Irish Scene March April 2014 by Fred Rea

www.irishscene.com.au

Western Australia’s

Registered with Australia Post PP635639/00006

Volume 16 / Number 3 Mar/Apr 2014

AY D S ’ K C I R S T PA T

l a v i fest

E D I U G S T OF EVEN

•Eamon has a taste for Ireland •Dan and Martin Meet! •Anthony Connolly determined •St Patrick’s Mass •Sean Roche is Back! •St Pat’s Race Day •The Green Thing? •Kelly Team in Balga •New Irish Shop for Perth •JBO’Reilly in Fremantle •IWAF St Pat’s Day Breakfast •O’Meara play for Collie •Message from Ambassador •Catalpa Memorial Completion •Tom and Ann say Thanks •Eleanor McEvoy •Damien Dempsey •McCarthy Cup visit • Visit of Irish Minister

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Good mood food... by Fred Rea/Lloyd Gorman

You couldn’t call it home-made food but chances are that if you’re Irish and you taste some of the foodstuffs Eamon Eastwood sells it will remind you of home or growing up in Ireland. Distinctly Irish products, brands such as Tayto, Hula Hoops, Club Orange and Barry’s Tea to name a few, are the bread and butter of his business - and when he spotted a gap in the market he knew exactly what to fill it with. But even the founder of Taste of Ireland.com couldn’t have predicted how successful and much demand there would be for the kind of things that you might take for granted in Ireland. “I came out here as a backpacker in 1999 for the Olympic Games and I soon discovered there were no Irish products in Australia, so not long after that I brought in potato chips and stored them in my bedroom and delivered them to Irish pubs at night because I still worked full time,” said Eamon. “That’s how I started, it gave me the confidence to bring over container loads and start my own business and in 2005 we launched the Taste of Ireland. That’s when we introduced a lot more than Tayto, and its really gone from there.” The food importer said a major milestone for his company came in October 2011 when Woolworths signed a deal to put their products in more than 300 stores across Australia. “In Woolworths the main nostalgic foods were Tatyo, Barry’s Tea and Club Orange, but we are in the process of introducing more lines.” Eamon and his team have had another major breakthrough into the Australian retail market, with Coles also set to carry the popular foods, due to start in February this year. This puts the Irish products well and truly into mainstream shopping and easy reach of the consumer, ex-pats to be sure and potentially millions more. But be that as it may having better access

and opportunity to these tasty treats will be welcomed by anyone who enjoys a crisp sandwich with a cup of Irish tea, and the like. “So from a bedroom its now over a 1,000 retail outlets, its gone really well for us in a relatively short space of time.” One of the main obstacles to breaking into the market and selling packets of Tayto, for example, was to get it here and out to consumers while it was still fresh enough to eat (and God knows there’s no way around a stale packet of Tayto’s). “Yeah, the date issue,” said Eamon. “A lot of customers don’t understand the complexities. We are importing perishable food with a three to four month shelf life that has come half way across the planet, 17,000 miles away, coming in shipping containers, it takes 60 days, there’s huge complexity in that,” he said. “When I started the operation I was very naive as to what was involved with importing and exporting. I’ve really learned a hell of a lot on our business journey and now I’ve employed really good people who have good experience with all the areas and aspects of the business that we need. We have a really good relationship with the suppliers, who are now creating product for the Australian market, that only happens when you have enough volume. Whereas when we started we were bringing over a couple of pallets that were coming off the factory floor. So it was really challenging to arrive in Australia with a couple of months to sell. I remember people saying I don’t want to buy them because of the really short shelf life. So we’ve learned a lot and adapted our operation.” Even when the shipment gets to Australia it is still a major undertaking to get the cargo across the continent, particularly to the West - but the rewards can make it worthwhile. “The people of WA have really supported Taste of Ireland since we

started, not only the retailers who we have picked up and who have stayed loyal. We worked really hard with them because we know logistically its tough getting stuff from Sydney to Perth, so I’d like to thank all the retailers who stuck with us and even the end users, the guys who shop online are very impressive and I really want to thank them and I hope it continues.” Western Australia has proved to be a massive and successful market for Taste of Ireland. “Woolworths in WA, and the Northern Territory, are perhaps the best perhaps in the whole of Australia,” he said. “I think that might have something to do with the mines, with guys working in them buying everything off the shelf, so the actual rate of sale, which is the magic matrix that Woolworths work on - and every product in Woollies has a rate of sale (how many units sell in a week -. So if you have 20 packets of Tayto to sell in 300 stores per week, that’s their magic number. And they’re very happy, its over double what they predicted it would be and in Perth at times its treble, so Perth is leading the way in Tayto sales. Despite being largely a numbers game - and with eight people now working full time for Taste of Ireland and supporting him - Eamon is able to keep focused on his customers and the true value of his business. “I heard it said you can’t be a boutique business and a scalable company at the same time,” he added. “If you imagine a boutique company is a five star restaurant and a scalable one is McDonalds. Our business model is really both of these, whether we like it or not.” As well as being a shop front and Mecca to some, the Taste of Ireland shop (and offices) in Sydney account for about 30% of the company’s

income, generating enough to support and sustain the rest of the wholesale business between orders. “But its not just about moving boxes. We get so many shoppers from Ireland, buying to send here. I would write a lot of the messages on the cards that would go with the deliveries and I have to say it would break your heart some of them. Some of them are funny but some are gut wrenching, messages from home and their loved ones. That’s what the business is all about, it’s that connection. I learnt that pretty quickly, you understand your customers and what you’re involved in. We’re all attached to the product.” As well as being emotional and enthusiastic about his work the Tyrone man is equally passionate about his other great interest in life, Gaelic football. “I’ve always been very passionate and involved in Gaelic football as a player. I come from Co. Tyrone, good football country,” he said. “So coming out here it was a natural thing to get involved with a GAA club and I did that with Penrith Gaels initially. In 2004 Cormac McAnallen, the captain of Tyrone, passed away of a heart defect (age 24). We thought it was a good opportunity to have a club named after him and a lot of people thought the same. So I was involved with getting the club [In January 2005, Cormac McAnallen GAC was founded in Sydney] up and running and its gone from strength to strength.” Everyone benefits from a strong sporting and cultural identity added Eamon. “You know yourself, GAA here is more than a sport, its also a social network to get jobs and accommodation, especially when you are new

to the country. I think now, more than ever, with the amount of Irish coming over here, that Gaelic football should be thriving but regrettably in some states its not happening. It would be great to see some leadership in some of the GAA Clubs, to really make the most of it and like in business, I think the GAA needs to invest in this market, especially when so many of their members are coming down here.” He thinks more resources need to be put into the game in Australia, with people, policies and strategies being put in place to develop and strengthen the sport. “I think hiring a development officer for each state, for six to seven months, would be a good investment for Australia. A development officer could look strategically at how state games are run and come up with a template that works.” Where and when he can Eamon works to encourage them and make the game as accessible to Aussies - or anyone else for that matter who might be interested in playing. He is keen to make sure that everyone gets a taste of Ireland - be that with a ball in their hands, or a little snack size bite. Editors note:

Tayto stands test of time

Individual packets of Tayto might have a limited shelf life but the company itself has staying power. It was founded sixty years ago this year by businessman Joe ‘Spud’ Murphy who spotted a gap in the Irish market. At the

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inventing the flavouring process, and particularly the original cheese and onion flavour which has lost none of its appeal over the generations. According to the Tayto website the production of this popular flavour started in a factory on Moore Street Dublin, where the crisps were packed by hand in wax greaseproof paper and then delivered to shopkeepers in air tight tins, to seal in the flavour. The company itself has gone through a number of incarnations over the years (it was first bought out by the American Beatrice Corporation in 1965 and more recently by Largo Foods in 2006 for $62 million) but the almost cult status of its sliced and fried potatoes cannot be doubted. The Ashbourne, Co. Meath HQ of the iconic nibble even now boasts a Tayto theme park.

time most crisps were imported into Ireland from the UK and were - apart from a small bag of salt included in the packet - unflavoured. Murphy is credited with

“I

I was back in Australia in my Sleeper Cutter’s Camp with all me mates... wish

These words may have been spoken in conversation by Victoria Cross recipient, Martin O’Meara to his fellow sleeper cutter and fellow Irishman, poet Dan Sheahan in ‘No Mans Lands’ during WW1. And I wonder would the conversation have gone something like this...

“How are ye mate?” asked Dan “Well as can be I suppose” replied Martin “I couldn’t help overhear you talk a while ago, and was wondering what your name is and where you come from?” Dan asked “The name’s Martin O’Meara and I come from Collie in Western Australia” “Are you the same bloke they gave a Victoria Cross for bravery Martin” “Aye” “Sure you’re a brave man

”

Martin, a brave man” “Where are you from in the old country” said Dan “Ah, Terryglass, Lorrha in Tipperary to be exact”. “Sure I’ve never been there meself, but if it’s like my country in Cork, then it must be beautiful” replied Dan “Ah sure it is that and I wish I was there right now”. “Tell me more about this Sleeper Cutter’s Camp you were talking about earlier Martin” “Ah well ya see, my camp was about 30 miles just east from Collie down south in Western Australia, in a place call Bowling Pool. Sure the old sleeper cutting is hard work but, at the end of the day and after a good nosh of spuds; it was just like heaven; sitting back in my humpy and listening to the sounds of the bush. Sure it’s the smell of the bush, smell of the gum trees and songs of the birds that keep me going... Sure I just loved it” And to tell you the truth Dan; sure I can’t wait to get back there - build a fine house and spend the rest of me years under an old gum tree I suppose” “Sure it sounds like the type of place where you could find solace

and peace” said Dan “To be sure Dan...to be sure”. “Tell me Dan, I noticed while we’ve been having a yarn, you’ve been writing mad” “Aye... Listen to these words Martin and tell me what ya think…” “Here, sitting in a dug-out, with a rifle on my kneesI fancy I am back there once again among the treesWith long-lost friends I’m chatting by the camp fire’s ruddy glow Where we boiled the old black billy in days of long ago...” “Sure them’s grand words Dan, exactly what I was thinking. Sure you must have been reading me mind” “Sure it’s the only way a man can keep sane in this dreadful place. Because when I write my poems, they help take my mind off the tragedy unfolding around us” And just like you Martin, I too wish I was back in Aussie under any old gum tree” Tell me Dan... Where do you get the inspiration to write your poetry?”

“Sure some were written in the trenches some they were built in a pub Others were to humour wenches While some to kill time in the scrub” “Ah sure ya have a way with words Dan” “Do you have a jar now and then Martin” “I don’t drink meself you know and I’m not one to frequent pubs and the like” replied Martin “I couldn’t help notice your Rosary beads Martin. Will you say a prayer from me next time you’re having a chat to God” “Of course I will Dan” “Do you suppose one day someone will write a poem with the words ‘When will they ever learn’” said Martin “Sure you’re probably right there mate, as this is one hell of a nightmare for all of us” said Dan A voice yells in the distance “STRETCHER BEARERS” “That’s me their calling Dan; I’m one of them lads” Sure it was lovely meeting you Dan, and when you complete that grand poem of yours, sure you might like to give me a copy; that’s if we ever meet again” “It was a pleasure meeting you Martin and when I do finish the poem, sure I’ll dedicate it to Martin O’Meara; one of the bravest men I’ve ever met. I’m off to see an sagart Father Fahey now. “Say a prayer for me Dan.... slán go fóill” “Agus tu fein a chara”.

Who Was Dan Sheahan? Dan Sheahan, from County Cork, Ireland arrived in Australia in 1905 and served in WW1 . Dan wrote the original “The Pub Without Beer”. Later made famous by the late Slim Dusty. It was first written in the original Day Dawn Hotel in Ingham in north Queensland in 1943, by Dan Sheahan, after some American soldiers drank the pub dry the previous night. Dan Sheahan had gone to his favourite pub for a cold beer but was told by the Publican Gladys Harvey, that there was no beer left, due to a drinking binge by some

THE SLEEPER CUTTERS’ CAMP

This poem by Dan Sheahan was penned in 1917 and appears in his book of poetry “Songs of the Cane Fields”. The book was compiled by Josephine R. Sheehan. It was written at Messines, France, and posted to Australia but banned by the military censor only to be published in the 1930’s. My sole address at present is a battlefield in France If it’s ever going to alter there is only just a chance To dodge the “Jerry” rifles and the shrapnel flying around I’ve burrowed like a bunny to a funkhole* in the ground. The floor is just a puddle and the roof lets in the damp I wish I was in Aussie where the Sleeper Cutters camp. The tea is foul and bitter like an ancient witch’s brew The bread is sour and scanty and you ought to see the stew The “Lootenant” that is leading is a leery kind of coot We always call ‘im “Mr” so plain “Bill” would never suit. I’d sell my chance of Heaven for five minutes with the scamp Where the red bull’s chewing nut grass near the Sleeper Cutters’ Camp. If another war is starting I’ll hang out with the “jibs” Not much in being a hero with a bayonet ‘tween your ribs Hard fighting for the Froggies pushing Huns across the Rhine They can take Alsace and Flanders and Normandy for mine. All I’m needing is a pozzie where ground is not too damp ‘Neath azure skies of Aussie - just a Sleeper Cutters’ camp. Here, sitting in a dug-out, with a rifle on my knees I fancy I am back there once again among the trees With long-lost friends I’m chatting by the camp fire’s ruddy glow Where we boiled the old black billy in days of long ago... The signal comes to “ Fall-in” I can hear the diggers tramp Farewell, perhaps forever To the Sleeper Cutters’ camp.... *FUNK-HOLE Small dugout or shelter, just big enough to accommodate one or two men, usually scraped into the front wall of a trench. Cartoon: Alec Gurney created Bluey and Curly, two Aussie Larrikins of the war years

American soldiers the previous night. Dan consoled himself in the corner of the pub with a glass of wine and wrote the song “A Pub without Beer” which was published in the NQ Register in January 1944. The song was later transformed to “A Pub with No Beer” by composer Gordon Parsons, who had spotted the words of “A Pub without Beer” in “The North Queensland Register” newspaper. Slim Dusty, would visit Dan Sheahan when he visited Ingham. Dan died in 1977, aged 95 years. Rupert Lee purchased the Day Dawn hotel in 1958 from Cummins and Campbell. Rupert engaged architect Ian Ferrier to design a new hotel for the site. The Day Dawn Hotel was then demolished and rebuilt as Lee’s Hotel in 1960.

Unfortunately, the great Slim Dusty passed away on Friday 19 September 2003 aged 76 years but not before acknowledging Dan Sheahan wrote the original words.

If you want to hear Dan’s POEM “The Sleeper Cutter’s Camp” performed in song by Phil Beck, book for the play “Under Any Old Gum Tree at the Irish Club of WA on Tuesday 29th April 2014. See page 72 for Booking details.

“I’m going to be the next three years in January,” he said. Irishman to win an Australian title,” Turning professional Irish boxer Anthony Connolly told “I came here on a working holiday the Irish Scene as he prepares for his visa and I concentrated on getting professional match debut my residency first, when on March 22. “I’m going I achieved that I got stuck The former three-time to take the back into the boxing again,” Irish champion, who is the Dubliner explained. originally from Clondalkin, Australian “Initially it was just to keep Anthony Connolly, 29, getting ready Dublin, but who has been fit and active, because as for his professional match debut in title to living in Perth for the past far as I was concerned my Joondalup on March 22. Perth” three years said: “It has boxing career was over but lads. It really helps to spur you on.” always been a dream of that all changed when I met With an amature career record of mine to turn pro but I never thought my trainer, Dave.” 57 fights - 53 wins and four losses it would come about.” Connolly joined Hassan’s Gym in there is no doubt in the Dubliner’s The 29-year-old started boxing Gosnells, Perth, under the guidance mind that he can take national when he was nine years old, but at of Dave Hassan. sporting success to Perth. the age of 20 after eleven years of “The talent and the skill is still “I have a massive 15 months great boxing success in Ireland, the there - it never left me,” planned ahead of me “As far Dubliner let his beloved sport take explained the father of one. and I’m going to take a backseat when he decided to go “Dave saw that in me and the Australian title to as I was traveling. asked would I be interested It’s not a case of concerned Perth. Connolly moved to New York to in going professional. I took if, it’s a case of when that my boxing Australian title belt will work as a carpenter and although the opportunity with both he didn’t box competitively, he said hands!” career was be strapped around my he “always kept fit and active in the He now trains every day waist. I will bring some over” gym”. as part of the eighth count Irish sporting success to After two years in the Big Apple promotions team with seven other Perth.” he returned to Ireland, “but shortly professional boxers in the gym. The confident sportsman is afterwards the bubble burst so I had “There are eight of us training not worried about coming back to move on again and that’s when I professional at the moment and it’s to the sport he left nine years ago: decided to come to Perth. I am here great to have the support of the other “At my age it’s not unusual to turn

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professional, my age doesn’t bother me at all.” Training Turning professional is not a decision the Irishman took on lightly, explaining it takes a lot of “hard work, dedication and a lot of training”. Connolly had to quit his job and trains three times a day: “It’s not a sport to go into half-hearted”. “I’m up at 4am and do my road work - around a 6km to 8km jog. Twice a week on a Tuesday and Thursday I do strength and conditioning in the morning. Monday to Saturday I’m in the gym in the morning and evening for boxing training. I also get in some swimming sessions for core strength.” The Dubliner boxes at light flyweight and says he’s lucky as he’s always been light, but he has to watch what he eats and has cut down on “crap food. There’s a lot of healthy foods now, like nuts and berries and that sort of thing.” Connolly admitted the training does take a lot of time and effort but said he couldn’t do it without the love and support of his Australian partner, Deanna Lee. “She has been amazing and always supports me. She’s

always firmly behind me, without that support I wouldn’t have been able to do this. We have one little boy now who’s two and we have another on the way in July.” For his pro-debut match in March, Connolly is hoping for a huge crowd and hopes the stadium will be filled with as many Irish as possible and added that he won’t be forgetting about his Irish roots: “I’ll be coming out carrying the Irish flag as I head out into the ring. I’m also a massive Celtic supporter so I’ll be in green and white hoops”. He is still searching for a sponsor and admits he’d love if an Irish sponsor would take him on: “I’m looking for anyone that could get behind me with sponsorship. It would be great to have the Irish sponsorship, together we could turn Perth green.” Connolly’s pro-debut is on March 22 at Kingsway Stadium, Joondalup, for tickets or to discuss sponsorship contact him on 0424047094. Story by Amy Croffey Freelance Journalist amy.croffey@gmail.com - 0449 086 389

St Patrick’s Day Mass Australia 2012Western Western Australia

Organised by The Irish Community of WA working with The Archdiocese of Perth Organised by The irish COmmuniTy Of Wa WOrking WiTh The arChdiOCese Of PerTh

Principal Celebrant Celebrant& & Homilist: Principal FrFr Laurence Murphy Vincent Glynnsds -O-oSt Mary’s Cathedral, Perth

Victoria Square, Perth, Perth St Mary ’S Cathedral

on St Patrick’s Day

Saturday 17th MarCh 2012 at 10 aM Monday 17th March 2014 at 10 am and getting to the Mass: PleaseParking Note: There is Limited Parking at the Cathedral There is parking for 90 cars under the Cathedral.

PArking getting to the MASS: Other parkingAnD is available at PCC Parking Stations in the vicinity. there is parking for a limited number of cars at the Cathedral. other parking available at PCC Parking Stations in theregularly. vicinity. The “Red Cat” is Free Bus Service runs past the Cathedral

It stops manyBus convenient locations from West Perth the “red Cat”atFree Service runs past the Cathedral regularly. particularly Perth Central Railway Stationlocations stoppingfrom at theWest doorPerth of the Cathedral it stops at many convenient

particularly Perth Central railway Station stopping at the door of the Cathedral

Mass Enquiries Mail Address: 56 Lombardy Street, Woodlands WA 6018 Tel: 9446 3784 Email: pltanham@tpg.com.au

He’s Back !

Our own Sean Roche is back in Perth for March and is playing at The National Hotel in Fremantle, on the Sunday 16th of March after the Parade from 5.30 to 8.30pm, and on St Patrick’s Day at the same time. He will appear in Carnegie’s in Perth at the Irish Race Day Breakfast on the 15th from 9.30 to 12.30pm in the morning and again at Carnegies on St Patrick’s Day from, 12.30 to 3.30pm. On Friday March 14th it’s the turn of the Fremantle Workers Club in Henry Street and Saturday 15 at the Joondalup Country Club. Plenty of opportunities to hear the dulse tones of

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Fermanagh The Road from

by Peter Conole

The obscure subject of this story was given attention in a short piece published over ten years ago, but since then much additional source material has emerged. Jarlath Stephen Duffy deserves to be brought forth from the shadows. He was a larger than life man of affairs in our State for several decades and recognition of his deeds in this Great War Centenary Year is appropriate. In Duffyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s case, the Gallipoli Centenary of 1915 is also relevant. Duffy was a newcomer in the colony of Western Australia. His 18th Century ancestor James Duffy of County Fermanagh married Mary Willoughby (possibly of Anglo-Irish gentry origin) and their son was Patrick Duffy, born at the obscure locality of Clohar on December 22, 1792. Patrick had reason to be remembered: he was a centenarian and died at Cootamundra in New South Wales two days after his 100th birthday in 1892. Patrick and his wife Mary McNieve raised a large family, including a son named James Joseph Duffy (1840-1921). Sometime in the 1850s or early 1860s most of the Duffys pulled up stakes and moved from Fermanagh to Australia. James Joseph married Izzetta Perrett in 1866 and their son Jarlath Stephen Duffy arrived in the world at Port McQuarrie, New South Wales in 1868. We know nothing of Jarlathâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s early life, but later developments reveal that he was very well educated. Jarlath Duffy came to WA in 1892, joined the local Police Force on December 1, 1893 and was immediately sent to Coolgardie as a mounted constable at a time when the Gold Rush was about to reach its height. Criminal

activity and public disorder had to be suppressed at all costs, regardless of atrocious living conditions and stress for the police. The five officers at Coolgardie were constantly on patrol. On one notable occasion Duffy had to track down a government surveyor who went missing in desert country. The police party found him 40 miles from the town and just in time, for the man was close to death from thirst and heat exhaustion. Duffy resigned on April 12, 1894 and went into business as an auctioneer, an occupation that generated stresses of its own. He was involved in one ugly court case over financial issues in 1895. The economic recession of the 1890s and a stock market crash virtually brought Jarlath down. However, he found time to marry an English woman named Mary Edna Simmons at the Church of the Immaculate Conception in Perth on October 11, 1899. When the Boer War broke out, Duffy joined the 2nd Contingent of WA Mounted Infantry on December 20, 1899 and was soon promoted to corporal. The unit arrived in South Africa in February 1900 and served there with great distinction until being sent back to Australia at the end of March 1901. Jarlath had already been upgraded to sergeant and then commissioned as a Lieutenant on March 25, 1901. He later received the Queens South Africa Medal with five bars, two being for the battles of Diamond Hill and Belfast. After returning to Australia he was sent to Melbourne to attend the first opening of our Federal Parliament. Probably he was engaged in security work. Lieutenant Duffy must have caught the eye of more than one senior man. In early 1902 he went back to South Africa as an officer in a Commonwealth contingent. He remained there in June when the troops started returning to WA and was made Assistant Press Censor by the British Commander in Chief, Lord Kitchener. Duffy received his discharge on December 12, 1902 and returned in glory with the Kings South African Medal and two more campaign bars to his credit. The future held far stranger things for Duffy and he had certainly developed a taste for military affairs. He resumed work as an auctioneer and land agent, but accepted an offer from the Australian Regular Army and joined up as a Lieutenant in the Intelligence Corps.

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Promotion to the honorary rank of Captain followed in January 1911. He was transferred to the Office Reserve List in October 1914, not long after the Great War broke out. The 1st Australian Imperial Force soon made use of him: Duffy was promoted to the substantive rank of Captain on March 18, 1915 and put to work in the supply section of the 6th Infantry Brigade. He embarked for the Middle East in May, 1915. There are no prizes for guessing his next destination. In September he arrived at Gallipoli and performed brilliantly in establishing and running a vital supply depot. Later in the year he played a role in planning the final and practically bloodless evacuation. Jarlath had again distinguished himself and received an MID (Mention in Despatches) with strong recommendations for a high decoration. Sadly, no medal was forthcoming. Captain Duffy was on active service in Egypt until February 1916, but then his health collapsed. Jarlath became seriously ill with bronchitis and emphysema and received a discharge on medical grounds. He returned to Australia on March 3, 1916 and engaged in Home Front staff duty and intelligence work after his recovery. The next of Duffy’s remarkable career twists and turns is one of the most surprising. In early 1917 Duffy was either recommended for or actually appointed to the position of Australian Ambassador to Imperial Russia, which at that time was in serious trouble because of the war and close to imploding. Duffy never got to make the trip to St Petersburg – the Russian Revolution broke out and the Czar abdicated in March. Jarlath spent

the rest of the conflict in Perth. On January 1, 1919 Duffy was made an honorary major and transferred to the Army reserve list. By way of added glory another three medals came his way (the British War Medal, the Victory Medal and the 1914/1915 Star) and set the seal on an unusual career. In civilian life Duffy operated again as a real estate agent and evaluator. He evolved into a fairly prominent ‘Perth identity’ and added auctioneering work to his portfolio. Jarlath had been sworn in as a Justice of the Peace in 1916 and was not afraid to speak out on controversial matters. He linked up with police and church dignitaries in 1935 to block the grant of a general licence (ie the right to run an open bar) to a hotel, calling the proposal a ‘piebald atrocity’ that would generate public disturbances. He supported charity work and helped organise a benefit concert in 1923 for the development and expansion of Perth Hospital. Jarlath and his wife were pretty bold travellers and we hear of expeditions to New Zealand, India and Scotland either before, during or after the war. The couple capped things off in the 1930s when they toured the whole of Java by motor vehicle. Jarlath Duffy was a good speaker, his wife Mary an excellent photographer – a double benefit that resulted in the delivery of popular illustrated public lectures. As far as we know the couple had no children. When Jarlath Duffy died at their home in South Perth on July 31, 1949 it seems their rather substantial estate was divided up and scattered. We can only assume that a fine collection of memorabilia and photographs is now forever out of reach.

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Local Perth painting company, Erin Painting is a family owned business owned and operated by Dominic Hyde. Dominic told The Irish Scene, “As Master Painters, we push the limits of what is possible. Complete technical mastery of the craft, and a staff skilled in every facet of paint selection, site preparation, application and finish, we can scope the needs of any project”. Our achievements speak for themselves. From first contact, you can feel assured of a quality job and a very professional painting company. You will be impressed with the friendly and extremely helpful advice on paint colour selection and finish. Dominic Hyde is a qualified painter having completed a 5 year apprenticeship with Keating and Sons, Cork, Ireland. Dominic said, “Working for Keating gave me lots of experience in all facets of the painting industry”. He emigrated to Australia in 1982 with his wife Imelda. “Upon arriving in Perth, I was employed with a number of major painting companies gaining more experience predominantly in commercial painting”. Dominic was very much involved in sport in Ireland (hurling and soccer) and on arriving in Australia joined the North Perth United Football Club. “I was one of the inaugural players with Perth’s Shamrock

Rovers in 1984 and helped design the first Shamrock Rovers team logo”. In 1994 it was time to hang up the boots and he picked up the golf clubs. “I continue to follow my new sporting passion on the golfing fairways and greens in and around Perth”. He is currently the Vice President of the Irish Golf Club of WA”. “From 1984 to 1990, I often travelled to the Pilbara Region of WA, namely Karratha and Mount Newman, fulfilling painting contracts of living quarters during the busy construction and mining period”. At one stage, Imelda joined Dominic in the North West with their baby daughter Angela, only to return to Perth shortly afterwards. “We discovered that high-heels

as well as a young baby weren’t exactly suited to the red dust, spiders and “creepy crawlies”. In 1990, and with the arrival of second daughter, Deirdre, he returned to Perth and started his own business, Hymel Painting Services, later changing the name to Erin Painting Services to give a little bit of Irish flare. Now, along with partner Rebecca, Dominic has continued to operate his painting business successfully with his teams working extensively throughout the Perth metro area. “Over this period we have provided quality painting services for both commercial and residential and were appointed a Dulux Accredited Painter, which is an endorsement of the quality of service and workmanship that Erin Painting provides”. Erin Painting’s success can be attributed to reliable service, quality workmanship and an experienced team of painters. “We are always looking for quality tradespersons and if you would like to join our team, please contact Dominic direct on 0414 595 605.

If you would like a quote for painting, please call Dominic on 0414 595 605, or email erinpainting1@bigpond.com Don’t forget to like Erin Painting on Facebook to see some of his previous work! Facebook.com/erinpainting

“Let me tell you about Being Green!”

Checking out at the store in a Dublin supermarket, the young cashier suggested to an elderly woman, that she should bring her own grocery bags because plastic bags weren’t good for the environment. The woman apologised and explained, “We didn’t have this ‘green thing’ back in my day.” The young lad responded, “That’s our problem now. Your generation did not care enough to save our environment for future generations.” This was like a red rag to a bull and she gave him a mouthful! “Let me tell you something a chara, back then, we returned milk bottles, lemonade bottles and beer bottles to the store. The store sent them back to the plant to be washed and sterilised and refilled, so it could use the same bottles over and over. So they really were recycled, do you not agree”. “Also, grocery stores bagged our groceries in brown paper bags that we reused for numerous things, most memorable besides household garbage bags, was the use of brown paper bags as book covers for our schoolbooks. This was to ensure that public property, (the books provided for our use by the school) was not defaced by our scribbling. Then we were able to personalise our books on the brown paper bags. But too bad we didn’t do the ‘green thing’ back then”. “And we walked up stairs, because

we didn’t have these escalator things in every store and office building. We walked to the grocery store and didn’t climb into a 300-horsepower machine every time we had to go two stories. Am I right? You say we didn’t have the ‘green thing’ in our day, I ask you”. “And another thing me boy, back then, we washed the baby’s nappies because we didn’t have the throwaway disposable kind. We dried clothes on a line, not in an energy-gobbling machine burning 220 volts -- wind and solar power really did dry our clothes back in our early days. Kids got handme-down clothes from their brothers or sisters, not always brand-new clothing. As you say me boy, we didn’t have the ‘green thing’ back in our day”. “Would you believe we had one television, or radio, in the house -not a television in every room in the house! And the television had a small screen the size of a handkerchief; you wouldn’t know about that my friend, not like the screens today, the size of Australia. In the kitchen, we blended and stirred by hand because we didn’t have electric machines to do everything for us. When we packaged a fragile item to send in the mail, we used wadded up old newspapers to cushion it, not Styrofoam or plastic bubble wrap. By the way, it wasn’t the fancy toilet paper you have these days, we cut squares out of the newspaper that was good enough for us. Back then, we didn’t fire up an engine and burn petrol just to cut the lawn. We used a push mower that ran on human power. We exercised by working so we didn’t need to go to a health club to run on treadmills that operate on electricity. Are you getting

the message me boy, we didn’t have the ‘green thing back then you say.” We drank from a fountain when we were thirsty instead of using a cup or a plastic bottle every time we had a drink of water. We refilled writing pens with ink instead of buying a new pen, by the way have you ever checked how many biros you have in your house. And we replaced the razor blades in a razor instead of throwing away the whole razor just because the blade got dull”. “By the way, back then, people took a bus and kids rode their bikes to school or walked instead of turning their mother into a 24-hour taxi service in the family’s $65,000 people mover car, which cost what a whole house did before the ‘green thing’.” “We had one electrical plug in a room, not an entire bank of sockets to power a dozen contraptions, computers, Ipod things and the like. And we didn’t need a computerised gadget to receive a signal beamed from satellites 23,000 miles in outer space in order to find the nearest takeaway junk food place”. “Mother forgive me for what I am about to say but you hear me know? Isn’t it so sad the current generation laments how wasteful we ‘old folks’ were just because we didn’t have the ‘green thing’ back then. But, let me finish with this me boy, we don’t like being old in the first place, so it doesn’t take much to pee us off... especially from a young tattooed, multiple-pierced punk who can’t give change without the cash register telling them how much!” “I FEEL BETTER NOW AND YOU HAVE A NICE GREEN ST PATRICK’S DAY DAY!”

The Kelly Team has just opened its second office and is now servicing new and existing clients in Balga and surrounding suburbs. As many readers will know, The Kelly Team, is a family owned and operated business and has been based in Yokine for over 20 years. “We have long seen great potential in the Balga area…” says Principal Fergus Kelly “…it has proximity to the city, existing infrastructure, a popular aquatic centre, and some fantastic parks.” Tom Quinn has worked extensively in nearby Nollamara “… Nollamara has been transformed over recent years. The zoning for the area allows for the older large blocks to be subdivided and improved with modern three bedroom villas and townhouses…and exactly the same opportunities exist here in Balga”. Sales Manager Clint White is looking for Sales Representatives to joint the team and take ownership of their own patch “We are the only office in Balga…what an opportunity to be based here and be the local real estate contact for residents in the area!” The Kelly Team also have a large team of full time Property Managers who are always looking for new investment properties to take care of. They are also experts in the recent important changes to the Residential Tenancies Act 2013 which applies to all rental properties. If you own an investment property within the inner northern suburbs, The Kelly Team have all areas covered and are only one phone call away. Call Tara on 0422 184 979 and have all your questions answered.

amrock tal on the sh pe h ac e or F way a wish your happiness This brings k d luc and oo g , th al e h Good .... d every day For today an Day St Patrick’s on y ll ia c e sp E

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New Irish Shop for Perth Michelle Clinton likes Irish food that much that she decided to import it! Michelle told The Irish Scene, “I will open 10th March and I will be stocking many Irish groceries”. I asked Michelle how the idea of an Irish shop came about and she told me that she went to Ireland last year and brought back all her favourite Irish goodies. “I got stung 1000 euros for excess luggage then I started searching to see if there was an Irish shop in Perth and found nothing!” She told me that there are some places where you can buy some Irish foods but not a shop, so Michelle decided to open up one of her own. “I know you can also buy online but I wanted somewhere where customers could come and browse for their favourite things.” Michelle did her own survey on facebook to find out what people wanted in Irish food and recorded the most sought after items. “That was when I decided that there is a need and I went about sourcing Irish foods.” Now her dream is about to bear fruit. Michelle is married into one of the most well-known families in the northern suburbs, the Clintons. “The late Paul Clinton was my father-in-law and he was a very popular man in the Joondalup area, especially in the Bailey”. We wish Michelle well and wish her a long and successful business career. See advert above for contact details. Fred Rea

“Tír gan teanga, tír gan anam.

A country without a language is a country without a soul.” Pádraig Pearse

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Daniel O’Donnell talks about his connections with Perth and Sri Lanka By Tom Gilmore. As he prepares for his concert in sun-drenched Perth on Thursday March 20th followed by one in Colombo in Sri Lanka on Sunday March 23rd Daniel O’Donnell talks about how a family connection in Perth makes the show here more personal for him, and about how his friend Cliff Richard influenced him to do the Sri Lanka gig. “Tours of Australia and New Zealand seem to work better for us this time of the year and while we were in Brisbane to celebrate St Patrick’s Day during our last tour it is the turn of Melbourne this trip. While I am looking forward to all of the dates ‘down under’ Perth is very personal to me as it will be nice to meet again with my cousin Connie O’Donnell and his family there. “He moved to Western Australia’s Perth from Perth in Scotland about 20 years ago. There are also many young people from my home area of Donegal that work in the mines north of Perth and some of those young men and women usually come along to our show in the Riverside Theatre. So we should have a whale of a time and one almighty sing-along when we finish our Australian tour in Perth this time,” says Daniel. “A lot of hard work by many people goes into putting all the dates together. All I have to do is arrive and everything is organised at that stage. But the logistics of getting nearly 20 people and instruments from the northern to the southern hemisphere and then transporting us all around the two countries for the shows is a huge task that requires a lot of careful planning.” This time the planning is even more demanding because as soon as Daniel, Mary Duff and the band finish the tour in Perth on Thursday March 20th they head for the Sri Lankan capital of Colombo where they will appear in concert for the first time at The Sri Lanka Exhibition and Convention Centre on Sunday March 23rd. Daniel says that his friend Cliff Richard was the catalyst for the Sri Lankan concert which was first mooted as a possibility a few years ago. “When Cliff was there a number of years ago he got on to us afterwards on the phone and asked if I realised that people in Sri Lanka were interested in my music. Apparently during his concert there he sang some songs from his album of duets including the one that I recorded with him, ‘Yesterday Once More’, the Carpenters hit. He sang it on stage in Colombo with one of his band but when he mentioned that it was one he recorded with me the crowd started to applaud. He then asked if they were familiar with the songs of Daniel O’Donnell and they

Daniel O’Donnell with Tom Gilmore after the launch of Tom’s book on the late Larry Cunningham some years ago.

started to cheer. So he contacted me afterwards and said that I should do a concert there. “It’s a first for us in Sri Lanka and we are looking forward to it. A few promoters there had expressed some interest in us doing concerts in Colombo in the past and now this year it is finally happening. One person from Sri Lanka came up to me after a concert some time ago

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Australia’s visa rules are constantly changing and the visa fees are spiraling upwards. It’s really important to get sound advice on your visa options and eligibility to apply before you embark on any type of visa application. Being a migrant myself, I understand the issues and stress involved in migrating to a new country. I’ve been living and working in WA as a migration agent for well over 10 years and have assisted thousands of people to stay in Australia. It’s an awesome job and I love it! 

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My commitment to you is that I will provide a clear assessment of your visa options and whether you have a good chance of succeeding. If I don’t think your application will succeed, I will tell you this up-front and may be able to suggest other potential visa pathways, such as studying for an Australian trade qualification.

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and said that my songs were being played regularly on radio stations out there, but I have no idea what sort of programmes the songs are being played on. However there is obviously some sort of profile of me there and when I checked on the internet last September I discovered that there was a couple in Sri Lanka who were doing a tribute show to Mary Duff and myself at venues around Colombo. That may also help to attract more people to our show, even out of curiosity, and it should be an interesting place to play,” he added. Back in the northern hemisphere Daniel completed a series of concerts in the UK before heading to Australia and New Zealand for the tour that started in Hamilton, New Zealand on February 21st. His last album ‘A Picture of You’ was a Top 20 hit in England even though he had no time to promote it there due to the sudden death of his father-in-law Tom. “Tom was always so interested in seeing if the albums would make the UK charts but little did he know that he would pass away just as the last one was released. It gave us our 26th chart hit in the UK and made the charts in Ireland and other countries as well. So I am very grateful to everybody in all the countries for supporting it and making the album such a success,” he says. The sudden death of her father came as a double blow to Majella who has been fighting cancer for the past few months. She helped raise almost 600,000 for cancer care by having her head shaved live on TV on the top rated ‘Late Late Show’ when she started her chemotherapy treatment only weeks before her dad’s death. “By the time I return from Australia Majella will, please God, have recovered from her surgery and we hope to have a relaxing few weeks together in Tenerife then. Majella has been very focused about getting better from her illness and recovering after the surgery will hopefully see the end of this chapter in our lives that we could have done without. But we have got through it very well thank God and of course we have got great support from a lot of people, especially the fans,” he concluded. Daniel O’Donnell, Mary Duff and the band appear in concert at The Riverside Theatre, Perth on Thursday March 20th.

Bouquets to Fremantle City Council A wonderful initiative of the Fremantle City Council is the Writers Walk and this was brought to our attention by none other than that great supporter of the Fenian Irish/ Australian history Mr Tony Costa. It was Tony, when Mayor of Subiaco some years ago who had a street in Subiaco named after Fr Patrick McCabe who played a role in the escape of John Boyle O’Reilly from Western Australia. During a recent stroll around Fremantle Tony came across a wonderful piece of art dedicated to John Boyle O’Reilly. It is part of the Fremantle Writer’s Walk and is a series of art installations along High Street in the city’s West End that celebrate past and present local writers. The ‘walk’ is part of the West End Streetscape Improvement Project that has included widening and repaving of footpaths, new street lighting and furniture to assist with the revitalisation of this important area of the city. The art installations have been designed and fabricated by Fremantle artist Bridget Norton. Each installation features one selected writer and incorporates a short passage of writing. The artworks are in the form of 2.4m high markers or totems, with the writer’s name and selected text on the face of the totem. Glass light boxes within the totem also provide text and graphic images relevant to the selected writing. The ‘walk’ incorporates 5 writers, including John Boyle O’Reilly and extends along High Street between Pakenham Street and Cliff Street. John Boyle O’Reilly is in good company and the other writers included in the walk are, Tim Winton, Joan London, Xavier Herbert and Kim Scott.

Tony Costa

Item 3 of the walk is John Boyle O’Reilly. JFK’s favourite poet, John Boyle O’Reilly was an Irish political prisoner (a Fenian) who escaped from Fremantle Gaol in 1869. O’Reilly later organised the escape of a further six Fenians in 1876 on the American whaler, Catalpa. O’Reilly wrote Western Australia’s first novel, Moondyne (1880) based on his experiences as a convict in Western Australia, a passage of which is highlighted in the Writers Walk. Location: The John Boyle O’Reilly totem is located on the corner of Henry and High streets. The Orient Hotel, located opposite the totem is on the site of the Emerald Isle Hotel, where most of the Catalpa escape was planned. For more information contact the Fremantle Visitor Centre. Email: info@visitfremantle. com.au Phone: 08 9431 7878 or visit their website: visitfremantle.com.au Fred Rea

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on Sunday 16th March, we shall also have a stall on the oval, if anyone wants to come and have a chat and see what we are about or make suggestions please seek us out! Speaking of St. Patrick’s weekend The Parade and Family Fun Day in Leederville Oval promises to be a fantastic day, there will be plenty of activities for the kids, from pet farms, where you can feed the animals, and Zorb ball space things for older children, large bouncy castle, roving entertainers (magician/pirate/ sparkle princess) to add to children’s enjoyment. Also there will be a large activity area for children of all ages and adults alike, which consists of large connect 4 games, jungle gym gymnastic type climbing soft shapes, old fashioned skill challenge games, climbing tunnels foam bubble party, and more. Of course there will be plenty to eat and drink available on the day and quality entertainment on stage and in the bar area all day long. There will also be a ‘chill out tent’ for parents with tired kids who need a break, or just for anyone who needs to rest the legs for a while! Inside this marquee art and craft tables will be set up for ‘quiet fun’. Whilst we are busy looking forward to this huge event, we still have our regular events such as our Wednesday morning playgroup proudly sponsored by mortgage broker Sheamus Walsh of Endeavour Finances, here in Perth. The Irish language class, and Irish music classes are also ongoing. We are also hoping to take part in a Leprechaun Hunt which will happen in the lead up to the St. Patrick’s weekend, so if you have plans for March the 16th cancel them as you do not want to miss out on this great day! Please check out the facebook page for any information you need or you may contact us on irishinperth@hotmail.com or 0406 229 450

Irish Families in Perth

Western Australia By Debbie Cashman The chatter never stops on the facebook page and it is still one of the most popular places for Irish here and in Ireland to bounce a question in relation to living in Perth and get an immediate and hopefully impartial answer, from another member(s) on the site. Anything from jobs to advice on mosquitoes bites on babies, to where to buy green things to wear for St. Patrick’s Day. Of course too we have plenty of debates and points made, which are welcome to keep the site diverse and informative. Member numbers have reached in excess of 4758. Pictures posted provide many laugh out loud moments and we encourage members input. It is also a place for people who have spent time in Perth to have a browse at posts and comments and see what are topics of the day here from Ireland. We had a good morning welcome from ‘wet soggy Dublin’ from a member who is looking forward to being reunited with the sunshine of Australia soon, which makes those of us here, appreciate not having the kettle full of water, washing the frost off the car in the morning as we leave for work! The biggest thing happening around the corner of course are the St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, where we hope to have a float through the parade in Leederville

Dermot Byrne

The Irish Quiz Wiz!

a.k.a. Dermot from Lesmurdie on ABC radio Nightlife program.

Once again as the 17th of March draws near, we have the millions of Irish and the millions who would like to be Irish all over the world preparing to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. It’s funny really when you think about it, I suppose, it is one of those Irish peculiarities, St Patrick was not Irish. Anyway this time I want to find out what you know about some of the other saints. 1 Which Saint was connected with the superstition that if it rained on his Feast Day, the 15th July, it would rain for 40 days? 2 Which Saint’s Feast Day falls on the 1st March? 3 Who is the Patron Saint of Russia, Greece and Scotland? 4 Who was known as The Navigator? 5 Who is the Patron Saint of Dublin? 6 Can you name Australia’s only Saint? 7 Who was the Patron Saint of Travelers? 8 Which Saint had a breed of dog named after him? 9 Who was the female Patron Saint of Ireland? 10 What date is St. George’s Day? 1 St Swithen 2 St. David’s 3 St. Andrew 4 St. Brendan 5 St. Laurence O’Toole 6 St. Mary MacKillop 7 St. Christopher 8 St. Bernard 9 St Bridget 10 April 23rd

Occupational Health & Safety Don’t leave it to chance!

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On a visit to Perth, I recently caught up with Cathal Uniacke of Custodian Safety Services, who endeavours to assist businesses that find Occupational Health and Safety Management uncertain, frustrating and time consuming. I asked Cathal why should businesses consider investing in their OHS management systems and procedures. Cathal replied, “The world is ever evolving. Workplaces that were considered acceptable 10 – 15 years ago are no longer acceptable to Worksafe or modern day employees now. The number of Landmark court cases involving businesses being prosecuted and/or fined for workplace law breaches is ever increasing. Each landmark case will determine future workplace OHS requirements and Worksafe expectations. Businesses need to implement up to date OHS management systems to ensure they meet the current requirements and expectations of Worksafe or greatly increase their chances of joining the long list of businesses that have already received fines and prosecution records as a result of inadequate workplaces and present systems”. I was curious if it was expensive to implement an OHS management system and what will the ongoing costs be. “The costs of OHS systems and ongoing implementation largely depend on the willingness of the businesses management to adopt OHS into their everyday routines. Once an OHS management system has been put in place the ongoing maintenance of the system can be woven into existing management and communication systems the business already has in place. When in use there are only a few select times external assistance will be required, for instance; an annual system health check, after a serious accident/ incident, prior to planned business expansion and when looking for national standard compliance recognition (e.g. AS/4801)”. I asked Cathal if I were a business owner or manager that wants to implement an OHS Management system into my business what should I do next? “The next step, Fred, would be to give us a call, provide us with a description of your business outputs, employee types, equipment, any OHS management systems or procedures your business already have in place (no matter how basic they may seem) and finally where you can see your business being in 5 years time. We will then be able to give you a thorough report on what’s required and provide to the dollar costs.” Thank you for your time Cathal, I wish you all the best in your future endeavours to assist Australian Businesses with their OHS management.

• OHS Management Systems • OHS System Audits • Site OHS Management Systems • Asbestos Removal Management • Accident/Incident Support • Sub-Contractor OHS Packs • Business Start-up OHS Advice • Regulatory Advice • Importing Regulations • Ongoing OHS Support Free Perth Information Seminar Date: Tuesday 3rd June Time: 6pm – 6.30pm Venue: To be advise

Finger food and light refreshments will be available on the night Bookings and information Phone Cathal 1300 859 484 T estim o n i a l “Consulting with Custodian Safety Services on OHS management issues and most recently, prior to the purchase of a vehicle loading crane truck has been hugely beneficial for us and has helped Kilmay Constructions put proactive OHS management measures in place before it’s too late.” Dermot Flynn - Managing Director, Kilmay Constructions

T: 1300 859 484 cathal@custodiansafety.com.au www.custodiansafety.com.au 25

Where they Party in Freo... Irish finger food all day

Rosies

Fremantle

Paddy’s Day 2014 We Open at 10am

12 – 5pm The Dublin Rogues and Celtic Spirit

8.30pm - Close Chris Murphy and The Holy Rollers

5.30pm-8.30pm Wesley Goodlette Jamboree 23 William St Fremantle Ph 9335 1645 26 26

Ireland-Western Australia Forum Promoting business, professional and cultural links between Ireland and Western Australia

St Patrick’s Day Breakfast We are delighted to have such talented speakers as Minister Bill Marmion, WA Minister for Mines and Petroleum and Mr Chris Ellison MD and founding shareholder of Mineral Resources at our St Patrick’s Day breakfast at 7.30am 17 March 2014 at the Parmelia Hilton. We are especially delighted to have an insight into

the outlook for the Irish economy from Minister Alan Kelly TD. At the time of going to press the event is almost sold out so you’d better get in quickly and call Lynda on 92188422 or email reception@ kavlaw.com.au. Our next event is a meet and greet networking event at the Celtic Club at 5.30pm 8 May 2014.

Hon Consul Marty Kavanagh with Sarah Mangan, Deputy Head of Mission at the Irish Embassy in Canberra during a recent visit to Perth.

The Forum is keen to lift our overall footprint and activities to a new level. If you are keen to be involved or wish to recommend speakers please do not hesitate to contact Marty Kavanagh on 92188422 or email: marty@kavlaw.com.au

All areas of Family Law, children’s issues,

divorce & property matters financial agreements Wills Restraining Orders

Marty Kavanagh

B.Comm (Hons), Grad Dip, LLB Barrister and Solicitor

2/100 Terrace Rd East Perth 6004 • t: 9218 8422 • m: 0430 960 859

This edition’s guest is Tony Synnott. 1. What was the best year of your life? The day I left home for England at 17 years of age 2. What was your first job? Working for a farmer near Drogheda, 5 bob for a 10 hour

day. 3. Do you have an iPhone or Laptop? Sure, I have a Laptop. 4. What is your favourite sport and sporting hero? Boxing and Mohamad Ali. 5. What is your favourite song? Ave Maria and Mario Lanza. 6. What is your earliest childhood memory? My first day at school, I remember being very happy. 7. What was the best TV program and why? Benny Hill, a very funny man. 8. Do you use social media and which one? Radio, TV and Facebook. 9. If you could be anyone famous for a day who would it be? Michael Collins, my hero. 10. What are you most afraid of?

• e: marty@kavlaw.com.au

Without doubt, dying. 11. Where do you get your news from, TV, Internet,Newspapers? Daily newspapers. 12. Who is your favourite actor? Tom Hanks and Forest Gump 13. If there was one place in the world you could visit where would it be? Rio De Janeiro.

“May you have the hindsight to know where you’ve been, The foresight to know where you are going, And the insight to know when you have gone too far” Irish Blessing

C O M M E M O R AT I O N C O M M I T T E E BUNBURY WESTERN AUSTRALIA

Annual Dinner and Commemoration 2014 Dinner Sat 29th March 2014 - 6.30pm for 7pm at Rose Hotel, Bunbury Tickets: $60 pp (Incl 3 Course Dinner and Entertainment) Drinks at Bar Prices BOOK EARLY! Maximum 100 Guests Special Guest: HE Mr Noel White, Ireland’s Ambassador to Australia

COMMEMORATION - Free Event Sunday 30th March 2014 - 11.30am John Boyle O’Reilly Memorial Monument Buffalo Road, Australind

Dinner Booking: Tom Dillon 0417 986 298 Email: bdillon1@bigpond.com Rose Hotel Accommodation: (08) 9721 4533

Rockingham City Council complete the Catalpa Memorial by Ormonde Waters, Historian Although incomplete at the time, this beautiful “Catalpa Wild Geese Memorial Sculpture” by local sculptors, Joan Walsh-Smith and Charlie Smith was unveiled in 2005 by the then minister for tourism, the honourable Mark McGowan. Since then it has received both National and International acclaim, which is of course beneficial to the city of Rockingham. An example of this interest is the fact that I am currently assisting a Serbian Student, in the department of Irish-American studies, at this University of Budapest, Hungary. Her Doctrinal Thesis is on John Devoy, his life and role in the struggle for Irish independence. John Devoy and John Boyle O’Reilly were the main organisers behind the “catalpa” rescue of the six fenian wild Geese. We now celebrate the long overdue of completion of this monument, by the installation

of seven bronze plaques, which represent the seven weekly editions of the handwritten fenian convict newspaper “The Wild Goose”. These plaques are not intended to be an exact replica of any particular page from “The Wild Goose”, but rather to capture the spirit of some of the content of this remarkable document. Remember that the original was written by hand, with a dip pen, in semi darkness, while traveling on a rolling sea. There is no mention of manuscript newspapers of any kind having been produced on any of the Tasmanian or New South Wales convict ships but several of the West Australian transports published them. On the Lord Raglan in 1858 the weekly paper was called Life Boat, and was edited by a convict, Stephen Stout. A Voice of Our Exiles or the Clara Weekly Journal appeared in 1864. The Belgravean Weekly Journal was issued on the Belgravia in 1866 and Norwoodiana or Sayings and Doings on Route to Western Australia was published in 1867. On Thursday, October 31, 1867 the Fenians met on board the convict transport Hougoumont to discuss the possibility of starting

a newspaper. Tom Duggan was appointed Chairman, John Flood Editor, John Boyle O’Reilly SubEditor, Con Keane Reader, and Dan Bradley Printer’s Devil. No decision was as yet reached on a name for the paper, and the meeting was adjourned. Father Bernard Delaney had agreed to supply the necessary paper and writing materials. On Thursday, November 7, the Newspaper Committee met again to finalise details and to decide upon a name for the publication. A number of possible names were considered, but Kelly’s suggestion of The Wild Goose was the final choice. This was in honour of the wild geese, Irish soldiers of earlier generations who had found service in all the armies of Europe, when forced into exile from their own country. Father Bernard Delaney had managed to provide the necessary paper, pens and ink, so it was arranged that the first number was to appear on Saturday, November 9. Cashman went to work immediately to draw up the artistic heading, a wreath of shamrocks with the name peeping through. Editor: On Saturday the 29th March The Irish Ambassador to Australia, HE Mr Noel White will join Mayor Barry Sammels of Rockingham City to view the completed memorial. The Ambassador will be then going on to Bunbury for the Annual John Boyle O’Reilly Dinner. On Sunday 30th HE will attend the annual O’Reilly Commemoration in Australian and in the afternoon will attend the the performance of “Under Any Old Gum Tree” in Collie. This is a play dedicated to Irishman, Martin O’Meara VC.

Remembering the Great War in Song This year will mark 100 years since the start of WW1, with the centenary of the Gallipoli Landing coming up in 2015, so perhaps it’s a good time to reflect on the role of Irish music in describing, mourning and remembering the Great War. For among the many songs written about that time, two – The Band Played Waltzing Matilda and The Green Fields of France – received notable interpretations by Irish bands and the country’s folk scene at large. Both songs were the creation of folk singer Eric Bogle, who migrated from Scotland to Australia in 1969, during the height of the Vietnam War. Bogle joined the folk scene in Canberra, and two years later, reflected on his new country’s role in another war, writing ‘And The Band Played Waltzing Matilda’. The song draws from the imagery of Australia’s wild countryside, and the men who roamed it, telling the story of a young drover who is called up to join the Great War in 1915, and is sent to Gallipoli. Bogle described vividly the scenes at each stage of the soldiers’ journey – cheering crowds farewelling them in Sydney Harbour, the blood and sand of Anzac Bay, where they ‘were butchered like lambs at the slaughter’, the return to gunfire, after the Australians and Turks had stopped to bury the dead, and the impact of a shell which leaves the narrator crippled, saying ‘(I)never

knew there were worse things than dying’. Their return to Australia is painted in equally stark terms: now, the crowds are struck dumb at the sight of so many young men damaged by a glorious campaign that went so deadly wrong. Bogle expands on the futility of war right up to the song’s end, with the soldier, many years later, watching an Anzac Day parade, and wondering why his fellows (‘forgotten heroes of a forgotten war’) are still marching. Bogle brought his song to the National Folk Festival in 1974, where it won great acclaim, with the first cover version being released by John Currie the following year. Since then, it has been performed and recorded by numerous bands – with Ireland’s folk scene seeming to hold a particular affection for it, with covers by Liam Clancy, the Dubliners, Ronnie Drew, Christy Moore and Phil Coulter. In 1985, Celtic punk rockers The Pogues offered their own unique interpretation of the song on the album ‘Rum Sodomy and the Lash’, with Shane McGowan bringing a sneering emphasis to each line. Music journalist Robert Christgau praised this version, saying of McGowan that he “never lets go of it for a second: he tests the flavour of each word before spitting it out.” A trip to Europe in 1976 saw Bogle return to the theme of the Great War, with the song ‘No Man’s Land’, which also came to be known

as ‘The Green Fields of France’. While visiting the military cemeteries of Flanders and northern France, he was drawn to the stories of young British men who had lost their lives, many of them now remembered only by unmarked crosses in the fields. The narrator in this song is perhaps Bogle himself, who walks among the graves, and addresses the soldier buried in one, a “Willie MacBride’’. He goes on to wonder about Willie’s life, his reasons for joining up at ‘only nineteen’, whether he was loved and remembered by a sweetheart back home, and if his death was quick or ‘slow and obscene’. Towards the end, Bogle veers into philosophical territory, asking Willie if he, and other soldiers had asked themselves about the purpose of dying for their country. He emphasises that similar wars and bloodshed had happened ‘again and again’ since then. When the song was picked up by the Furey Brothers in the following decade, they gained great acclaim for their version, which changed some of the melody and lyrics of the original - Scots phrasing such as ‘did the rifle fire o’er ye?’ was changed to ‘did they play the Death March?’. Released alongside their hit single ‘When You Were Sweet Sixteen’ in 1981, ‘The Green Fields of France’ became an Irish number one for the Fureys, remaining in the singles charts for twenty eight weeks. In their following performances, Finbar Furey said often that he believed it to be the ‘best anti-war song’ he’d heard, and his favourite song. Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair echoed the sentiment, saying it was his favourite anti-war poem. Taken together, the two songs have made Eric Bogle a major force in the chronicling of war, acknowledged here and overseas – with ‘And The Band Played Waltzing Matilda’ named one of the top 30 Australian songs in 2001. Caroline Smith

Executive President: Eileen Ashley TCRG Vice President: Teresa McGorry TCRG Secretary: Siobhan Cummings TCRG Treasurer: Deirdre McGorry TCRG School Contacts Ceide Samantha McAleer TCRG Subiaco & Woodvale 9405 6255 / 0414 188 784 Delany Jane Goddard TCRG Forrestfield & Parkerville 9295 2447 / 0407 085 237 Eireann Siobhan Cummins TCRG Como/Jandakot/Rockingham 0422 075 300 Kavanagh Teresa McGorry-Mathers TCRG 9371 8400 / 0412 155 318 Deirdre McGorry TCRG (Hon) 0400 077 892 Osborne Park & Melville

Australian Irish Dancing Association Inc. Western Australia With 2014 well underway, Irish dancers everywhere are busy planning and practicing… Saint Patrick’s Day is one of the biggest days in an Irish dancer’s year! Hopefully, you’ll be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of our dancers somewhere in Perth and appreciate the hard work that they’ve put into providing you with wonderful displays of Irish dancing. Whilst working towards this busy day, our dancers have also been putting in the hard work preparing for the first competition of the year, which will be held 29th & 30th March at Morley Recreation Centre. This competition will cater for all of our dancers – from our brand new beginners dancing their first reel, through to our champions preparing to compete on the world stage. The first competition of the year is always an exciting time, as new dancers get their first taste of the stage, whilst those returning from last year get to catch up with friends and continue their progression through the ranks.

O’Brien Rose O’Brien TCRG/AGCRG Butler, Kinross, Subiaco 9401 6334 / 0423 382 706 O’Hare Jenny O’Hare TCRG Wembley Downs & Os Park 0422 239 440 Saoirse Sinead Hoare TCRG Carramar 0414 647 849 Trinity Eileen Purtell-Ashley TCRG Morley 0413 511 595 WA Academy Glenalee Bromilow ADCRG Malaga 9276 3737 / 0410 584 051 Sue Hayes TMRF 9377 5600 Hilary McKenna TCRG 0404 730 532

For those who qualified at our State or National Championships, the World Irish Dancing Championships are being held in England for the first time this year. The capital, London, is the lucky host and a number of WA’s finest Irish dancers have been putting in hours of practice over the summer to ensure they are ready to show the world what they can do. Hopefully, we will be able to provide a successful update in the next edition! This year promises to be a very busy one, with WA dancers hoping to compete at a number of large competition interstate and overseas. Keep your eye out for updates on how they’ve all gone! For more information on Irish Dancing in WA, please contact the AIDA Inc (WA Branch) Secretary, Siobhan Cummins, at aidawa@ aidainc.com or 0422 075 300.

Saint Patrick’s Day Message from Irish Ambassador

level of unemployment is still unacceptably high. That is why job creation remains the priority issue for the Government. Looking back on the year we also reflect with deep sadness on the tragic deaths of young people in the Irish community in WA. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the deceased. It has been heartening to see the generous support spontaneously offered by individuals and organisations within the community when it is most needed.

Many thanks again this year to Fred Rea and his team for giving me the chance to send Saint Patrick’s Day greetings to the Irish community in Western Australia. Saint Patrick’s Day is special. It is the day when Irish people all over the world celebrate their shared heritage. In Australia this year, once again, the occasion will be marked up and down the country. Parades and festivals will take place in the major cities and towns. Buildings will even turn green. WA will be no exception, with lots to see and do, and with the Parade, held so successfully last year, at the centre of the celebrations.

It has been a busy year again at the Embassy. I am very grateful to Marty Kavanagh for the great work being done in WA since his appointment last year. Together we continue to work to improve the service provided to the Irish community. For instance, this year a new registration system for Irish people abroad has been introduced. This can be accessed on the Department of Foreign Affairs’ website https://www.dfa.ie/travel/citizens-registration/ It is in the interests of all Irish passport holders to ensure their details are registered. This will help us to deliver the services that are needed, where they are needed. And we have also embraced social media. The Embassy has two twitter accounts - @irlembaustralia and @noelwhite2013 - from which we are offering news, about Ireland, about Ireland in Australia, and about the services we provide to the Irish community.

The Government will be represented at events around the country by two Ministers; in the east by Minister Coveney (who will also visit New Zealand), while Minister Kelly will visit Western Australia. Minister Kelly is looking forward to his visit, to seeing the celebrations at first hand and to meeting as many members of the community as possible. The Minister will also be working to strengthen the economic ties between Ireland and Western Australia, promoting trade and investment and helping to build on the opportunities that exist for Irish companies in WA.

Saint Patrick’s Day is a time of celebration. It is an Irish moment, but an inclusive one at that, which embraces all traditions and cultures. We look forward to having a good time, in particular to celebrating with our Australian friends and neighbours, as we mark this most important of days. So let’s celebrate and let’s stay safe.

On the economy generally, it is reassuring to be able to report positive developments over the last year, although much still remains to be done. Notably, in December, Ireland exited the EU/IMF assistance programme and successfully returned to the bond markets. Growth in the economy has continued, driven by export levels which are higher now than at their pre-crisis peak in 2007. This is all good, but, notwithstanding the increase in the number of people in work, and the decline in the unemployment rate, the

With very best wishes Noel White Ambassador

1st Friday of each Month

at the IrISH cLUB, 61 tOWNSHEND rOAD, sUBIACO Bookings essential on 9381 5213

SENIOR’S LUNCH 33

Teachers v Educators?

According to a news report, a certain private school in Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs was recently faced with an unusual problem. A number of the girls were beginning to use lipstick, and would learn to apply it in the bathroom. That was fine, but after they put on their lipstick they would press their lips to the mirror leaving dozens of little lip prints. Every night the maintenance man would have to remove them, and the next day the girls would put them back. Finally the Headmistress decided that something had to be done. She called all the girls to the bathroom and met them there with the maintenance man. She explained that all these lip prints were causing a major problem for the custodian who had to clean the mirrors every night (you can just imagine the yawns from the little princesses). To demonstrate how difficult it had been to clean the mirrors, she asked the maintenance man to show the girls how much effort was required. He took out a long-handled squeegee, dipped it in the toilet bowl, and painstakingly cleaned the mirror with it. The silence was broken by a large number of gasps, a few girls vomited, and apparently someone fainted. Since then there have been no lip prints on the mirror. There are teachers . . . and then there are educators.

Perth Comhaltas

Perth Comhaltas has many exciting events lined up for this year already and we are proud to announce that our first event is a concert we are presenting with Robert Zielinski, a Melbourne based fiddler, with Donough O Donovan on Guitar.The concert is on 15th of March 2014, so come down to the Irish Club for some fantastic pre-St Patricks day music. Tickets are available online through www.stickytickets.com. au or you can buy them at the door on the night of the concert. Please head to www.robert-zielinski. com or www.facebook.com/perthcomhaltas for more information. Alternatively you can email perthcomhaltas@gmail.com or call (08) 9397 5152. This will be a night you won’t want to miss!

Irish Session and Classes Every Monday at The Irish Club 61 Townshend Road, Subiaco - All Welcome

John Hughes in Victoria Park

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An Invitation from Pete St John The legendary and award winning Irish songwriter, Pete St John (writer of The Fields of Athenry and many other great songs) has a wonderful idea to share with our readers and the people of Australia. May 22nd this year is International Day for Biological Diversity which Pete would like us all to join him in. From the pen of Pete comes a new song entitled ‘Waltzing on Borrowed Time’ which he hopes will encourage everyone to waltz for the preservation of a truly healthy ecosystem. A simple and peaceful public gathering and dance moment to the melody and lyrics of his song of awareness, understanding, and hope. Pete and his Saint Music team extend his worldwide invitation to all lovers of clean air, pure water and a healthy ecosystem harmony... Come Waltz for Mother Earth!! This is a United Nations sanctioned international day for the promotion of biodiversity issues. The day is celebrated

annually.

Let Pete tell you what he has in mind!

“Here is what I invite you to do with me... OK? It is no big deal really... but the feel good factor is real... and doing something positive in the face of an ongoing, sad and challenging Climate Change is always worth doing... So here we go! Simply listen to the ‘Waltzing on Borrowed Time’ song... Relax and sing along with the simple chorus line. The melody and tempo will ring true to you. The urge to dance will slowly take hold of your soul. The easy, laid back tempo will lure you into action as you begin to sing the chorus and Waltz for Mother Earth.... That’s it in a nutshell... Easy, isn’t it? Be proud of yourself ! And the rest of The Plan? Go Public with me! Here is what the Saint Music team will be doing... and you and your friends can create a similar Public song and dance moment at one of your local favourite places or special landmark wherever you might be... all in the name of Biodiversity. The Saint Music team will gather a small group of singers and waltzing friends, on the United Nations Plaza for May 22nd 2014 - Biodiversity Day. Our gathering place will be at the famous arrival sculpture, located on the North Gardens of the UN Plaza. The sculpture depicts the Great Irish Famine times 1845-52. Why this sculpture location? 36

Because, during the terrible years of the Irish Potato famine’s history, the Ecosystem of Ireland was in chaos and that must never happen again! So OUR TEAM WILL SING AND WALTZ AROUND THE LOCATION to honour and celebrate all the good things about trying to make the world’s Ecosystem permanently safe for all time. We hope you can all join us in spirit around the world... Do your own Waltz for Mother Earth event in your own home place... Already many true and concerned nature lovers have been in touch to say they will be singing and waltzing with us in Ireland, U.K., Australia, Canada, Spain, France and the list is growing. Songs are magic carpets... Come fly with us!” Visit: www.waltzformotherearth.com When all the world was green and free And Nature knew no fear When oceans were our saving grace And our rivers all ran clear When forests were the air’s best friend And virgin snows sublime Before Man called a different tune And we waltzed on borrowed time! In our next edition we will have finalised a venue for the project. If you would like to be involved, please call Fred Rea on: 0418 943 832.

Charm can get you a long way in this world... By Fred Rea/Lloyd Gorman Long before it became a professional relationship English woman Diane Butler was seduced by the charm of Ireland. Now it is her job to package that passion and entice as many people as possible to create their own emotional love affair with the country. “I’ve had a connection with Ireland since before I came to Australia 25 years ago,” the product manager for Tourism Ireland in Sydney told Irish Scene. “I was working for a hotel chain that has a lot of hotels in Ireland, so in the early to mid 1980’s I was travelling around the country quite a lot and that’s when I first fell in love with it. I was travelling in the Republic and Northern Ireland, just one person on my own. So it was quite different and being from England it was an adventure. I loved Ireland, just adored it, North and South. The situation in the North saddened me but its fantastic that its changed.” In the mid to late 1990’s Diane took the connection even further when she started working as a consultant for Tourism Ireland, producing the agencies market books and working on special marketing projects. “I was the first product manager to put Northern Ireland in our brochure, so I’ve had a long association. And when this job was advertised I jumped at it, so now I’m here almost 18 months and I think I’ve made a difference.” She joined the government backed tourism agency in the months leading up to the Gathering and in her role, which also gives her responsibility for New Zealand, Diane managed operations down under for the year long campaign and now she has an eye out for the next big thing. “The Gathering resonated to the Diaspora, but also the community of Australia. It is phenomenal the amount of money it has given us in equivalent advertising value and the interest it created. It gave us something to engage the Diaspora and I think Tourism Ireland for Australia has not been probably for budget and focus, we haven’t been really - prior to me starting - not in tune with how much money the Diaspora travel with. I couldn’t believe we didn’t really market to the Diaspora. I thought, hang on a minute, these people, like all of us, the second and third generations, we all go back and spend money when we go there.” The pattern of behaviour for the Irish international community returning home to Ireland is changing, and instead of just staying at home with parents, or family, more and more of us are opting to stay in B&B’s, hotels and the like. We are spending more money in shops,

bars, restaurants than ever before - making a valuable contribution to the local economy.” The physical task of actual getting people to Ireland has become much easier in recent years, with most international carriers now offering flights. “KLM said Dublin was their number one destination from WA, via Amsterdam,” said Diane. “And Emirates are going to go to double daily flights to Dublin from Dubai this year and Ethiad have increased their capacity with larger planes.” The airlines will promote new services when they come on stream but basically don’t need to market themselves otherwise because their planes are effectively full. Greater capacity and access is helping to drive visitors to Ireland but part of the trick will be to convince Aussies travelling to the European continent for a holiday, to spend part of that time away in Ireland. “We’ve got to make sure we get a share of their European stay.” Through relentless work in the trade and sector Tourism Ireland has made headway with some of the bigger operators. Market leaders Trafalgar Tours for example had been considering making Turkey one of their two main destinations for 2014 but persistent and persuasive work by the likes of Diane has seen the big tour company make Ireland and France its main markets. And coach tour operators are reporting an upsurge in customers who want to travel to Ireland, with some of them now offering second tour options taking in the country. Travel agents have also been recruited to keep Ireland top of the heap for the undecided or wavering wonderer. The figures aren’t in yet for how many people came from Australia to Ireland but Diane is optimistic and confident they will be up substantially. “The figures look like they will be up about 20%, or somewhere between 17 and 20%. We are getting up there now with some of the other European countries and from our point of view once we start getting over the 200,000 mark we start to become a major player when compared to some of the other European countries. This will help us get more of a budget and we are definitely on the crest of a wave.” While the business requires a justification or return on every dollar spent promoting or marketing Ireland - and it is tax payers money after all - the job is still just as much about the passion and pride in Ireland as it ever has been for Diane.

Our greatest songwriters drive home message of

safety on the roads by Lloyd Gorman/Fred Rea

Two of the best singer/ songwriters to have ever graced the music world, and certainly two favourite artists of Irish Scene, have tackled the tragedy of road deaths in their own inimitable and unmistakable style. Irishman Pete St John who Pete St John has penned such anthems as Dublin in the Rare Ould Times and Fields of Athenry, while Scot turned Aussie Eric Bogle is the author of enduring classics such as Green Fields of France and The Leaving of Nancy – have both contributed to the debate on the loss of life on our roads. Pete St John said his song Never Drink and Drive is a song of awareness. “I’m hoping with good airplay it’ll help save lives on our roads. Songs are magic carpets, they travel in all THE NEVER DRINK & DRIVE SONG directions (c) Pete St John/ Saint Music and they Face the music and just listen have a life Really let the words sink in of their own, there Speed and drink are no and reckless moments barriers, no Are just how its always been Twisted car wrecks on the highway walls and Ought to drive the message home no doors they can’t As a driver are you listening open. So On the road you’re not alone! sometimes a soft message about a very serious subject - which drink driving is and is causing lives to be lost every day, not only in Ireland, but internationally. What really cemented the idea for the song was a little story about a very close friend of mine. We were going to a party, six of us, and he said he would drive on the night, as the designated driver, so the rest of us could have a jar. Well, the party went so well and he being a brandy drinker he decided he’d have a few jars, so I had a few words with him, as friends do, and said your not playing the game, as he turned away from me he said

you’re a pain in the neck why don’t chose a “middle of the road” country you write a bloody song about it, so style the song. two weeks later that’s what The Road Safety I said I was going to do.” Authority has The Road Safety continued to support Authority of Ireland were and encourage Pete St. immediately on board with John’s efforts to promote the project and supported road safety. “Pete has Pete in his life saving managed to use his attempt. winning formula for But rather than be the producing classic and Eric Bogle face or voice of the project memorable songs to Pete who thought there create a really catchy might be resistance from the public melody that gets to a well known entertainer singing across the important about the issue came up with an message not to interesting approach. “I created drink and drive. a virtual band and called it the As the Country country underground band. I talked Underground Band to some of my friends and some of say in the tune, the best guys in the business. When I hope everyone James Nash they heard what I was doing and will stop and listen involved in they said they said “Pete, carefully to the we’d love to join you in this and I message in the song, Never Drink said, lads, you’ll be a mystery, this and Drive, it’s wrong” said Noel will be a virtual band.” The identity Brett, CEO of the Road Safety of the band didn’t remain secret for Authority. long, with respected museos Charlie Six years on and Pete St John McGettigan, Billy Farrell, Gerry is just as committed to the idea O’Connor, Gerry Foy, Ray Kennedy that prevention is better than cure and Brian Furlong when it comes to forming the group. ‘SONG FOR JAMES’ by Eric Bogle road safety and drink The song was driving. “The next On the road from Fermoy launched in Dublin in life you save could be that leads through to Kilworth 2008 and immediately your own,” the lyrics Foot sore and weary found airplay in the US of Pete’s song remind - where Pete had worked and chilled to the bone, the listener. On a dark winter’s morning as a professional truck In his latest driver for some time - and young James was walking album ‘A Toss Of The After a night out in Fermoy in Australia. The Irish Coin’, released last he was heading back home. ambassador to Australia year, Eric Bogle tells before the serving a very personal and Out of the darkness diplomat Mr Noel White the big truck came rolling touching story of how was Mairtin O’Fainin and A scream of brakes a young life taken on he gave the song his full the roads inspired and a cry of despair, support. ‘Song for James’. Nineteen short years Community radio “James Nash was of caring and nurture stations in Ireland were a young Irish lad who Bright dreams for the future fully behind the song and was knocked down gave it generous airtime. they all ended there.... and killed by a truck “It’s a catchy little song and maybe if we play it enough, maybe we might save a few lives,” said Pete at the time. Well known for his big ballads Pete deliberately

in 2000, while he was walking home early one winter’s morning,” Eric writes in the album. “After the funeral James’ father came down regularly to the cemetery to

his next album, A Toss Of The Coin. The song tells of the work of James’s dad and his care for the cemetery. Jim Nash has, single-handedly, transformed what was once an overgrown and unsightly graveyard to the well kept burial grounds it is today. Amongst his most prized possession is an autographed copy of the CD. Eric Bogle, in correspondence with Jim, admits that it took several attempts to complete the song. “It’s a great honour to think that possibly one of the top songwriters in the world of this particular musical genre, would have taken an interest in our story and to write a beautiful song. If it was never about James, it is a lovely song for people to enjoy as the tragedy that befell us, is a common-place occurrence on a daily basis all over the world.”

tend to his son’s grave, then started to look after a few more, and eventually ended up maintaining the whole graveyard, which he still does to this day. In 2009 I stood at the old church in Kilworth, Co. Cork, which is now an Arts Centre, where James is buried and where I was told this story. James’ father was at the concert and when I asked him why he did it, he answered “It’s something I can still do for my son, it helps keep his memory alive and gives me comfort” The origins of the song, came about a year after Pete St John’s song was released. It was 2009 and Eric was playing at the Village Arts Centre in Kilworth and as usual held the capacity crowd spellbound with his unique mix of story telling and singing. It was meant to be his “final tour” of Ireland which he said he had a special place for in his heart because covers by artists from Ireland have probably paid his mortgage for the last 15 years. This was his first time to Kilworth and the old church and surrounding churchyard really took his fancy, not least the impeccable state that both were in. Having an hour or two to kill, he strolled among the headstones and became particularly interested in one, that of 19 year-old James Nash who was killed by an articulated lorry on the 5th of February, 2000 on the N8 at Kilcrumper as he walked home after a night out. Bogle would, later that night, meet with James’s father Jim, who attended the concert. It was ironic that James’s favourite song had been ‘The Green Fields of France’ which was a huge hit in the 1990s for The Furey Bros & Davy Arthur. As the story unfolded regarding James’s tragic death, the Scottish native now resident in Australia, was aware that a song was beginning to form in his mind. That night as always, he and his good friend John Munro, put on an emotional and spell-binding performance. He dedicated one of his songs to young James whose remains were lying just a few short yards away from the stage on which he was performing. He reminisced of sleeping out on the banks of the Murray-Darling river in south eastern Australia when he saw the light from a particularly bright star in the southern sky. It occurred to him that, even though the star has ceased to exist with thousands, probably billions of years, the light from that star was still travelling - liking it to people such as James who had died, their memory still providing light to those who were left behind. Some twelve months or so later, Eric Bogle had composed ‘Song For James’ and went on to record it in

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By Lloyd Gorman

Ireland set to spin cycle Those of us who were there at the time might recall the halcyon days of the mid to late 1990’s in Ireland. As far back as 1994 the phrase Celtic Tiger had already been coined and was in common currency to describe the upbeat and seemingly unstoppable rise of the Irish economy with jobs being plentiful. Fuelled by a new found optimism the general population, and especially a young and upcoming generation, which had not seen likes of it for some time or before took quickly to the idea of wealth creation, investment, property ownership and all the rest. In those innocent - or at least oblivious - days Ireland was on the crest of a wave, particularly in 1988. We had repeated success with wins in the Eurovision and were the darlings of the world as a result of Riverdance phenomenon and the renaissance in all things Irish it helped spark. It was also the year that a political solution to the nation’s greatest problem was also brokered and watched closely by the rest of the world. The Good Friday Agreement was a remarkable achievement and with it came the promise of peace and new hope for the future and an end to The Troubles. So when the biggest sporting event from a different country announced it was coming to Ireland, it was met with excitement and a sense of sure why wouldn’t they want to come to Ireland. In 1998 the 85th Tour de France - one of the most successful and

watched sporting phenomenon ever - began its nearly 3,000 km long endurance challenge in the streets of Dublin. Day two saw Dublin again play the part of the starting and finishing point for the riders who put in a gruelling lap of Wicklow in between. On Day three the race went from Enniscorthy to Cork, where it left Irish soil and rejoined to its spiritual home after a ferry ride to France. For those three days Ireland which had never forgotten the pride of place achieved by Sean Kelly and Stephen Roche in the same prestigious competition - broke out in a cycling fever. Its impossible to know how many people climbed up light posts, stood on top of phone boxes, pepped out of upstairs windows or occupied roofs for a better vantage point, but it seemed that everywhere you went people clambered for a chance to eyeball the Tour. When the riders did come, it was almost an anti-climax as the nearly 200 riders seemed to zip past each little observation point in a blur and whizz. If you were lucky enough your spot would allow you to see them approach from some distance and again as they swooshed away like the wind. If you were really lucky you got to see a bit of a spill, or a near miss or some other incident specific to your memory of the race. The actual race itself was almost incidental to the massive public celebration - which lasted much longer before, and even after the riders had finished the race - it sparked. Now, almost 16 years later, Ireland

will once again provide the setting for the start of another prestigious and major cycling tour - the Giro d’Italia - and I’m sure it will be greeted with as much enthusiasm despite - perhaps because of - the changed mood and fortunes of the country. Like before, this tour will spend three days in Ireland before returning to the European continent where the contest will be hard fought. Stage 1, Friday May 9, will be a gentle jaunt of 21.7km in Belfast, while stage two the following day will jump to 218km. On the Sunday the 200 riders will clock up another 187km as they sprint from Armagh to Dublin. The route will see them take in iconic locations such as the Giant’s Causeway, Titanic Belfast, the Causeway Coastal Route, Carrick Fergus, Belfast City Hall, the Cathedral in Armagh and many of Dublin’s distinctive landmarks, with the finish line being in the city centre. After all this excitement the riders have a rest day before they get back on their bikes on another island, the island of Naples. The powers that be are naturally enough chuffed at the prospect of staging a widely watched sporting event on their doorstep. (The 2012 Giro d’Italia was broadcast in 165 countries across all continents reaching 125 million households and a global accumulated audience of 775 million people.) “The visit of the Giro to Ireland

will showcase the whole country, north and south, to global television audiences,” said Irish sports and tourism minister Michael Ring. “This Government is committed to developing event-based tourism, and the Giro d’Italia is an excellent example of how we are doing just that.” There is also a strong Irish connection to the Giro with Stephen Roche winning the famous ‘Maglia Rosa’, the winners’ Pink Jersey, in 1987. Stephen’s victory will be celebrated in a number of ways in the lead up to and during the Giro’s Irish visit in 2014. Ireland’s Sean Kelly also experienced success in Italy winning the famous Milan-Sanremo twice and the Giro di Lombardia on three occasions. Dublin Lord Mayor Naoise Ó Muirí said “It’s great to hear Dublin will host a stage of the 2014 Giro d’Italia road race. Dublin is the spiritual home of Stephen Roche, one of cycling’s world greats and winner of the 1987 Giro d’Italia, and it is fitting that we will host the new generation of cyclists in the Giro in 2014. Dublin City Council is looking forward to hosting this great event and continuing the tradition of hosting major international events.” The Dublin mayor’s counterpart in Belfast, Alderman Gavin Robinson said Belfast - which in recent years has hosted the MTV European Music Awards and more recently the centenary celebrations for the Titanic - was well placed to make the event a success. “The arrival of the world’s greatest cyclists will further enhance our burgeoning reputation as a happening city, but more importantly it will also provide us with significant economic returns,” he said. “Giro d’Italia will stay in our memories long after it has been and gone, but by the same token I know that Belfast will make an indelibly positive impression on the minds of all the competitors, teams, fans and our citizens for what promises to be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.” The bid to bring the Grande Partenza of the Giro to Ireland was led by Shadetree Sport’s Darach McQuaid, who commented; “This is a huge achievement for Belfast and Dublin and the event will provide the island of Ireland with a fantastic opportunity to come out and witness one of the world’s most prestigious international sporting events first hand.” My advice - if you are going to be in the country at the time - is to find the best viewing platform, sit back and enjoy the spectacle of men and machines powering past faster than you could imagine. Blink and you might miss it and it could be another 16 years or more before another major cycling fixture comes knocking.

Padraig Pearse The son of an Irish mother and an English father, he was born at 27 Gt. Brunswick St., (now Pearse St.) in Dublin and educated at the Christian Brothers’ School. He graduated from the Royal University and became a barrister, but he was an enthusiastic student of the Irish language. He became a writer in both English and Gaelic. Pearse envisioned a free Gaelic Ireland and founded St. Enda’s College, a school for boys. After visiting the United States he joined the Irish Volunteers and was commander-in-chief of the Irish rebel forces in the Easter Rebellion of 1916. He realised the rebel situation was hopeless and ordered his troops to surrender to the British. He was arrested with several other leaders (including his brother) and shot. Too often, we discover that one of Irelands timelessly well known writers was part of the rebellion. Of course, too often, they were executed. What works may have been created that would delight us today; had they only lived to write them. T he M other by Padraic Pearse

I do not grudge them: Lord, I do not grudge My two strong sons that I have seen go out To break their strength and die, they and a few, In bloody protest for a glorious thing, They shall be spoken of among their people, The generations shall remember them, And call them blessed; But I will speak their names to my own heart In the long nights; The little names that were familiar once Round my dead hearth. Lord, thou art hard on mothers: We suffer in their coming and their going; And tho’ I grudge them not, I weary, weary Of the long sorrow---And yet I have my joy: My sons were faithful, and they fought.

Easter Rising 1916 Commemoration

The Anniversary of the Easter Rising of 1916 is traditionally a most important event in the Irish calendar. All over the world Irish people commemorate the Easter Rising, remembering with pride those who gave their lives in pursuit of an Irish Republic.

2013 Easter Rising Commemoration Easter Monday - Monday 21 April The Irish Club of WA @ 2pm Live Music will follow Commemoration 43

By Lloyd Gorman

Put that in your pipe and smoke it! Australian comedian Steve Hughes recently flung my mind and lungs back ten years through fits of laughter. The long haired heavy metal rocker turned stand up comic appeared on an episode of the brilliant Michael McIntrye’s Comedy Roadshow. In his hilarious set about how fascist and silly health and safety rules have become Hughes mentioned about the smoking ban in Irish pubs. “I would love to have been there when they told the Irish people they couldn’t smoke in pubs any more,” Hughes joked. “But we live in pubs the Irish replied!”. Like many a true word, it was spoke in jest - at least as far as it applied to me, and I guess many more. The smoking ban (in working places) in Ireland came into effect on 29 March 2004. Ten years ago seemed no further away than the blink of an eye. It was a Sunday and I was with

friends in a lively but not lovely pub in Temple Bar, Dublin, listening to a righteous blues and soul group that we regularly went to hear. Almost everyone at their gigs enjoyed hard drinking and smoking as part of the experience. This particular night was the night of the ban and there was a certain curiosity in the air about what would happen. For months the ban had been big news and after it got passed all the obstacles that faced it it then became a countdown to when it would start. Mid-night on the 29th was the chosen hour. As we cheered, danced, chatted up girls and talked to each other, smoked and drank everyone knew change was in the air, but not how it would come. The idea of Gardai bursting through the doors at a minute past midnight or bar men running around the shop pulling ash trays off tables didn’t seem absurd. As it happened, nothing happened, and the smoking ban began as a last hurrah for the tobacco tribe. After that smoking became an almost entirely al-fresco activity, with many pubs setting up facilities for punters who wanted to continue drinking and puffing in the same place. At the time I think I was a heavy smoker and as far as I can recall I thought it was unfair to be told what I could and couldn’t do, and where. But I and many others accepted the change. I smoked roll up cigarettes at the time and was often accosted by bar staff who would see me making a rollie at the table who would remind me that I couldn’t smoke inside. The law did not prevent the making of handmade cigarettes indoors I would remind them as I got up to stroll outside for a blast of legally

sanctioned nicotine outside. Looking back on it now I would have to say - and you won’t often hear me say anything good about Fianna Fail - but as a government I think they got this policy right. The public health legislation was designed to protect people in the workplace. I had been a non smoker bar man in pubs and hotels for years earlier. I would come home with eyes hurting from clouds of smoke, with the smell of it everywhere on me and my clothes. I didn’t like it very much but you just got used to it and put up with it. I didn’t realise it at the time but I was a secondary smoker (although later I would go on to do much more damage to my body using my own free will). The fact that it was the first ban of its type in the world meant it was almost unbelievable for an Irish government to introduce it (even it has to be said against stiff resistance from backbenchers within the party who would have had the worried ear of country publicans). They were right to be concerned as it happens and in the years afterwards the ubiquitous country pub started to close down in big numbers. The smoking ban (along with a raft of other factors) was blamed for this trend. I came to Australia in 2005 for a holiday - effectively a bit of reconnoitring for making the move permanently - and remember that they had just brought in new rules stopping punters from lighting up within 3 metres of the counter at the bar. That seemed a fair and reasonable solution to the issue to me at the time and I enjoyed being able to smoke again in a pub, at least for another few weeks. But things

had changed. A short time later on a trip to Strasbourg I was with a group of other journalists and we were in a restaurant which allowed smoking. The handful of us that were guilty of the craving would get up together and go outside for a smoke in between courses. Somehow it just didn’t feel right to spark up inside, even though others were. Perhaps it was a gesture towards our other Irish colleagues and what they had come to expect from social gatherings. This is not a tirade against smokers, I completely support and understand their right to smoke even though that is getting harder and even more demonised. It is cruel for example to make international airports, and I’m thinking of Dublin here, completely smoke free zones. Smokers will subject themselves to long haul flights without feeling the need to rush to the onboard toilet and set off an alarm because of their cigarette smoke - but denying them the chance to smoke between flights without needing to leave the terminal building is nothing short of torture and bloody minded cruelty. The fight against tobacco continues and the Irish and Australian governments are in cahoots to try and stamp out their nation’s addiction to the weed. The Irish minister for health told a Dail committee in December last year that his department was “in ongoing contact with our Australian colleagues” about the plain packaging legislation it brought in two years ago. The Irish government wants to bring this in as law and takes heart from the fact that the powerful Tobacco lobby - which could afford to throw millions at a legal challenge - lost its bid to stop the Aussie laws. “I believe we must do what is right, not what is easiest. We must press on with our mission,” the minister said. A number of countries are now vying to become the first smoke free nations in the world. This aspiration, and many other attempts to stamp out or restrict addiction to a substance that causes death and disease, started in a meaningful way in Ireland and has spread to Australia, and many other countries very quickly. In the end, the death of the tobacco trade might happen as suddenly as a dad of five kids, a single mother, a son or daughter diagnosed with an aggressive cancer, as many have before.

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Happy St Patrick’s Day to all our readers and sponsors 45

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G’day from Mike Bowen in Melbourne

The New York Parade!

What would you think was the most difficult job in the world, leading up to Ireland’s number one day on the calendar? No, it’s not restocking the bar or hanging out the St. Patrick’s Day flags. How about getting the American economy in order or getting Ireland’s budget back into surplus? Yes/no wrong again. That task goes to a 75-year-old West Meath man, John Dunleavy (left). John is the man responsible for the success of the largest and longest running parade in the world that commenced fourteen years before the Declaration of Independence back in 1762 and now on its 253rd year with over 150,000 marching each year. John has been involved with the parade for the last 42 years and has been the chairperson of the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in New York, for the last 21 years. As John told me on one of our many catch ups in New York, “there is not an Irish person walking on this planet who doesn’t want to lead the St. Patrick’s Day parade down 5th Avenue on March 17th”. His phone never gets to rest on the receiver during the lead up to our national day. There are probably

only a handful of people, who haven’t contacted John looking for the opportunity to lead the most prestigious parade on earth. You name them and I promise you, be it politicians’, movie stars, sport stars, rock stars or cardinals, John Dunleavy will have had a call from them all and all with the same cry “Pick Me, Pick Me, Pick Me”. John, being the modest man that he is, tells me the credit for the parade’s success should go to the large group of dedicated volunteers working tirelessly to ensure its integrity and success continues for another 253 years. He says most of the volunteers have taken the baton from their parents and they in turn have taken over from their parents and so on back to the beginning, much like the carrying of the Olympic Torch. Even though the parade is run voluntary and not for profit, the economic boost to New York from the Irish who flock to the Big Apple to celebrate our National Day runs into the hundreds of millions of dollars. I have been well informed from my many friends who have Irish Bars and clubs that their stocks of alcohol diminishes quite a bit on the 17th, surprise surprise, but they are not complaining about that, strange isn’t it? On March 17th there it only one colour in New York whether its beer, bread, ties, hats, underwear, yes that’s right underwear jocks and socks. I sometimes think the city is

greener than Ireland on that day. There’s no denying we Irish like to celebrate, no denying that at all, be it a football match, a wake or for that matter anything that gives us a reason to sing and share our friendship, but when it comes to March 17th well that’s like going to two all Irelands on the same day. March 17th is the one day in the year when everyone wants to be or wishes they were Irish. I was lucky enough to have spent St. Patrick’s Day on four continents and how the hair on the back of my neck stands up, no matter whether I’m in Tokyo, Melbourne, Cork or New York celebrating our most recognised day of the year. I wouldn’t want to be anything but IRISH. Here’s wishing you all a happy and safe St. Patrick’s Day no matter where you are in the world and keep those Irish eyes smiling. Until I write to you again be good to those who love you. Slainte Mike Bowen

By Lloyd Gorman

A bit of Wogan and a bit of Logan and lots more besides Fans of the political English satire The Thick Of It will enjoy the less punchy but equally wry The Hollowmen. Set in Canberra it follows the adventures and shenanigans of the top civil servants, yes men, spin doctors, consultants and marketing heads whose sole raison d’être is to make the Prime Minister look good. On January 15 ABC2 they were deployed to sort out a difficult government minister who wanted to retire to a cushy diplomatic posting in the London Embassy. This presents all kinds of difficulties and dilemmas for the government men who have to placate the troublesome pollie but work within the rigid rules of the diplomatic service. After much brainstorming they come up with the compromise of making him the envoy to Ireland, which he accepts. In doing their research the bureaucrats interview a former ambassador to Ireland who speaks about his time in Dublin and the role, with great fondness. Just two weeks later (Jan 30) the Hollowmen were back in Irish mood, with some action and several scenes being shot in PJ O’Reilly’s Irish pub as the officials retreated there following the budget announcement. While I would not consider myself a Trekkie by any stretch of the imagination, I have over the last 20 years of or so seen most of the New Generation, Deep Space Nine and Voyager episodes at least

once. On February 1 Channel 11 showed an episode of DSN where Chief O’Brien, aka Colm Meaney loses his daughter through a rip in time. What was really distinctive about this episode is that when vital equipment for her rescue breaks down the character of the engineer shouts “B*ll*x” with a good strong Dublin accent. I think this might be a first, and perhaps the only example, of a heavy duty curse word making its way into the language of the cult science fiction show. Earlier that night too, SBS screened The Guard. A combo of Brendan Gleeson and Colm Meaney on the same night was pretty good going, but seeing these two act side by side would be an even better treat. Talking of police shows, Foyles War made a welcome return to ABC in January for a three part series. In this latest offering Foyle is still retired from the Force, but is seconded into the intelligence service for his heightened ability to detect the truth of things through lies, deceit and supposition. As well as being a brillaint watch, Foyles War was shot entirely in Ireland, mainly in Dublin, which was well turned out to look like London in the aftermath of WWII. Foyles War is a winner every time. On Feb 3, SBS 3 had Titanic: The Mission. In this episode of the five part series the team build a sculpture of the bow of the great ship on the docks where she was

built over a hundred years ago. The programme really got into the heart of the ship building process and what it was like for the thousands of men who put the worlds most famous ship and the biggest vessel of its kind together by hand. Mrs Browns Boys returned to Aussie TV this night as well, but enough said about that already. On Feb 8 Secrets of War spend some time looking at the influence the situation in Ireland and the 1916 Rising had on the wider landscape of World War I, and how disaffected Irish workers, emigrants and the like were recruited by the Germans as spies and conspirators. Irish pop twins Jedward merited an appearance on ABC3, the kids channel, as well as passing references or as quiz questions on programmes such as comedy Heppburn and QI - twice. Terry Wogan appeared on another episode of QI and spoke with his usual wry style about the Eurovision and Ireland’s success in the song contest. He also mentioned Australian born Johnny Logan who would go on to win it more than once but also his dad, a tenor, who had a cheeky wink in his eye he said. Talking of singers, 60 Minutes, the Sunday night current affairs programme interviewed Bruce Springsteen ahead of his then upcoming three gigs in Perth. The show travelled to Ireland to do the interview, with The Boss taking time out of his Kilkenny concert to

speak with the popular programme. Nice work if you can get it. AFL legend Robert Dipierdomenico also travelled to Ireland (screened Jan 28) for the making of Inside Ireland to follow the All Australian AFL side tour of Ireland as they tackle Gaelic footballers on their own turf. Amongst those who appear in this doco were the late and great Irish genius with a ball Jim Stynes. I’m not much for AFL or sports documentaries but I thought this gave a really good insight into the game of International Rules and the sporting scene in Ireland and I would have to say I actually enjoyed it, which might shock some of those that know me. In the world of kids programmes on ABC3 Jake & Jack and Olivia are made in Ireland, while in Aussie

kids programme Conspiracy 365 the main character is for some reason on the run and trying to get to Ireland - but why I couldn’t tell you as I didn’t watch enough to find out. The Michael McIntyre Roadshow took in Belfast on January 18 on ABC2. Irish funny man Neil Delamare stole the show while on Feb 18 Irish comedian Jim Eoin who has made a name for himself in the Australian stand up scene did a set, which was probably a bit funnier than his usual offering. This transmission ends on February 15, just a few days before going to print. It ends on a strong note with two interesting but very different offerings both from SBS1. First Across was a documentary about Robert O’Hara and the fated

attempt to make the first crossing of the Australian continent by a white man. The doco goes back to East Galway to where he was born and raised and follows his life until his grisly end in the Aussie outback. Later that night another Irish figure came to a harrowing end. Hunger has been reviewed on these pages already, a couple of years ago, but I would urge anyone to watch this hard hitting and thought provoking film about Bobby Sands even though it is not easy to watch at times. Powerful stuff. By way of contrast, viewers of Ross Kemp: Back on the Front Line (One Jan 21) learned that the techniques used by the Royal Marines in Afghanistan to identify suspects, including taking saliva swipes, were first used and developed during the Troubles.

TOURISM IRELAND RECORDS MASSIVE VISITATION GROWTH IN 2013

worked extremely hard throughout 2013, the year of The Gathering Ireland. This initiative has set us in a great position for a fabulous 2014,’ she said. The Gathering Ireland 2013 has been Ireland’s biggest ever tourism initiative, consisting of a yearlong program of festivals, events and gatherings in every part of the country and has been a key driver in not only bringing Ireland’s diaspora ‘home’ but resonating to all segments. Statistics show that this marketing program has boosted visitation world-wide and has had particular resonance with the local Australian and New Zealand market with record growth from long haul markets. Another major factor in improving Ireland’s figures has been the work undertaken with trade partners, who have assisted marketing the island of Ireland. ‘We are focused on continuing our very strong relationships with our major airline, wholesale and retail partners as well as working on new partnerships and creating affiliate

marketing opportunities’. ‘For such a small island, Ireland packs a huge punch in the bucket list stakes! Going forward into 2014 trade partners will see us launch a new ’Ireland Specialist’ training site and the Tourism Ireland Corporate site, both of which will provide excellent information and assets for anyone involved in selling Ireland’, explained Ms Butler. A schedule of educationals is planned in 2014 by Tourism Ireland to ensure the innovative product available in Ireland continues to be reflected in the product range available locally. Recent Adventure Workshops and Wild Atlantic Way familiarisations were supported by Tourism Ireland and with the Giro d’Italia launching in Northern Ireland in May 2014, there will be a focus on reaching new markets through sport and experiential tourism.

Tourism Ireland lauds success with strategic marketing program, partnerships with trade and focus on new markets in 2014. Tourism Ireland is celebrating a bumper year with the latest results just released. Showing a massive 26.4% growth over 2012 figures during August to October, which equate to 61,300 visitors travelling to Ireland from Australia and New Zealand. ‘When we received the 19.7% growth in the June to August figures we were really pleased, but to receive even higher growth – indicating a bumper September and October is really satisfying,’ said Diane Butler, Manager for Australia & New Zealand. ‘The team has

For more information about holidaying in Ireland visit www.ireland.com

“Wherever they went the Irish brought with them their books, many unseen in Europe for centuries and tied to their waists as signs of triumph, just as Irish heroes had once tied to their waists their enemies’ heads. Where they went they brought their love of learning and their skills in bookmaking. In the bays and valleys of their exile, they reestablished literacy and breathed new life into the exhausted literary culture of Europe. And that is how the Irish saved civilization.” Thomas Cahill

Dining Guide Multi Award Winning

Ishka

at the Breakwater It is not often that you open a restaurant menu to see a list of awards on the first page instead of the range of entrées. With Executive Chef, Mark Twomey at the helm, Ishka at the Breakwater has been the recipient of multiple awards from the Australian Hotels Association National and State Awards for Excellence, Gold Plate Awards, and the Restaurant & Catering Institute Award for Excellence; and when you see dishes being delivered around you, it is easy to see why. My expectations increased when I read the awards, as did my appetite when I read the menu. Excitingly, the menu has changed completely since I was last at Ishka. For the entrée, we ordered the Goats Cheese, Roasted Red Capsicum and Basil Soufflé with crostini and tapenade and the Western Australian Tiger Prawns with Pan Fried Black Pudding, Avocado, Herb Emulsion and Sauce Vierge. My soufflé was insanely good – the contrast of the silky soft soufflé against the crunch of the crostini

Sponsor: Northside Meats with Danielle O’Leary

made it the perfect entrée that I reluctantly shared with my mother. Her black pudding was delicious (I convinced her to share for the sake of the review) – the contrast of the prawns and the pudding worked so well. It is so refreshing to see a restaurant experiment with black pudding. For our mains, we ordered Tender Ridge Eye Fillet (200g) with Pear Couscous, Tabbouleh of Roasted Cauliflower, Beans, Pancetta, Spring Onion Sauce, Aged Balsamic and Smoked Garlic Butter and the special of the day, Roasted Lamb Rack with Potato and Pancetta Rosti, Buttered Savoy Cabbage finished with a Fig Jam. For sides, we added Hand Cut Chips and Buttered Green Beans. The steak was not only perfectly cooked but also creatively presented. The roasted cauliflower worked so well with the couscous and providing a refreshing offering that transcended the ‘steak with simple vegetables’ that is seen far too often. My main, however, was the best. The balance of flavours from the saltiness of the pancetta against the sweetness of the fig created culinary perfection. The lamb was divine, generous size with minimal fat. I am so grateful to have

discovered the perfect unison of a rack of lamb with fig jam. Lastly, a note on the chips: any restaurant that can make perfectly fluffy chips that are not oily and stack them in wonderful symmetry deserves awards. For dessert, we wanted everything but the generous dinner sizes and the naughty sides (chips!) prevented dessert from happening. I would have gone for the Salted Caramel Tart with Goji Berry Cream and Coulis with Peanut Tuille or the Caramelized Lemon Tart with Raspberry Sorbet and Raspberry Coulis. Instead, we ordered Peppermint Tea with two chocolate truffles; White Chocolate and Almond, and Chocolate Mint. My companion swiftly took the White Chocolate truffle while I had the Chocolate Mint which was a fancy version of the After Eight Dinner Mints that I remember from my childhood. In other words, the chocolate was heaven. We were so well looked after at Ishka. Our waitress, in particular, had the perfect level of professionalism and friendliness with humour (‘lack of ramb’ was a highlight). Ishka offers fine dining without the pretension. Ishka Restaurant Bookings: 9448 5000

McLoughlin Butchers Malaga Proud Supporters of the Irish Scene Happy St Patrick’s Day to one and all mcloughlinbutchers.com.au Like us on facebook

The Celtic Club •

B A R

•

West

P ert h

R E S TAU RANT

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.

FUNCTIONS

room can comfortably seat 125 delegates theatre style or 120 for a banquet. The Club’s impressive Jarrah lined President’s Room can seat up to 30 guests theatre style and is ideal for private business luncheons for up to 24 guests.

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. 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. In addition to the bar and restaurant, The Celtic Club members have exclusive access to our outstanding function facilities, fully coordinated by our professional staff with an extensive range of catering options. Located on the first floor, the main function

For an incredibly Romantic Wedding Reception

•

Becoming a member of The Celtic Club certainly has its advantages and now is the perfect time to join one of Perth’s premier business clubs. Drop into the club and say hello!

St Patrick’s Day Lunch Music: Fred Rea

Bookings: 9322 2299

Located near the beautiful Kings Park Gardens, the elegance and old worldly charm of the Celtic Club will be exclusive for you and your guests. Set Dinner, Buffet & Cocktail style are all catered for and it is a commitment to guests that all food will be delicious and plentiful.

48 Ord Street West Perth WA 6005 Phone (08) 9322 2299 Fax (08) 9322 2899 E-mail: celtic.club@bigpond.com • www.celticclubperth.com

Lá Fhéile Pádraig Shona Daoibh !

? y k c u L g n i l e Fe

Irish Sandwich Bar Pop in to see us at 251 our delicious menu.

Hay St East Perth to sample

While you’re there, enter our Free Draw to win a Delicious Hamper filled with lots of Irish goodies including a bottle of Jameson!*

Name:........................................... Phone:........................................... Address:........................................

Entering is easy, just fill out your details on this advert and ...................................................... put it into the hat. Draw will take place on April 30th.

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*All entrants strictly over 18 years. Your information will not be used for any other purposes.

Symbols Of Ireland

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

Whether you’re an O’ Sullivan, an O’ Brien or a Murphy with a boatful of Irish ancestors, or you’ve no Irish in you at all, on St. Patrick’s Day we’re all Irish! Part of the celebration of all things Ireland means cooking and eating Irish food, not just drinking the stout! Here are a couple of recipes that are relatively simple to make but absolutely full of flavour.

Boxty – A traditional potato cake that you can serve as an

alternative to mashed or boiled potatoes, or even as a light breakfast or supper with perhaps a fried egg. Ingredients Serves 4 1 egg ¼ cup cream 9 ounces of Royal Blue potatoes, peeled and coarsely grated 2 tablespoons cream flour 1 tablespoons butter Salt and freshly ground black pepper 1. In a bowl, lightly whisk together the egg with the cream 2. Add the potato & flour. Season with salt & pepper and stir to mix. The mixture will be slightly runny 3. Melt the butter in a frying pan over a medium heat 4. Add the potato mixture and cook for 8 – 10 minutes on each side, until the surface is golden brown and the potato is cooked through 5. Remove to a serving plate. Cut into wedges & serve.

Chocolate & Guinness pudding

Ingredients Serves 4 75g butter (plus extra for greasing) 100g dark chocolate, broken into pieces 4 egg yolks 2 whole eggs 45g dark brown sugar 45ml Guinness 45g cream flour Icing sugar, for dusting You will also need... 4 individual pudding basins / large ramekin dishes 1. Grease the individual pudding basins / large ramekin dishes with butter 2. Put the butter and chocolate into a large heatproof bowl, then sit the bowl over a saucepan of gently simmering water until the butter and chocolate melt, stirring occasionally 3. Remove the bowl from the pan and whisk in the egg yolks. Set aside to cool slightly 4. Meanwhile, whisk the whole eggs, sugar and guinness in a large bowl using a hand held electric mixer on high speed for 4-5 minutes, until very light and thick. Sift in the flour and fold it in gently using a large metal spoon. Add the cooled chocolate mixture and fold in 5. Share between the pudding basins or ramekins so they are ¾ full. Chill for approx. 30 minutes 6. Preheat the oven to 200 degrees, fan oven 180 degrees 7. Bake the puddings for 7-8minutes 8. Run a knife around the edge to loosen the puddings, then carefully turn out onto serving plates 9. Serve, dusted with icing sugar Marguerite O’ Dwyer The Cure Tavern Irish bar & restaurant

The Irish Coat of arms is described as “a harp or, stringed argent, on a field azure.” The harp has been used in the Irish coat of arms since medieval times, being found as far back as 1270. The harp is found on the banners of the Irish brigades in the armies of the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries. The harp today is used as the symbol of the Irish State. It is found in the seals of the President, Government Ministers and is used on the back of Irish coins. The Presidential Standard is a blue flag with the heraldic harp. The model for the harp is the 14th century harp known as the Brian Boru harp in the Museum of Trinity College, Dublin. The badge of Ireland the Shamrock is used sportsmen and teams. The Shamrock is also used in the logos of the Irish Tourist Board and Aer Lingus. Traditional belief is that St Patrick, the patron Saint of Ireland, explained the mystery of the Christian trinity by the shamrock for the demonstration. The Shamrock is restricted to use by the Irish State, its licensees or by registration as a symbol of Ireland with the World Intellectual Property Organization

Where is home? This is a question I posed to Liz O’Hagan recently.

Liz O’Hagan was born in London and her family moved to Perth when she was nine. Her parents were from Leitrim and she describes her rearing in Perth as “very Irish”. “We mixed with Irish people, attended Irish events and it was no wonder I married an Irishman”. Like a lot of people in Perth, Liz considers she has had two homes, Australia and Ireland. “I was lucky enough to grow up in Perth and even luckier to work and live in Ireland. Liz, husband Derek and their two year old son returned to Perth last year after living in Kildare for 12 years. Liz told the Irish Scene that Australia has been a favourite destination for Irish people for a very long time and she has had first-hand knowledge of why Irish people choose Australia. “I’ve been a Migration Agent for over 15 years and I have met people from all walks of life and the connection between Ireland and Australia is something else. Anyone who has the chance to experience both lifestyles is lucky. I lived through the boom and bust in Ireland so I appreciate why people want to leave. I’ve also seen families in desperate situations who believe emigration is the only way out, and that is really sad”. Since returning to Perth Liz has also seen the other side of emigration, the homesickness, the loneliness of FIFO wives and partners, the high cost of living and education especially for those on the 457 visa. “It takes courage to make the permanent move to Australia but I wish more people would be honest about it just how hard it really is. Emigration is simply not for everyone, it’s a huge step and it’s okay to say it’s not for me”. As a Migration Agent working with Irish people on a daily basis Liz appreciates the anguish people go through trying to stay in Australia while emotionally their heart is still in Ireland. “It’s a tough time but I always remember, this is peoples lives, and their future and my role is to provide honest advice in a personal manner. Right now Perth is home for Liz. “I love the sense of positivity and opportunities Perth has to offer. Maybe it is just the weather but it doesn’t really matter, it sure feels good!” Take advantage of Liz O’Hagan’s experience in immigration advice.... Give Liz a call on 0420 907 109

We specialise in

Irish Residents securing

Australian Visas Our Irish Visa Team is headed up by Liz O’Hagan

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I will only sign clients where it is believed that there is a strong chance of a favourable outcome and I have an excellent track record on first time application grants. Liz O’Hagan

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• Highly successful visa grant rate • Free initial assessment • Ethical and professional – est in 1999 • Competitive fees at fixed prices • Offices in Perth, Brisbane and Kildare Dedicated Irish Visa Enquiry Line call Liz on 0420 907 109 Offices at 661 Newcastle Street, Leederville www.avpmigration.com.au Registered Migration Agent MARN 9902776

WHERE ARE THE BALLYS GOING? By JOHN HAGAN You are either a ‘bally’ person, or you’re not. Me? I’m undoubtly a ‘bally’ person. Let me explain. I was born in Ballydown (Co. Down), attended the Ballydown Primary School, and later spent many a joyous youthful vacation at Ballycastle. I played my first school rugby game against Ballyclare, and scored my best rugby try (the only one has got to be the best doesn’t it?) against Ballymena; it was while attending a dance in Ballymoney that I met my wife. Need I go on? ‘Bally’ is a pretty common place name in Ireland. Some ‘Ballys’ are mundane, others are a little more exotic – Ballymunterhiggin (Co. Donegal), Ballywillwill (Co. Down) and Ballywinterrourkewood (Co. Limerick), to name but three. Some 5,000 places in Ireland sport the prefix ‘Bally’, of which 45 bear the nomenclature of Ballybeg (little town). ‘Bally’ (or ‘baile’ in Gaelic) is an Irish agrarian division known as a ‘townland’ - a land category which is unique to Ireland. Let’s put townlands into perspective. Ireland was divided into four Provinces (Ulster, Munster, Leinster, Connaught) which were separated into counties. These counties were further broken up into baronies, which in turn were split into parishes, with each parish made up of a number of townlands. Of course not all townlands, or Irish place names, are fortunate enough to be blessed with the prefix ‘bally’ – the majority are not. Glassillaunvealnacurra (Co. Galway), Sallynoggin (Co. Dublin) and Derryfubble (Co. Tyrone), are amongst those ‘beyond the pale’, but my own particular favourite ‘non-bally’ designation must be Muckanaghederdauhaulia (Gaelic for ‘pig-marsh between two saltwaters’) in Co. Galway - the longest single-word townland in Ireland. Arguably, the majority of Irish

Ballymunterhiggin

Ballydown 9

3 Ballymunterhiggin B a l l y b e g 15 1 Ballymacpeake

Ballyclare 21

townlands, and 9 D e r r y f u bb l Muckanaghederdauhaulia 12 place names, were derived from 1 Ballywinterrourkewood Gaelic, while others gained their moniker thanks to some literary corruption easily identifiable local feature, and/or the ineptitude of English such as Creggan (little rock), and scribes. During the 17th century, Drumlamph (ridge of the marshthere was concern that Irish mallows/elm trees). Place names place names were “uncouth” and may also reflect old habitation “unintelligible” causing William sites, with rath (fortification) being Petty, the legendary map-maker, a common prefix in names such to comment that “it would not as Rathfriland (or Fraiole’s fort) be amiss if the significant part of in County Down, and Rathbeggan the Irish names were interpreted, (Co. Meath). where they are not, nor cannot be Many place names are abolished”. derived from plants, such as In total there are about 63,000 Derrydrummuck (the oakwood of townlands in Ireland, and as might the ridge of the pigs) in County be imagined, these townlands Down, and animals, as in Drumbo come in varying sizes. In Northern (Co. Down), meaning ‘the ridge Ireland, for example, with its 9,700 of the cow’ in Gaelic. Admittedly, townlands, the scope ranges from not all our place names are of the extensive 4,500 acres (1821 Irish derivation. Some, such as hectares) of Slievedoo (Co. Tyrone), Strangford and Carlingford, are to a tichy 3 acres (1.2 hectares) at Norse in origin, while others like Acre McCricket (Co. Down), with Whappestown and Loanends the average townland area being (both Co. Antrim) originate from 355 acres (144 hectares). It would the Ulster-Scots. And of course, appear that the size of the townland English place names do occur, was influenced by the fertility of Dunlopstown (Co. Down) and the land and its latent productivity. Draperstown (Co. Londonderry) In hilly areas townlands tend to being apt examples. be generally larger, while in the For centuries, the townland lowlands, potentially blessed was the bedrock of Irish society. with more lush pastures, they are The school, railway halt, farmer’s commonly smaller. house, post office and local hall, Within each townland can be all embodied its name, affording found many minor place names; the townland a unique identity, on average there are 20-30 per and making it visible, and known, townland. This amounts to an to travellers. Later, the townland enormous number of Irish place name was also reflected in its postal names – perhaps running in to address. millions. Prior to the 1970s all rural The sources of Irish townlands addresses in Northern Ireland were and place names are many and embellished by their townland varied. Some originated from the name, now this heredity identity names of the families who lived is being replaced by ‘ho-hum’ road in the area, with Ballymacpeake names and numbers. For example, (MacPeake’s townland) and the blandly named Coast Road, Tamniaran (O’Herren’s field), both running for 12 miles between located in County Londonderry, Limavady and Coleraine (Northern being good examples. Some Ireland), has replaced the names place names are derived from an of 27 townlands, including,

Ballyscullion, Upper Magherawee, Oughtymoyle and Castleoodry. When I lived in Northern Ireland, my postal address was Ballydown, Banbridge, it is now (if I were still residing there) 252 Castlewellan Road, Banbridge. The townland name has been excised. While it still maintains house numbers and road names, Fermanagh District Council is the only bailiwick in Northern Ireland which continues to retain, and champion, the use of townland names in local addresses. Another threat to our rich townland nomenclature tradition is reflected in the relatively recent blight of housing developments, particularly during Southern Ireland’s heady Celtic Tiger epoch. To promote sales, and make these, often dreary, estates seem more attractive, many developers dispensed with townland appellations, choosing to dub their new anodyne idylls with such descriptors as, ‘Thorndyke Mews’, ‘Heathfield Heights’ and ‘Oaktree Grove’. Thankfully some attempts are, or rather were, being made to ‘save’ our townland and place names. The Northern Ireland Placename Project was set up in 1987 and, to date, seven volumes have been

produced on the history of their evolution and what they represent. Completed research relates to parts of County Down (four volumes), sections of County Antrim (two volumes) and one for the Moyola Valley in County Londonderry. Unfortunately, with much work still outstanding, project funding was terminated in 2010, resulting in the break up of the dedicated research team. The result of this decision increases the possibility that the rich wealth of information relating to place names is in grave danger of being lost. According to Dr Eamon Lankford, who initiated the Cork and Kerry Placenames Survey, “Placenames identify us as a people, they give us a sense of history, culture, heritage….. they tell us the way we viewed and used the landscape over the centuries…. they are hugely important”. Many would no doubt agree with Dr Lankford and view place names as one of our most evocative landscape descriptors, providing a revealing historical window on the land, its people and their evolution. Can we really afford to lose such a ‘bally’ important aspect of our heritage?

Black Swan Theatre presents

A Streetcar Named Desire Black Swan State Theatre Company presents A Streetcar Named Desire by Tennessee Williams from 15 March - 6 April 2014 at Heath Ledger Theatre, State Theatre Centre of WA. Blanche, an aging Southern belle, impoverished and alcoholic, escaping lost illusions and faded glory, seeks shelter with her sister, Stella, in New Orleans. Stella and her husband, Stanley, live and love in a tiny apartment in a poor quarter of New Orleans, where the inhabitants pulse with vitality and sensuality. Blanche’s arrival throws the couple into turmoil when Blanche, the dreamer, and Stanley, the realist, battle each other for Stella’s affections. When a sexually charged conflict erupts between Stanley and Blanche, it threatens to destroy Blanche’s tenuous grasp on sanity and the very fabric of Stella’s happiness. Starring multi-award winning Australian actors, Sigrid Thornton (Sea Change) and Nathaniel Dean, and featuring some of Western Australia’s most acclaimed performers, this heartbreaking play will intoxicate you with its raw, dramatic power. Winner of the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, New York Drama Critics’ Circle Award for Best Play and numerous other awards. Directed by Kate Cherry, the cast features Benj D’Addario, Nathaniel Dean, Luke Hewitt, Michael Loney, Rhoda Lopez, William McNeill, Jo Morris, Sigrid Thornton, StEve Turner, and Alison van Reeken. Price: $29.50-$69.50. Book tickets through Ticketek or call 1300 795 012.

At last... Lloyd gets his Australian Citizenship!

Lloyd Gorman with Imelda and their children

Ten years ago I didn’t expect to become an Australian and five years ago I had never heard of a place called Subiaco. But on a bright and typical summer Saturday morning in mid February I became one at the other. For decades most migrants could expect to become an Australian citizen after being in the country for two years, but more recently

that has been pushed out to five years. One of the hardest bits of the whole process was not the lengthened wait, but the amount of paperwork and forms, documentation and red tape involved in first getting a visa and then in making an application become a national. As someone who is effectively allergic to official forms of any sort I was blessed and lucky to get through it because my wife practically carried the bureaucratic burden. Without her love and forbearance I wouldn’t be here today and I owe her big time. Imelda was already a citizen from years ago, and our children - two of whom were born in Perth - have equal rights to being Australians and Irish. Now I can join them in that privilege. Five years is a not a small amount of time to have to wait but it is also enough time to really get to know a place, and for it to make a mark on you at the same time, to absorb and be absorbed. The citizenship ceremony helps you appreciate that this is the start of a new life, one in which Australia will be as important to the future, as Ireland is to the past. There are a lot of people to thank and mention that I can’t here, but I do owe

a special thanks to the Mayor of Subiaco for making the ceremony such a special event. Amongst other things she invited her precedessor Tony Costa, brought out to Australia as a child migrant who went on to make a terrific contribution to his adopted land, and Fred Rea, who filmed and photographed the whole thing. Some time ago Fred produced a batch of fridge magnets with the wording “Irish by birth, Aussie by choice”, I must get one of those now. Lloyd Gorman

Lloyd Gorman with Mayor Heather Henderson of City of Subiaco

Tom and Ann say Thank You! Thomas Keaney from Ballyconneely, Co Galway was at a kebab shop on Aberdeen Street in Northbridge, Perth during the early hours of December 17 last when a row broke out. He was standing behind a taxi when he was allegedly punched on the side of the head. The punch caused him to fall and hit his head off the kerb. Thomas Keaney was taken to hospital and over a short period of time his condition got worse and he passed away in the presence of his parents Tom and Ann Keaney who had flown from Ireland to be by his bedside. Following Thomas’s passing Tom and Ann received huge support from the community in Western Australia. Tom and Ann accompanied their son Thomas on his final journey home. The local Irish Support Perth group, The Claddagh Association has been asked by Tom and Ann Keaney to sincerely thank the following organisations and individuals who offered comfort and support to them during their time in Perth. • Don Coyne and Brian Mitchell - Thomas’s friends who came to Australia with him. • Roy Flanagan and Tom Mills, WA Police. • The doctors and nursing staff of Royal Perth Hospital Intensive Care Unit. • Cherie Innes, Bowra and O’Dea Funeral Directors • Father Joseph Walsh and all who attended the mass for Thomas on 3rd January, your kind words were a comfort to the family. • Annette and Lloyd Pickwell of Lloyd Pickwell Architecture. • The West Australian, Adrian Barich, Channel 7 Perth. • Joe Scullion, Sean Salles, Kerry-Anne and Deirdre. • Mary Lynch, Donate West. • Maureen Connelly. • Paddy and Lena Costello. • Tom, Kath and Donna Quinn. • Mary Robertson, US Consulate Representative. • Marty Kavanagh, Honorary Irish Consulate in Western Australia. • Ambassador HE Noel White and the Irish Embassy in Canberra • Lindsay Ahern, Solicitor at Clifton Tham Lawyers • Paul Deans, Travel Corner West Leederville. • Sid Devlin and Mark Dempsey of Claddagh Building • Cathy Millar, Qantas. • Fred Rea of The Irish Scene

• • • • • • • •

Laura and the staff of The Cure for organising and coordinating refreshments after Mass and the collection of donations from the following businesses: JB O’Reilly’s The Shed Paddy Malone’s Durty Nelly’s Carnegie’s The Carlisle Rosie O’Grady’s

Special Thanks to Emirates and Qantas Airlines for looking after the Keaneys during their journey to and from Australia. Emirates kindly upgraded Thomas and Ann to Business Class for the journey home. Funds raised enabled the Claddagh Association to cover all the repatriation costs and Thomas and Ann’s expenses during their 19 day stay in Perth. This could not have been achieved without the generosity of the Irish Community in WA and the many others who supported the family. Thank you all. Go raibh míle maith agat

At the rising of the sun and at its going down, We remember him. At the blowing of the wind and the chill of winter, We remember him. At the opening of the buds and in the rebirth of spring, We remember him. At the blueness of the skies and in the warmth of summer, We remember him. At the rustling of the leaves and in the beauty of autumn, We remember him. At the beginning of the year and when it ends, We remember him. When we have joy we crave to share, We remember him. When we have decisions that are difficult to make, We remember him. When we have achievements that are based on his, We remember him.

Our Next Production... THE IRISH THEATRE PLAYERS Present

By Sam and Bella Spewack Directed by Jim Motherway In this delightful comedy, three convicts from Devil’s Island become unlikely angels as they befriend a struggling family of French settlers. Using their unconventional and downright criminal skills, they set about solving all the family’s problems. This results in a hilarious romp that all ages will enjoy!! April: Wed2 Thu3 Fri4 Sun6( 3pm Matinee) Wed9 Thu10 Fri11 Sat12 nightly at 8pm. The Irish Club Theatre, 61 Townshend Rd., Subiaco Tickets: $20(full), $15(concession) Bookings : Jim/ Lucy Ph. 94010964 Email: itpbookings@iinet.net.au

For more information: The Irish Theatre Players contact us at 61 Townshend Rd, Subiaco or Ph 9401-0964 www.irishtheatreplayers.com.au

Around the Irish scene... Compiled by Fred Rea Ex Liverpool legend John Barnes met local legend and Liverpool tragic, Des Kavanagh during a recent visit to Perth. Des is on the right!

Ann Saunders and Harry Rea (centre) had a beer with Roy Keane’s parents Mossie and Marie in Cork recently. Yes, it is my brother and sister and it’s for the benefit of the Dubs, I know all the Dubs love Keano!

Oliver McNerney with his brother Dennis McNerney at a function recently

Anne Marie Lewis and her Daughter Niamh. Anne has lived in Australia for 23 years but only became an Aussie citizen on Australia Day at a local ceremony. Her family are from Dublin, but settled in Cork, and the hassle of travelling home was what made her decide to get the Aussie passport. Photo Paul McGovern If you go to Durty Nelley’s on St Patrick’s Day you will hear for sure Dermot Byrne sing the 2nd best version of Dublin in the Rare old Times. There is no stoping the trooper and he can still be heard on Tony Delroy’s Nightlife from time to time! “Could you repeat the question Tony?”

WA EX PAT’S Reunion at Farnham Estate Ireland in December 2013. Front: Teresa Dennehy, Margie McCabe, Ann McClure. Back Row: Paddy McClure. Bridget, Mike Dennehy and Roy McCabe. Bridget is Teresa Dennehy’s sister and late husband was Eamon. The other person is Catherine McClure ( Paddy and Ann’s youngest daughter). Dont forget to head to the Bailey in Joondalup on St Patrick’s Day to see Big Red remove that Ned Kelly beard for charity.

Anyone know this couple of characters recently seen (for the umteen time) at the Irish Club in Western Australia? During a recent protest against the Western Australian government shark kill policy an Irishman popped up in the protest. Not sure of his name but I agree with his sentiments.

A group of friends from County Down brought visitor to Perth, Ashleen Poland to the Mighty Quinn for lunch. Thanks Bronagh great photo!

The wonderful Dave Mills here performing at the Irish Seniors’ Lunch at the Might Quinn last year. Dave has had a few health issues lately but it shouldn’t be long before he is again sharing that wonderful voice with us. Life is a Beautiful Song Dave!

St Patrick’s Day Parade

Good luck to Mayor of Vincent, John Carey and Festival coordinator Karen Hennessy for this years Leederville Parade. It is a wonderful event and Karen and her team are to be congratulated for again staging the event.

During a visit to Sydney in January Lilly and myself were invited to a wonderful meal in Chinatown by Steve Carey. We had a great night and thanks Steve for your hospitality.

Happy St Patrick’s Day from all the team at the Irish Scene.

About The Claddagh.... Migration can be at the least hugely overwhelming, being an immigrant in a new country and facing crisis can seem the cruellest blow of all. The Claddagh Association Inc. is a helping hand to Irish immigrants in despair. Historically a consistent flow of Irish immigrants have arrived and settled in Western Australia. Since the 1950s this flow increased and resulted in the establishment of a strong Irish community in Perth. In 1997 a group of concerned members of that Irish community formed a support group to assist the Irish in times of crisis. Four of these original founding members still serve on the committee today. We are a voluntary non-profit organisation with Gift Recipient Status. We aim to provide where possible, crisis support to people from the Irish community in times of hardship and trauma. We provide a safety net to assist people in crisis situations where all other avenues have been exhausted. Fundraising events throughout the year ensure continuity of available funds together with donations from individuals; Irish associations/groups and businesses whose generosity have kept the association with sufficient funds to carry out our mission. With the collapse of the Irish economy and the mining boom in Western Australia, in the past three years the organisation has experienced a significant increase in the number of referrals form the Irish Embassy in Canberra and from the Irish community on the ground. These referrals range from assisting the Embassy with the repatriation of bodies back to Ireland to visiting people in hospital or prison. The committee consists of 11 committee members two of which are retired the rest work full time. In addition Claddagh has a team of dedicated volunteers. All Claddagh work is carried out on a voluntary basis.

www.claddagh.org.au 62

to give the Irish Community the service you deserve, but I must say we’ve been taken a little by surprise at the volume of calls, visits and contacts. We’re constantly trying to improve our service.

Martin Kavanagh Honorary Consul Of Ireland

St Patrick’s Day Greetings from Hon Irish Consul It’s often said but it’s no less true - St Patrick’s day really is a great day for the Irish. The day assumes even more importance to those who are temporarily away from home or those of us who are firmly settled in WA. It’s a day when we show the world what “craic” really means. I hope everyone has a very enjoyable and safe St Patrick’s Day. I am extremely grateful to Ambassador Noel White for his great efforts in ensuring that for two years in succession an Irish Government Minister will travel to WA at this time of year. Noel has always understood that WA matters. Minister Alan Kelly TD is very welcome to WA. I’m sure that having completed a very busy schedule of Community, Business, and Government meetings in co-

operation with Enterprise Ireland that Minister Kelly will have a good insight into the economic opportunities for Ireland and the Irish in WA and the experience of the Irish in WA. A central part of the celebrations will be the 2014 St Patrick’s Day Parade. Karen and her team got off to an amazing start in 2013 and we are all looking forward to an even bigger sea of green in Leederville 2014. It’s great that the Town of Vincent are so enthusiastically on board. It has been a great honour to serve as Honorary Consul of Ireland to WA over the last year. My thanks and appreciation to Lynda and Richard and the team at the Honorary Consulate for all their hard work. We’re trying very hard

It’s been a pleasure to meet so many Irish people over the last year, particularly so many talented, enthusiastic and impressive young women and men. The general feedback I receive from WA employers is that they are very impressed with the work ethic and sheer talent of the Irish. Long may we be so highly regarded and long may we value our reputation as a hard-working and friendly people. Of course, the migrant experience is not universally a happy one. We are all forever in the debt of the Claddagh for their great work in helping and being there for those who are doing it tough. I hope you get a chance to pop into The Irish Club or one of the many Irish venues throughout WA during St Pats 2014. All the very best to you and yours for St Patricks Day 2014.

Lá Fhéile Pádraig sona daoibh

Perth Office: 1/100 Terrace Road East Perth Western Australia 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

Follow the Irish Embassy on Twitter: @irlembaustralia

St Patrick the Patron Saint of Engineers? Yes it’s true! A patron is considered to be a defender of a specific group of people or of a nation. There is a patron for virtually every cause, country, profession or special interest. Prayers are considered more likely to be answered by asking a patron, such as Saint Patrick the Patron Saint of Engineers for intercession on their behalf. The term ‘Patron’ is used in Christian religions, including the Roman Catholic religion, to describe

holy and virtuous men and women who are considered to be a defender of a specific group of people or of a country. St Patrick the Patron Saint of Engineers because it is said he introduced some elements of Roman Technology to Ireland and was responsible for the initial construction of clay churches, featuring arches. It is helpful to be able to recognise Saint Patrick the Patron Saint of Engineers in paintings, stained glass windows, illuminated manuscripts, architecture and other forms of Christian art. The artistic representations reflect the life or death of saints, or an aspect of life with which the person 63

is most closely associated. Saint Patrick the Patron Saint of Engineers is represented in Christian Art with a serpent, or snakes, at his feet alluding to the serpent symbolism of the pagan Druids. The Feast Day of Saint Patrick the Patron Saint of Engineers is March 17th. Most saints have specially designated feast days and are associated with a specific day of the year and these are referred to as the saint’s feast day. The feast days first arose from the very early Christian custom of the annual commemoration of martyrs on the dates of their deaths at the same time celebrating their birth into heaven.

land of

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Giving up “The Give Ups” by Sally Desmond

I was marking the calendar a few days ago when I suddenly realised Lent was approaching. “I must do something about Lent” I thought guiltily. I ran down a list of things I should, and would and could give up. They were silly things like chocolates – no problem – toasted sandwiches – not much of a problem; glass of wine – hmmm, not sure; television – not unless I have a glass of wine instead; dancing – too late it gave me up. I got all the way down to IPad, IPhone, ATMs and pin numbers before I thought “I can do that” but that’s not the spirit of An Cargas is it? It was all much easier as we were growing up. Sister Bonaventure told you what to give up – sweets of all sorts, being disobedient, being angry and “answering back”. That ensured a fairly peaceful six weeks for her in class – she liked Lent. I did not. It was a dark season, made darker by the penances, the prayers and the graphic descriptions of what was to come as an ending. All the sermons were sombre and in the hands of a priest or sister who could do sombre really well,

you were left feeling personally responsible for the events of two thousand years ago. I am not decrying the need for expiation but if you were impressionable the effect was frightening. To this day I cannot sit through a movie with cruelty or torture in it. I suffer from “the forty lashes syndrome”. It never leaves you. I can still hear the wooden clappers of Tenebre in a dark church. In my mind’s eye I can recall with ease the purple shrouded statues of Holy Week. Of course, on the upside I can also recall with clarity the Easter Bells ringing out joyously over Cork City and the lifting of the gloom. We all looked on Easter Sunday to see if the sun was spinning, always supposing there was sun. In my opinion if you look at the sun long enough not only will you be in danger of going blind but the sun will spin. In my late teens when weekend dancing was the highlight of your life the good Bishop of Cork, in his infinite wisdom, decided that dance halls of all descriptions would close for Lent. He obviously did not think that one through! Alternatives had to be found at

the weekend. Alternatives were found none of which would have had the blessings of The Church. Dancing, indeed, would have been “a lesser sin”. Keeping teenagers vertical, to my mind, is always a good idea. I am really quite glad that I lived through those times – it gives me street cred with the grandchildren! St. Patrick’s feast day on the 17th March is so dated I am sure because it will always be in Lent and the Irish are nothing if not canny about the need to celebrate. Docas linn Naom Padraig, Aspal Mor na hEireann. We sang that at the first Mass of the Day and you then had to get six weeks of living into a day. If there was a parade you went. The Irish in Ireland at that time weren’t really into parades – that was for the cousins in New York or Boston. The races were great on the day and that evening there was dancing – everything was sweeter because, like Cinderella, you knew it would all end at Midnight and back you would go to the “give ups”. Memorable times

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Hey, and how’s about ye! Happy St Patrick’s Day! Now I know I promised to tell you the rest of the story about my trip on a bus around Belfast. Especially my visit to the Falls and Shankill Roads but as it is coming up to the famous Saint’s day, I will have to reserve it for another time. My father was a fairly religious man (everyone at that time was very religious) but he had a “falling out” with the local clergyman over how a Christian should act. If you think that this seems somewhat vague, well then you would be right. I was only five or six at the time and the order of the day then was to listen and not to speak unless invited. Being invited was somewhat rare! Anyway, my father decided not to attend that church, so we drove an extra ten miles to attend the Down

Cathedral in Downpatrick. It was a huge building and very cold in every way; especially for a boy of six. We attended it regularly every Sunday and we soon had our own pew. I suppose everyone did but at that time I thought it was a great honour to have your own pew. Well outside the cathedral there was a large stone. (See picture left). I do remember seeing it but I suppose at the time I did not know who St. Patrick was, so it never really registered with me until I started writing articles about Ulster. Yes indeed. It is (or so they believe) St. Patrick’s grave stone. On one of my return visits, I found out that they have even put up a sign which was certainly not there fifty years ago. Now you might well ask “what and where is the Mound of Down when it is at home?” Now I know that there are plenty of drumlins in County Down - but I had never heard of the Mound of Down. After a bit of research (OK I googled it!) it appears that it has been hidden from public view by trees and gorse for decades. Decades I ruminated; surely centuries! But I learned that work has recently been done to expose this fortification which could be about 1,000 years old. Apparently it is one of the largest megalithic hill forts in Western Europe; the seat of the high kings when they moved from the Navan area of Armagh eastwards and it is probably the very reason Down is called Down, Down from Dun - the big fort. The enclosure is defined by a massive bank and ditch that encircles what was once a drumlin island in the Quoile (pronounced coily) Marshes. Although the site has yet to undergo archaeological excavation, it is thought that the large earthwork on the mound is

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a pre-Norman fortification. It was most likely a royal stronghold of the Dál Fiatach, the ruling dynasty of this part of County Down in the first millennium AD. Well you learn something every day! Moreover it dates back to the Iron Age, or the early Christian period. It occupies a site the size of four football pitches and sits in a very strategic position in the Quoile Marshes. In the past, it was probably surrounded by water which along with the large bank, made it a prodigious site for a fortress. The photograph below shows (in the background) the cathedral I mentioned earlier. As of today, they seemed to have excavated the site and you will have to agree that it looks much better. At least from a tourist’s point of view or a bird’s eye point of view as you can see below.

Perhaps you can put in on your bucket list for your next visit. Returning to a 17th of March theme, I always felt there were very few Irish songs with a St. Patricks day content. So I took it upon myself to write one or three over recent years. They have not hit the top thousand as of yet! Below is a

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short extract of each one. I sound rather Irish, I do not deny But now I’m a digger; true-blue, dinky-di I love my new land, but I can’t tell a lie There’s one little matter that I must qualify .... I’m paddy the Aussie from the County Galway I’m not one to whinge but allow me to say The beaches are great and the beer is okay But I must have me Guinness on St. Patrick’s day ! So show me the way just show me the way I must have me Guinness on St. Patrick’s day So show me the way just show me the way I must have me Guinness on St. Patrick’s day

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Well here we are then we’re in Australia We’ve left our homeland but we’re happy here We’re celebrating good olde St Patrick’s Day One of the best days in all of the year. We’re going to sing songs and raise the rafters We’re going to drink some good old Guinness stout We’re going to eat stew with lots of potatoes We’re going to dance away till we are thrown out

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I am a little leprechaun I come from far and near I’m welcome in the parlour where I sip me pint of beer I am everybody’s hope I am everybody’s dream I am a little leprechaun who wears the emerald green.

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Now if this sort of song appeals to you, or other more recognizable Irish songs, you might like to visit Paddy Malone’s in Joondalup on Paddy’s Day 12 – 3 where Fiddlesticks (my band) will be playing. Also the Liffy Lees will be there at 4 with Irish dancing at 11 a.m. The bar will be open at 8; so with that wee plug all that is left for me to do is to wish you all a great day on the 17th. Look after yourselves.

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Colin Merrey’s

s w e i v e R

Firstly, to my book of the month – I have chosen this one, because Brian McGilloway is one of my favourite Irish authors – he hails from Derry and is a good friend of John Connolly’s – so that is more than sufficient for him to merit this position in my bi-monthly offering. HURT – BRIAN MCGILLOWAY Murdoch Books Paperback $19.99 Welcome to the St Patrick’s Day This tale is the follow up to “Little Girl and Easter edition of our wonderful Lost”, the book that introduced us to magazine. I have toiled long and hard to Detective Sergeant Lucy Black. This time give you a lot to choose from especially she is given the task of investigating the for this issue so here goes. You may also death of a girl, Karen Hughes – and the find some goodies in here to spend your only clues she has regarding the girl’s last Easter monetary and book tokeny gifts movements are her mobile phone and various on. I sincerely hope so. social media sites. The story progresses at a Before we get started, I feel I must thank all cracking pace and is extremely gripping – this of those amongst you who sent good wishes on my recent BIG birthday (as reported in the last in my humble opinion is his best to date and I issue of the Irish Scene). Onwards and upwards, absolutely loved it. It is also Brian’s first book for his new as they say – they also say that with age comes publisher, Murdoch Books and we wish him and wisdom – yes…well maybe…..perhaps!! Don’t forget that if you have problems finding them all the very best for their new venture. Please buy this one – I know you’ll love it. a good new- or second hand bookseller, you And now to continue can try my favourites. These include a new bookshop (to me at any rate) that I discovered 1,339 QI FACTS TO MAKE YOUR JAW DROP – JOHN MITCHISON recently – STEFEN’S BOOKS in Shafto (Editor) Lane in Perth City. He has a great selection of books – chiefly in the crime and fantasy sphere Allen and Unwin Hardback $22.99 All of you who know me (either of publishing – and is very knowledgeable in personally or via my reviews) that regard – despite his seemingly tender years! Go in and say hello to him next time you will know that I am a glutton for are in town – he has some great books in stock trivia and for quiz nights and quiz TV programmes – I also love QI which if – he helped me to complete my John Connolly you are not aware already is an ABC TV show and Stuart McBride libraries last month – I hosted by the affable Stephen Fry which deals can highly recommend him to you. Others in in a (usually) hilarious manner with lots and no particular order of preference are Dymocks lots of Quite Interesting facts (hence the shows at Whitford City – I particularly find Tracy title). In earlier issues of this magazine, I have to be extremely helpful when trying to source told you about various QI publications that I the latest book recently to add to my personal felt would interest you. Well, this is the latest collection. They also have stores in Subiaco Belmont (all part of the same franchise holder’s such tome and follows hard on the heels of the “armoury”), Karrinyup and Fremantle amongst editor’s previous book “1,227 QI Facts to Blow your Socks Off”. Did you know for instance that other branches both city and state-wide. I it is impossible to whistle in a spacesuit? Or also look to Mark at the Corona Books shop that pigs suffer from anorexia? I didn’t think at Warwick Shopping Centre for good service so!!!!!!!! These and their 1,337 companions will – I find him, too, to be extremely helpful and astonish, amuse, and astound you I am sure. obliging and with a good knowledge of books and authors. In the realm of Second Hand book But it – read it – love it. I certainly did! KNOWING MANDELA – JOHN sellers, you can’t go past Pulp Fiction – who CARLIN Allen and Unwin Hardback $24.99 have stores (again) at Whitford City and also Here we have a remarkable account at Floreat Forum Shopping Centre or the of a man who is as flawed as he is Elizabeth’s Bookshop chain which has shops gifted – he is neither superman nor in Fremantle, Perth City (Hay Street) and saint by any means – as is tackled Subiaco to name but a few branches. I also by this exploration of his life in the look to the Guildford Book Exchange for period after his release from prison good service. (covering the period 1990 to 1995). Also please remember to let the various stores know who pointed you in their direction. This wonderful little book offers the reader a The feedback is great for them and it shows me deeper understanding of this powerful man and what made him such a towering moral that you are actually taking the time to read and political figure – one of the finest of our what I have prepared for your enjoyment with each issue. Then my work will not have been in age. I enjoyed the book and found it a most enlightening take on this iconic man – he vain, as it were! 68

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will be sadly missed and I firmly believe long remembered – I sincerely hope you take the time to read this remarkable story – I know you will get a great deal from it if you do so. BOTANY FOR GARDENERS – GEOFF HODGE Allen and Unwin Hardback $24.99 The subtitle of this lovely little book is “The Art and Science of Gardening Explained and Explored” and certainly in my humble opinion that certainly was accomplished by the author here. It is a practical hands-on guide that will help you, the gardener, better understand how plants grow, what affects their performance and how to get better results from them As a novice gardener, quite a bit went over my head but in using this as a reference tool, I hope to broaden my gardening knowledge base quite considerably. A great addition to your reference library – if you are a keen gardener, then this is certainly one for you. FORK HANDLES – RONNIE BARKER Random House Hardback $49.95 With a foreword by his long time comedy partner, Ronnie Corbett, this is a wonderful collection of some of the brilliant monologues, sketches and songs by the immortal Ronnie Barker, one of the finest comedic talents ever to grace our TV screens and film and theatrical stages. I loved every word – some of the stories I had heard before (including the brilliant “Fork Handles” sketch which will go down in my personal history as one of the funniest ever written) but there were a great number that I had not. All are well worth the re-telling and will make the coming Autumn and Winter evenings go a lot easier for you this year. But and enjoy this man’s remarkable talent. FIRST PHONE CALL FROM HEAVEN – MITCH ALBOM Hachette Hardback $29.99 This is a great new novel from the man who gave us the inspirational “Tuesdays with Morrie” a book and movie that I really loved and was inspired by. This lovely little book tells how the residents in a small town on Lake Michigan in the USA start receiving telephone calls from the afterlife – this becomes world wide news and receives unprecedented attention – is this the greatest miracle ever or a massive hoax? This is a real page turner about the power of belief and it will certainly touch your souls. I love Mitch’s books and find them both entertaining and enlightening. They are also truly inspirational – please but read and enjoy this one – I know you won’t regret doing so and

I know you will ALL get a lot out of it. WHY CAN’T I TICKLE MYSELF? – GEMMA ELWIN HARRIS Faber Paperback $19.99 This I really enjoyed – it tackles some of the BIG questions asked of adults by LITTLE PEOPLE and gives appropriate answers from VERY BIG PEOPLE. For instance – Is It OK to Eat a Worm??? If a Cow didn’t fart for a whole year and then did one big fart, would it fly into space???? Yes …… Well!! This is a lovely little book that has been put out in aid of the NSPCC in England (National Society fro the Prevention of Cruelty to Children). I know you’ll get a good laugh out of some of the responses to these and other such “profound” questions and know you’ll enjoy the book immensely – you will also be doing a great service to the NSPCC – so if you want to read it PLEASE buy it and try not to get it from your local library unless you really have to do so. CONFESSIONS OF A WILD CHILD – JACKIE COLLINS Simon and Schuster Paperback $29.99 On occasion, I watch the Graham Norton show on Channel 10 and was fortunate to watch the New Year special a while back where they interviewed, amongst others, Jackie Collins and her older sister, acclaimed film and TV actress Joan. I mention this because, when Graham asked her about this new novel, she said that it was really intended for adults but would have a strong appeal for young adults too as it deals with the teenage years of Lucky Santangelo, the heroine of several of her earlier novels (think “Lady Boss”, “Lucky” and “Chances” to name but three). Here we have a typical Jackie Collins book full of glitz, glamour, crime (and dare I say it sex) that for me was aimed, notwithstanding her comments on TV, straight at young adult readers. I found it reasonably enjoyable as a young adult tale but I do think that grown ups can find something to enjoy amongst its pages – particularly as it is the back story as I said earlier one of her principal book series characters. See what you think – I quite liked it. RESTAURANT BABYLON – IMOGEN EDWARDS-JONES AND ANONYMOUS Random House Paperback $29.95 You may recall on one of our commercial TV stations (I think channel Seven but I’m not sure) a show called “Hotel Babylon” which was a fictional (but based on fact we are assured) tale of life in a hotel in the centre of London UK. Well………. this book from the same author(s) does the very same foe a major restaurant again in London presenting

us with a day in the life of that restaurant with “the saucy secrets of the world’s finest kitchens”. This is hilarious and (if it is as true a representation as it claims) very eye-opening. Loved it. POPPY’S DILEMMA – KARLY LANE Arena Paperback $29.99 This is Karly’s fourth book to date and is set in the town of Macksville in New South Wales. Poppy, our heroine, finds an old diary belonging to her beloved grandmother and on reading it determined to find out more about the long-forgotten romance outlined in its pages. As she does so, she uncovers a startling and heart wrenching story that she never expected to experience. Based on true events that Karly had discovered about a post WW1 returned soldier in her home town, she weaves a wonderful tale of lost love and of Poppy’s finding love in an unexpected place. This is one that although aimed at the ladies amongst our readers I quite enjoyed. I always enjoy a story well told and this ranks with some of the best I have read in this genre. Again, I hope you enjoy this one. THE DARKENING HOUR – PENNY HANCOCK Simon and Schuster Paperback $24.99 This is the first of Penny’s novels that I have read and I must say it was quite a different premise – it is aimed wholeheartedly at adult readers – not just the ladies amongst us. Briefly, it tells of Mona who is hired by Theodora to look after her ageing father as a live in maid/ carer and of the inevitable power struggles that occur between them as the story progresses. It has quite a surprising ending and I truly enjoyed this slightly off centre book. Know you’ll love it too. SUMMER AT THE LAKE – ERICA JAMES Hachette Paperback $29.99 Floriana is a tour guide in the English city of Oxford, a job that she loves. She has always been a procrastinator – having taken two years NOT to tell the love of her life how she feels about him – until – she gets a card from him (Seb) announcing his upcoming wedding. In her fluster at reading the announcement, she doesn’t see the car coming!!!!!!!! The couple who rushed to her aid persuaded her to attend the wedding at Lake Como – so she goes…….. How does it turn out? You’ll have to read the book to find out. Definitely one for the ladies amongst our readership – I know you will all love it if you give it a go. FAR SIDE OF THE SUN – KATE FURNIVALL Hachette Paperback $29.99 Kate Furnivall is very good at writing stories about the recent past – particularly in regard 69

to the Second World War – particularly “The White Pearl” which was set in Singapore – a lovely story. This, her latest, is set in Nassau in the Bahamas and features a young girl, Dodie, who helps a man who she finds lying stabbed in a Nassau alleyway. From there, we enter the world of wealthy socialites and businessmen and Dodie enters an arena that could threaten her safety because of several secrets that she holds. Now read on………… A good story well told – I know you will enjoy this and any other of her books that you find (you may recall I told you about her book “Shadows on the Nile” recently also). ESSIE’S WAY – PAMELA COOK Hachette Paperback $29.99 After reading her previous book, “Blackwattle Lake”, I really looked forward to reading this, her latest. It tells the story of Miranda who is a successful lawyer and who is about to get married. While preparing for her wedding, she looks for something old to wear (as is the wedding tradition) and finds evidence that perhaps her grandmother who she had believed to be dead might still be alive. So as you do she sets out on a road trip to find the truth………and maybe to find herself in the process. A really enjoyable read and one that you are going to love as people who enjoy this genre of writing. MURDER MYSTERY AND MAYHEM…….PLUS THE MINOR ADJUSTMENT BEAUTY SALON – ALEXANDER MCCALL SMITH Little Brown Hardback $34.99 If you have been following the re-runs of the No 1 Ladies Detective Agency (set in Botswana in Africa) on the ABC on Friday nights recently – or if in fact you saw the series when it was first broadcast a while back, then you will be familiar with the central characters, in particular Mma Makutsi who runs the Agency in question, then you will love this the latest in McCall Smith’s wonderful series as she struggles to cope with motherhood, cobras and a senior aunt together with Mma Ramotwse who must in her stead cope with tea making duties and detective work! I know that the ladies are great at multi tasking but this I know has stretched her capabilities to the absolute limit! This is a lovely, light hearted and whimsical little book that I know you will really enjoy – I found it quite enchanting. I love his work – in particular the Scotland Street series of stories also. Enjoy! THE GODS OF GUILT – MICHAEL CONNELLY Allen and Unwin Paperback $32.99 At last – a new instalment in the Mickey

Haller series (the fifth novel in this critically acclaimed collection of novels that began with “The Lincoln Lawyer”. I love Michael Connelly’s books and I particularly enjoy court room dramas of which this is a prime example. This time, Mickey is asked to defend Andre LaCosse, who is accused of murdering a prostitute in a hotel room – the victim was a former client of Mickey’s, whom he had thought was no longer in “the life” as it is often called. So….Mickey’s loyalties are somewhat torn – Great story altogether with all of the usual Connelly twists, turns, red herrings, et al. It winds to a slightly unexpected conclusion but is an extremely fast paced and enjoyable read. Loved it – every word. IN THE MORNING I’LL BE GONE – ADRIAN MCKINTY Allen and Unwin Paperback $29.99 I really enjoy Adrian’s books – he is an extremely good writer and, now resident in Melbourne, I hope to carry out an interview with him at some stage in the future. This is the third and latest book in the Sean Duffy series and is again set in and around Carrickfergus in the early 1980’s. You may remember that Duffy is a catholic RUC policeman and as such is frowned upon to say the least by his Protestant compatriots. Very fast paced indeed, this tells how after he has been suspended from the RUC on a trumped up charge, he is recruited by MI5 to carry out an extremely sensitive investigation on their behalf – find an IRA bomb maker who has escaped from the Maze prison and been trained in Gadaffi in Libya for his current mission against “the hated Brits” on their own turf. Wow indeed – loved every minute – every word – right to the inevitable conclusion. Read it and see whether you agree with me – I am sure you will! THE LOST ONES – ACE ATKINS Murdoch Books Paperback $29.99 This is the new Quinn Colson book from Ace Atkins – Quinn is an Army Ranger who is the new sheriff of Tebbelah County in the USA. He is called out to investigate a case of child abuse. What he finds is a horrifying scene of neglect and a shoebox full of cash! From there, he rockets into a fast paced search for the fugitive couple who have left the money behind that takes him into contact with a Drug cartel that controls the land around the Texas border. There are so many twists and turns and, as is my wont, I can’t tell you any more of the story for fear of spoiling it for you. Suffice it to say that I thoroughly enjoyed it and know you will too. Ace’s style and format is similar to that of Lee Child and Elmore Leonard (who incidentally

gives this book and its author a definite thumbs up). If you like this genre then this one is for you – if you are new to it then this would be a good place for you to start your journey into enjoyment. GONE – JAMES PATTERSON with MICHAEL LEDWIDGE Random House Paperback $32.95 PRIVATE LA – JAMES PATTERSON with MARK SULLIVAN Random House Paperback $32.95 As you may be well aware, over the past few years, James Patterson has taken to co-writing many of his books. Here we have two recently released examples of that practice – “Gone” is his latest collaboration with Michael Ledwidge and is the new book in the Detective Michael Bennet series. This time, a crime lord has escaped from police custody and has declared war on America in general and Michael Bennett in particular. A great story in the classic Patterson tradition. The second is the most recent in the “Private” series of novels this time being set in Los Angeles. Private is an international private investigation agency – we have had New York, Australia, Berlin and London recently to name but a few. Here, Jack Morgan, proprietor of Private, has to find the abductors of the biggest superstar couple in Hollywood (there are distinct if fictional parallels with Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie in here) and their three children. Again more twists and turns than the proverbial pig’s tail but another good yarn well told. Both are fast paced and easy reading books written in a tried and true manner – I loved them both and if you have loved Patterson in the past you will absolutely adore him now with these two stellar offerings. DUST – PATRICIA CORNWELL Little Brown Hardback $39.99 This is the latest in the Kay Scarpetta stories and, although a bit long winded at times, a great follow up to the earlier novels. As you may (or may not) know, Scarpetta is a medical examiner working in Massachusetts, USA, who is given a body to examine and identify that was found on a rugby field in a sea of mud. There are traces of a strange compound on and around her body that fluoresce red, green and blue. She has to solve the puzzle before the killer strikes again – and he will!! Loved it – have read all of her books to date and this is another goodie! TAKEDOWN TWENTY – JANET EVANOVICH Headline Paperback $29.99 Stephanie Plum is a New Jersey bounty hunter 70

– she is Janet’s principal book series character. She has now appeared in twenty books (hence the title of this one). His time, she has to bring Salvatore “Uncle Sunny” Sunucchi to justice when he skips bail after being accused of murder. There begins an hilarious madcap romp of a story that takes in Italian mobsters, her boyfriend’s grandma who is sheltering Sunny on occasion and a disappearing/reappearing giraffe! I just love the comic almost slapstick nature of these stories – they make a refreshing change from some of this my favourite genre which often takes itself much too seriously. This is a great little novel – I love Janet’s books and have read almost all of them to date. I just know you’ll enjoy this one. THE LOCH NESS LEGACY – BOYD MORRISON Hachette Paperback $19.99 This is the second of Boyd’s books that I have read on your behalf lately (the first being “The Tsunami Conspiracy” that I told you about a couple of issues back) and it is a real goodie. His books are nearly always of the conspiracy theory type – this one is no exception. If you put into the mix Darwin’s theory of evolution, a mass murder attempt on the Eiffel Tower in Paris and the Loch Ness Monster, you have an intriguing, fast paced novel that takes us from the shores of Loch Ness to the absolute splendour of Versailles in France. Love conspiracy theory stories – loved this one too. REVENGE – DEBRA WEBB Headline Paperback $14.99 Debra Webb has over a comparatively short period written nearly 100 books including the “Faces of Evil” series of which this is the fifth instalment. Here, “The Five” comprises a group of five university undergraduates who became involved in a suspicious death just before their university careers were due to begin. Now, twelve years on, someone sets out to exact a terrifying revenge on the five – this is made evident when Deputy Police Chief Jess Harris is called to the scene of the murder of one of the five. She must catch him before the other four are murdered as well. It is a cracking tale told at a cracking pace – many twists and turns of plot and many red herrings too. Loved it – very well written and very easy reading. Hope you like it. SAINTS OF THE SHADOW BIBLE – IAN RANKIN Orion Paperback $32.99 I love the John Rebus character that Ian Rankin first introduced us too many years ago. Much as it is hard to read James Bond books without seeing him as Sean Connery (as you often do)

so I can’t read the Rebus books without seeing him as his TV persona of Ken Stott – brilliant interpretation of such a seedy detective – such a wonderful interpretation. This time, Rebus (who was sacked from the force in the last book), is newly back on the force, albeit having been demoted. Now, Rebus’ old team from some thirty years ago is being re-investigated in regard to a 30 year old cold case. ”He said – She said” situations abound and Rebus knows not who is now his friend and who his enemy – particularly as he is under investigation by Inspector Malcolm Fox from Internal Affairs. Again, very fast paced and hard to put down – I read it virtually in one sitting over the Christmas break. Loved it – hard to predict ending – I like that! THE SPY – JAMES PHELAN Hachette Paperback $29.99 James Phelan is quite a prolific writer having written various series in the past primarily for young adults together with four books for adult readers - but this is the first in a new series aimed at the adult reader to feature Jed Walker who is an ex-CIA operative. Here, a terrorist group codenamed Zodiac has designated 12 targets around the world for elimination. It is Walker’s job to trace the men behind the elusive Zodiac cadre before they can achieve their elimination objective. Loved it – I love spy stories with their twists and turns – this is a real goodie – hope you like it. Please let me know, of course if you happen to read something I have recommended to you – I don’t mind whether or not you like it – it helps to give me some feedback on the kinds of stories you like. ....But we digress! A SAVAGE GARDEN – CHRIS MUIR Random House Paperback $32.99 Chris Muir is one of that rare breed – an erudite writer with an innate ability to keep his reading audience captivated with a good story that is genuinely unputdownable. This is a gripping and action-packed thriller that is set in the lawless wilds of Africa’s Congo – a hotbed of unrest. If ever there was one. Our hero is Jack Norton, an ex-Navy SEAL who arrives in Africa with the best of intentions. But he is sucked in to being a rather jaded mercenary by the inherent corruption of the Congo. The complex story involves blood diamonds, the child soldiers of the Congo, the doctors of Medecin Sans Frontieres (Doctors Without Frontiers) all the while trying to save both a small army of orphaned African children and his own skin in the process. Phew!!! Thoroughly enjoyed this one – lots of totally unexpected side roads and friends who suddenly become enemies who are really friends……..or are they???

Read and love this one – it will keep you on the edge of your collective seats. BROKEN DOLLS – JAMES CAROL Faber Paperback $19.99 James is a new author to me – this is his first novel and it features ex FBI profiler Jefferson Winter – and this promises to be a really good series (I understand that James has several more books in the writing/planning stages for this splendid series). Winter arrives in London to seek out what kind of psychopath is on the loose lobotomising young women during an exceptionally cold snap during that City’s cold winter weather. After many false starts and wrong turnings he finds himself on the trail of the killer – or does he???? But Jefferson Winter is not your average private eye – his father is one of America’s most renowned serial killers – is Jefferson like his father? Maybe – maybe not – you’ll have to read it for yourselves – and I strongly recommend that you do – notwithstanding this is James’ first book, it has already been optioned by an independent TV production company headed by no less than Stephen Fry. I predict great things for James Carol – a great writer if ever I read one! SILENT KILL – PETER CORRIS Allen and Unwin Paperback $29.99 At Last! A new Cliff Hardy novel from Australia’s Peter Corris – I really love his work and I was really looking forward to this one when I knew it was being released. I wasn’t disappointed. This time Cliff, who is not getting any younger, is hired to solve a murder after being hired to act as bodyguard to a charismatic political campaigner who has ruffled more than a few feathers in his time. Now – how does his political future tie in with the murder Hardy is investigating? That is the question to which you’ll have to read the book for yourselves to find out! Another great Aussie read – you’ll love it I’m sure. SILENCER – ANDY MCNAB Random House Paperback $32.95 You may remember Andy McNab – the ex-British SAS soldier – and hero of several conflicts including the Gulf War – turned gritty action and adventure packed storyteller. This is the latest in a long line of novels – some are based on his life (i.e. “Bravo Two Zero”) and some purely fictional BUT based on credible scenarios. Our hero this time is Nick Stone – who Andy has featured in a very successful series of novels – who when his girlfriend and new born son are threatened finds himself having to confront a man from his past who has a serious personal score to settle with Nick. From Moscow to Mexico, this is a tantalisingly fast paced story that has (as I really like and am often wont to say in these reviews) 71

many unexpected plot twists until it reaches its, to me at least, almost unexpected conclusion. Loved it – buy it and read for yourselves what I liked about this great tale. SYCAMORE ROW – JOHN GRISHAM Hachette Hardback $39.99 And finally for this issue a real stunner of a book – of all crime genres, I really get off on courtroom drama and here Grisham really hits the nail on the head for me. It is the sequel to his very first novel, published all this years ago titled “A Time To Kill” and it has been really worth the wait. Our hero, Jake Brigance, has never met Seth Hubbard – and is surprised to learn that he has been appointed by Hubbard to administer his will – which is absolute dynamite – the majority of his not inconsiderable fortune has been left to his housekeeper and Jake must defend the will at all costs and also defend the housekeeper who is accused of forging this new will. Phew!!! VERY fast paced and many many surprises in store for Hubbard’s family and likewise for you, the reader. If like me you enjoy courtroom drama in general and John Grisham in particular then this book is an absolute must for you. Well that’s it for books this issue. Remember, if I haven’t heard of an author before or if it is a new author, I hope you will take my recommendations into consideration when selecting your reading matter and give them a good go. I will say no more at this juncture and wish you happy reading, and see you all in the next issue. I hope you enjoy my recommendations as much as I have enjoyed reading them on both your and my own behalf. MUSICmusicmusic This issue we have a new CD from Daniel O’Donnell who will be in Perth at the Riverside Theatre at the Perth Convention Centre on 20th March (see elsewhere in this issue for details and also you can read about my chat with Daniel late last Month). Entitled “A Picture of You” it has a lot of songs that you will all no doubt be familiar with (although Daniel has not recorded them himself before). The title track is a particular favourite of mine (being written for one of my teenage and current musical idols Joe Brown by Peter Oakman, his bass player in the early 1960’s incarnation of Joe’s backing band The Bruvvers) and Daniel does an excellent arrangement of this great little song. Also amongst my favourite tracks are Daniel’s interpretations of the timeless “Moon River”. Love Letters in the Sand” and Gene Pitney’s “If I didn’t have a dime” I guess Daniel will be doing several of the songs from this album in his Perth show in March. – hope to see you there.

Colin Merrey’s

s w e i v e R HAIL THE CONQUERING HEROES

CELTIC WOMAN IN CONCERT At the Riverside Theatre Perth 24th January 2014 By Colin Merrey If you were not at the Celtic Woman concert on January 24th this year you only have yourselves to blame – you have missed probably the best programme of Irish music that it has been my pleasure to attend in a VERY long time. Having all of the girls’ CD’s and DVD’s in my collection and seeing all of the changes in their limeup over the years, I knew I was in for something really special – I just didn’t realise HOW special that experience was going to be. Celtic Woman, in their present incarnation, is Mairead Nesbitt, Lisa Lambe, Susan McFadden and Mairead Carlin (new girl from Derry and the first from Northern Ireland to grace their number). Lisa, Susan and Mairead (Carlin) handle all of the vocals and Mairead (Nesbitt) the “whirling dervish” fiddle playing. The programme came from their total combined repertoire – not just from “Believe” which was the first CD/DVD prior to Susan McFadden’s joining them (as Susan mentioned to me during our telephone chat last year). All of the great songs were there – “Danny Boy”, “Orinoco Flow”, “Bridge over Troubled Water”, their song tribute to Hollywood and several songs written by Clannad (who were

here themselves last year). They ended the first half with a rousing Teir Abhaile Riu and that just about brought the house down! Their show closer was the immortal “You Raise Me Up” – Brendan Graham’s beautiful anthem in which they were supported by the Australian Girls Choir. The close of the show and the encore – which came far too soon for my liking - was “The Parting Glass” in which they were also accompanied by the Girls Choir. Of course, I can’t close this little note without a comment on the fiddle playing of Mairead Nesbitt – probably one of the best fiddle players that I have seen – and I have seen quite a lot as you may know. Her intricate melodies and flying, dancing feet will stay long in my memory – she is an absolute gem! I must also make mention of the outstanding percussionists in the Band – Ray Fean and Andy Reilly. Absolutely magnificent the two of them! The Band was under the direction of David Downes who has looked after all of their musical arrangements and recording throughout their career. The venue, too, was perfect for the show – I really couldn’t fault the night’s performance at all – the musicianship, vocal qualities and professionalism of the Celtic Woman’s performance was second to none. The girls have a new CD/DVD that has just been released (February this year) entitled “EMERALD: MUSICAL GEMS” and a new Christmas album and DVD that was released just before Christmas last year. Honestly, this was a wonderful night’s entertainment and if you missed it, you will just have to make sure that you don’t miss them on their next tour – I know I’ll be there.

WE SHALL REMEMBER

“Under Any Old Gum Tree” A Play by Noel O’Neill Old Mill Theatre, South Perth Reviewed by Colin Merrey On Saturday 1st February, I bore witness to a remarkable spectacle at the Old Mill Theatre in South Perth. It was “Under Any Old Gum Tree” - the story of Martin O’Meara – an Irishman who served as a stretcher bearer in the Great War of 1914 – 1918 who was awarded the Victoria Cross for his gallantry in the face of the enemy during that terrible conflict – a man who indeed never got over his experiences during his time in the trenches. Further, his various treatments at the hands of his so-called carers during his time “recuperating” from the horrors of war at the Claremont Asylum in Western Australia would make your blood run cold. Here was a man who having served England well during the conflict – notwithstanding that, as an Irishman, it wasn’t really “his war” - and who was treated by medical professionals who didn’t understand what shell shock (that which we now call post traumatic stress syndrome) did to a man and knew nothing about the method in which it should be treated. The performance came in two acts essentially – the first setting out Martin O’Meara’s story and the second a musical presentation of contiguous songs to the setting put together by the multi talented/multi faceted Fred Rea (more of whom later). Firstly, the Martin O’Meara story was presented in a truly memorable manner – the script (by Noel

music scene here in Perth. This part of the production was rounded out with a moving “Where Have All The Flowers Gone?” that powerful protest song of the eternal circle written by the recently deceased Pete Seeger – that describes the circle of life through the flowers that are picked by the young girls for there boyfriends who go off to war, are killed in battle and who find their final rest in the very graveyards from where the flowers came that they received from their lasses before going off to war – and so on – and so on. When will they ever learn indeed? Altogether this was a fine evening and all of those who have devoted so much time to its production over the last many, many months are to be whole heartedly congratulated. This was the maiden performance of this remarkable play and that it is to be presented on March 30th in Collie (see below) – I know that the Collie residents will more than enjoy this highly commendable presentation and that all in all the play will be picked up by a larger body (PIAF perhaps or ABC TV) and that it can so reach the large audience that it deserves.

O’Neill who also directed the production) was completely sympathetic to the scenario and extremely moving. The acting prowess of the two performers in Kieran Garvey (as O’Meara) and Rex Gray (as the Orderly) (I say two although it is essentially a one man performance by the remarkable Kieran Garvey – a newcomer to the Perth Irish Theatre scene having only arrived here in 2012) was for me without peer. It has been quite some time since I have been so moved by a play – in fact, after the first act someone asked me if I enjoyed the performance and I found I couldn’t answer the question. Here was not a story that you could enjoy in the accepted sense of the word – it was told in such a way that you were so affected by the injustices done to this man that you literally wept with him and for him. I was more stunned and moved by this awful story in which Kieran so inhabited the character of O’Meara that you might think it was Martin O’Meara on that stage telling his own story! It is my humble opinion that there are big things in store for Kieran Garvey – I feel that this is really only the beginning of a major acting career for this unassuming man and I feel privileged to have seen him perform at virtually the start of it. The second act, as I said earlier, was a musical presentation of music and song contiguous (thanks to narrator Frank Murphy for that one!) to the theme of war and its horrors put together by Fred Rea. There were some traditional songs and some written specifically for the play – those being “”From Collie’s Banks to No Man’s Land” written by Irishman Dave McGilton and performed by Fred Rea, “Any Old Gum Tree” written and performed by Fiona Rea and the song from whose chorus I took the headline for this piece “The Stretcher Bearers” written and performed by Fred Rea. Other essentially anti war songs presented were “Johnny I Hardly Knew You” performed by Sean O’Rourke, “The Old Man’s Tale” written by Scot Ian Campbell and performed by the under rated Phil Beck and a wonderful song :The Sleeper Cutter’s Camp” a poem by Dan Sheehan set to music very recently and Special Performance: 2014 Western Australia Heritage Festival Irish Club of WA - 61 Townshend Road, Subiaco again performed by Phil Beck. There were Tuesday 29th April at 7.45pm - Tickets $25 ($20 Concession) also musical interludes by whistle player Dymphna Finch – a stalwart of the Irish Tickets: bookings@irishscene.com.au - Phone: 0449 844 075

Daniel O’Donnell – CONSUMMATE PERFORMER

In conversation with COLIN MERREY

Recently, I was fortunate to get a chance to talk to Donegal singer Daniel O’Donnell during a whirlwind promotional visit to Australia prior to his Australian tour (he will be in Perth at the Riverside Theatre on 20th March 2014 – so get your tickets now if you haven’t already got them!). He is here to promote the upcoming tour and also his new CD “A Picture of You” (see my review elsewhere in this issue). For such a stage wise performer, he seems to have been around forever but at the tender of age of only 52 years, took some time paying his dues to achieve “overnight success”. Although he does not play any musical instruments (having tried the guitar unsuccessfully in his youth) he has a remarkable singing voice and has in fact written one or two songs himself in the past “but I wouldn’t call myself a songwriter” he said – I guess you would call his style timeless in the true sense of the word – he performs in a style that never seems to date and is universally popular. To me, his voice is reminiscent of Sir Cliff Richard – one of Daniel’s idols (he is in good company there isn’t he Lilly?) and his all time favourite song is “Miss You Nights” - one of mine too. We talked at length about his career and musical tastes – I tried to keep the conversation to that area, as our friend and colleague Tom Gilmore has penned a piece about Daniel which is elsewhere in the Magazine. Incidentally, Tom is a friend of Daniel’s as is Dave McGilton who has written a couple of songs for our own Fred Rea (see my review of the Martin O’Meara play and the Roses from the Heart project) - Daniel told me that he has recorded some of Dave’s songs in the past and also that he had spoken to Dave a short while ago on the occasion of Dave’s mother’s 80th birthday. It really is a small world (and getting smaller). He also said, when I asked him about his musical preferences, that he loved the old songs – as I said above he doesn’t write a lot of songs preferring instead to record covers picking the best of the best of current songwriters or from the Golden Oldies catalogue (like the title track of his new CD “A Picture of You” which was a major hit and first number one back in the day in England for Joe Brown). We also talked about the ribbing that Sir Cliff always seems to get from British and other comedians – I said that Cliff seems to be a victim of the Tall Poppy syndrome. Daniel agreed and said that they (these “comedians”) seem to feed off his popularity because everyone knows him and therefore he is fair game. He said that he knows Cliff quite well and they get together often and Cliff has told him that he doesn’t really mind all the ribbing he gets – my opinion (for what it’s worth) is that there is a universal overwhelming jealousy of the success that Cliff has achieved over the years and some people seem to knock him for still singing rock and roll now he is in his Seventies. Like me, Daniel thinks that Cliff ’s new CD and DVD show that Cliff is performing and singing as well as he ever has. Daniel and I both agree that Cliff seems most relaxed when he is singing all his old songs – he seems more comfortable with them that some of his later songs. I took my leave of Daniel after a very enjoyable chat – he is a very personable man and I found him very easy to talk to. I look forward to his show on 20th March at the Riverside Theatre. Bookings: Ticketek.com.au – perhaps I’ll see you there.

GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN By COLIN MERREY

You may recall in the last issue that I told you about some of the noted authors, musicians and actors, etc that had passed away recently. I am saddened to have to tell you about some more notables who are no longer with us. We lost that wonderful Irish actor Peter O’Toole on 14 December 2013 at the age of 81 years – as you all must know, he was a fine actor who gave us some classic characters during his log and distinguished career including Lawrence of Arabia, King Henry 11 (Lion in Winter), Jim Larkin (Strumpet City) and Lord Jim as well as several voice-overs for children’s animated movies. He will be sadly missed. We also lost a much respected TV actor and comedian in Roger Lloyd Pack (who you will no doubt remember as Trigger in “Only Fools and Horses” or as Owen the farmer in “The Vicar of Dibley”). I loved him in these roles as did many amongst you no doubt. He died in late January 2014 from pancreatic cancer at the age of 69 years. We also lost Phil Everly, the younger of the Everly Brothers who you may recall had a number of pop and country hits during the 1950’s and 1960’s – in particular “Bye Bye Love” and “All I Have To Do is Dream”. Phil was 74 years old You will all remember the immortal Pete Seeger who died on 27th January 2014 aged 94 years. He was always a larger than life personality and was a founder member of the Weavers Folk Group in the USA in the 1950’s. He will probably be best remembered for his timeless composition “Where Have All The Flowers Gone?” – that marvelous anthem of the eternal circle (a theme very prevalent in folk music in general). Lastly I would like to tell you about the passing of a British folk music legend – Louis Killen was a singer from Newcastle in the UK and opened the first folk club in Britain in the1950’s. He was a wonderful singer – both unaccompanied or using a concertina or banjo for accompaniment – who gave me a couple of singing lessons back in the day when he did a night at the folk club I helped to run in the early 1970’s in Northampton. He also did a three year stint with the Clancy Brothers back in the 1970’s after Tommy Makem left them. He was a good family man as I remember him but he had gender altering surgery two years before he died on 9th August 2013 aged 79 years. They have all given us innumerable hours of pleasure and enjoyment over the years – may their Gods go with them.

the festival of inspired music An annual, family-friendly celebration of music, dance and art, just an hour’s drive from Perth. Escape to a magical weekend in a traffic-free, self-contained rural village. Something for everyone. “All of my ridiculous musical dreams came true at once. A the festival of inspired music euphonious and delightful farrago of styles; rich and organic Australian and country, layered and bluegrass, An annual, folk family-friendly celebration of bouncing music, dance and art, smooth and growling blues and Escape a sort oftoEuropean just an hour’s drive from Perth. a magicalfunky weekend in a orchestral jazz... delight, delight, delight.” Fiona Hugo, Colosoul. traffic-free, self-contained rural village. Something for everyone. “I can say Fairbridge Festivalcame is mytrue favourite time “All of honestly my ridiculous musical dreams at once. A of year… it’s a truly wonderfulfarrago place to Emma euphonious and delightful ofbe!” styles; rich Bradstock, and organic Isolated Nation. Australian folk and country, layered and bouncing bluegrass, smooth and growling blues and a sort of European funky “This festival is not only an important part of the West orchestral jazz... delight, delight, delight.” Fiona Hugo, Colosoul. Australian arts and cultural scene – it’s also a cracking weekend away youngsay andFairbridge old alike.”Festival Ben Elton. “I can for honestly is my favourite time of year… it’s a truly wonderful place to be!” Emma Bradstock, “This is one of a few festivals in Australia that chooses quality over Isolated Nation. names; putting faith both in artists and audiences.” Andrew Winton “This festival is not only an important part of the West TICKETS | Save with Earlybird rates! Australian arts and cultural scene – it’s also a cracking weekend Earlybird ticketsand are old available 7:00am, 17 February 2014, away for young alike.” from Ben Elton. with or without camping. “This is one of a few festivals in Australia that chooses quality over Standard pricing from 9:00pm, March 2014.” Andrew Winton names; putting faith both in artists16and audiences.

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One of the many headline acts... from Ireland the Revered an of the many headline acts... from Ireland the Revered and multitalented singersongwriter Eleanor McEvoy

There aretickets optionsare foravailable Family Package tickets17(free entry 2014, for Earlybird from 7:00am, February children under 5),camping. Club Membership, Group bookings, Cosy with or without Camping and day tickets. Standard pricing from 9:00pm, 16 March 2014. Fairbridge Village, South West Highway, 5km north of Pinjarra, Call or go online for ticketing and other information Western Australia. There are options for Family Package tickets (free entry for Thanks to our Patrons for their support: Bernard Carney, children under 5), Club Membership, Group bookings, Cosy Ben Elton, Lucky Oceans, Andrew Winton, Wendy Were Camping and day tickets.

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Joe Holland and Paul Nolan standing near the Martin O’Meara VC photo.

A uniform respect for military men By Lloyd Gorman/Fred Rea

April 25 is ANZAC Day, an important day in the Australian calendar, and the army’s. ANZAC stands for Australian and New Zealand Army Corp, the day it marks was April 25, 1915. On that day - for the first time in the history of their country - Australian soldiers went into war wearing their own national uniforms. They were no longer simply colonial units kitted out in British army outfits and under the direct command of the British generals. It was an important - and deadly - moment in the history of the fledgling nation, which had just 14 years earlier achieved its own independence from England, through Federation formed a single nation and ceased to be a collection of separate colonies. Tens of thousands of blokes from across Australia, most of the young men who had never been far from home before, found themselves being shipped out from the port of Albany to Egypt and then despatched East where instead of facing German soldiers many were surprised to find themselves Turkish troops. At dawn on April 25 they landed on the beaches of Gallipoli. The ensuing campaign which went against the British led forces - would be a military failure but despite this the experience

defined the new army then, and since. Amongst their number there were many Diggers of Irish birth or descent. Alongside the Australian troops at Gallipoli were, amongst others, two British army regiments - the 10th Division from what is now the Republic of Ireland and the 36th Division from Ulster. The modern Australian army is in a lot of ways not very different to the original force that went to war in 1914. It is still made up of men - and women - from different parts of the world, including of course Ireland. “I joined as a reservist (in the Irish Defence Forces) in 1987, that seems like a very long time ago,” said Dublin man Joe Holland. “I joined the regular army in 2002. As a reservist I served in the artillery and then became an officer and served my time in the infantry, in the regular army. At the end of 2005 I left the army to move to Australia. The obvious thing to do was to get back into the army in some shape or form and I joined as a reservist. I think the expression at the time as ‘Try before you buy’.” Joe is a now a major in the 16th Battalion - the very same unit of the armed forces that Tipperary man Martin O’Meara joined up to in 1914 and who would go on to win a Victoria Cross medal for bravery (becoming only one of two Irish

born Diggers to be awarded the army’s highest decoration). “I had heard about Martin because all the canteens (at Irwin Barracks, Karrakatta) are named after VC winners. With a name like Martin O’Meara the assumption was there was an Irish connection but I didn’t realise he was born in Ireland and enlisted here relatively close to the First World War. Now that I’ve joined the 16th it’ll be something for me to read up on.” Back in uniform in Ireland Joe was stationed in Dundalk and was on duty along the Border for five years. He was then at the military college for another five years and put in another three years at Army HQ. Meath man Paul Nolan also joined the Irish army as a reservist, more recently in 2000. “I was OR - other rank - and did my training in McKee Barracks in Dublin and joined a regular army unit called 2FRA, and went overseas twice with them, but which is now disbanded and I was there until 2006.” Paul arrived in Australia in mid 2006 and joined as a reservist. “That’s when I met Major Holland, as a young - “and upcoming” interjected Joe - Captain. I did a short stint in the reserves and then went on to join the regular army, so I’ve been in the regular Australian army since.” While his parents are back in Ireland, all his brothers are out here now. But Paul has a second band of brothers to rely on. “The camaraderie is the same or the larrikinism as they call it here is on a par with the Irish, there’s a lot you do miss and some differences. In the Irish army all our orders were given in Gaelic, here its English. But the weapons systems are predominately the same. They have the F88, in Ireland they have the Steyr, which are virtually the same. And they have the mag 58, they call it DPMG, which is exactly the same weapon system. So it was an easy transition.” He said his previous experience with the Irish army was recognised and taken into account. “It stands

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“Óglaigh na hÉireann” are inscribed.” The centrepiece FF letters stand for Fianna Fail, or Soldiers of Destiny. According to the website military.ie: “The word ‘Fianna’ is the name of the ancient military organisation (circa 3rd Century A.D.) forming what then corresponded to the standing Army of the country. The word ‘Fáil’ means ‘Destiny’.”The two letters are surrounded by a representation of an ancient warriors sword belt and a circle of flames which represent the ‘Sunburst’ - the traditional battle symbol of the Fianna.”

Sons of similar Suns

The badges of the Irish and Australian armies share a very similar image and . Australian soldiers - often called Diggers - wear the Rising Sun Badge, which was proudly worn on their distinctive slouch hats by the men of the 1st and 2nd Australian Imperial Forces (AIF) in both World Wars. The original version of the badge was a collection of military swords and bayonets laid out in the same way the sun now radiates in modern versions. The badge itself has evolved and changed seven times since then, with the latest version being made on March 1 1991 to coincide with the 90th anniversary of the Army. The Irish army badge is also worn as head dress, by all ranks of the Defence Forces. It was designed by Eoin MacNeill in 1913 and adopted by the Irish Volunteers in October 1914, around the same time hundreds of thousands of young Aussie blokes were training for war. In the Defence Forces regulations handbook, the badge is described as being: “comprised of a sunburst An Gal Gréine, surmounted by an 8-pointed star, a point of the star being uppermost, bearing the letters “FF” (in Gaelic characters) encircled by a representation of an ancient warrior’s sword belt on which the words

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deprecation all delivered in her soulful, sultry tones to make a heady brew. Why Stuff! Well this started out as a journey to find and release the stuff the fans wanted but couldn’t find: single mixes; audiophile tracks and songs written and sung by Eleanor on other artists records. The album took on a life of its own, more tracks were recorded, everything was re-mastered and the name stuck…. Stuff! The album includes her soul groove, The Thought of You, a mournful rendering of Chuck Berry’s Memphis Tennessee; the radio mix of the ascerbic Deliver Me, A Little Look (with Polish a cappella band Banana Boat); Milord a tribute to writer Georges Moustaki and singer Edith Piaf) and Lovers Chapel (from the Homespun album). “Eleanor McEvoy appears to have done it all. Since first becoming a household name in Ireland over two decades ago, the Wexford-based, Dublin- born singer has journeyed from classical to folk, detouring via rock and pop. She’s equally comfortable as a jazz chanteuse, an acoustic troubadour and a singer-songwriter, whether solo or fronting a band. If Crowded House was fronted by a female, they’d probably sound something like this…” Colm O’Hare Hot Press Need we say more! Dont miss this legend of Irish music! McEvoy will be in Perth for the Fairbridge Festival, April 25-27 and will also appear at Rosies Cab Bar in Northbridge on Wednesday 23rd April. at Rosies, McEvoy will be supported by local band Them Little Secrets. Bookings: Fairbridge: fairbridgefestival.com.au Rosies Cab Bar: 9328 1488

Eleanor McEvoy for Fairbridge Festival and Rosie’s Cab Bar Eleanor McEvoy’s new album Stuff! revisits some of her songs from past albums that have not been available as downloads, and a few new songs from live performances that have become favourites with her audiences here in Australia. McEvoy is one of Ireland’s most accomplished contemporary female singer/ songwriters. Respected as a fine multi-instrumentalist in both traditional and contemporary music, she is best known for writing “Only A Woman’s Heart”, the title track of an anthology album that has gone on to be the best selling recording in Irish History. Eleanor’s sometimes quirky, perceptive songs range from love ballads and story-telling to left-of-centre takes on the vagaries of life. Never one to shy away from the big issues, her song “Sophie” about a girl suffering anorexia has become an internet phenomenon with over 1,500,000 hits on YouTube. Stuff! contains 11 tales of unrequited love and indeed lust, eloquent farewell, masterful playing, caustic observation laced with wit and wry self

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Riding around the quiet streets of Churchtown and Dundrum some 40 years ago, a young Charlie Elders had no idea that his love of cycling would one day lead him to take on the enormous challenge of riding the 700 km from Albany to Perth in four days. For the former St.Benildus student, riding a bike long distances has almost become an obsession but importantly, one that has made a significant contribution to young people in Western Australia. Charlie is a stalwart of the Hawaiian Ride for Youth, the major fundraising event for the highly respected mental health organisation Youth Focus. Charlie was introduced to the event by a neighbour and this year he will complete his 10th ride. His support for this amazing event and young West Australians dealing with mental health issues goes way beyond simply peddling his bike. Over the past 10 years he has either personally contributed or fundraised more than $180,000 to support the life saving and life changing work of Youth Focus. They say that if you want something done give it to a busy person. Since arriving in Australia as a backpacker in 1989, Charlie has gone on to grow his own successful business, Avoca Insurance Brokers, while nurturing a loving family with his wife Mary Hackett (a Senior Vice-President at energy giant Woodside) and children Ronan and Tara. If getting up at 4:40 AM each morning and riding 8000 km in training over six months isn’t enough of a commitment, Charlie is currently the Hawaiian Ride for Youth event Chairman and also a Director on the Youth Focus Board.

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Youth Focus CEO Jenny Allen can’t speak highly enough of Charlie’s commitment to the cause,” with only 15% of our funding coming from government, Youth Focus relies heavily on the business and philanthropic communities of Perth. Charlie is a wonderful example of what one individual can do to make a difference in the lives of so many young people in need of a little help”. You can show your support for this wonderful cause by buying a table at Charlies upcoming St Patrick’s Day Lunch, for more information go to http://www. rideforyouth.com.au/events/st-patricks-day-lunch-0 For more information on the work of Youth Focus, visit www.youthfocus.com.au

“Nollaig na mBan” or “Little Women’s Christmas” is an old

custom that’s still celebrated by women all over Ireland. It goes back to the days when large families were the norm. Men never lifted a finger in the house to help, and were never expected to. If a man washed the dishes, he would be called an “auld woman” by other men. No full blooded Irish man was prepared to risk that! But each year, after the Christmas holiday, tired women finally got a break – for one day, at least. On January 6th (the same day as the Epiphany), men would take over of the housework, offering women a chance to go out to relax with each other. This year’s Perth event was held at Marian Byrnes and poor old Niall O’Toole did all the cooking!

Damien Dempsey for Perth on St Patrick’s Night “The greatest Irish singer of his generation” – The Guardian “Damien hits you in the heart. His work is like a great movie” – Paddy Considine

Damien Dempsey will be returning to Australia in March to undertake a national tour and festival appearances to celebrate the

launch of his upcoming album “It’s All Good - The Best of Damien Dempsey”, a celebration of his career to date which encompasses six top 10 studio albums over 15 years. The album will include fan favourites such as “Sing All Our Cares Away”, “It’s All Good”, “Colony”, “Almighty Love”, “Bustin’ Outta Here” and his No. 1 Christmas single “The Auld Triangle” with Glen Hansard, along with two new brand new tracks recorded especially for this release “Happy Days” and “St Patrick’s

Brave Brigade”. Damien has had an incredible 2013, following the release of his sixth studio album “Almighty Love” in September 2012. To mention but a few highlights: Damien sold out his Sydney Opera House St Patrick’s Day show followed by headline shows across Australia. The summer saw a support slot with Bruce Springsteen at Kilkenny Stadium, and his own headline show at Dublin’s Iveagh Gardens, whilst September brought his first US tour in 5 years, encompassing festivals and headline shows including a sold out Bowery Ballroom in New York. Damien toured Australia once more in November before heading back to Ireland for headline dates nationally before heading back to Vicar Street for his now traditional two Christmas gigs. Damien will be appearing at the Club Capitol, 393 Murray Street, Perth on St Patrick’s Night. Bookings: www.amplifiercapitol.com.au

The Australian-Irish Heritage Association JOHN BOYLE-O’REILLY Dinner and Commemoration

C.Y. O’CONNOR LECTURE

The National Trust is very pleased Stephen Smith has agreed to present this year’s CY O’Connor Lecture. Stephen was a highly respected politician for 20 years with portfolio responsibilities including Defence, Industry and Infrastructure, Education and Training Venue: UCIC Hall, Queens Building, Level 1, 97 William Street, Perth Bookings: 9321 608 or rsvp@ntwa.com.au Flyer attached Cost: $20, members/concession $15, includes refreshments after the lecture

Saturday 29th March, Dinner at Rose Hotel Bunbury, 6.30pm for 7pm. Tickets $60 includes 3-course dinner and entertainment. Limit 100 tickets. Special Guest HE Mr Noel White, Irish ambassador Sunday 30th March, Commemoration Ceremony, 11.30am John Boyle Memorial Monument, Buffalo Road, Australind. Free event Bookings Dinner: Tom Dillon 0417 986 298, bdillon1@bigpond.com Bookings Accommodation: Rose Hotel 08 9721 4533

THE FOURTH TUESDAY BOOK CLUB

“UNDER ANY OLD GUM TREE” Story of Martin O’Meara VC (1885–1935)

Meets last Tuesday of the month with exception of December Venue: Irish Club Committee Room, 61 Townshend Road, Subiaco Time: Tuesday, March 25th at 8pm. Book: ‘The Book Thief’ by Markus Zusak, to be presented by Margaret Ireland Admission: Gold Coin donation to cover room hire charge, All welcome. Light refreshments provided excluding drinks. Coffee from Bar $3.80 Contact: Maureen on 9279 2486

One man’s journey into hell, From Ireland to Australia, From ‘No Man’s Land’ to Insanity. Written & Directed by Noel O’Neill, with Kieran Garvey & Rex Gray Including Songs and Music written and dedicated to Martin O’Meara Venue: Collie Senior High School. Tickets $25 ($20 Concession) Time: Sunday March 30th @ 3.30pm ONE PERFORMANCE ONLY Enquiries: Fred Rea 0418 943 832 fredrea@iinet.net.au *There is also a performance at The Irish Club of WA on Tuesday 29th April as part of the Western Australian Heritage Week. Bookings: bookings@irishscene.com.au Phone Bookings: 0449 844 075 In association with AIHA

PROJECT – UWA seek Participants from Pre 1967 Irish Schooling. Professor Tom O’Donoghue of University of WA is looking for people who went to secondary school in Ireland (not Northern Ireland) prior to 1967. He and his UCD colleague are seeking memoriesand general impressions of schooldays. The attached letter explains all about it. Tom can be contacted at tom.odonoghue@uwa.edu.au

SAINT PATRICK’S FESTIVAL

WRITER’S PRIZES deadline Monday 30th June, 2014

Sunday 16th - Saint Patricks Parade in Leederville at 10 am followed by a Family Festival at Leederville Oval which will run until 5pm. The AIHA will be participating in the parade and will have an information tent at the oval. Monday 17th – St Patrick’s Day Mass will again be at St Mary’s Cathedral, Victoria Square, Perth at 10am. AIHA will be among community group procession behind our banner

The Joe O’Sullivan Writers’ Prize honouring the memory of the Organisation’s late founder, worth $1,000, limit of 2,000 to 4,000 words - prose, fact or fiction. Open to residents of WA only Topic: “Looking Back”. Joyce Parkes Women’s Writers’ Prize honours Joyce Parkes who is a well known poet living in WA. She is the patron of the prize, which aims at promoting and encouraging women writers in Australia. Limit of 1,000 to 2,000 words – Prose, fact or fiction. Prize Money: $500 Topic: “Beyond the Horizon” Entrance Fee $10 for all competitions. Enquiries to Denis Bratton 9345 3530

There will be no formal St Patrick’s dinner or luncheon organised by AIHA this year Australian-Irish Heritage Association

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Photo and Story brings back fond memories for John

Colin’s death will help save lives Marie and Donal Callanan left Perth recently to return to their beautiful village of Innishannon Co. Cork, on the banks of the Bandon river. They returned to Ireland in the run up to the first anniversary of a terrible loss for their family. On April 13 2013 their son Colin, 29, who had lived in Perth for six years died from Sudden Arrhythmic Death Syndrome (SADS) in a diving accident in Thailand. But they have used the terrible and unexpected tragedy of the loss of their son to make sure that another family does not have a similar experience where a young life is stolen without warning when it could be prevented. “Colin’s anniversary occurs on the 13th of April and we are using that weekend to raise funds in Ireland for CRY (cardiac risk in the young),” said Dad Donal. “We were successful in having the local secondary school screened and a student who may have been at risk was identified. “We are returning to Ireland at the end of February leaving behind our son Keith and daughter Julie with her partner Denis.” Colin - who worked in air-conditioning and previously as a turner fitter in Perth - was also dad to son Lee. Marie and Donal, Lee, his brothers Keith (Perth) and Simon, his sisters Sarah & Julie (Perth) thanked all his friends who came to WA last year and sympathised with them. Marie paid special thanks to Bill Skuthopr and staff at his work place at AMS Service and Maintenance in Perth. There will be some fundraising events coming up in Perth, organised by Colin’s siblings. To find out more please contact Julie at jmcjulie@hotmail.com or if you would like to join her in creating awarness and fundraising here in Perth. More information about this condition is also available from www.sads.org.au and www.cry.ie. Lloyd Gorman

Dear Fred, I was driving to Karrakatta with Bill Smith, who is known by you, I think, on early Friday afternoon when Bill asked me if Jonh Murphy and John Flynn I had seen the photo of the 1953 Shamrock Rovers soccer team in the Irish Scene. I told him that I had not and he then told me that I was in the photo. I said that I had received three copies of the Irish Scene only two days ago but had not looked through it. When I looked at it, I saw that I was in it and standing next to John Murphy. I had actually been involved in getting the team off the ground with the Irish Club as its sponsor. So it was a pleasant surprise to see it. Actually when John and Nora married in September (I think it was) 1957 I was the best man for their wedding. What I further remember in connection with the wedding was that I bought a ticket in a 1957 Melbourne Cup sweep from the bridesmaid. I worked in the Tax Office and around lunchtime on the day of the Cup I received a phone call to tell me I had drawn a horse in the Melbourne Cup sweep and the horse’s name was Straightdraw and yes, as you’ve guessed it was Straightdraw that won the Cup and since then I have always remembered that it was Straightdraw that won the Cup in 1957. I joined the Pallottines in 1959, was ordained in July 1966 at St. Mary’s Cathedral, worked as a parish priest for the full term of my priestly ministry but am now a retired parish priest. By the way, John would have some interesting stories to tell you about his successes with the horses around 1956 with Rising Fast figuring quite prominently. Thanks for the happy memory. Fr John Flynn, SAC Editor: Thank you John for the letter and I know you will join us in keeping Nora in our prayers as she goes through tough health issues at this time. Go mbíodh biseach ort gan mhoill a chara! Fred Rea

May your day be touched with sunshine, your heart overflow with love, and your soul sing with hope. May everything in your life sparkle with a radiance that comes only from happiness. Like Birds, let’s leave behind what we don’t need to carry, grudges, sadness, pain, fear and regrets. Life is beautiful... enjoy it to its fullest …peace and blessings, journey to balance

60’s Newspaper caption:

The birth of Gaelic Games in Western Australia

Ye’d think a man of the cloth would be getting a little respect from a group of loyal boyos from the Emerald Isle, but that’s Fr Henry Byrne who’s getting the treatment from Ben Farrell, Eddie Fitzmaurice and Don Gavin in a Gaelic football match warm up on the Esplanade. The boys are trying to find an Australian team fearless enough to play them in the most lethal game devised by mortal man.

Silversmith/Goldsmith

Recently Paul Tanham gave me some old newspaper cuttings that he said might be of interest to our readers. The following caught my eye. It was a report by local a Perth newspaper columnist Ross Elliott. Paddy Costello told me the photo was taken in the 60’s. One of the reporter’s, Ross Elliott’s major interests in life was football and this saw him at one time being the chief football writer for the Daily News and hosting Channel 7’s Sport on Sunday. He was involved with the Sandover Medal in the early days when the votes were counted by hand. In addition, Ross also founded The Football Register, which I understand has been published virtually continuously since 1964.The newspaper report follows….

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Seán Roche in Concer t

Call is for Courage by Ross Elliott

Sean Roche in Concert Friday March 8th 8pm Fremantle Workers Club 9 Henry St $10 entry Cafe open from 5.30-7.30pm 93351840 (Wed to Sun) freoworkers@bigpond.com

“My name is Michael Quinlan,” said the voice on the phone. “What I’m wondering is whether you can find an Australian footballer whose courage matches his loquacity.” And then on behalf of Australian football I received the most oddball challenge of them all. Michael went on to explain that the members of the Irish Club play Gaelic Football on the Perth Esplanade every Sunday and as you know Gaelic football is the granddaddy of Australian rules football. They play Gaelic with a round ball and with a complete disregard for life and limb but there are are a number of marked similarities. There’s no offside and you can take a mark. They can – and invariably do – use hip and shoulder with a vigour that would have the original wild colonial boy do. Fr Henry (now retired) went on to be a much loved priest serving the Irish/Australian community in Western Australia. I had many conversations with Fr Henry over the years and I remember one story he told me when he played hurling in Croke Park when he should have been in the seminary. A keen sportsman, he also was known to hit a fine golf ball in his day. Still plays a bit I believe. Thank you Fr Henry for your wonderful contribution to the Irish diaspora and that from a humble Corkman to a proud Kilkenny man. Fred Rea

Friday March 14th at 7.30pm Fremantle Workers Club 9 Henry St Entry: $15 ($10 members) Cafe open from 5.30-7.30pm 93351840 (Wed to Sun) freoworkers@bigpond.com

Gaelic Football & Hurling Association of WA Inc. Rob O’Callaghan,President GAA of WA

Let the GAA games begin! Well season 2014 is upon us so I would like to take this opportunity to wish all clubs, their members and family the best of luck for the upcoming year which like last year is promising to be a massive one indeed. I’d also like to take this opportunity to welcome the new committee for 2014 and thank last year’s committee who did a fantastic job.

So finally a few dates to look forward to,

This year sees our competition expand even further with the addition of another Camogie team into the fray in that of Southern Districts Camogie. It’s great to see clubs putting in extra teams into the competition much like Coastal Breakers did a few years ago and Morley did last year in the ladies football competition. Now hot on the heels of that revelation I have it on good authority as it was mentioned at last meeting that Morley along with St Finbarr’s, Southern Districts and possibly Western Shamrocks will be putting in a second ladies team also for season 2014. This is fantastic news following the success of the Intermediate league in the men’s football the last 2 years.

Football League commences – May

St Pats 7 a side- Sunday March 9 at Mills Park. (possibly south junior registration day) TBC Tim Hickey 7s tournament at Cook Reserve - April Fr Kelly Cup - Early April Hurling league commences- May The GFHAWA would also like to acknowledge the enormous help of Kieran Lyons and his work colleagues at KPMG who have been assisting us with our book keeping and finances over the last few months. They have volunteered their time and expertise which is greatly appreciated by all. Thank you. Rob 0’Callaghan

So not only will we see competition expand south of the river in the football but we will also have Camogie playing possibly 3 games every Saturday along with the hurlers at Cook Reserve in Morley. Again hats off to the hurling committee and all the volunteers who are doing a fantastic job north of the river. From all reports it’s promising to be another hard fought campaign with Perth Shamrocks out to defend their championship win last year with Imokilly hoping to retain their league title. Best of luck to all involved. On top of this we also have the junior academy gearing up for a massive year both North at Tapping and South at Tom Bateman so if any parents with young kids from any sporting and cultural background would like to join make sure you read the Junior Academy write up in this edition.

Football: BGC Grounds, Tom Bateman Reserve Cnr Bannister & Nicholson Rds, Canning Vale Hurling: RA Cook Reserve, Coode St. Morley

gfhwa.com.au 88

Junior Academy Update By Debbie Cashman

Well the rest is over folks, time to get ready again for training for the Gaelic Games Junior Academy! The GGJA run training and games of Hurling, Gaelic Football and Camogie for boys and girls from 4-12 years old, we have 2 Academies one north in Tapping and one South is held at Tom Bateman Reserve in Thornlie. Our Registration Day will be on Sunday 23rd Feb (10.30am - 12 noon), at Tapping Primary School, St Stephens Crescent, just off Joondalup Drive, that’s also where the Northern Academy is held, and if you miss this one we will also be taking registrations at our Gaelic Games Junior Academy Stall at the St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in Leederville Oval on Sunday 16th March from 11am onwards. We will be taking registrations for the Northern Academy and Southern Academy on both of these days. The registration cost of the season is $90 this includes all training and games, the training Kit consists of shorts, jersey and socks and these are available for $60. If you have a child that you think might be interested, you are more than welcome to come and have a trial day. Gerry Crowley will be teaching GAA with the active after schools program, at St. Joseph’s Primary in Queens Park, so lucky you, if your children attend that school!

We also had the holy grail of Hurling at the academy, a few weeks ago with the Liam Mc Carthy cup being on display, all the way from Cork, oh, I mean Co. Clare, a lovely day had by all with a BBQ and a bit of craic. The children will be taking part in the St. Patrick’s Day Parade as a ‘walking flaot’ through Leederville, where we hold the banners of every county and many will be sporting their new GGJA Kit, so have your lungs ready for the screeches of support! The official kick off to the season is Sunday 23rd of March in both North and South 121.30pm. Keep an eye on our face book page for details. The 12-15 year olds are also catered for after the usual training in Tapping, again boys and girls welcome, Hurling and Football will be coached to this group also. Our AGM was held recently and congratulations must go to some of our members who have come onto new posts, Martin Brady has taken the leadership reigns as President, John Broderick has come on board as Vice President, Tony Ward coaching co-ordinator, Tracey Nelson PRO, Pauline Brady returns as treasurer, Lois Crowley is our Grants Officer, general members Ryan Keonn and Michael O Connell, we also have a fund raising committee,

flogging things your way soon, Marian Mc Rory, Angela Mc Nicolas and Sandra McAAnea. Thanks to all those who have come /stayed onboard. We are always looking for coaches, experience unnecessary as we will run ‘coach the coaches day’ and lesson plans will be provided before all training, so please contact us for more info. Special thanks to our regular coaches who give up time of their weekend to help run the training as professionally as possible. As for the parents, please continue to chauffer your children to training, and don’t forget your camp chairs! Dates to remember 16 March, St. Patricks Day Parade at 10am & Display game in Leederville Oval 11am 23 March Season officially starts in both Northern and Southern Academies.

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58 Southside Drive, Hillarys Boat Harbour Ph: 08 9448 5000 Fax: 08 9448 6000

St Gabriel’s Hurling & CamogieClub

ST. GABRIELS GAA CLUB OF WA is based in Perth and is the only club in Western Australia with both a hurling and camogie team. 2013 saw a lot of new comers and beginners join our club and we look forward to seeing these faces along with many new ones for the 2014 season. 2014 sees the third year of existence coming into play for St. Gabriels. We take this opportunity to thank our committee members, team mentors, players and sponsors who are keen to support St. Gabriels for what hopes to be another successful year for the club. Club News: The Camogie ladies recently had a ‘Sausage Sizzle’ down at City Beach to mark the beginning of the 2014 season. It gave the girls the opportunity to meet old faces and “New Members Welcome” welcome the new. Fitness Training for the Camogie Team will start at the beginning of March. All to join contact. newcomers are very welcome. Contact the below persons for more details. Hurling: Shane 0438 383 517 The Hurlers have begun their training already with having Melbourne Sevens at the end of Camogie: Louise 0429 859 093 February. We will hopefully see the Hurlers make their mark for the beginning of 2014 and with Danielle 0405 418 809 any luck bring back a bit of silver ware to WA. We would like to wish our team that is travelling Facebook: St. Gabriels Hurling WA over the very best of luck. A big shout out to Martin King and John Hogan contesting in the White-Collar Boxing as part of the St Patrick’s Day Festival. We hope to see one of them crowned champion and lead the way Our monford this year for our float at the St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Major Sponsors:

HURLING: Email – secretary.stgabrielshc@hotmail.com. Facebook – /s.t.gabrielshurling.wa Shane Sweeney (0438 383 517) Ronan Kilroy (0439 979 237) CAMOGIE: Email – secretary.stgabrielscc@gmail.com. Facebook – /StGabrielsCamogieClub Louise Madden (0429 859 093) Danielle McInerney (0405 418 809) TRAINING WILL COMMENCE SOON AT WEMBLEY DOWNS ON A TUESDAY AND THURSDAY NIGHT. PLEASE CONTACT THE ABOVE FOR MORE DETAILS.

Irish Golf Club of WA Hillview Sunday 19 January Summer Shield 1st Tom Barr 40 pts 2nd Kevin Ducker 39 pts 3rd John Brennan 39 pts Gross: P J Kenny NTP: 3rd Sean Dunne 8th Eamonn Fitzpatrick 15th Richie Nevin 16th Tony Brown LD Gents: 18th Richie Nevin LPutt 18th Phil Archer 2 ball Eamonn Fitzpatrick Annual General Meeting Sunday 19 January The office holders for 2014: President: Martin Sheehan Treasurer: Geoff McFadden Handicapper: Brendan Wymbs Captain: Mike Byrne Secretary: Mike O’Callaghan The President, Martin Sheehan, thanked all the 2013 committee for their contribution.

Western Swans Camogie Club Western Swans Camogie club, the first established camogie club in Western Australia is back in action for fourth year running. Western Swans are currently recruiting all new and old players to come join our club. We would like to thank all the club members present and past for their input in the growth and development of Western Swans. We would also like to thank our main sponsors Caltalpa formwork for their continuing support. This year promises to be an exciting year for the Western Swans. We encourage new players skilled and unskilled to join us in the season ahead. There will be lots of team bonding days and upcoming events in store for 2014. So come down, grab a friend and join the fun!! For more information contact Laura 0416 305 445 or Linda 0450005410 Catch us on Facebook “Western Swans Camogie club” NEW PLAYERS WELCOME FOR 2014

Joondalup Sunday 16 February – Irish Club Cup Congratulations to P J Kenny, the winner of the Irish Club Cup at Joondalup with 43 points. It was a hotly contested round of golf with Eamonn Fitzpatrick a close second on 42 points and our esteemed President Martin Sheehan in third place with 40 points. See photo below of Jack Ebbs presenting the trophy to P J Kenny. Thanks to our generous member Kevin Ducker for his sponsorship of the prizes on the day. NTP Quarry Nine: 3 Anthony Ryan 7 Eamonn Fitzpatrick Dune Nine: 4 Eamonn Fitzpatrick 7 P J Kenny LDrive Tom Tierney LPutt Fintan 2 Ball: Eamonn Fitzpatrick and Sean Byrne

TRULY TOUCHING

Time is like a river. You cannot touch the same water twice, because the flow that has passed will never pass again. Enjoy every moment of life. As a Irish uilleann piper, I play many gigs. Recently I was asked by a funeral director to play at a graveside service for a homeless man. He had no family or friends, so the service was to be at a pauper’s cemetery in the west of Ireland. As I was not familiar with the area, I got lost and, being a typical man, I didn’t stop for directions. I finally arrived an hour late and saw the funeral was finished and the hearse was nowhere in sight. There were only the grave diggers eating lunch. I felt badly and apologised to the men for being late. I went to the side of the grave and it was already freshly covered in. I didn’t know what else to do, so I started to play. The workers put down their lunches and began to gather around. I played my heart out for the soul of this man with no family and friends. I played like I’ve never played before for this homeless man. And as I played a slow Irish air, the workers began to cry. They wept, I wept, we all wept together. When I finished, I packed up my pipes and started for my car, content I had done the right thing. Though my head was hung low, my heart was full. As I opened the door to my car, I heard one of the workers say, “I tell ye Mick I’ve never seen nothing like that before and I’ve been putting in septic tanks for twenty years.” Apparently I’m still lost.... it’s a man thing.

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Rovers

SHAMROCK

Rovers Looking forward to 2014 after a very successful 2013

Michael Manning President Shamrock Rovers

McFadden continues to look after the under 18s

H GOLF CL S I IR

The Winter season starts on March 29 2014

SIC AS

W.A .

The club has moved its entire State League setup to Lockridge and will play all home games at Grimrey Park whilst continuing to train at Despite being at a very early stage of their pre season Rovers Rosher Park, just up the road. acquitted themselves extremely well against some high powered The amateurs have returned to pre season opposition in the Football West Night Series games at Dorrien training at Harold Rossiter Park and will play Gardens. there for 2014, whilst the Socials and the Masters Starting their group against WA’s top team Bayswater City, the will continue at Flinders Park in Hillarys. Hoops took a surprise early lead and despite a strong fightback A big item on the agenda is the building of a by Bayswater the game finished with a very respectable 1-2 loss club development fund so that much needed for the Hoops. They followed this up with a 2-4 loss to Perth expansion and upgrade work can be done at City (another NPL team) and finally in a crazy game against Grimrey Park and thus provide a home for the Melville they drew 4-4. This would have proved a very good Hoops in the coming years. start for coach John Reilly Volunteers and sponsors are greatly needed and Mick Skowron has joined the club as reserves coach and Richard the club appeals to anyone interested to contact Bill Byrne on 0499 248 715 or by e-mail to bill. byrne@hotmail.com

Limited Places Book Early!

Bill Byrne

Oíche Ráis!

Shamrock Rovers F.C.

Prizes include:

Trip to Bali with 5 nights accomm. for 2

Perth Glory Box for 4 + $100 Cash Novelty Prizes For “The Irish Scene” Cup Sunday 30th March 2014 at the Maylands Peninsula Golf Club , Peninsula Rd, Mayands, Perth Tee Off: 7am Price per Player: $80 (incl Green Fees and BBQ Lunch)

Hole Sponsor: $600 (includes 4 players and signage on sponsored hole) Hole Sponsorship Only $300 (Incl 1 player) Format: 2 Ball Ambrose Heaps of Prizes Bookings: Mick Manning Martin Sheehan: Gerry Townley John Allen Marty Burke Dermot Smyth Gerry Salinger

0418 0419 0427 0411 0410 0414 0402

917 934 676 453 081 382 521

050 681 880 565 386 781 147

Saturday 10th May 2014 The Irish Club 61 Townshend Road, Subiaco

More information next issue or visit our website shamrockrovers.com.au or facebook page

Bill Byrne, Secretary 0439 953 957 bill.byrne@hotmail.com

www.shamrockrovers.com.au 92

Aaron Cunningham and Liam McCarthy cup visit to Perth The WA GAA community was delighted to welcome All Ireland winning hurler Aaron Cunningham, the Liam McCarthy cup and Mick O’Neill (Chairman of the Clare Hurlers supports club) to Perth for four days at the end of January as part of a tour of Australia to Showcase the Liam McCarthy cup. Here is a look at their diary from the four days.

Wednesday 22 January Aaron and Mick arrive safe with the cup in Perth after an exhausting 30 hour flight and went to get some rest. After their first Aussie BBQ Wednesday evening where they were briefed on the schedule for the next few days, the two lads headed out to St Gabriel’s training session to see the team prepare for the Melbourne sevens.

Thursday 23 January Thursday saw the first of the busy days for the lads which started with a visit to some sponsors, first to Mike Keane at CATS Construction in his new office followed by a visit to Thomas Dunne in Final Trim. The next part of the day was a little surprise for the lads as they were treated to a private tour of Subiaco Oval and the West Coast Eagles facilities. With Aaron getting a chance to kick a few footy balls out on the oval. Afterwards it was back to the serious business with a visit to another sponsor Kentz on St Georges Terrace. During the Kentz visit there was a few clips shown to the office staff followed by a Q&A session from a few people. To finish up Thursday Aaron and Mick paid a visit to Perth Shamrocks who were also preparing to head to the Melbourne sevens. Both Mick and Aaron were delighted to get a bit of rest after their day.

Friday 24 January Another busy day on Friday with the day starting with a visit

to sponsor Michael O’Shea and the BLD Group followed on by a visit to sponsor Danny Murphy from Mannor holdings (a proud Tulla man). Next up was a visit to sponsor Paul McLoughlin at McLoughlin Meats where not only did Paul provide sponsorship but he also provided the meat for the BBQ on Saturday. Friday night saw a night of celebration in the Irish Club in Subiaco with a large turnout where there were a number of prizes raffled and the crowd was entertained by the very talented band Castagnari for the night.

Saturday 25 January The final day of the visit saw a training session with the Junior Academy up at Tapping Oval in Joondalup where after a very beneficial two hour training session and BBQ there was a raffle for two signed jerseys. This gave all the kids a great opportunity to get their pictures with Aaron, beside, in front and some inside the cup. After the BBQ Aaron and Mick got their first bit of relaxation time with a visit to City beach for a well-earned swim. After a busy evening saying goodbye to friends in Perth Aaron and Mick set off on the rest of their tour which sees them visit Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne before a flight back to Ireland and a return to training for Aaron. All money raised during the visit to Australia is going to the Clare training fund to help pay for all the requirements of running a county senior team. The Clare supporters club would like to thank all the sponsors from Perth, Mike Keane at Cats Construction PJ Malone and the Malone Family Thomas Dunne at Final Trim Danny Murphy at Mannor Holdings Brian Kelly at Kentz Michael O’Shea at BLD Group Paul McLoughlin at Mcloughlin meats Richie O’Sullivan at Rowen Industries And also all the supporters that came out both Friday night and Saturday morning. An Clár Abú

Sean Lucey and Brian Kelly from Kentz with Aaron and Mick.

Michael O’Shea and the BLD Group team with Aaron

Danny Murphy from Mannor Holdings with Aaron and Mick

Paul McLoughlin from McLoughlin Meats with Aaron and Mick

PJ Malone and Moira Malone with Aaron and Mick

Thomas Dunne and the Final Trim team with Aaron and Mick

Mike Keane from Cats Construction with Aaron and Mick

Rory O’Connor

Clare supporters celebrate the Liam McCarthy Cup in Perth

Irish Business Contacts / index

baggage (unaccompanied) 67 Exportair Tim 9477 1080 Butchers 52 McLoughlin’s Northside Meats Tel: 9249 8039 64 Meat Connoisseur Tel: 9309 9992 CAFE/DELI: Donovans of Floreat - Phone 0450 319 320 Taste32 Mt Hawthorn - 0448 328 112 53 Mooney’s Irish Sandwich Bar Tel: 9221 4872 39 Pod Catering Tel: Car Retailers: 35 John Hughes, Vic Park - Tel: 9415 0110 celebrant: Marian Bryne Tel: 0410 345 224 civil engineers: 77 Neo Infrastructure Tel: 0407475033 Counselling Fiona Carberry, Counselling Psychologist carberrycounselling@westnet.com.au Tel: 0439 549 481 employment: 78 Final Trim Operators Tel: 1300 083 599 Entertainment: Fiddlestick - David MacConnell 0413 259 547 Them Little Secrets: Fiona Rea 0404 831 445 Finance/advice: 12 The Loans Café-Nik Silsby Tel: 0402 284594 Freight Handlers: 67 Exportair - Tim Hawdon Tel: 9477 1080 Funerals: 39 Hetherington Funerals Tel: 9459 2846 furniture: First in Furniture Joondalup Tel: 9300 9010 immigration advice: 21 Carol-Ann Lynch 0402 514 741 8 ASC Migration Tel: 93015905 Visa4U - Tel: 0416 727 787 55 Aust Visa Professionals Tel: insurance brokers: 80 Avoca Insurance Brokers Tel: Irish Food: Taste Ireland Sydney - Tel: 02 9386 5522 18 Essence of Ireland Tel: Jewellers: 87 Sean Carroll online: seancarroll.com.au Mechanics / car sales: 1 Killarney Autos - Neil Lenihan 0439 996 764 83 BVM Autos - Mike Barton Tel: 0413 889 501

Painters: 15 Erin Painting Tel: Pubs, Clubs & restaurants: 85 Bailey Bar & Grill Joondalup Tel: 9300 0633 89 Breakwater, Hillarys Tel: 9448 5000 48,49 Carnegies, Perth Tel: 9481 3222 53 Celtic Club, West Perth Tel: 9322 2299 34 Durty Nelly’s, Perth Tel: 9226 0233 3 Fenian’s / Novotel, Perth Tel: 9221 1200 Friar Tuck’s, Wannanup Tel: 9534 4788 87 Fremantle Workers Club Tel: 96 Irish Club of WA, Subiaco Tel: 9381 5213 23 JB O’Reilly’s, Leederville Tel: 9382 4555 46 Paddy Maguire’s, Subiaco Tel: 9381 8400 36 Paddy Malone’s Joondalup/Alexander Hgts 26 Rosie O’Grady’s Fremantle Tel: 9335 1645 2 Rosie O’Grady’s Northbridge Tel: 9328 1488 11 The Mighty Quinn, Tuart Hill Tel: 9349 9600 40,41 The Cure Northbridge Tel: 9227 9055 14 The Shed, Northbridge Tel: 9228 2200 13 Voyage Kitchen Tel: 9447 2443 65 Woodvale Tavern, Woodvale 9309 4288 79 Woodbridge Hotel, Guildford Tel: 9377 1199 Real Estate: 58 O’Rourke Real Estate Tel: 17 Professionals Kelly Team YokineTel: 9344 5544 32 Peard - Valerie Boyle Tel: 0404 864 932 19 Veritas Reality - Gillian 0415 858 016 Solicitors & Legal: 27 Kavanagh Lawyers - Tel: 0430 960 859 Sport - Clubs and Information: 88 GAA - Rob O’Callagahan 0407 421 224 92 Shamrock Rovers - Bill Tel: 0439 953 957 90 St Gabriel’s Hurling Club -Stephen 04088940265 Irish Golf Club of WA Martin 0419934681 THEATRE: 60 Irish Theatre Players-Ivan 0417 903 256 Travel & Tourism: British Travel - Jenny Allen Tel: 9388 3114 5 Flightworld Michael Deering Tel: 9322 2914 tyres, batteries, brakes wheels: 20 Tyrepower: Perth City - Fiona: Tel: 9322 2214 WEDDING RECEPTIONS: 53 The Celtic Club, West Perth Tel: 9322 2299 window (timber) renovation: Ventroller Tel: 1300 309 646

Trades+ Maintenance Concrete & Walls PC Walls Contact: Sean King Tel: 0418 949 292

ELECTRICIANS Iluka Electrical Contact: Tom Bowe Tel: 0422 440 588

GARAGE DOORS Buckley’s Garage Doors Contact: Kevin Buckley Tel: 0425 125 889

car MECHANICAL Killarney Autos Contact: Neil Lenihan Phone: 9309 4445 BVM Autos Contact: Mike Barton Tel: 0413 889 501

KERBING

AAH Captain Kerb Contact: Noel Steenson Tel 0412 679 652 or 9405 8948

PLUMBING

Charlies Plumbing & Gas Services PL8223 - GF014437 Contact: Charlie O’Hare Tel: 0400 484 933

ROOF PLUMBING Mick’s Maintenance ContactL Mick Tel: 0418 917 050

SKIRTINGS

Contact: Ken McLoughlin 041 544 6122

The Irish Scene

Publisher/Advertising: Fred Rea 0418 943 832 Editor: Lloyd Gorman 0479 047 250 - gormanlloyd@hotmail.com Proof Reading: Jack Cullen and Imelda Gorman Publisher: Gaelforce Promotions, 12 Dysart Court, Kingsley WA 6026 Email: fred@irishscene.com.au Tel/Fax 9309 3167 www.irishscene.com.au Disclaimer: Opinions expressed by contributors in articles, reproduced articles, advertisements or any other printed material contained in Irish Scene magazine or on www. irishscene.com.au are those of the individual contributors or authors and as such are not necessarily those of Gaelforce Promotions. The publisher and editor reserve the right to accept, reject, edit or amend submitted material in order to make it appropriate or suitable for publication. Irish Scene welcomes submissions, ideas and suggestions for articles and features as well as photographs of events happening around and within the Irish community in Western Australia.

The whole Weekend

OPENING HOURS & ACTIVITIES MONDAY: Bar: 4 - 10.30 Comhaltas Music Lessons Set Dancing 8.00 followed by the Seisiun TUESDAY: Bar: 4pm - 10.30 WEDNESDAY: Bar: 4 - 10.30 THURSDAY: Bar: 4 - Midnight Pint and Pie Night Music from 7 FRIDAY: Bar: 4pm - Midnight Kitchen 5.30 - 8.30 SATURDAY: Bar open 4 - Late

Live Music - Giveaways - Great Food Fri Night 14 March: An Irish Table Quiz @ 8pm

With Questions On Irish General Knowledge,History, Geography, Music, Etc. Great Prizes - Bookings to Mary 0411 299 460

Sat Night 15 March:

SUNDAY: Bar open from 4 to 10

Book your Function at the Club!

Contact the club on 9381 5213. We have 3 function rooms and can cater for up to 200 people! Full bar and catering Options are available.

Comhaltas Music Concert

Sun 16 March All Day: Breakfast 8.00am Booking Essential 12.00 Live Music All Day Long (Down Stairs) 12.30 Till 2.30 Lunch being Served

Mon 17 March All Day: Breakfast @ 10.30 Booking Essential Limited Space Lunch 12.30 Till 2.30 3.00pm Live Music Session By Comhaltas

61 Townshend Road, Subiaco, WA 6008

Tel: +61 8 9381 5213 irish1@irishclubofwa.com.au

The Irish Club is a members only club, and we welcome new members. Application forms can be downloaded from the website irishclubofwa.com.au

Fax: 9381 9764 www.irishclubofwa.com.au