story thrown in for good measure. Why no one has bothered to make a movie of this incredible story beggars belief. So rather than wait for Hollywood to come knocking we’ve decided to produce the movie ourselves.

“We’ve got an amazing depth of local talent on board who’ve all had some experience in acting and film making. Our idea is to produce a 10 minute pilot or teaser and then post it on the internet in the hope that ‘crowd-funding’ will take care of the rest. If that fails, we’ll go cap in hand to local investors to help fund a project that is bound to put the Bunbury

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region on the International tourism map.”

Production on ‘Rebel with a Cause’ started in late June in Bunbury. It is being funded and produced by the JBOA under the name of ‘Shoestring Productions’.

Filming started with the shooting of a love scene at Bunbury’s historical homestead, King Cottage Museum on Sunday June 26th, as O’Reilly had a love affair with the local warden’s daughter.

Peter and Kim have collaborated previously - together with Irish Scene publisher Fred Rea - on an-other O’Reilly project. The trio produced a DVD for the 25th anniversary of the John Boyle O’Reilly commemoration in 2013 at which some 300 people took part.

As well as telling the story of his daring escape the DVD includes interviews with several local dignitaries, who over the years; have been keen supporters of the O’Reilly story, including Bunbury mayor David Smith, ex-Lord Mayor of Bunbury Ernie Manea (now deceased), ex-Deputy Mayor of Bunbury Tom Dillon, Bunbury Councillor Murray Cook and ex-Bunbury ABC Radio journalist Janine Unsworth.

Shot on location in the City of Bunbury, and in the Shires of Dardanup and Harvey over two days the 25 minute DVD also highlighted the natural beauty of the region and was sent interstate, to Ireland, England and America to attract more interest in the O’Reilly story and in Bunbury as a tourism destination.

For more information see facebook.com/jboreilly or www.johnboyleoreilly.org.au

Tearing into Foster and Allan

By Lloyd Gorman

Mick Foster and Tony Allan strolled onto the stage and “torestraight into it” into the penultimate concert of their month long Australian tour in the Astor Theatre, Mt Lawley, on June 23. The next night they would be doing pretty much the same thing in the Entertainment Centre, Bunbury before flying back to Ireland. This was their umpteenth time to play Australia but this writer’s first time to see them in the flesh. Growing up in Ireland it in the 1970s and 80s it was virtually impossible to avoid being exposed to their successful brand of Irish music. For adults of that time - especially mums and dads and grandparents - these balladeers would have had a lot of appeal and won over legions of loyal fans. That devotion was clear to see at the Astor gig. A practically full house the vast majority of the audience were obviously of a certain age and probably Irish, but not just. The couple sitting beside this reviewer were Indian and there were Aboriginal people too, amongst others. There were even a few young forty somethings.

Foster and Allan - who themselves marked 40 years together as a group in 2015 - have a wide and enduring appeal. It was encouraging to see a long queue outside the Mt Lawley theatre.

From the start Foster encouraged the house to “tear into it” by singing along, clapping hands and stomping feet as much as they wanted. “At our age we need all the help we can get,” he quipped. It got a jovial response and sort of set the tone for the rest of the more than two hour performance. Like the action hero in an American blockbuster armed with witty one-liners Foster packed in

a few jokes of his own about their durability. He told the story of how their hit song Bunch of Thyme went to number 1 in 1979 and how they struggled to find a good follow up to it. When they failed they came up with the idea of re-releasing in 1981 and again it went to the top. Foster joked how it was like the Irish people had forgotten how much they liked it before but as well as that it travelled across to the Irish Sea and got them onto the biggest music show around at the time. “We got on Top of the Pops with it….Top of the Pops is long gone but we are still around.” Foster was adept at interaction with the crowd between songs.

There was very little “tearing” into songs, but there was plenty of singing along, clapping, laughter and even wide spread hugging in the audience. In short, it was entertaining and enjoyable. When Foster speaks about “tearing into it” it is more of a question of a gentle jog down memory lane rather than a question of actually breaking a sweat. The hits rolled along all by themselves, pushed along with some enthusiasm and encouragement by the audience. There is a lot to choose from and amongst the songs they did play were Rambles of Spring (197), Gold and Silver Days and Galway Girl numbers like Little Fly which got a good laugh and audience participation. But when it came to their big hits such as Bunch of Thyme, I will love you all my life.

Old flames can’t hold a candle to you and After all these years (their most requested) the whole place resonated with the specialness of the song and emotional attachment tied to them. Certainly my wife was humming and singing along to the best of her ability.

They also played a song written for them for their 40th anniversary

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last year by a friend musician, as Foster said it was 40 years of memories condensed into two and a half minutes. For them the song was a dediccation to their audiences without whom they wouldn’t have last four years, let alone forty, said Foster.

Allan played and sang well, as did Foster. There is probably no way to calculate how many times they have sung most of their songs. And while their songs could appear to be sentimental from the outside, they don’t linger and hang around they are compact and tidy in their presentation, which is probably part of the appeal.

They were ably supported on stage by their “orchestra”. Moira Fraser, a keyboard player from Aberdeen, Brian O’Donnell (guitar) from Co. Leitrim and Ollie Kennedy from Mullingar, playing base, but an amazing songwriter in his own write, having penned one of my favourite tunes ever Sonny Don’t Go Away, which he gave a great rendition.

I don’t know if I will ever see Foster and Allan play live again, please God the option will present itself in the future, but if not I am happy I got to see them at least once.

Have The Irish Scene Home Delivered Call Fred for details 0418943832

SHAMROCK

Rovers

We are now currently half way through season 2016.

Our State League coaches Rob Richards and Dan Gulliver have recently taken over the first team and reserves team respectively and have rejuvenated the squad from what has been a slow start to the season. In recent weeks both teams have put in some determined efforts, matched with fast attacking football and plenty of goals. They are always exciting to watch. The reserves are unbeaten in the past 8 games have climbed up the ladder to be in 5th position with a game in hand on the teams above. They are an entertaining team who have scored an average of 2.4 goals a game.

The first team is a young group who are getting better every game. They are to be commended for their never say die attitude and have matched every team in the competition thus far. The side has copped its fair share of bad luck in games eg: penalties, but this has not deterred their spirit. We look forward to a continued improvement from the boys, which will pull us away from the wrong end of the table.

Our Sunday amateur squad has had a flying start to the season under Robbie Fanning. Season 2016 sees the lads attempting to win their 5th league championship in succession. If the lads are able to achieve this, the club will return to the Amateur Premier league once again.

Currently the first team is at the top end of the table and in the quarter final of the Amateur Cup. The reserve team is mid table and recently got knocked out of the cup in the last 16.

In other news club treasurer Ciaran Launders (see pic) travelled to Tallaght Stadium to present a club Polo to Hooperman during Shamrock Rovers match against Dundalk. (Ciaran is on the left). Ciaran was able to use this time to continue the relationship between the two clubs.

The club plans to hold free training sessions to all junior players over the September school holidays. These sessions will be held at our home venue in Victoria Park.

Please visit the club Facebook page closer to the event for further details.

Lastly, If you are interested in playing football, we are in the 2nd half of the season (12 games left) and Shamrock Rovers are looking to add players to the following squads: -Under 18 State League Squad (Saturday Morning match) -Sunday Amateur League Squad (Sunday Afternoons) -Saturday State League Squad (Saturday Afternoons) Training Tue & Thu 6.30pm -8.15pm.

Home ground 5mins from Perth City.

Please contact: wbrooksie@hotmail.com for more info.

Rovers in Action...

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a Grand Old Team To Play For! Wayne Brooks

www.shamrockrovers.com.au 90

Michael Manning President Shamrock Rovers

Gaelic Football & Hurling Association of Australasia Western Australia Hurling:

To date, six rounds of the WA Hurling Championship have been played with all matches taking place in R.A. Cooke Reserve, Morley each Saturday with throw in at 2pm. It has been a keenly contested Championship to date with more great stick work guaranteed for the rest of the season! There is a BBQ on site so do come down and support our hurlers and camogie players in their quest for glory in 2016.

Football:

There have been 6 rounds of the Football League played so far this year and it is a closely fought competition in both Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and Ladies to date. Matches take place on Friday nights starting at 6:30pm and all day Sundays at Tom Bateman Reserve Canning Vale. With the 2016 Championship due to kick off on the 24th July spectators will be treated to high quality football in the League matches that remain. With a fully functioning kitchen serving tasty food with tea and Oval coffee also available there is no reason for you not to show up!

from July 4th -8th 2016. The Cul Camps are held 9:30am to 2:30pm Monday to Friday and the cost is $120. The coordinators Sarah Tiernan and Deborah Teahan are available to answer any queries. Sarah can be contacted on 0427204561 or Deborah on 0406229450. Alternatively you can email ggjunioracadamey@gmail. com.

Minor GAA:

On Thursday 12th May last a High Schools Gaelic Football Tournament was held in John XXIII Secondary School, Mount Claremont.

Featuring teams from Girawheen, Comet Bay and John XXIII it was a very successful endeavour enjoyed

Junior Academy:

There is massive work and effort going into training and equipping children with the skills of Gaelic Football and Hurling taking place each Sunday on Rugby Pitch No 2, Kingsway Sporting Complex between 12 noon and 1:30pm.

With 80 plus children taking part each week this is a brilliant opportunity for your child to learn the skills of Gaelic Games in a fun and safe atmosphere. The Junior Academy Cul Camps for boys and girls aged 6-12 years take place in Tapping Primary School, St Stephens Crescent, Tapping WA

Australia at the 2016 Australasian Championships.

20 players were present at the trial with a number of Gerry McGough, others missing President through injury.

A great trial saw the skills of the game coached to the players with shooting practice and different drills added for good measure.

After this a game of backs and forwards took place with great skill being shown by both teams. The next squad session will take place on Henderson Oval on Monday 27th June at 6pm sharp and all current and eligible players are asked to attend. Schools represented in the squad are John XXIII, Duncraig SHS, Lakelands, Girrawheen SHS, St Norberts, Guildford, Carine, Scotch College, South Coast, Thornlie SHS and Safety Bay. As sending a Minor Team to Brisbane is a major financial outlay costing circa $52,000 any financial assistance, fundraising activities and sponsorship would be gratefully acknowledged and appreciated by the Squad and the Gaelic Athletic Association of Western Australia.

World GAA Games, Dublin 2016: immensely by coaches, spectators and the students taking part, most of whom who would have never played Gaelic Football before.

Medals and the trophy presentation took place afterwards with a BBQ laid on for the players. Leading on from this a Gaelic Football Trial was held on the 6th June at Henderson Oval to select a U18 Gaelic Football Squad to represent Western

Huge congratulations and best wishes are extended to Sarah Donnelly, Southern Districts and Sharon Cassidy, Western Shamrocks on their selection to represent Australasia at the upcoming World GAA Games. As the only players selected from Western Australia, this is a huge achievement by these very talented players and we wish them of luck. As the two players have to fundraise to cover the cost

Football: BGC Grounds, Tom Bateman Reserve Cnr Bannister & Nicholson Rds, Canning Vale Hurling: RA Cook Reserve, Coode St. Morley

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of going to Dublin any fundraising ideas or sponsorship would be much appreciated. Southern Districts GAA and Western Shamrocks GAA should be contacted in relation to same.

40th Anniversary Celebrations:

Congratulations to St. Finbarr’s GAA Club on celebrating the 40th Anniversary of the foundation of the club. A night of stories, song and memories was held in the Irish Club recently and a very enjoyable evening was had by all present.

Western Shamrocks Night at the Races:

Race night takes place 2nd July 2016 in Bayswater Football Club. For further information please contact any member of Western Shamrocks GAA Club Committee.

State Games:

The 2016 Australasian State Games will be hosted this year by Queensland with games taking place in Brisbane. The State Games will run from Wednesday 27th October to Saturday 1st October. The Games will include competitions in Men’s & Ladies Football and Hurling & Camogie as well as a Minor Competition. As deadline for nominating teams to represent Western Australia at the State Games is 30th June 2016, all of our clubs should nominate club members as State Coaches and State Players as soon as possible. Please approach your club representative or a member of the State Committee to provide your details if you are interested in being a State coach or State Player.

Finally, if you are interested in taking up Football or Hurling, becoming a Referee, getting involved behind the scenes or providing sponsorship for any of our competitions or State Teams for the Australasian Championships 2016 please do not hesitate to contact myself as State PRO or Gerry McGough, our State President. Sincere thanks is extended to all our players, coaches, referees, volunteers and sponsors for their continued support of Gaelic Games in Western Australia.

Tom Murphy, PRO www.facebook.com/gaelicgamesjunioracademyofwa www.facebook.com/gaelicfootballstatewau18team www.facebook.com/gaelicfootballandhurlingwesternaustral Gaelic Athletic Association of Western Australia; President: Gerry McGough – 0410 233 532 PRO: Tom Murphy – 0458 954 052 Hurling: R.A. Cooke Reserve, Coode St, Morley.

Football: Tom Bateman Reserve, Wilfred Rd, Canning Vale.

www.thebreakwater.com.au

58 Southside Drive, Hillarys Boat Harbour Ph: 08 9448 5000 Fax: 08 9448 6000

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Action with the Juniors and Hurlers

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CLUB PROFILE:

Coastal Breakers Gaelic Football Club Founded in 2007, Coastal Breakers Gaelic Football Club is an Australian Ladies club who competes in the Gaelic Athletic Association of Western Australia (GAAWA) League and Championship. The club is made up of a majority of Australian players but there is always room for more Breakers and new players are always welcome.

Currently the club trains on Monday and Wednesday nights at J.A. Lee Reserve, Lathlain at 6:30pm. The age profile of club playing personnel ranges from 14 to 44 and the club has attracted players from a myriad of other sports including baseball and water-polo. The club was founded with the aim of creating a social and competitive sporting environment which continues on in 2016.

The regular GAA season in Western Australia runs from May to September and Ladies matches are held on Friday nights and Sunday mornings/afternoons at Tom Bateman Reserve, Canning Vale. With a competitive ladies league consisting of 6 teams, Coastal Breakers continue to hold their own against clubs with bigger playing squads made up of Irish players who may have more playing experience of Gaelic Football.

At the end of the regular GAA season in Western Australia, a Ladies Football squad is selected to represent WA at the Australasian Championships.

Coastal Breakers have contributed players to the State squad on a number of occasions and selection for this squad is always a major ambition for any Ladies Football player in Western Australia. If you are interested in playing Gaelic Football in a fun and socially active atmosphere you can contact Angela Edwards, President, Coastal Breakers GFC on thecoastalbreakers@gmail. com or contact Tom Murphy, PRO, GAAWA or Gerry McGough, President GAAWA. Coastal Breakers can also be contacted through their website on www. coastalbreakers.wordpress.com/contact/

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The Ambassador’s Trophy Carramar Golf Course.

Winner: Mark Mcloughlin [41pts] Runner up: Sally-Ann McDonald [38 pts] Low Gross Winner Andy McDonald.[31 pts] Third: Mick Connelly.[35 pts] NTP: 4 Billy Kavanagh, 6 Andy McDonald, 11.

Paul Jenkins, 16 Kim Tyler.

L/Drive: Geoff McFadden Visitors Winner: Stewart Nicholson. [32 pts] Again Congratulations to Mark for a great score.

Peter McKenna PS ALL…. we need more markers for our novelties !!!!!!!!!!

Secretary’s Trophy 15 May 2016 Collier Park Results Winner: Martin Sheehan (39 pts) Second: Billy Kavanagh (37 pts) Third: Sally Ann McDonald (37 pts) Longest Putt: Eamon Fitzpatrick Longest Drive (Mens): Andy McDonald Longest Drive (Ladies): Sally Ann McDonald Lowest Gross: P.J. Kenny Picture shows Martin Sheehan receiving the Secretary’s Trophy from Club Captain Anthony Gannon.

The Collier Park outing was also the first round of match play. Congratulations to those through to the next round!

The Scottish golfer, putter in hand, paced anxiously up and down outside the emergency room of a hospital near a Golf Course. Inside the doctors were operating to remove a golf ball accidentally driven down a player’s throat. The sister-incharge noticed the worried golfer and went to reassure him. “It won’t be long now,” she said. “You’re a relative?” “No, no, lassie. It’s my ball.”

St Gabriel’s Hurling & CamogieClub Sponsors: PERI Australia Pty Ltd John 0418 885 604 www.periaus.com.au An Sibin Irish Bar Shane 0404 784 102 Player Contact List: Camogie: Danielle McInerney 0405 418 809 Hurling: Ronan Kilroy 0439 979 237 Facebook: S.t. Gabriels Hurling WA StGabriels CamogieClub Website: stgabrielsgaaclub.com

St Gabriels GAA Club caters for players of all levels of ability, including those who have never played the sport before. Joining the club is a fantastic way to get fit, meet new people and be involved in lots of fun social activities.

The hurling & camogie teams train Tuesday and Thursday evenings in Wembley Downs. Check the contact details below and get in touch if you are interested in getting involved or would like to come down for a puck around.

Congratulations to Mark Creaven on winning the recent inaugural St Gabriel’s Lawn Boules tournament & well done to Tom Cannon on winning shot of the day.

There is a weekend off from hurling and camogie so the club is taking the opportunity to head to Kalamunda for the day. Thanks to everyone who helped to organize it.

We would like to Peri & An Sibin for their sponsorship.

We would also like to thank everyone involved in the club for their for their contribution so far this season.

PERI Australia Pty Limited John 0418 885 604 www.periaus.com.au

An Sibin Irish Bar, Northbridge Shane 0404 784 102

GAB’s Abu!

Come join us for good food, music & Craic!!!

Hours: Monday - Thursday 12pm - midnight Friday & Saturday 11am- 2am Sunday 11am-12midnight

147 James Street, Northbridge, 6003 Perth Phone:0404 784 102 Email: Manager@ansibin.com.au www.facebook.com/pages/An-Sibin-Irish-Pub/1586650448222038 95

The Annual General Meeting of the Irish Club will be held at 3.00pm on Sunday 21 August 2016.

Please check your Membership or Join the Club Now and be involved!

Pie & Pint Night EVERY MONDAY Every Thursday Trad Music & Irish Classes COMHALTAS

Live music from 7pm.

Join B CLU THE t the bar! sa

Form

Music Lessons Set Dancing 8pm followed by the Seisiun Irish Language Classes 7pm

IRISH CLUB SENIORS

SENIORSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; LUNCH

Ist Friday of the Month. $15 per person Bar open from 12.30pm.

Lunch at 1pm.

Bookings 9381 5213

The Irish Club A GREAT PLACE FOR A PARTY Functions & Fundraisers Contact Club:

Tel: 93815213

Irish1@irishclubofwa.com.au

Have you renewed your membership yet?

Visit website to download the renewal form.

Do you have an email address? If so, please let us know.

irishclubofwa.com.au

The Irish Club is a members only club, and we welcome new members. Application forms can be downloaded from the website.

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