News
New book traces lesser-known history of the Reeks area
NEW BOOK: Tom 'Totty' O'Sullivan has written a book called 'Kerry Dreamtime Legends and Lore of the MaGillicuddy Reeks'. Photo: Michelle Crean
By Sean Moriarty
A Beaufort musician, historian and world traveller has written a new book on the legends and lore of the MacGillycuddy Reeks.
Tom ‘Totty’ O’Sullivan has self-published ‘Kerry Dreamtime Legends and Lore of the MaGillicuddy Reeks', a 300-page collection of stories, history and poetry from the foothills of Ireland’s highest mountain.
The official launch of the new book will take place next Thursday, December 12 at the Beaufort Bar at 8pm.
Originally from the Milltown/Castlemaine area, Tom currently lives in the townland of Alohart on the approach to Cronin’s Yard.
He previously ghost wrote a book for Milltown native Liam ‘The Bandon’ O’Shea entitled ‘Milltown and Back’ which told the story of O’Shea’s time living with Aborigines in the Australian Outback. He explained to the Killarney Advertiser how this was part inspiration for his new book.
“The Aborigines call their time travelling ‘their dream time’,” he said. “I was always interested in history, and I have done a lot of work with the Killorglin Archive. I have travelled extensively through Africa and India and have always been fascinated by the translation of place-names. Now that I am living in Alohart I realised there is a niche in the market covering this area.”
The book is full of fascinating titbits of knowledge of the area, like the reason why all the grottos in the area are facing west, that Ireland’s fastest river rises in Carrauntohil, or that ingredients for the local cure for baldness involves the preparation of the bladder of one the many wild mountain goats in the area.
“I have been told by people who have read the book that it is great for dipping in and out of, finding a random fact, and starting conversations based on that fact,” he added.
The book can be ordered directly from the author on 087 9807122 and proceeds will go towards the Beaufort Community Hall refurbishment project.
Green light for Torc Dinis walkway
Planning approval has been granted for a long-awaited lakeside walkway and cycleway connecting Torc and Dinis inside Killarney National Park.
An Coimisiún Pleanála confirmed permission for the elevated platform project, which will complete the popular scenic loop while removing a dangerous 800-metre section along the busy N71 Killarney to Kenmare road.
Walkers and cyclists currently have to navigate narrow bends alongside heavy vehicular traffic and tour buses to complete the circuit between the Dinis and Torc car parks.
Mayor of Killarney John O’Donoghue welcomed the decision, calling it a transformative development for the region: “Since beginning in the Council in 2021, this has been one of my priorities as an issue I inherited from my predecessor Michael Gleeson, he being the first person to initially pursue the idea. I have repeatedly kept it on the agenda at Council meetings and now delighted to see we finally have positive news as this decision, which has been long overdue and eagerly awaited, will prove transformative for the area.”
Mayor O’Donoghue added: “The path, which will be on the lakeside, will offer views to rival those anywhere in the world and I have no doubt will prove very popular with locals and visitors alike. Huge credit is due to Kerry County Council and the NPWS for their co-operation on the issue. Once the decision has passed through its statutory waiting period, the design and tender stage can begin.”
The project, which will be built on a raised platform to protect the natural habitat beneath, will also be fully accessible for people with mobility issues. Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce also welcomed the green light, noting that the completed loop will create a major safe attraction showcasing Muckross Lake, Dinis Cottage, and the Old Weir Bridge.
LAKESIDE PATH: An Coimisiún Pleanála has approved planning permission for a new raised walkway and cycleway connecting Torc and Dinis in Killarney National Park.
LOCAL GOLD: Terrie O’Shea, founder and owner of Killarney-based business Sorella Berries, celebrating her Gold award win at the Blas na hÉireann Irish Food Awards held in Dingle last week. Her hand-crafted chocolate covered strawberries secured the top spot in national competition, earning recognition for the local food producer on the national stage.
Green light for Torc to Dinis walkway
Green light for Torc Dinis walkway Planning approval has been granted for a long-awaited lakeside walkway and cycleway connecting Torc...
LOCAL GOLD:
LOCAL GOLD: Terrie O’Shea, founder and owner of Killarney-based business Sorella Berries, celebrating her Gold award win at the Blas...
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