Newry Maritime Association: Annual report 2017

MAIN SPONSORS 2017

TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT 2017 FOR THE CHARITY COMMISSION OF NORTHERN IRELAND

NMA IS DEDICATED TO THE PRESERVATION AND PROMOTION OF THE HISTORY OF THE PORT OF NEWRY Charity Registration Number NIC 100431

CHAIRMANS FOREWORD I am very proud to take up the baton from Michael O Hare and succeed him as Chairman of Newry Maritime Association (NMA). This will be a stiff challenge and large boots to fill as Michael proved to a most capable leader of, and contributor to, our Association.

This year, as previous ones, has been very busy and we have covered many events involving a lot of time and effort to ensure seamless delivery. Once again we have engaged with a raft of groups from across the public, private and voluntary sectors.

As ever, all our activities are all inclusive and this is something that I am particularly proud of. There have been many memorable moments from our events in 2017 but I remember 2 events with particular pride.

Back in August we delivered our flagship project, the illumination of Haulbowline Lighthouse, and one which presents stiff logistical challenges. However with the help of the right people such as Sean, Peyton and Thomas Cunningham these challenges are surmountable. We also had invaluable help and support from Irish Lights, The Loughs Agency and Warrenpoint Harbour Authority and the illumination was an unqualified success.

October saw us host an International Forge In with 20 blacksmiths from across Ireland being joined by 8 colleagues from the UK for a weekend in Newry. As a blacksmith of over 60 years standing I felt humbled yet proud to preside over this unique gathering. Their combined efforts and skill sets saw them forge a unique piece, an ornamental gate with 7 maritime themed panels which will be given a local location next year.

Micky Mallon, Chairman NMA

Looking back across the year we again achieved a lot and i am looking forward to another fulfilling year in 2018.

Obituaries 2017 “may they rest in peace”

Sadly, this year we bade farewell to 4 members, good friends and mentors.

Maurice Collins, Jimmy Haffey John D.F. Fisher, Vincie Evans.

Maurice, Jimmy, John and Vincie all had a keen interest in local history and were great supporters of our Association.

Maurice was a cattle dealer like his father and his family exported livestock through the Port with the B&I Line. Born in Dominic Street Newry he had a clear understanding of the importance of the Port to the local community.

Jimmy, a retired school teacher, had close links to the Port. His grandfather, James Mc Shane, and 6 uncles were stevedores with Joseph Fisher and Sons and his father was a lorry driver with the firm.

Jimmy possessed an almost forensic knowledge of the workings of the Port.

John was the 4th generation of the family of coal and timber importers and ship owners. The Fisher family were the mainstay of the port for over a century and John had an intimate knowledge of all aspects of their commercial activities.

Vincie was an enthusiastic member of NMA and was also a stalwart of Camlough Brass and Reed Band, regular attenders at our events. His Grandfather, Bernard Golding, was among the 9 men lost when “SS Walnut” disappeared in the Irish Sea on 27th October 1941 whilst on a voyage from Birkenhead to Newry.Vincie presented us with a model of “SS Walnut” in 2015.

Looking back, Going forward.

This year has been highly successful for NMA and we have delivered an extensive portfolio of projects.

Undoubtedly, the illumination of Haulbowline Lighthouse again this year was our outstanding flagship project. There was an added poignancy this year as we remembered the crew of the stricken helicopter,R116, lost off the coast of Mayo in March this year.

We were honoured and privileged to fulfill the request from HM Coastguard to dedicate the event to the heroic crew who had done so much good work across our district.

Attaining Blue Plaque recognition for our legendary Town Surveyor, Charles Blaney CE MBE, brought a 5 year tranche of work to a fitting conclusion. Back in 2012 I began the process of nominating Max Blaney, a hero from WW2 and George Cross holder, for similar recognition. His plaque waas unveiled on 7th December 2013 along with one for Seaman Raymond Kelly. Raymond too was awarded a posthumous George Cross and LLoyds Gallantry Medal for heroism when he sacrificed his life rescuing crew from a stricken ship in the Bay of Biscay in 1947.

Slowly but definitively we are establishing a maritime footprint across Newry and around Carlingford Lough. We are involved in the plans to develop the Albert Basin for the people of Newry and will be strong advocates of a Maritime Heritage Centre to be included in the plans.

NMA have been involved in the development of the Greenway from Albert Basin to Victoria Lock since 2012 and are pleased that this unique amenity will open to the public in February 2018.The Council Rights of Way Officer, Catherine Murphy has played a key role in the progression of this project and is deserving of our thanks and appreciation.

Next year will also see the opening of a forest trail through Fathom Wood to the Flagstaff. Planning permission for a road crossing at Victoria Lock took over 2 years before approval was granted. NMA have worked with the Ring of Gullion Landscape Partnership to deliver this project and Abby Mc Sherry, Project Officer has worked tirelessly to bring it to fruition.

New story boards will also be installed at Victoria Lock and hopefully a Biodiversity garden will be created also.

These major Capital Projects will be complimented by a programme of NMA events and we will continue to preserve and promote the history of the Port of Newry. I am proud of our diversity and our inclusivity across the spectrum of our programme. We are a niche group in Newry, Mourne and Down and our record of delivery is unrivalled in the community and voluntary sector across the district.

Yes 2017 has been a very successful year for NMA and 2018 has the potential to be even better. Our projects demand a lot of time and effort to implement but delivery is always very satisfying and makes it all worth while. Our Maritime Heritage is what sets us apart from others and we will continue to showcase it in the best possible way.

James Mc Arevey, Research and PR.

Thank you to Michael Mc Caul Signs who very generously donated our new promotional sign at the Albert Basin.

January 2017

During the month of January a lot of preparatory work is done in connection with our programme of events for the year ahead. Permissions have to be sought from various bodies and we have to ensure we are fully compliant with their terms and conditions. We also begin the process of recruiting our corporate members, 38 in 2017, whose fees provide us with our core revenue stream.

fRIDAY 3RD February 2017

This was a busy day and we had three calls in Derry, Limavady and Martinstown Co.Antrim.

Our first stop was with the Loughs Agency in Derry to discuss our “lighthouse project� with Andy Sides, their Development Officer.

We then visited Jonny McShane in LCDL Limavady, to discuss our small grant application.

We travelled on to Martinstown, County Antrim to visit Eamon Higgins at Hot Milk Forge and himself and Micky Mallon shot the breeze. A very productive and enjoyable day.

SATURDAY 25TH February 2017

We will remember February for all the wrong reasons. Mindless people were responsible for serious vandalism in Fisher Park. In a senseless and unjustified act of anti social behaviour they smashed the lights which we installed last year to illuminate our Port mural.

Our Association was left to rectify the damage.......... and pay the bill !!!!

March 2017

Meetings and on going dialogue continued with various parties regarding the “Flagstaff Fiesta� and organising an outing for the Camlough Brass and Reed Band as a token of appreciation for their help and support.

The Band also participated with us in the annual St. Patricks Day Parade.

April 2017 At our AGM Mickey Mallon was elected Chairman in place of Michael O Hare who had completed his 3 year term. Permission to Illuminate Haulbowline Lighthouse was obtained from Irish Lights

Saturday 8th April 2017.

Unveiling of Gas Lamp at junction of Mary St, / Dublin Bridge.

We wish to thank JR Lighting for generously donating the lamp and Mc Caul Signs who gold leafed the base and donated the plaque which was unveiled by Michael Mc Caul (snr)

Saturday 29th April 2017.

Excursion to Carrickfergus for Camlough Band.

We were joined by local councillors and members of the congregation of St. Patricks COI Newry and all enjoyed a great day.

Abbydene House, Carrickfergus

Micky and Tom McCabe

Eamon, Maura and Seamie

Valerie, Geanie and Maura

Maud and Micky

Tim and Ethy Clifford

Dr David Hume and Tom McCabe

Friday 12th May. We attended the unveiling of a Blue Plaque for Patrick O Connell in Belfast as guests of the Ulster History Circle. Patrick is accredited as the man who saved FC Barcelona from extinction in the 1940s.

Friday 12th May 2017

We went to Ligoniel to visit the site where the sculpture known as the “Tear Drop� is located.

This piece was commissioned by the Arts Council of NI and created by Local Blacksmith, Gerard Loughran, from Ballinliss Forge. This work bears testimony to Gerards skillsets.

Monday 12th June 2017.

Murals at Cloughogue

We unveiled 3 large murals at Cloughogue Roundabout as part of our ongoing heritage project and environmental improvement scheme in association with Country Carpets. The MD of the firm, Colin Toner, has signed a 5 year maintenance contract with Transport NI and keeps this key approach to Newry in pristine condition. 5 anchors were also put in place which were donated by Warrenpoint Harbour Authority and Sean Cunningham.

WHA and Country Carpets are corporate members of our Association.

Tuesday 20th June 2017.

Visit of dr david hume We hosted a research visit from Dr David Hume of the Broadisland Gathering to St. Patricks COI and Meeting House Green Newry.

Dr Hume was particularly interested in the architect William Barre and patriot, John Mitchel.

The Grave of William Barre

Friday 28th July 2017.

We held a press launch for our illumination of the lighthouse in Chestnutts Caravan Park Cranfield which was attended by branches of the SAR family, relatives of the crew of R116 and elected representatives.

Sunday 30th July.

We hosted the “Flagstaff Fiesta” to launch the Lunasa festival in South Armagh in association with Ring of Gullion Landscape Partnership. A fun filled family day featured, Evans Leisure Mini Funfair, Blackberry Farm, The Magnus Vikings and music from Tom O Rourke and Camlough Band. “Q” Radio personality, Kevin Mc Allister, was MC on the day. We wish to thank Surefreight who provided a lorry for use as a stage.

Friday 11th August, 2017

We launched the illumination of Haulbowline Lighthouse in memory of the crew of R116. This year the lights were powered by a new bespoke generator designed by Michael O Hare and the event, held over 21 days, was a complete success. Music was provided by Tom O’Rourke and Citywest Transport donated a lorry as stage. All feedback has been very positive and we eclipsed our inaugural success of last year.

Friday 25th August 2017.

Fr Damien Quigley

Pastor John Purcell

Rev Lorna Dreaning

We held a cross community prayer service in Cranfield for the crew of R116. Once again, Jim Convery of Citywest Transport donated a lorry for use as a stage and the Camlough Band played appropriate hymns.

Saturday 2nd September 2017.

We were pleased to attend the Broadisland Gathering in Ballycarry Co Antrim, an Ulster Scots event. Along with Camlough Band and members of St. Patricks COI congregation we were guests of Dr David Hume. This was an excellent template for furthering cross community relations and networking on a sunny Saturday in September.

Saturday 23rd September 2017.

We held our annual service in the Paupers Graveyard Newry in association with Carnagat CA. Our local curate, Fr Damien Quigley, attended with Pastor John Purcell and the Community Association hosted post event hospitality afterwards.

Saturday 30th September 2017.

NMA were guests of the Irish Government at the National Famine Commemoration in Ballingarry, Co.Tipperary and met the Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar TD. A highlight for Bolton based NMA member, Joe Mc Arevey, was getting to play the ÂŁ50,000 Yamaha grand piano on stage.

Saturday 7th and Sunday 8th October 2017.

NMA were very pleased to welcome the blacksmiths from I.A.B.A and 8 of their colleagues from the UK to the Supervalu site at Dublin Road Newry for an international Forge In. Our Chairman, Mickey Mallon, is also a member of I.A.B.A and so too is Gerard Loughran from Ballinliss Forge.

On Sunday evening the blacksmiths had completed a beautiful ornamental gate with a maritime theme which we hope to site around the Albert Basin next year.

The event created a lot of interest with the general public and was very well supported.

Sunday 15th October 2017.

We were guests of Irish Lights at their headquarters in Dun Laoghaire. Michael O Hare and James Mc Arevey made presentations to the CEO,Yvonne Shields and the Director of Engineering Operations, Brian Kelly. Our party was then given a guided tour of the state of the art building which was most informative and enjoyable.

Sunday 22nd October 2017

Along with a local historian, John Mc Cabe, NMA were involved in the refurbishment of a memorial cross from the grave of a blind pilgrim in Massforth Cemetery outside Kilkeel.

Dan travelled across the Lough regularly on the ferry from Greencastle to Greenore. This service was restored earlier this year after a gap of 95 years.

Dan Mc Auley died in Kilkeel workhouse in 1909 and the local SVP placed the cross on his grave in 1977. The cross was in a poor state of repair and Mickey Mallon restored the steelwork and Michael Mc Caul (snr) gold leafed the details back on the artefact. Both men gave freely of their time and effort. Following Mass, Fr Dillon PP, conducted a service of rededication and blessing at the graveside.

Friday 27th October 2017.

Blue Plaque Unveiling.

NMA were delighted to welcome the Ulster History Circle to Newry for the unveiling of this prestigious plaque for the veteran Town Surveyor of Newry, Charles Blaney. Mr Blaney was in post for an incredible 57 years and left a legacy in Newry that will never be eclipsed.

Back in December 2013 we secured similar recognition for his son Max, holder of the George Cross. This is the first time in the 38 year history of the Ulster History Circle that a Father and Son have been so honoured, something we are very proud of. We wish to thank the Blaney Family for their generous sponsorship of our event.

Monday 6th November 2017.

Ahead of another local historical project with John Mc Cabe, this time in St. Patricks COI, we are in dialogue with the Select Vestry. Our proposal is to refurbish the grave of a soldier, Captain Mac Kinlay, from Newry Military Barracks who was involved in a marine tragedy over a century ago.

Mr Mickey Keenan from Modern Fireplaces and Monumental Works is very generously sponsoring the work on the grave in a project that further galvanises our strong bond with the congregation of St. Patricks.

Wednesday 8th November 2017.

Mr Michael Blaney very generously donated an oil painting of his grandfather, Charles, to NMA and also undertook to sponsor its refurbishment.

Michael Mc Caul (snr) is currently engaged in this specialist task and we have applied to the local Council to have the portrait hung in the Town Hall upon completion.

Michael Mc Caul Signs have also donated our new sign at the Albert Basin

Saturday 11th November 2017.

We travelled to Down County Museum in Downpatrick to present a pike to Michael Mc Ardle to assist his 1798 rebellion re enactments. The 7ft pikestaff was forged in the fire by our entrepreneurial Chairman, Mickey Mallon.

Sunday 12th November 2017 remembrance sunday

Our weekend of diversity continued on Remembrance Sunday in London. Our member, Helena Carr, who lives in Hampshire laid a “Fisher Flag” wreath at the Cenotaph in Whitehall as part of the Merchant Navy tribute and in remembrance of all our Newry seamen. Helena’s father was a life long seaman and her Uncle, Jimmy Carr, was lost on “SS Walnut on 27th October 1941. NMA wish to acknowledge the generous sponsorship of the wreath by Mrs Susan Fisher and the Fisher family.

Thursday 16th November 2017.

NMA are long standing supporters of the campaign to have a 15 acre park and additional facilities developed at the Albert Basin. Following a protracted battle, common sense and logic prevailed and the motion for the development was passed unanimously at the SP&R Committee meeting of the Council on the 16th October 2017. We look forward to contributing to the development of this scheme as it is rolled out.

Sunday 19th November 2017.

NMA were invited to the launch of a currach which was built by an Irish Language group in Omeath, Co. Louth. There were other currach groups present from Warrenpoint and the Boyne Valley.

This was a good exercise in cross border activity and capacity building. NMA hosted hospitality in the Granvue Hotel afterwards and the currach fraternity contributed to a traditional music session which ended a very successful afternoon spent building new relationships.

OUR CORPORATE MEMBERS 2017 AJ PLUMBING SUPPLIES. DAN O HARE COMMERCIALS. COUNTRY CARPETS. MJM GROUP. MORGAN FUELS. NEW CENTURY PRINTERS. MICHAEL MC CAUL SIGNS. “Q” RADIO. CANAL COURT HOTEL. CRILLY SWEETS. AUTOLINE INSURANCE GROUP. TIERNANS SOLICITORS. RE-GEN. F MC PARLAND DEMOLITION. NEWRY,MOURNE AND DOWN DISTRICT COUNCIL. WARRENPOINT HARBOUR AUTHORITY. DESTINATION NEWRY. C.R.A.S.H SERVICES. NOMADIC CARAVANS. CHARLES DIGNEY & SONS. BMC FREIGHT. FELIX O HARE & CO. PHELAN & PRESCOTT. MALLONS HARDWARE. FLAGSTAFF LODGE. SUREFREIGHT. MC SHANE SOLICITORS. MC VEIGH PROPERTY SALES. MODERN FIREPLACE & MONUMENTAL CO. THE BANK BAR. BOYDS STORES. PAT O HARE BOOKMAKERS. SAICA PACK. ROONEY INTERNATIONAL COACH HIRE. NW KEHOE & SONS. COURTNEYS RESTAURANTS. WARDS ROCKMOUNT. INDEPENDENT CLUB