Galway Now Summer 2023

MANAGING DIRECTOR

Patricia McCrossan patricia@goldenegg.ie

FINANCE & SALES DIRECTOR

Patrick McCrossan patrick@goldenegg.ie

EDITOR

Donna Reidy-Maguire editor@goldenegg.ie

ART DIRECTOR

Jennifer King design@goldenegg.ie

ACTING DIGITAL EDITOR

Erin Grant erin@goldenegg.ie

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Deirdre Tarpey sales@goldenegg.ie

DESIGN ASSISTANT

Maria Bru design@goldenegg.ie

DIGITAL MARKETING ASSISTANTS

Eva Harkin

Libby Dale

It’s no secret that Galway is THE place to be in the summer months. From the iconic Galway Races Festival to the International Galway Film Fleadh and Galway International Arts Festival, crowds descend on our quirky, wellloved city to feast on culture and craic. We’ve created some handy guides and tips to help you navigate your festival experiences. For those heading away from the hustle and bustle, we’ve put together some holiday advice, from packing essentials and beauty must-haves to travel inspiration and book recommendations. I am delighted to also include a fantastic supplement on parent and child wellbeing featuring information on important health services, cybersecurity, postpartum care for moms and more.

As I write this letter, glorious summer sun is streaming through my window, injecting a much needed dose of vitamin D into my bones. I’ve often lamented the fact that I was born into the wrong climate as sunshine and blue skies lift my spirit like no other. Casual dinners outdoors, reading a few pages of my favourite book on a lounger, listening to the shrieks and splashes from my kids paddling pool, 99’s, coconut scented sunscreen, even climbing into a carturned-sauna are all joyous, summer sensations. No doubt the dull skies will return over the next few weeks, but until then, I wish you a superb and sunny summer.

Until next time, Donna

From: Whistling in the Dark, a new exhibition by Ruby Wallis at Galway Arts Centre as part of GIAF 2023

ON

Designer: Clare O’Connor

Location: Wicklow

Model: Getrude Langat

Morgan The Agency

Make up: Aushra Lauren

Hair: Liliya Yamelsky

Photographer: Kristina KairieneOdry, Carrot Inc

Set Design/Creative Direction: Vaida Rasciute, Carrot Inc

CONTRIBUTORS

Kenneth Keavey

Aoife Noone

Savour the moment

Our inspiration comes from around the globe, but our ingredients come from just around the corner. Some of the world’s best seafood and produce has been pulled from our local farms and coastlines, just minutes and miles away from where you sit right now.

Book Now

Or book your table today on 091 865 200.

NOEMA

“THE RETURN OF SIMPLICITY”

Arena Dress €255

Gale Yellow Blazer €395

Selena Yello €249

Mar Top €155

"A reflection of the romantic aesthetics and warm, light tones of Mallorca"

Ocean Pink and Blue Maxi Dress €280

Nerissa Black Blouse €275 Short Pants €245

Port White Blouse €155

Soller White Skirt €255

Noema is an Irish born and Irish made brand inspired by the Mallorcan way of living.

Photographer: Elisabeth Salcedo // Stylist: Carolina

Bustos Di Leo // Model: Aina y Marta // Location: Cala

Mesquida, Mallorca // Make up artist: Alicia Machin

Noema.ie

@noema_lifestyle

"simplicity, fun afternoons and beach days of the Mallorcan way of living"

Ocean Pink Maxi Dress €280

A LUST FOR LIFE

Niall Breslin aka Bressie, talks to us about award winning charity - “A

Can you tell us where the idea for A Lust for Life came about? A Lust for Life started out as a blog of mine, really just an outlet for myself and my own story. It evolved from there into other people telling their stories, to the much bigger education and prevention movement it is today – I’m so proud of the work we’ve done and continue to do to help end the stigma around mental health in Ireland.

What resources and supports does the charity provide? In 2017, we began developing a primary schools programme and today we are now live in 1 in 3 primary schools in Ireland, and available free to any school who wants to teach it. It’s designed as a mass education programme, a prevention programme to give children the skills and tools they need to make sense of their heads and the world. We have developed and are piloting a secondary schools model at the moment, and we’re hoping to emulate the success of our primary programme with something a little more sophisticated for our young people. We also have our digital and social platforms where we share stories, podcasts, expert help for people who are looking for advice and peer support around dealing with their mental health. The uptake

Lust for Life”.

from the teachers on our primary schools programme is incredible. Over 1000 schools (1 in 3 schools) have already registered nationwide making the programme available to over 50,000 Irish primary school children.

What do you hope to achieve with the A Lust for Life Schools Programme? We badly need education and prevention programmes - like ours and others - that are deeply integrated within our education system so that every child in Ireland gets a strong mental health education from junior infants to leaving cert. We need to support parents and teachers to support the children and young people in their lives, and to help them put their wellbeing at the centre of their upbringing. So our aim is to be in every school in Ireland – helping every child, teacher, school, community and parent in Ireland – to get a full understanding of themselves and their emotional and mental lives as they face into adulthood.

What are some of the biggest challenges that children and teenagers deal with regularly?

Many of the problems we’re seeing are perennial –children with worries about home, about friendship, fitting in – teenagers with low self-esteem and selfconcept, relationship problems and so on. Then on top of that is the complicating factor of our society. We’re all feeling it – but children and teenagers are bearing the brunt of it. Being in an increasingly complicated world is hard for us all to keep up with. But technology, social media – it’s a serious issue for older children and teenagers – they can’t close their door on the world anymore, the world comes into their room with them at night, there’s no getting away from it, and we don’t know what that does to a developing brain. Because they’re so plugged into everything happening in the world, their worries are much bigger, climate change, politics, economics, social justice – many, many children and young people are impacted very deeply by these issues.

What was the concept behind your kayaking challenge ‘The Rising’?

Myself and some very good friends I’ve roped into joining me will be kayaking the length of the River Shannon – a whopping journey of over 300km to raise money for A Lust for Life. We’re starting at Dowra on the shores of Lough Allen and will end at the mouth of the Shannon in

Limerick city on July 6th, at King John's Castle. "The Rising" is more than just a fundraising challenge. We all encounter rough parts of life, and while it's not always easy, with the right tools and skills, navigating through these stormy times becomes less daunting. Our school programs aim to do exactly that - equip the children of Ireland with the necessary skills and tools to cope with life’s challenges, and that work has to begin now. We know the power of preventative models of care. The funds raised by "The Rising" will all go towards A Lust for Life's schools mental health programmes.

You have said that you feel that we're regressing in terms of our systems of support in mental health services. Can you talk to us more about that? Yeah, it’s complicated. Our mental health services are stretched to the brink. We hear a massive amount about CAMHS, when in reality, that system isn’t functioning because everyone ends up there. We need a complete reimagination of the system. We need to start radically rethinking care and move away from the overly medicalised model we have now. But we’d need to be brave if we want to create a truly supportive system; and the will is not there to raze the whole thing to the ground and build from the bottom up. I think we should ask young people to redesign a system of support that they’d enjoy. Then we’d get some real radical rethinking – as well as supports they’d actually want to use.

Your podcast “Where is my mind” is a hugely popular and inspiring resource for many. Is there a particular episode that stands out to you and why? God I’ve spoken to so many people over the four years since we started, it’s been an incredible adventure. From brain surgeons to tattoo artists; Buddhists to holocaust survivors, I’ve learned so much about our minds and the human spirit. One of the most personal episodes, that really stands out to me was the Lockdown Ukulele Rockdown. It was the end of a season we made during lockdown where we sent out ukuleles to people who had to cocoon for medical reasons, and we taught them how to play. The episode ended with a song I arranged, and featured a remote ukulele choir, my mam’s choir, and about 50 other musicians, singers and supporters. It was wild. And felt like a big hurrah just as covid was lifting.

What’s next for you? Plans for the future? I’m keeping really busy as usual – I started a PhD in Trinity recently and will be head down and researching for a bulk of my time in the next few years. I’ll be working on some new music with the Blizzards in the next few months. And then I have another podcast project in the pipeline with some very good mates – something a bit more light-hearted than my usual, so I’m really looking forward to having a bit of craic with that. And then of course A Lust for Life is very busy, the secondary schools programme will be our big focus this year as well as some other big projects for young people. It’s going to be a big year for me in general.

Helplink - Accessible Mental Health Services

Helplink Mental Health started providing its muchneeded mental health services for children, young people and adults alike on World Suicide Prevention Day September 10th 2012. Helplink was developed because 10 years ago and to date there has been a severe lack of accessible mental health services available to people; in ways that they want to engage with them. That’s why these services are available 7 days a week and out-of-hours for free or at low costs. Some services like mental health information and education services are available 24/7.

The main aim of the charity is to provide evidenced based and accessible mental health services to children, young people and adults; that will help them to gain and maintain good mental health.

Play Therapy, Youth Counselling and Art Therapy (Galway only) are included in Helplink's suite of in-person services for Children and Young people in Galway and Mayo. Youth Counselling and Youth Mental Health workshops are available online nationwide.

In Galway there are three Play Therapists (soon to be four) that provide therapeutic support to children from the age of 3 years and up to 12. Furthermore, they provide support for parents through Parent-Child Attachment Play (PCAP) appointments: (PCAP) helps parents to strengthen the relationship between themselves and their children through dedicated weekly play times to reduce emotional and behavioural challenges.

Helplink also provide Youth Counselling for

HopeSpace

HopeSpace, a free support service for children and young people impacted by grief, has recently opened its doors in the SCCUL Enterprise Centre in Ballybane. This service, the first of its kind in Galway and only the second in Ireland is available to anyone aged from 4 to 17 living in Galway city or county who has been negatively impacted by loss through death. Parents or guardians of a child or young person who might benefit from this service, are encouraged to get in touch to see how HopeSpace can best support their needs.

Unit 16, The SCCUL Enterprise Centre, Castlepark Rd., Ballybane, 091 342566, info@hopespace.ie, hopespace.ie

children/young people aged 13 to 18 with Art Therapy and (music therapy coming soon!) for children, youth and adults alike.

The charity provides a service unique to Ireland - a mental health information service for people of all ages (with specific youth, parent and child sections). This is through a curated library of over 1000 videos and podcasts of mental health content available 24/7 with local, national and international content (mindhacks.ie)

Finally, Helplink provides unique, continuously available mental health workshops for children and young people. These workshops are available 24/7 for ten months for participants (home licences are available) so they can practice and re-practice the essential skills they are provided. There are two workshops; The Voyage prepares 6th class students for those big emotions around moving on to secondary school; Mind How You Go is designed for young people 15 to 25 years to provide essential information on mental health and skills to help people gain and maintain good mental health.

One of the main challenges in recent years across services for children and young people is a rise in demand for services due to increased levels of anxiety and experiences of social isolation; this is most likely due to the effects of the pandemic on the population. It may also be that children and young people are becoming more confident in seeking support than previous generations have been.

Protecting Our Children Online

educate them with an agreed set of rules. Then you need to monitor your child's digital habits on their online devices until such time they are resilient enough to take the controls fully.

71% of second-year students in a Galway secondary school recently reported that their biggest challenge was that they felt addicted to their smartphones and this is impacting their ability to focus.

Social media apps were purposely created to be persuasive and addictive, so this is not your child's fault. We can all fall into this trap but as adults who grew up in a world before social media, we are usually able to identify and manage this better.

SO WHAT CAN PARENT’S DO? TOP 3 TIPS:

- Have a clear set of rules printed that they must follow when using their devices like: No phones or devices in the bedroom, or at the table during mealtimes etc. Have consequences if they are not followed and stick to them!

- Limit screen time and what apps and content they can access by using parental controls on your child’s devices to limit screen time and set the times they can use their apps. You can also do this on some internet service providers’ Wi-Fi routers.

- Monitor their usage and digital habits online. If you bought the device, you are ultimately responsible for what happens on that device. What social media apps are stealing their time? Whom do they engage with, what content do they engage in?

When you hand your child a smartphone or smart device (phone, gaming, tablet or TV), you give the world access to your child. Like teaching a child how to ride a bike, you first secure them with stabilisers and a helmet to protect them. Then you teach them the rules before they go onto the road. The same should apply before handing them a smart device; you first secure their phones using parental controls and then

In January this year, I established and piloted a new cyber mindset program “Think Smart”. This is a program of workshops and talks for secondary schools, primary schools and parents. I could see from talking to friends and family that there was a huge problem and need for education in this space. The research is now there to show that there is a clear link between the rise of mental health challenges and serious issues arising from the misuse of social media and smart technology.

To ensure this would have a positive impact, I took my Cyber Security knowledge and merged this with a high-performance mindset program I completed in 2022. After researching and talking to parents, teachers, children and teenagers, I worked at Saint Cuans College Castleblakney, Holy Rosary College Mountbellew, and St. Kerills National School Gurteen to pilot the talks and workshops. My primary aim is to teach kids and teenagers both cyber and mindset skills for life that they can use to excel and be fully aware of how to protect themselves online, both mentally and legally.

Aoife Noone is the founding director and CEO of Noone Cyber Services and is a proud native of east Galway from the parish of GurteenBallymacward. She has over 20 years of IT systems security and compliance experience and assists organisations to ensure they design and secure their critical systems correctly to protect their business and reduce the risk of cyber-attacks, internal fraud and regulatory fines. She has a wide range of expertise and is passionate about helping to cyber secure businesses, organisations and now schools across Galway, Ireland and beyond. She hopes to lead the charge in changing online behaviours and protecting our youth by educating teachers, children and parents in Galway and nationally.

Noonecyberservices.com | @noonecyberservices

"When you hand your child a smartphone or smart device, you give the world access to your child"

THE FASHION STUDIO

The Fashion Studio is Galway’s newest addition to the city’s fashion offering. The collection includes European brands alongside Irish Fashion Designers and currently features a range of dresses by well-known Irish designer, Heidi Higgins. Featuring a wide variety of dresses in eye catching, vibrant colours, The Fashion Studio offers styles to suit everyone from wedding guests to communions, confirmations and graduations. Also included in the offering is a wide range of casual wear, accessories and head pieces. 30 Eyre Street, Galway, thefashionstudio.ie

NUMBER EIGHT - NEW & PRELOVED

This environmentally conscious designer concept store stocks preloved and new clothing from Irish designers and new brands along with a vegan, organic wellness cosmetic section. Their high-end designer pre-loved section is perfect for those on a budget looking to pick up luxury clothing and accessories without paying full price. Every pre-loved item from sellers is held to a high standard of perfection in order to be added to the stock at Number Eight and includes coveted brands such as Louis Vuitton, Chanel and Prada. Owner Gillian Quinn is passionate about bringing preloved luxury fashion to Galway. “By supporting the preloved market, you are making a difference to the environment and saving money. There’s nothing more exciting than spying a designer handbag that's either limited in stock or something of significant value that you may never have the opportunity to buy again. The circular fashion economy is the most conscious way to shop in the 21st century." Shop instore and online. The Cornstore, 8A, Cross Street, shop online no8.ie

Women UNBRANDED

Tell us about “Women Unbranded”. How did the idea come about?

As a fashion stylist and personal shopper, styling women is a privileged part of my work. More and more I was seeing new clients who felt like they had lost their mojo; uncertain about their style, how to present themselves to the world and feeling somewhat disconnected from themselves. One of the consequences is that too many of them were feeling invisible.

I also work with brands, in terms of presenting style workshops, hosting fashion shows and creating online content. It struck me that many brands were disregarding their best customers - the over 40 woman.  I conducted a survey to get particular data and it transpired that the above experience was a common one. It was time to do something, to create change and so the campaign was born!

What is the goal of this social campaign?

To create social change towards aging in the fashion and beauty worlds and to highlight the vibrancy, value and wisdom of the over 40 woman.

How do you think media outlets and brands can work towards being more inclusive of women aged 35+

Simply include us! There are many brands who know that their core customer is over 40 and, while they are happy to have their custom, they don't want to be seen talking to them directly. Instead, inappropriately young models are used for their advertising and marketing campaigns, making the over 40 woman feel even more excluded. Simply include us in the conversation and don't presume that you know who we are and what we're about.

Change cannot happen without action and so I would ask women to vote with their wallet. Support the brands that support you. If you feel that you are not being represented by those brands, drop them a line and let them know in a positive way. Question why your local boutique uses  imagery of younger models to promote their stock when younger people are not their core customer.  It would be marvellous to create a climate of inclusion, not only for us but for the generations of women who are coming up behind us.

Femininity and sexuality are not always associated with ageing women. Why is this and what do you think we can do to address this?

In the fashion and beauty worlds, two of the core values are beauty and youth. Once youth starts to fade, it becomes obvious just how inextricably linked the perception of beauty is to youth. There are so many myths about the over 40 woman and very few brands are investing the time into understanding that woman. We're expected to just shuffle off into the shadows and put up with it. There's a perception that age is not sexy and that the dynamic arenas of femininity and sexuality are no longer of interest to us!

You recently did your first fashion shoot as a model for Irish brand Aoife Lifestyle. How was that experience?

I have long been a fan of the brand and cherish my Aoife Lifestyle handbag. I was only delighted to be asked and jumped at the opportunity!  Aoife Rooney is a woman of integrity and commitment, with an extraordinary creative vision. I was full of nerves on the day but the team was so kind and inclusive, it turned out to be a great fun day!

What are your top tips for ladies over 40 to feel stylish and comfortable in their own skin? For me, style is all about self-expression, so you can't really get it wrong. I would encourage them to be the best version of themselves, rather than being a diluted version of someone else. One of the greatest things you can have in your wardrobe is attitude, it's about unapologetically owning your own style.

“Highlighting the vibrancy, value and wisdom of the over 40 woman”

WITH STYLIST CATHY O’CONNOR

Designer: AOIFE ® @aoifelifestyle.com

Photographer: Kenny Whittle Gloves: Paula Rowan

Photoshoot

Location: Wicklow

Models:

Make

Photographer:

Set

CLARE O'CONNOR VISUAL LABYRINTHS

Award winning multi-disciplinary Artist & Designer Clare O’Connor creates intuitive paintings on which her brand is based; using vivid colours, patterns, multiple layers & juxtaposed shapes and stripes to create movement and a sense of positive energy creating vibrant visual labyrinths to explore. They are tactile, multi-dimensional, energetic & dynamic. Her aim is to create art and a brand that empowers us to be ourselves, uplifts & excites us and communicates the unseen. Her new Kimono & 100% Silk Shift Dress Collection for 2023 aims to empower and bring joy, luxury, vibrant colour and positive energy to your everyday. The kimono range comes in 8 striking designs, in two styles and in two fabrics, 100% silk and 100% bamboo - elegant statement pieces that truly embody the concept of “wearable art”.

Getrude Langat, Li Ann Smal, Morgan The Agency

up: Aushra Lauren

Hair: Liliya Yamelsky

Kristina KairieneOdry, Carrot Inc

Design/Creative Direction: Vaida Rasciute, Carrot Inc

Finding Mum

WITH JOANNA CLUSKEY

No one prepares us, no one tells you in advance about diastasis recti or incontinence. Our bodies are amazing and I truly feel more confident now than in my 20’s. Our priorities certainly change with age, but I really want mums to find their fashion mojo again and feel more confident and comfortable than ever. After such a big life change it’s so important to feel good about ourselves, know how to dress well and feel empowered.

Personal styling and shopping seemed like the absolute dream job but it wasn’t until I turned 40 that I realized this dream. I feel life experience and the ability to guide a client in the right style direction really contribute to successful personal shopping. I don’t just shop for what I like, but what I feel best suits my client, their lifestyle and budget. I really want women to feel empowered while shopping, rather than overwhelmed.

The wardrobe edit is one of my favourite parts of the job! I love meeting the client in their own home and getting a sense of their current style and lifestyle. It’s a very personal experience and once there’s a trust built, we can transform a wardrobe. Every wardrobe tells a different story and you can often see the different stages of life and motherhood in the clothes. There’s nothing more rewarding than saying goodbye to the clothes that no longer serve us and that don’t make us feel fabulous anymore. As mums we often hold onto the clothes that feel the most comfortable but aren’t necessarily the most flattering. The benefits of sorting through a wardrobe can be physical, psychological and often emotional. I love to hear stories about ‘that dress’ the ‘ole faithfuls’ and the occasion wear that belonged to a life before kids. If I could give you tips on where to start with decluttering your wardrobe it would be not to underestimate the power of the one-year rule. If the items cluttered at the back of your wardrobe haven't been worn in the past few seasons, you’ll unlikely pull them from your overflowing pile.

Building a capsule wardrobe is one of the best benefits of working with a personal shopper. Curating a considered edit of stylish, wearable and practical pieces will make getting dressed every day so much easier. As a mum we’re always the last person in the house to be considered when it comes to getting dressed and looking our best. If we have a more mindful approach to dressing, we can maximise what we already have in our wardrobes. With sustainability playing such an important part in our lives and fashion choices, a capsule wardrobe dissuades us from buying into current and often fleeting trends. We are now choosing to spend more on quality pieces that can be mixed and matched easily. For summer I love choosing linen pieces and neutral colours that will mix and match easily when packing for that long awaited summer holiday.

That new found confidence in my 40’s has opened up so many wonderful opportunities for me. I really enjoy creating fashion content on Instagram and I’m so passionate about my role as the West of Ireland Ambassador for Mum Talks. Mum Talks is an event company and community that supports, inspires and empowers women throughout their journey of motherhood with online and in-person meet-ups, events, talks and workshops. The events in Galway have been so special and I’ve met the most amazing mums and business women along the way. To see mums looking after themselves and attending an event like this is so rewarding.

I’m so passionate about styling women and I want women and mums to feel empowered and incredible. As a mum of 3 aged 7, 6 and 3, I’m now designing a life I love and every day I’m finding mum.

Do we ever feel totally comfortable in our own skin? How do we accept the changes in our bodies after having children? Even our shoe size often changes!

Homebirth

IN CONVERSATION WITH SUSAN LOUGHNANE

Tell us about your journey to becoming a doula?

I’m just beginning my journey. I trained with Doulacare Ireland recently, and to work as a birth doula you have to be on call which I can’t do at the moment as I am still breastfeeding and bedsharing with my youngest! At the moment, I’m just continuing to educate myself about birth, and in particular physiological birth, and the complexities of birthing within the system. There’s so much to learn! I am extremely busy between that and launching a family business producing our own kids picture books.

What is a doula? What do they do?

A doula is a non-medical support, a sounding board, a companion and someone who encourages you to advocate for yourself. Before I trained, I thought a doula was supposed to protect you and advocate for you in the medical system when you got pulled under the current of intervention heavy, fast-turnover care. But actually I've learnt that would be disempowering; a doula should support you to step into your own power. Birth can be such a beautiful rite of passage. As a woman, supporting other women, witnessing them claim that for themselves is something I really can't wait to do someday. That's the role of a birth doula; then you also have a postpartum doula. In our society it is custom to 'help' new mothers by calling around to 'hold' the baby and drop off gifts etc. What mothers really need in the 4th trimester, (the month after baby is born) is to hold her own baby while people cook food for her, clean the house or mind other children. She might need the baby held occasionally, but mostly she just needs practical support while she cares for her own baby and gets rest. This is a lost art in our society. I never had one, but I wish I had!

What is your philosophy about birth?

I believe our bodies are designed to give birth. It's physiological, it should be undisturbed, private and respected. Sadly this is, most of the time, not the case. When birth is left alone, without intervention, it can be so wildly beautiful, yet extraordinarily simple all at the same time.

What are some things you would like to see more of in terms of healthcare for Irish mothers?

I would like to see a shift in emphasis on due dates. I went sixteen days over with my second baby, and he was absolutely perfect. If I'd been under the care of the HSE I would have been pressured into an induction. I wouldn't have been able to birth my baby at home, in my power, with my family. My baby would have been forced out before he was ready, like his brother before him was. I think everyone should be assessed on a case-by-case basis, if mother and baby are well, they should not be pressured into induction. That’s not to say I believe you must be at home to birth in your power, it’s just that way for me.

You’ve recently written a book about Homebirth for children, tell us about that?

This was a passion project of mine. When we were having a homebirth we were looking for a book to explain to our 3 year old what was going to happen in his home for the birth of his sibling. The right book didn't really exist and my midwife encouraged us to write and illustrate our own. My husband has a very musical ear and he crafted a beautiful poem out of the story of our homebirth, and I learnt digital art to illustrate the book. We then learned how to format the book and it's now available on Amazon and our website. It was a really enjoyable process and we didn't want to stop there so we've been writing more and more books. I'm currently illustrating our 5th book! We really love the whole process from writing to illustrating to publishing and promoting them, it's a whirlwind, and very busy, but we're delighted to be doing it.

IFTA award winning actress, model, author, mother, wife, doula, artist and illustrator (!), Susan Loughnane lives in the West of Ireland with her husband and 2 boys.

Both books €8.99 available on blockiedoyle.com

Postpartum Care

The 4th Trimester,  the 12-week period immediately after giving birth is an often overlooked yet critical period for mothers where major physical and emotional changes occur. This transitional period, as baby adjusts to the outside world and mom begins her recovery and journey through motherhood can be exhilarating, exhausting and everything in between. We take a look at some beautiful gifting ideas specially designed for postpartum mums.

Hair Health Essentials

What About Mama

Postpartum Doula and former midwife Jen is the face behind 'What About Mama?' where she creates gift boxes for new and expectant mums, containing beautiful Irish products. Passionate about supporting women during a very vulnerable time of their life - the postpartum period, each gift set contains Irish products carefully researched and selected with mamas in mind. Bespoke sets include 'New Mama, 'Mama to Be', 'Breastfeeding Support', 'Special Delivery', and 'Sleep Well'. roomtobloomdoula.com

Certified Trichologist, Clare Devereux founded new Irish Haircare Brand – Hair Health Essentials which officially launched its inaugural range, NEW MOM Hair Growth Accelerating Collection, dedicated to replenishing hair and scalp postpartum. More than 70% of new moms experience postpartum hair loss, usually around 4-5 months after giving birth. The NEW MOM range is specifically designed to rejuvenate hair and improve scalp health, resulting in overall improved hair growth.

hairhealthessentials.com

bath soak to clean, soothe and help relieve perineal soreness, calm aching muscles and aid recovery and their Super Scar Recovery Oil to help improve the appearance and condition of scar tissue, whether it is from C-section, episiotomy, tears, stretch marks or general scarring. myexpertmidwife.com

Ground Wellbeing

My Expert Midwife

This midwife developed brand is a popular go-to for post birth recovery. Products include Spritz for Bits which contains natural essential oils to effectively soothe discomfort in the perineal area after childbirth, Soak for Bits, a recovery

Founded in 2020, Ground Wellbeing is the brainchild of Peigín Crowley. Unafraid to move away from the traditional beauty/pampering/antiaging spa menus of old, Peigin develops treatments and products to address anxiety, insomnia, burnout and gut health. Her pregnancy range is specifically designed to indulge in the art of self-care and honour your mind and body during the pre and postnatal phases.

groundwellbeing.com

Green Life

WORDS BY KENNETH KEAVEY

greenearthorganics.ie

In the early days we used to grow basil - full tunnels of it. I cannot convey the overwhelming sense of goodness opening those tunnel doors on a sunny summer’s morning would bestow on you.

It was impossible to keep my daughter Ella out of that tunnel and to this day she loves basil. I have fond memories too of my son Joe and Ella raiding the polytunnels daily to pick fresh tomatoes and cucumbers, and Joe still loves eating full raw cucumbers - he is nine now.

We are lucky; we live on an organic farm surrounded by amazing produce, so we are fortunate I guess that 2 out of our 3 children have a very healthy interest in eating fresh produce. The odds were stacked in our favour. Even so, our oldest daughter has resisted all our attempts to turn her to vegetables!

Of course, there were the dark dinner times too! Anybody who has ever tried to convince, coerce, or cajole a young child to eat their broccoli while they clearly have other ideas will know that life is too short and energy reserves are too finite to fight that battle. I have made my peace with that a long time ago!

School visits to our farm were another source of joy. My favourite part of the farm walks was watching the awe-inspired little faces as they pulled carrots out of the ground. Many never having seen a fresh carrot before.

Being closer to nature and closer to our food is a natural instinctive process, it is in our genes. For most of us we are only two generations removed from having grown our own carrots. Re-education both of ourselves and our children about the value of food,

about the origin of food, and about the value of the land that we tread upon beneath our feet may be easier than we think.

It doesn’t require an organic farm to inspire an interest in our food, health, and planet, it can happen simply and at home. Sow a sunflower seed in a little bit of cotton wool and water, grab some small pots and plant tomato seeds, place them in a window and watch the most amazing transformation. If you have a garden even better, fresh peas are amazing to sow, and to let your child pull their first carrot is something magical.

My childhood was much more practical than that, it wasn’t to kindle a love of nature or food that I spent endless hours with my dad growing food in the garden or spent summer after summer working on a local farm. It wasn’t optional, but looking back now it certainly helped create a connection with food that I came back to all those years later.

If you would like to bring your children to experience how our food is grown, we are running free farm walks on the first Saturdays of July, August and September at 11am. What we as adults do now and the vision of the earth our children learn to see will shape the future of our planet. We are the guardians of that vision, and it would be wise to remember they do as we do; not as we say. A little example and a little nurturing are all it takes to open our children’s eyes to the value of food.

Kenneth Keavey and his wife Jenny started Green Earth Organics box delivery scheme in 2006. Farming on 40 acres of organically certified land with another 10 acres split between a wild life biodiversity area, native woodland forestry (3000 trees) and red clover/grassland, Kenneth is the 3rd generation of his family to farm these lands.

OUT & ABOUT

Family Friendly Activities this Summer

Wildlands

Wildlands in Moycullen, Co. Galway is a unique indoor and outdoor adventure park with luxury self-catering cabins, set on 20 acres of natural woodland. Choose from a range of family fun activities. Zip through the trees, climb the indoor fun walls, escape the Celtic Challenge rooms, race against each other on Ireland’s only Ninja Obstacle course, let your imagination run wild in Baile Beag, and much more! Refuel after your adventure in the award winning Olive Tree Kitchen. Ballyquirke, Moycullen, (091) 868 900, Wildlands.ie

Burren Perfumery

During a day of exploring the breathtaking landscape of the Burren, stopping off at the Burren Perfumery's rose covered Tea Rooms for some made in house sweet treats and a cup of tea is a must. Producing top quality perfumes and cosmetics inspired by the surrounding landscapes and herbs of the landscape, visitors can also experience the blending room or wander around the beautiful organic herb gardens to immerse themselves in the native herbs that inspire the products. It is an experience you cannot miss! Fahee North, Carran, Co. Clare, (065) 708 9102, burrenperfumery.com

Galway International Arts Festival

GIAF returns this year with a jam packed programme with something for everyone. Highlights include The Pulse from Gravity & Other Myths featuring a company of over 60 performers with a choir of 30 female voices, (the biggest indoor show ever presented by GIAF in a custom built theatre at the Kingfisher at NUIG); a newly commissioned installation from David Mach; Landmark Productions Bedbound featuring Colm Meaning and his daughter Brenda; epic trilogy with DruidO’Casey directed by Garry Hynes; and the return of the Heineken® Big Top featuring artists such as Diana Copperwhite and Lorraine Tuck; Grafton Architects; musicians Martha Wainwright, KT Tunstall, Susan O’Neill, Robert Forster, James Yorkston and Nena Peerson. 17th – 30th July, giaf.ie

Galway Film Fleadh

Irish Film Talent is to the fore of programming at the 35th edition of the Galway Film Fleadh alongside World Cinema, award winning Documentaries and Irish and International Short Films. The closing film of the Fleadh brings a very special closing experience with the pop icon, Cyndi Lauper in attendance, presenting the documentary, Let The Canary Sing which chronicles her meteoric ascent to stardom and her profound impact that extends across her music, everevolving punk style, outspoken activism, and tireless advocacy. Audiences can look forward to powerful, moving, funny and provocative storytelling from both emerging and renowned filmmakers along with hundreds of events (including family/ kid friendly) with screenings, Q+A’s and filmmaker interviews, panel discussions, and more. 11-16th July, galwayfilmfleadh.com

Leahy BEEKEEPING

Where did your interest in bees and beekeeping start?

Bees have been in my family starting with my Grandfather all the way down the line to my daughters. We grew up with bees, so they were as much a part of the farmyard as any of the other animals.

Why/when did you decide to turn your love for beekeeping into a business? I was a bricklayer by trade but when the recession hit in the early 2000's we went back to focusing on farming. We always had the bees around in my mother’s house, so we fixed up the hives and started from there.

Describe the range of products and services that you offer? There are three types of honey that we have regularly - wildflower honey, heather honey, and chilli honey. People might be familiar with the chilli honey from seeing it on the Dough Bros menu in Galway as Noels Hot Honey! As well as our honey we also offer a selection of beeswax candles, propolis tincture, food wraps, socks, hats, and beeswax cosmetic creams made from our own beeswax. Along with that we run tours where people can come out and meet the bees.

range of new insects and birds we are seeing. As well as that I love getting to meet so many fellow artisanal producers.

Can you tell us about plans/developments for the future? We are currently working on further developing our wedding favours. We offer little custom jars of honey that can have bespoke labels, little charms, and mini dippers. We are also working on getting a subscription service off the ground where people can get their honey automatically delivered every month.

How have the Local Enterprise Office in Galway supported you on your business journey? They have really helped us expand and grow with their expert advice and supporting us in how we structure and grow our business.

Is there a support or course they offered that you would recommend other business owners partake in and why?

The Lean for Micro Programme was particularly helpful. It showed us how to run our business in a much more efficient manner. Our mentor was Paula McNicolas and she was very knowledgeable.

What is the most challenging part of what you do?

The weather really affects how much we can get done in a day. Bees prefer warm weather but nothing too hot or too cold. They particularly don't enjoy thundery weather. Global warming is causing a lot of problems for us and the bees since it makes it even harder for them to survive and even harder for us to help them.

What is your favourite thing about running your business? Seeing the bees happy and thriving is great. You can see the positive impact they are having even in our garden, with the bloom of the flowers and the

What advice do you have for other budding entrepreneurs? Contact your Local Enterprise Office as soon as you can, and they will advise you in the early stages of your business. They will help give you a solid structure to work with and help minimize pitfalls. Through their market's and events, you can test out your products and business in the real world.

" Bees have been in my family starting with my Grandfather all the way down the line to my daughters

CREATIVITY & CULTURE

A celebration of Galway’s rich cultural identity

FESTIVALS | FOOD | WHAT’S ON & WHO’S WHO

CREATIVITY & CULTURE

AMIE DOHERTY

Composer

Where did your interest in music begin?

I grew up in a very musical environment. I have a pretty big family back home in Ballinasloe and all around the country, and music was always front and centre in our house. My mother and uncle run the local town band and they’re very involved in music in the community. I have cousins who are music teachers, performers, and touring managers. So I grew up surrounded by music, which I’m very grateful for. I played piano from a very young age and eventually went on to study music at Trinity.

Can you describe your career journey from where you began to where you are now?

I moved to Los Angeles in 2013 shortly after finishing my Masters in Film Music from Berklee College of Music. I had been accepted to a fairly legendary workshop that summer here in LA where I got to meet some people in the industry and managed to find a part-time assistant job to a composer and orchestrator. It took a little while to get my visa sorted but I went on to work with this composer on various projects, including assisting on the orchestration of John Legend’s world tour at the time. It was invaluable experience. I then spent a few years working various odd jobs for other composers, all the while scoring anything I could get my hands on (for little to no money…) to build up my credits. In about 2015, I was hired by a composer named Jeff Russo to orchestrate on some of his many TV series. I worked with him for almost 5 years and orchestrated everything from the Emmy-winning ‘Fargo’, to ‘Star Trek: Discovery’, ‘Picard’, and many more. Getting to be with the orchestra and conduct them on the famous scoring stages in LA

week in, week out, was invaluable experience. While orchestrating was a full-time job in itself, I also had another full-time job scoring my own projects during that time. It was hectic but I was so grateful for the opportunities. I got my foot in the door of Universal Studios when I was hired to score two short films — ‘Marooned’ by DreamWorks, and ‘Battle at Big Rock’, a Jurassic World short film directed by Colin Trevorrow, who directed the Jurassic World franchise. We recorded both scores at Abbey Road which was mind blowing for me. In 2019, I was hired to score DreamWorks’ ‘Spirit Untamed’ and became the first woman to ever score an animated film from DreamWorks, which was a huge honour and an incredible experience. My composing career took off with scoring projects like Marvel’s ‘She-Hulk: Attorney at Law’ last year, ‘Happiest Season’ with Kristen Stewart, Universal’s ‘The High Note’, and I decided to focus full-time on composing for my own projects. I’m currently working on a series for Netflix and have just finished a Judd Apatowproduced comedy film, both coming out later this year.

Where do you get your inspiration from?

It’s hardly a surprise but John Williams was and continues to be a huge inspiration for me. His music was often playing in our house growing up and I remember realizing as I got a little older that so many of the scores that I had loved from various films were written by this one man, and I sort of started thinking about how writing music for films is an actual job. I was also very inspired by James Horner, I find his harmonic language can really pierce your heart, I think his scores are incredible. Alan

Silvestri was a huge influence too, as well as James Horner, Hans Zimmer, all the greats, really. It was those gorgeous orchestral adventure scores of the 80’s and 90’s that really sucked me in. But on a day-to-day level, I’m inspired by what’s on the screen when I’m scoring a film/series – finding the exact emotion that the filmmaker wants to portray in that moment and translating it to music. It’s often like solving a puzzle in some ways.

What does a typical day at work look like for you?

I’m an early riser so I’m usually up and at my writing rig by 6am. I like to get a few hours of quality undisrupted writing time in before the emails and phone calls start. There are lots of different days in this job — some days are pure writing days, and some days I spend the whole day in meetings with filmmakers, or working with the orchestra to record the score, or mixing it with the mix engineer. It keeps it interesting! I have a home studio, and while I love working from home and making my own schedule, it does require a lot of self-discipline. Some days are more productive than others.

Describe a career highlight?

Back in 2018, I got to attend the premiere of ‘Here and Now’, a film I had scored starring Sarah Jessica Parker and Renée Zellweger, at the Tribeca Film Festival in New York. I flew my Mam and my sister Rachel over from home to come with me. We got all dolled up and hit the red carpet. It was brilliant, and so lovely to have them there with me.

What is the most challenging aspect of working in your field?

Probably the deadlines. Any deadline-based work is stressful on some level, but sometimes having to be creative on a deadline can be very overwhelming. Selfdiscipline is key and it takes some time to learn to trust your instincts and go with your gut. The scheduling can be brutal, meaning it’s very difficult to plan anything on a personal level too far into the future, like trips home, for example.

You made history for women in film scoring, as the first female composer to score a DreamWorks Animated feature film with the 2021 summer release Spirit Untamed. Tell us about that experience.

It was a dream come true! When I first thought about being a film composer, the ultimate dream was to score a studio film with a huge orchestra, and I got to live out that dream on ‘Spirit Untamed’. We recorded an 80-piece orchestra at Abbey Road Studios in London for 9 days back in February 2021. Hearing my music being played in one of the most iconic recording studios in the world was magical. I was actually a few months into work on the film before I learned that I was the first woman to score a DreamWorks Animation feature

film. It was mentioned to me in passing in an email and I did a double take. I hadn’t realized, so it was a really incredible surprise. I felt very honoured to mark this milestone for women composers. I hope that maybe somewhere some young woman or girl sees my name at the end of the film and realizes that if I can do it, then so can she! Some pretty important and impressive strides have been made by many female composers over the past few years. It definitely feels like a shift is happening and that women are being recognized for their talent as opposed to their gender in our industry more and more. Still a long way to go, but we’re getting there! My hope is that we can just lose the term ‘women’ or ‘female’ before ‘composer’, because at the end of the day, we’re all just composers doing the same work as the men so it seems silly to define it differently.

What do you love most about what you do?

I just feel very lucky that I found something that I am so passionate about and get to spend my time doing. It’s not always true, but it mostly doesn’t even feel like work and when I’m in a busy writing phase, the days and weeks just fly by. I love the collaborative aspect of it, and that I get to work with amazingly talented filmmakers. I learn something new on every single project and I love that there’s no limit on ideas. I like to think of filmmaking as ‘group art’ — it’s inspiring and interesting to see a project go from script to release, and see how all of the different artists in various departments contributed to telling the story together.

I just feel very lucky that I found something that I am so passionate about and get to spend my time doing

PATRICIA FORDE

Children’s Author & Laureate na Nóg

Where did your love of children’s literature stem from? I think it comes from growing up in Galway city and being surrounded by stories as children. We heard about the pirate Gráinne Mhaol and the fantastic stories about the Claddagh – with monsters under the bridge and unlucky red coated foxes –alongside whispers about the mysterious island of Hy Brasil that appeared in the Bay every seven years. When we tired of those stories, there was always the library! My five sisters and I were big readers and haunted the local library ingesting Enid Blyton books alongside Tolkien’s masterpieces and relishing all of them.

When did you realise that you wanted to be an author?

I taught for ten years in two different Primary Schools in Galway – Scoil Chaitríóna in Renmore and in Scoil Róis, in Taylor’s Hill. As a teacher, I was passionate about children reading and read lots of children’s literature as part of my job. After a while, I began to wonder if I could write similar stories. Ideas for books swirled around in my head for a year or two until I finally decided that I wanted to be an author.

How would you describe your writing style, where does your inspiration come from?

I write everything from Picture Books to Middle Grade novels and I write in English and in Irish. My books for older children are inclined to be speculative fiction with a lot of world building and a pinch of philosophy. My Picture Books are usually flights of pure imagination. I’m inspired by many things – my own childhood, my children, books and poems. I love to read children’s literature and am blown away by the amount of talented Irish writers that we have at the moment.

Congratulations on being named the new Laureate na nÓg. What was your reaction when you heard the news, what does it mean to you?

I was totally shocked and overjoyed. I’ve spent most of my life working with children or in the arts so this

role plays to everything I feel passionate about. I don’t see it just as a recognition of me but as a recognition of the entire sector. It’s something I love about being Irish. We have great respect for literature and the arts in general and though we don’t always get it right, positions such as Laureate and Laureate na nÓg show that we are serious about artists and the work they do.

What advice do you have for budding authors?

Persevere! Writing is the fun part but the business itself is fiercely competitive. Enjoy the act of writing. Don’t put yourself under pressure to get published until you have put in the practice. If you want to write for children you need to find your tribe as you will need lots of support in the early days. Children’s Books Ireland are a great organisation and can offer lots of help. You also need to read widely. The books you read as a child are not necessarily what children want to read today and you need to know the current market.

What’s next for you?

I have two new books coming out this year. The Girl Who Fell to Earth is a Middle Grade speculative novel, published by Little Island and coming out this month. An Mactíre Deireannach is for a similar audience and is published by Futa Fata. It tells the story of the last wolf in Ireland and the young girl who tried to save it. It will be published later this year.

CREATIVITY & CULTURE

MAEVE MCGRATH

Director of Programming, Galway Film Fleadh

Can you tell us about your background and journey to becoming Director of Programming at the Galway Film Fleadh.

I am originally from Limerick and I left to study drama at Trinity College and I spent another decade in Dublin working in the theatre and television industry and I loved that. Later, on when I was working at Rós Na Rún, I had the opportunity to study television production and development and years later I went back to college at Mary I in Limerick to study for a Masters in Media Studies and when that was finished, I took up the post of Artistic Director at the Kerry Film Festival. In 2018 I went to work at the Carlow Arts Festival as producer and in more recent years I have worked as a freelance producer and film programmer until I took up my post at the Galway Film Fleadh. Working across the Arts, programming film and project managing festivals gives you a wide skill-set in the festival world.

What can people expect from the Fleadh this year?

This is the 35th edition of the festival and so we will reflect on the last 35 years while also looking forward to the future of the festival. Of course, as always there is a significant focus on Irish Film and we have some fantastic New Irish cinema at the festival this year alongside some of the top world cinema films that have screened at Berlinale, Sundance, SXSW, TIFF, Talinn etc and a new World Cinema competition alongside the Peripheral Visions competition and some new exciting sections within the programme including a section on Artists on Film and a section dedicated to activists called Defender. There are music documentaries, animation and many events and discussions around film and the industry.

What inspired your love of film, earliest memory?

When I was a child I loved going to the cinema. It was a ritual for us, we would go to the library in Pery Square

in Limerick to renew our library books, we would get two to three books every Saturday and then we would wait in town and queue up for the cinema. At that time, there were lots of cinemas in Limerick, the Carlton and the Central but most specifically there was the Royal Cinema which is at the top of Cecil Street and we used to queue outside rain, hail or sun to see films like Herbie goes Bananas and Star Wars, all the big classics. At that time you had a break in the film, like an interval and you could go get your snacks and have a little potter around and it felt like the films went on for ages. I remember once going to the Savoy in Limerick to see a Muppet Show film and they had the live action puppets there as well so you were watching what was on the screen and then suddenly up in the corner there were Muppets, jumping around and that was just a wonderful experience. The cinema was a really important part of my childhood growing up, we didn't have a TV for a long time and even if you did you had one channel so the Saturday afternoon at the cinema was very important to me and gave me a great grá for the cinema.

Forging a career in the world of TV & Film is not easy, what advice do you have for others?

I always advise people to make their own work, consider producing their own work. If they can, get together with like-minded people and create their own film. There isn't someone out there with a chequebook to fund your film or fund your project and the more work that you create yourself the more skilled you become at it, and you can grow. If you want to make features you can grow from shorts to features from features to TV, it can take you in many different directions and you can learn your craft working with people that you like and that you enjoy working with. And I guess the big one is, always be on time, arrive early, be prepared and you will flourish.

CREATIVITY & CULTURE

What's on

FRED COOKE: RIGHT SAID FREDDIE

COMEDY

One of Ireland’s favourite comedians, Fred Cooke, is back on the road with his new show Right Said Freddie, where he chats marriage, fatherhood, and being less 007 and more 003. A well-known face on the Irish comedic circuit, Fred has supported comedy heavyhitters such as Tommy Tiernan, Ardal O’Hanlon, Dermot and Dave and Seann Walsh. He is a regular at the UK and Ireland’s top comedy clubs (The Stand, The Comedy Store, The Empire, The Laughter Lounge – Dublin). In 2019 he chacha-changed up the pace with his much-acclaimed stint on Dancing With The Stars, and most recently appeared in the hugely popular 2023 series Réaltaí na Gaeltachta. Town Hall Theatre, September 7th, tht.ie

WHISTLING IN THE DARK BY RUBY WALLIS ULTAN CONLON

ART & EXHIBITIONS

Leading Galway artist Ruby Wallis will host a major new exhibition, involving photography, collage, video installations, print, and sound work, as part of the 2023 Galway International Arts Festival. The exhibition, Whistling in the Dark, curated by Galway Arts Centre director, Megs Morley, is a synthesis of many different areas of interest for the artist, including her response to Galway city’s botanical and urban landscape; the architectural Georgian features of Galway Arts Centre, 47 Dominick Street; and themes of ecofeminism, psychogeography, gender, safety, and public spaces.

Galway Arts Centre, 9th July – August 20th, giaf.ie

MUSIC

Galway singer-songwriter Ultan Conlon found a haven for his unique sound and sensibility in Los Angeles, California, with Grammy Award winning David Garza (Fiona Apple) producing Ultan’s fifth record, The Starlight Ballroom, which drops on September 13th, 2023. The Starlight Ballroom was a ballroom of romance in Westport, Co. Mayo, which opened in the early 1960’s and closed in 1981. Roy Orbison played The Starlight in 1969 and Ultan’s song The Starlight Ballroom takes in and ponders the night in question. Conlon has shared the stage with the likes of John Fogerty, Mavis Staples, Jackson Browne, Bryan Ferry, John Grant, Eddi Reader, Patty Griffin, Richard Hawley, among others. He has also performed duets with John Martyn, Jackson Browne, Mary Coughlan, Grant-Lee Philips, Eddi Reader and Hollywood legend John C Reilly to name but a few. The Starlight Ballroom, September 13th, ultanconlon.com

VICKY PHELAN CAMPAIGN & PORTRAIT TOUR

ART & EXHIBITIONS

The Triptych Portrait, painted by Irish artist Vincent Devine was inspired by Vicky Phelan, who passed away from cervical cancer in 2022.

His aim was to convey the tragedies and the joys in Vicky’s life, through symbolism in the anatomy of her body and different objects. The portrait tour will come to Gort this September in association with Gort Cancer Support with public viewing on Saturday 23rd at 10am followed by a talk with artist Vincent Devine where all are welcome. The aim of the tour is to continue to raise awareness about cervical cancer, to continue to advocate for change & to remember Vicky’s legacy.

Lady Gregory Hotel, Gort, 22nd & 23rd September, vickyphelanportrait.com

GENUINE IRISH FAIRHILL SESSIONS

MUSIC

The Fairhill Sessions are an intimate series of events taking place in Galway's most intimate music venue, Fairhill Coffee Design Studio. Each artist will be performing strippedback versions of their original material in a setting that allows for maximum interaction with their fans and the audience. In addition to hosting the live events, Genuine Irish film will archive the Fairhill Sessions providing an option for the fans to come back and experience the performance again, while also giving new listeners an opportunity to discover the artist. Upcoming gigs include Daire – an exciting new singer-songwriter from Dublin whose music is described as equal parts indie rock and dream pop and Jossle – aka Cork singer songwriter Josh O’Leary.

Fairhill Coffee Design Studio, @fairhill_galway

GALWAY PRIDE

FESTIVALS

Galway Community Pride takes place 7th - 13th of August with their highly anticipated parade happening on August 12th. Their theme, “30 years - Where We’ve Been, Where We’re Going” marks the 30 year anniversary of the decriminalisation of homosexual activity.

A large range of events are planned with a wide variety of community groups such as Amach! LGBTI+ Galway, Galway Against Homophobia, GOSSIP and many more with talks, workshops, panels, parties, safe spaces, events through Irish and of course a vigil remembering and celebrating those lost. 7th- 13th August, Galwaypride.ie

Photo credit Cleo Mckeon Burke

SUMMER DINING in Galway

GOURMET FOOD PARLOUR

Visit the newly revamped Gourmet Food Parlour in Salthill for all your dining needs. Open 7 days a week, perfect for catching up over breakfast or lunch. For those moments that require a little more celebration, why not book in a cocktail brunch! GFP is also open for dinner with a brand new menu where their expert chefs serve you up delicious dishes made with the finest local produce Galway has to offer. Ditch the washing up, Gourmet Food Parlour has got you covered.   14 Lenaboy Gardens, Galway, 091 393 330, Gourmetfoodparlour.com

CORRIB TEA ROOMS

This beautifully restored historic 1830s Georgian townhouse is located on the edge of the Salmon weir, in the heart of Galway city with uninterrupted views of the spectacular River Corrib from almost every window of the house. Located just a stones throw from Galway shopping and night life hubs, Corrib house is the perfect location to unwind. Their unique tearooms offer a delicious range of breakfasts, lunches, cakes and treats with speciality teas and coffees. Five luxurious boutique guestrooms, each individually styled in a traditional manner with modern facilities, offer an unforgettable stay. No. 3 Waterside, Woodquay, 091 446 753, Corribhouse.com

HOOKED SEAFOOD RESTAURANTS

Hooked Seafood Restaurants, brought to you by father and daughter team Nuisin and Ali Jalilvand are located in Barna Village & Henry Street in Galway. Supplied daily by sister company Ali’s Fish Market, they specialise in fresh, sustainable seafood and local produce to provide their customers with a comfortable, family friendly, casual, dining experience. It’s all hands on deck at these restaurants, with busy eat in and takeaway services and generous selections of seafood and gluten free options available on all of their menus. Fantastic local beers, ciders, and homemade desserts are also on offer if you want to push the boat out! Whether you’re in the heart of Galway or travelling to the Wild Atlantic Way be sure to stop and “seas” the day at Hooked! Unit 20 Barna Village Centre, 091 596623 & 65 Henry Street, 091 581752, hookedgalway.ie

MC SWIGGANS

Iconic Galway Restaurant and Bar - McSwiggans Steak & Seafood Restaurant is celebrating 40 years in Woodquay with their newly launched summer menu celebrating the best of Irish on a plate; grass fed meat, Irish sourced fish and in season vegetables as well as home baked breads and desserts. Along with this, their Sunday Roast and Galway’s only Oyster Bar, are bringing a unique offering to the dining scene in Galway. The Woodquay institution is fully stocked with Dooncastle Oysters to pair with a creamy pint of Guinness or wine from their extensive wine cellar. Working with local and Irish suppliers and producers is why McSwiggans has held its place on the very reputable Galway food scene map.

3 Eyre Street, Galway, 091 568 917, mcswiggans.ie

RACE WEEK

THE OPENING DAY

The Gamblers

The Conquerors

Rhythm Train DJ Set

Piano Man Barry Ryan

The Galway Tenors

DJ Doc

THROWBACK TUESDAY

CELEBRATING THE 80’S & 90’S Spring Break

The Gambler

Rhythm Train DJ Set

Piano Man Barry Ryan

DJ Doc

GALWAY PLATE DAY & COUNTRY

MUSIC EXTRAVAGANZA!

Derek Ryan & Band

Sean Slattery & The Connections

Niall Doorhy

Rhythm Train DJ Set

DJ Doc

THE GUINNESS GALWAY HURDLE & STYLISH LADIES DAY

The Gamblers

Bongo Steve

Rhythm Train DJ Set

DJ Doc

The Galway Tenors

LADIES DAY 2023 is sponsored by The Connacht Hospitality Group with a €10,000 cash prize, (€3,000 to the winner of the Best Hat)

FRIDAY'S MOST STYLISH

The Gamblers

The Conquerors

Bongo Steve

ATHLONE

Rhythm Train DJ Set

DJ Doc

TOWNCENTRE enters its eleventh year leading the ‘Friday’s Most Stylish’ competition

THE WEEKENDER

The Gamblers

DJ Ronan Lardner

DJ Doc

MAD HATTER'S FAMILY FUN DAY

The Gamblers

DJ Ronan Lardner

Lackage Comhaltas

PAVILION BAR

4 Men & a Bass

MAIN BAR

Altrad

DJ Derek Flaherty

PAVILION BAR

Dakota

MAIN BAR

John Haugh

DJ Derek Flaherty

PAVILION BAR

The Sixty Five Band

MAIN BAR

Sum Craic

DJ Derek Flaherty

PAVILION BAR

4 Men & a Bass

Elastic Band

MAIN BAR

John Haugh

DJ Derek Flaherty

PAVILION BAR

Dakota

MAIN BAR

Altrad

DJ Derek Flaherty

PAVILION BAR

Rhythm & Rhyme

MAIN BAR

DJ Sean O'Neill

PAVILION BAR

Tony Coyne

MAIN BAR

DJ Sean O'Neill

BACKSTAGE

BAND

Oddity

BACKSTAGE

BAND

The Sixty Five

BACKSTAGE

BAND

Who Knows

BALLROOM

The Whistlin

Donkeys

BACKSTAGE

BAND

Amazing Apples

BALLROOM

Sean Slattery

BACKSTAGE

BAND

Oddity

BALLROOM

Sean Slattery

ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE

THE GASLIGHT BRASSERIE AND OYSTER BAR

Pre and post Racing Dining and Drinks

THE GASLIGHT BRASSERIE AND OYSTER BAR

Pre and post Racing Dining and Drinks

Michelle Lally performing 1-4pm (tbc)

THE GASLIGHT BRASSERIE AND OYSTER BAR

Pre and post Racing Dining and Drinks

Evening Entertainment 4 Men and a Base, Noel Finnegan and DY Free Bird

THE GASLIGHT BRASSERIE AND OYSTER BAR

Pre and post Racing Dining and Drinks

LADIES DAY COMPETITION (6.30pm to 9pm) Prizes worth over €3K

Nicola McGuire Jazz Entertainment

Evening Entertainment 4 Men and A Base, Noel Finnegan and DY Free Bird

THE GASLIGHT BRASSERIE AND OYSTER BAR

Pre and post Racing Dining and Drinks

James Finnegan 10pm and DY Free Bird until late

Times of entertainment are subject to change*

THE GASLIGHT BRASSERIE AND OYSTER BAR

Pre and post Racing Dining and Drinks

James Finnegan 10pm and DY Free Bird until late

THE GASLIGHT BRASSERIE AND OYSTER BAR

Pre and post Racing Dining and Drinks

James Finnegan 10pm and DY Free Bird until late

PINK FRIDAY (12pm)

Fun, Food & Racing - In support of NBCRI

Live Music on arrival by The Vicaria Band Special Guest Nina Carberry

Entertainment by The Benen Tierney Experience (Tickets available to buy on theardilaunhotel.ie

Gerry Kennedy (10pm)

Vinne Mongan

Three Men & a Bass

Carmel Dempsey & Mike Stewart

The Vicaria Band

The Vicaria Band

Vinne Mongan

THE HARDIMAN

A Legacy of Style, Fun and Entertainment at The Hardiman for Race Week 2023

The Hardiman, the iconic hotel in Eyre Square is gearing up for a stylish and fun race week this year as the renowned Galway Races return to Ballybrit from Monday 31st of July to Sunday 6th of August.

Located right in the heart of the city The Hardiman is the ideal pre, and post Races venue for entertaining clients or catching up for long overdue meet ups with friends and family.

The Hardiman’s 'Legacy of Style' Ladies Day Competition will  take place on Thursday August 3rd from 6.30pm to 9.00pm. Stylish ladies are invited to the Hotel to enjoy a complimentary glass of bubbles, whilst enjoying a live jazz band in the Parlour Lounge. Guests will be in with a chance to win a fantastic stylish prize – a €1,500 voucher for Les Jumelles Boutique, a €1,000 cash prize, plus a two night stay for two at the Hotel with a bottle of bubbles and dinner on an evening of their choice. Second prize is a Magnum of Taittinger Champagne and for the social set there are great prizes from some of Galway’s best including a stunning headband from Emily Jean Atelier and Micil Gin and Micil Connemara Cream Liqueur for 'Best Instagram Post' on the night.

The judges on the evening include two of Galway's fashion stalwarts, sisters Mary McSweeney and Margaret Gallagher of Les Jumelles boutique on Chapel Lane, sponsors of the main prize.

The Hardiman will be at the heart of Race Week entertainment in the city with its iconic Afternoon Tea available to book each day. Both the Gaslight and Oyster Bar will be open every day of Race Week for lunch, dinner and pre & post racing cocktails with live music also on throughout the week.

The Hardiman will certainly be a hive of style and entertainment throughout Race Week and the place to be from Monday 31st to Sunday 6th of August.

To book or for further information thehardiman.ie/galway-races/

Make sure to follow @thehardimangalway on Instagram to follow the fashion!

thehardiman.ie | @thehardimangalway

forRacingRosabel

This year The Connacht Hotel is delighted to be hosting the event in its sixth year, on Monday July 31st. Rosabel’s Rooms, in collaboration with Irish Hospice Foundation, was established by Suzanne McClean and Gary Monroe following the sudden and unexpected death of their 16-month-old daughter, Rosabel Monroe.

This hugely popular racing event has become a wellloved fixture of Galway Race Week and as always, it promises to be a fantastic day full of fashion, racing tips, and fun.

A great way to kick off the 2023 Summer Festival, Racing for Rosabel will feature a drinks reception, followed by a three-course luncheon, and includes transport and entry to Day 1 of the Galway Races.

The day will start with the Aperol Spritz Garden Party complemented by a selection of starters in the beer garden.  The Garden Party will also feature music from Strings and Things.

Sports broadcaster and well-known name in the racing world Tracy Piggott will MC this year’s event and will be sure to share some top tips for the week along with tipster Leon Blanche who will also be offering some insider insight.

The delicious main course and dessert will be served in the superb Connacht Hotel Ryan room before special guests Gráinne Seoige, Milliner Gillian Duggan, and Influencer Fiona Morgan Coleman dish their fantastic fashion advice.

With over €6,000 worth of prizes sponsored by Eyre

Square Shopping Centre, Travel Suite, Bellissimo, VIP Arrivals and Connacht Hotel Group, it’s certainly worth buying a ticket and sporting your favourite outfit to be in with a chance to win ‘Best Dressed Lady’, ‘Best Dressed Gent’ and ‘Best Headpiece’. These awards will be handed out to a few lucky winners on the day. Following this, a bus will whisk everyone to the Ballybrit Racecourse for a whirlwind start to Race Week action. It promises to be a fun event for a fantastic cause, and there is sure to be lots of high fashion, amazing outfits, and individual style on show throughout the event.

Monday, July 31st, tickets €85 theconnacht.ie/racing-for-rosabel

Since 2018, Racing for Rosabel has generated vital awareness and funds for Rosabel’s Rooms, the muchneeded child-loss project that provides financial and therapeutic support to bereaved parents and families around Ireland.

Network Ireland Galway Businesswoman of the Year Award Winners 2023

Network Galway celebrated a wonderful event on Friday 16th June in the Galmont Hotel & Spa to host the annual Network Galway Businesswoman of the Year Awards.

The standard of nominees as always, was really high, with 22 professional businesswomen shortlisted for the finals with winners across 7 different categories.

Special mention goes to the judges, Alma McCarthy, Suzanne Lynch, Tríona MacGiolla Rí, Stephanie Colombani, Lorna Martyn & Lorraine Casserly who had the difficult task of choosing the eventual winners in each category and the reason why there are two ‘Highly Commended’ awards at Branch level.

"I was thrilled with the turnout at the Awards Event. It was an ideal celebration of all those successful women from the communities across Galway City and County who are pioneers in their efforts in life and business. I was so proud of all the finalists and am very grateful to our Awards & Media Sponsors for their support."

Suzanne Ryan, President of Network

Ireland Galway.

The winners will now go on to represent the Galway branch at the National Finals in Kildare on September 29th. The whole Businesswoman of the Year Awards tie in with the philosophy of Network Galway to lead, collaborate and support women in business. Entering and winning these Awards can be life-changing given the confidence, profile and publicity as a result of the whole process. This is in keeping with Suzanne's mantra for the year to #MakeADifference to others. Suzanne also had the privilege of choosing a member for a special President's Award and the recipient was MaryPat Kavanagh who owns Strategic Results, a global marketing agency based in Galway.  This award was given to recognise her outstanding contribution to Network Galway. Suzanne also thanked local Awards Coordinator, Ms Asumpta Gallagher, a former National Awards Winner for her part in the successful process.  Onwards and upwards for the successful #GalwayGirls

As a vibrant network of professionals, Network Ireland Galway understands the importance of acknowledging and supporting

the exceptional women in Galway City and County.  The Businesswoman of the Year Awards presents a unique opportunity to celebrate remarkable success stories and show solidarity with these dynamic women.

If you are a professional businesswoman living and working in Galway and would like to know more about Network Galway and the many benefits that it offers, you can email galway@networkireland.ie Galway@networkireland.ie | Facebook @NetworkGalway Instagram @networkgalway | Twitter @networkgalway LinkedIn Network Ireland Galway Branch

PRESIDENT'S AWARD 2023

MARYPAT KAVANAGH

MaryPat Kavanagh is passionate about supporting business owners to practice courage to be more visible and have a greater impact. Her marketing agency, Strategic Results Marketing, helps SMEs control their online visibility so that word of mouth referrals turn into customers. She is also a Certified Facilitator for Brené Brown’s Dare To Lead™ programme.

Suzanne Ryan, President Network Galway

GALWAY BRANCH WINNERS

JOANNE SWEENEY

Established Businesswoman

– Branch Winner

A global leader in public sector digital marketing, three-time author, podcast host and international speaker. Joanne's book, Public Sector Marketing Pro, has been described by President Barack Obama’s Chief Digital Officer as "the handbook I needed when in the White House." Her training and consulting work attracts government clients from across the world.

DOLORES ANDREW

Solo Businesswoman

– Branch Winner

Dolores supports women in regaining their confidence and sense of self, by guiding them to live more assertively and in alignment with their own core values and beliefs. Dolores’ work has gained widespread recognition and praise for the positive impact it has on her clients.

EDEL O’ MALLEY

Creative Professional

– Branch Winner

Edel O’Malley is a photographer specialising in Newborn & Family photography, capturing your special memories to treasure forever. She also works with businesses on their branding and business imagery. Edel completed her degree in Photography in 2009. Since then, has worked in New York and set up her own Photography business in 2014.

HIGHLY COMMENDED

LOUISE LALLY Emerging Businesswoman –Highly Commended

Louise Lally is founder of the Training Academy. It provides a range of Training Programs, Workshops and Coaching to Businesses. The Training Academy was set up to support the growth and development of businesses from a "customer first" approach. The customer experience starts internally with the frontline team and is felt by customers externally.

NOLLAIG KELLY

Networker of the Year

– Branch Winner

As a founder member of Network Galway, Nollaig feels privileged to welcome many new members to Network and share the true value of networking. She was honoured as Galway Businesswoman of the Year in 2010. Nollaig truly believes in the power of Network, how it helps women in business and how women who support women are more successful. She thinks that it brings more power to the pack.

JACQUI O CONNOR

STEM Professional – Branch Winner

Jacqui is highly skilled in research and development of biomaterials & medical devices. She has extensive clinical experience in the healthcare sector whilst leading a sales team for a medical implant company. Jacqui’s academic background is in chemistry with a Master’s in Biomedical Engineering.

LORRAINE

O CONNELL

Emerging Businesswoman

– Branch Winner

Business Systems creation are challenging for business owners, Lorraine specialises in both strategic-, financial planning and problem solving for businesses. She advises new and medium-term business owners on the setup and running of their businesses, integrating tools and habits to avoid burnout. Lorraine enjoys empowering Businesswomen to become ‘Unstuck’, within their work / family lives.

MEABH CAREY Employee Rising Star – Highly Commended

Meabh is an Assurance Assistant in EY Galway. She goes above and beyond her role every day continuously exceeding quality and delivery expectations, coaching and mentoring junior team members, assisting with external business development activities, and making a significant impact to all those around her.

SUPPORTING LOCAL

GREEN EARTH ORGANICS

Green Earth Organics has issued a ‘Save Our Summer’ SOS rallying cry for shoppers to continue supporting them during their bumper summer season. Summer marks the point in the year when the output of organic Irish fruit and vegetables from its twenty eight acre farm in Corrandulla, Co. Galway is at its peak. However, this coincides with many of their regular customers heading away for a much deserved break and cancelling their weekly vegetable and grocery orders. “The supermarkets won’t miss your custom, but we will” says Kenneth. To entice the nation to nourish themselves with, and celebrate the very best of, local and seasonal organic produce throughout this time of plenty, they've introduced a series of Summer Stays’ incentives to richly reward new and existing customers for their loyalty during this key period of the year.  091 793 768, Caherlea, Corrandulla, Greenearthorganics.ie

RENMORE DENTAL

Renmore Dental who are celebrating 15 years of expert dental care, are delighted to announce they are now welcoming new patients for 2023. If you are looking for a new dentist in the heart of Galway, now is the perfect time to register. The practice offers a huge range of treatment options, from general dentistry to cosmetic and specialist treatments, such as composite bonding, teeth whitening, and dental implants 091 757 678,  5 Old Dublin Rd, Renmore, renmoredental.ie

5 ELEMENTS ACUPUNCTURE CLINIC

Member of the Acupuncture Foundation Professional Association, practitioner Mary Lally offers a wide range of treatments at her clinic including Cosmetic Acupuncture, also known as Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture, a 100% natural PRO-ageing, cosmetic treatment. This treatment is particularly suited to those who are seeking a natural facial aesthetic and a holistic approach to health and ageing. Benefits can increase collagen production, even out fine lines and wrinkles, reduce drooping eyebrows, improve circulation, reduce sagging jowls, reduce acne, redness and rosacea and much more. 4-6 sessions are generally recommended to see results with monthly or seasonal maintenance advised. 0872764539, 13 Glenrock Business Park, Bothar Na Mine, elementacupuncture.ie

GALWAY CITY MUSEUM

Galway City Museum is a centre of learning, inspiration, engagement & enrichment for all visitors by collecting, preserving & displaying the material heritage of Galway. There are three floors of galleries currently housing seven long-term exhibitions and two temporary exhibitions. These exhibitions explore themes of archaeology, history and sea science with a particular focus on Galway. With a wide variety of events, exhibitions and information, Galway City Museum is a must visit for all ages and interests this summer. Visit galwaycitymuseum.ie to see what’s on and for further information. 091 532 460, Spanish Parade, Galway, galwaycitymuseum.ie

BUSHYPARK VETS

COMPASSIONATE AND PERSONALISED VETERINARY CARE

Bushypark Vets opened their doors in 2019 and have firmly become one of Galway’s leading privately owned veterinary clinics offering the most up-to-date medical care for your pets. Due to this, Bushypark Vets quickly grew into a 6 Vet, 5 Nurse team. The rapid expansion of the team and growth in services, brought them to a large purpose built practice at 60 upper Newcastle road in Galway this year, not far from where they first started out.

Bushypark Vets offer continuity in compassionate and personalised veterinary care from a highly skilled veterinary team.

Dedicated to making your pets visit as comfortable and stress free as possible, they have separate cat and dog consultation rooms. Furthermore, this follows through with a separate hospitalisation ward for both dogs and cats. The practice has a fully equipped operating theatre, anaesthetic/monitoring equipment, digital x-ray / ultrasound and their in-house laboratory allows them to run blood and urine samples giving on site rapid results.

They provide a wide range of services including;

- Vaccination

- Microchipping

- Worming & flea treatment

- Neutering

- Various surgeries

- Dental Care

- Advice on nutrition

- Pet passports

- Diagnostic imaging

- Orthopaedic Surgery

Pet Care Tips this Summer and Autumn

Heat stroke can be fatal to your pet. Common signs of heatstroke include excessive panting, discolored gums and mobility problems. If in doubt, always seek veterinary attention.

The summer months always brings about those pesky parasites (fleas & ticks) so make sure your pet is up to date with their anti-parasite treatment as it can help them fight allergies to common insect bites.

Do: Protect your pet from the sun rays and keep them hydrated.

Do: Check how hot the pavement is before you walk your dog and only walk in cool times of the day.

Do: Ensure the room is well ventilated if they are inside.

Do: Apply sunscreen to the nose and ears especially for the white-haired breeds.

Don't – leave your pet in the car – even with a window open, it will get too hot.

Don’t - Leave a damp towel on them for too long as it can hold in the heat.

Don’t - Walk your dog in hot weather.

Maeve Walsh M.V.B. Owner and Veterinary Surgeon Special area of interest: Dermatology and Dentistry

Vera Lichtenhahn Veterinary Surgeon Special area of interest: Neurology Chiropractic and Orthopaedic Surgery

Seamus McManus Veterinary Surgeon Special area of interest: Soft Tissue and Surgery

Malwina Jankowska Veterinary Surgeon Special area of interest: Internal Medicine

Brigit LohmannVeterinarySurgeon Special area of interest: Ophthalmology

Megan Hopkins Veterinary Nurse Special area of interest: Surgical Nursing and Inpatient Care

Fiona Linnane Veterinary Nurse Special area of interest: Nutrition and Dental Health

Gina Burke Veterinary Nurse Special area of interest: Diagnostic and Medical Nursing

Shauna O Halloran Veterinary Nurse Special area of interest: Emergency in Critical care

Hannah Ruane Veterinary Nurse Special area of interest: Animal Behaviour

Ruth HeneghanVeterinary Surgeon Special area of interest: Feline Medicine

Spotlight ON CONNEMARA

Connemara Blue

Connemara Blue creates strikingly unique, kiln-fused glass art pieces inspired by the beautiful Connemara landscape with a strong focus on contemporary design. The family is passionate about creating art to suit all budgets and craft all of their pieces by hand in their Clifden based workshop. As well as their own glass pieces, the team at Connemara Blue also offers a bespoke design service and international shipping. The Pink House, Market Square, Clifden, (095) 30782, connemarablue.com

Renvyle House Hotel

Renvyle House is a family owned, historic, 4-star hotel set on a 150 acre estate with its own freshwater lake for fishing, boating and kayaking and a 1km beach on the shores of the Atlantic. Leisure facilities on the grounds include an outdoor heated pool, outdoor hot tub with Atlantic views, tennis courts, woodland and garden walks. An award-winning hotel for its food, service and hospitality, it has been described by guests as 'very special', 'the ultimate staycation' and 'a magical place'. At Renvyle House Hotel, the only stress is on relaxation. Renvyle, Connemara, Co. Galway, H91 X8Y8. 095 46100, renvyle.com

Ohh! By Gum

When visiting Connemara, look no further than the awardwinning Ohh! By Gum as your go-to destination for sustainable clothing and gifts. With one of the widest ranges of sustainable clothing, gifts, and homewares in Ireland, Ohh! By Gum is the place to shop consciously. Additionally, they have recently opened a pop-up shop called "Re-Wear" offering pre-loved sustainable clothing in Connemara for the summer months which further enhances their commitment to the circular economy. Whether you're looking for stylish clothing or unique gifts, Ohh! By Gum is the perfect destination in Connemara to shop sustainably and make a positive difference. The Courtyard, Station House, Clifden, Co. Galway, Ireland, 085 800 0377, ohhbygum.ie

Whistlestop

Grainne Hyland has been running Whistlestop gifts & interiors in Clifden for 23 years. The style of the shop is coastal, contemporary and quirky classic. Many of the tabletop and home decor accessories reflect the scenic location of the wild Connemara coast. Whistlestop customers remark that the products not only look good but are practical in their usefulness! Grainne has an eye for unique pieces with personality and works hard to source pieces that are not found elsewhere. Open 7 days a week. Market Street Clifden, 095 21532, whistlestop.ie, @whistlestopgiftsclifden

Holiday Reads

The Chancer

Brought to you by Galway novelist and screenwriter, Fiona Graham, The Chancer follows Donnie McNamara who, tired of being a family disappointment, buys a oneway ticket to Tinseltown to pursue his much-ridiculed dreams of acting. When his world collides with Abe Nelson, fallen Hollywood legend, Abe becomes an unlikely mentor to Donnie and is catapulted into his fantastical plans to become a Hollywood actor. But will the journey to stardom end in red carpets or red faces?

Before He Kills Again

Award-winning Cork author Tadhg Coakley has released the second in a series featuring former intercounty hurler now turned detective, Garda Tim Collins. This tense crime novel follows the case of a brutal murder of a young woman in her own home. Assigned to the case, Collins and new partner Deirdre Donnelly race against time to find the killer before he acts again. In this West Cork investigation, we quickly learn this utterly likeable detective cans sometimes be violent and ruthless. How far will he go to avenge that death?

The Rachel Incident

New York Times best-selling author, Caroline O’Donoghue brings us this gem and must-have summer read. Described as an all-consuming love story but not the one you were expecting, central character Rachel takes us on a gorgeous (albeit messy, imperfect, funny and flawed) journey. When she falls in love with her married professor, Dr Byrne, her best friend James helps her devise a plan to seduce him. But what begins as a harmless crush soon pushes their friendship to its limits. With rich, memorable characters, The Rachel Incident is about losing and finding yourself, youth, life and love.

The Couples

Frank's 48th birthday had given the three couples an excuse for a much needed night away from children, nagging bills and ailing parents. When Frank proposes they swap partners, it felt deliciously, irresistibly reckless. One night. No obligations. No expectations. only rule?  No falling in love. It was a night that some of them couldn't remember. And others couldn't forget. “Normal People” but with adults is an apt description for this page turning release. Filled with relatable characters, love, heartbreak, betrayal, friendship, the mundanity of everyday life and everything in between, this is a must have for your holiday suitcase.

Tadhg Coakley, €16.99

Fiona Graham, €12.99

Lauren Mackenzie, €15.99

Caroline O’Donoghue, €14.99

The Island of Longing

Anne Griffin's debut novel When All is Said was a Number One Irish bestseller in 2019 and chosen as the Sunday Independent Newcomer of the Year in the An Post Irish Book Awards. Her third release, The Island of Longing follows the story of the inexplicable disappearance of a young girl from her house. Unable to cope with her grief, her mother Rosie eventually moves back to her hometown, Roaring Bay Island, where captaining the island's ferry alongside her father has provided some solace. But as time passes, Rosie is confronted with an impossible dilemma: should she let go of the hope that Saoirse might still be alive, when all the evidence points to the contrary?

The Last Days of Joy

Irish author Anne Tiernan was born in Zambia, grew up in Navan and is now based in New Zealand. Her debut novel centres around the Tobin children, Conor, Frances and Sinead and their complicated, troubled mother Joy. When Joy's children receive the news that she has only days to live, they rush to her side, bringing with them all of the dysfunction and hurt they have been carrying since their childhoods. Each of them is at a crossroads in their lives - but there's one more secret about their mother they need to learn. Will they finally be able to forgive their mother and, in doing so, face their futures together?

Toxic People

Dublin born but self-confessed Connemara convert, Sean Monaghan has released his latest offering, a riveting psychological thriller set in Dublin. Central characters Jenny and Shane live in one of Dublin’s most idyllic neighbourhoods and share a seemingly perfect life. Returning home one evening, Jenny immediately knows something is wrong. She finds Shane’s crumpled Land Rover. A masked, lifeless figure is sprawled across the bonnet. Behind the wheel, Shane slips in and out of consciousness. This is just the beginning. Shane and Jenny have been keeping toxic secrets from one another. Secrets that will unravel their so-called perfect life . . .

Strange Sally Diamond

The fifth book from acclaimed, bestselling author Liz Nugent, is a darkly comedic must-have on your reading list. Reclusive Sally Diamond causes outrage by trying to incinerate her dead father. Now she’s the centre of attention, not only from the hungry media, but also a sinister voice from a past she does not remember. As she begins to discover the horrors of her early childhood, Sally steps into the world for the first time - making new friends and big decisions, and learning that people don’t always mean what they say. But who is the man observing Sally from the other side of the world? And why does her new neighbour seem to be obsessed with her? Sally’s trust issues are about to be severely challenged….

Anne Tiernan, €13.99

Liz Nugent, €12.99

Anne Griffin, €14.99

Sean Monaghan, €11.99

PURE JOY

PURE JOY

Joy is extremely proud to be bringing the following new and ground-breaking skin treatments to the West of Ireland.

Joy is extremely proud to be bringing the following new and ground-breaking skin treatments to the West of Ireland:

Focus Dual: This is a combination of two preexisting gold-standard skin treatments with impressive results. Focus Dual marries radio frequency micro needling and HIFU (highintensity focused ultrasound) which allows practitioners to lift, firm and tighten the skin at every layer, from non-surgical facelifts and eyebrow lifts to jawline sculpting and scar treatment. The science behind the treatments is straightforward. Micro needling encourages the production of new collagen and elastin fibres whilst increasing the rate of skin cell turnover. In addition, the release of radio frequency energy heats the skin and stimulates the body’s natural healing response. The result for the client is a noticeable reduction in fine lines and more supple skin. HIFU also plays an important part by using a different method to stimulate collagen production. Ultrasound energy targets the deepest layer of the skin, and these deep tissues produce new collagen and effectively target a range of skin aging concerns. Focus Dual is the treatment of choice for clients who want to see excellent results for skin rejuvenation and total revitalisation.

Focus Dual: This is a combination of two pre-existing gold-standard skin treatments with impressive results. Focus Dual marries radiofrequency micro needling and HIFU (high-intensity focused ultrasound) which allows practitioners to lift, firm and tighten the skin at every layer, from non-surgical facelifts and eyebrow lifts to jawline sculpting and scar treatment.

The science behind the treatments is straightforward. Micro needling encourages the production of new collagen and elastin fibres whilst increasing the rate of skin cell turnover. In addition, the release of radio frequency energy heats the skin and stimulates the body’s natural healing response. The result for the client is a noticeable reduction in fine lines and more supple skin. HIFU also plays an important part by using a different method to stimulate collagen production. Ultrasound energy targets the deepest layer of the skin, and these deep tissues produce new collagen and effectively target a range of skin aging concerns.

Focus Dual is the treatment of choice for clients who want to see excellent results for skin rejuvenation and total revitalisation.

OBSERV 520x: Another cuttingedge innovation that is available in the Purejoy salon is the OBSERV 520x. This is a powerful skin consultation tool which is used to assess the client’s skin from the perspective of texture and topography. The key area

OBSERV 520x: Another cutting-edge innovation that is available

in the Purejoy salon is the OBSERV 520x. This is a powerful skin consultation tool which is used to assess the client’s skin from the perspective of texture and topography. The key area of focus for the OBSERV 520x is pigmentation and redness which so many Irish skin types suffer from. This scientific approach to skin care analysis ensures that the Purejoy team of skin specialists can examine what is happening in the various layers of the client’s skin and thereby allows them to recommend a personalised Treatment Plan which incorporates lifestyle, diet, supplements and of course skin care. The Purejoy team have the knowledge and the powerful treatment combinations to ensure that every person that comes through the door has sensational skin.

of focus for the OBSERV 520x is pigmentation and redness which so many Irish skin types suffer from. This scientific approach to skin care analysis ensures that the Purejoy team of skin specialists can examine what is happening in the various layers of the client’s skin and thereby allows them to recommend a personalised Treatment Plan which incorporates lifestyle, diet, supplements and of course skin care. The Purejoy team has the knowledge and the powerful treatment combinations to ensure that every person that comes through the door has sensational skin.

The Team: Joy has built up an amazing team around her. The Purejoy family consists of Hilary, the manager and skin care expert “par excellence” who has been with Purejoy for over 17 years. Hilary’s clients benefit from her mastery and expertise. Tamara is another skin specialist who brings a wealth of knowledge to the table, her skills are greatly requested by the Purejoy clientele. Likewise, therapists Aishling Molloy and Chloe Greally provide their clients with exceptional service and the best skin care practices. With Annabella at the front of house ensuring everyone gets the appointment they need, you know you are in good hands at Purejoy.

The Team: Joy has built up an amazing team around her. The Purejoy family consists of Hilary the manager and skin care expert “par excellence” who has been with Purejoy for over 17 years. Hilary’s clients benefit from her mastery and expertise. Tamara is another skin specialist who brings a wealth of knowledge to the table, her skills are greatly requested by the Purejoy clientele. With Megan front of house ensuring everyone gets the appointment they need you know you are in good hands at Purejoy.

Pure Joy have also recently added the HydrafacialMD machine to their treatments. To learn more or to book your skin consultation call Purejoy on 091 530540 or check out purejoybeauty.ie and all social media platforms.

To book your skin consultation call Purejoy on 091 530540 or check out https://purejoybeauty. ie and all social media platforms.

Joy Colleran has a lot to be excited about! As the driving force behind Galway’s Purejoy Beauty clinic she has seen a lot of changes in skincare technology over the past 23 years but the latest innovations are impressive to say the least.

Joy Colleran has a lot to be excited about! As the driving force behind Galway’s Purejoy Beauty clinic she has seen a lot of changes in skincare technology over the past 22 years but the latest innovations are impressive to say the least.

Joy in treatment room with Focus Dual

with Observ 520

Tamara, Joy and Hilary

P20 Sensitive Face SPF50, €30, available nationwide  An all-day broad-spectrum sun cream formulated to protect the face and neck from photoaging. It provides up to 10 hours of protection, water resistance and twice EU’s required UVA protection.

Here comes THE SUN

Neostrata Defend Sheer Physical Protection SPF 50, €39.95, neostrata.ie

This gently tinted, mattifying mineral sunscreen with SPF 50 is formulated with antioxidants and PHAs to protect and strengthen skin’s moisture barrier against environmental aggressors.

Skingredients Skin Shield Moisturising and Priming SPF 50 Pa+++, Primary €57, Refill €52, available nationwide

Providing protection against both UVB and UVA rays, as well as infrared, pollution and blue light emitted by screens, this SPF has a peachy universal tint, and does not leave a white cast often associated with mineral sunscreens.

Ole Henriksen Banana Bright Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30, €33.00, boots.ie  A 100% mineral sunscreen, with enhanced vitamin C and 16.3% zinc oxide, that protects skin against UVA and UVB rays, and corrects and prevents visible signs of sun damage, including dark spots, fine lines and wrinkles.

Skin Formulas Day Cream SPF 50 PA++++, €37, skinformulas. ie This luxurious, non-comedogenic daily moisturiser is infused with pure lavender essential oil which is instantly absorbed for a lightweight, satin-like finish.

IMAGE Skincare PREVENTION+ Sun Serum SPF 30 Tinted, €64, imageskincare.ie

This innovative serum contains 100% mineral UV filters in a hydrating serum texture for daily use that blends seamlessly into all skin tones for a light, glowing finish that can be worn on its own or beautifully under make-up as a primer.

RoC’s Anti Brown Spot Unifying Fluid, €21, available nationwide

Visibly and clinically proven to reduce brown spots and protect skins youthful appearance, this ultra-light fluid texture penetrates skin rapidly leaving no white residue.

Gone are the days of chalky, sticky sun protection on our face. These innovative, hardworking products help to nourish the skin while protecting it from harmful rays.