Two distinct eras of Irish storytelling collided at Muckross School House last week, showcasing how traditional culture adapts across generations for National Heritage Week 2026.

Representing the classic lineage of Irish folklore, renowned local historian, musician, and seanchaí Dáithí Collopy delivered an authentic masterclass in old-school storytelling.

Performing alongside his children Sadhbh, Siún, and Daithí Óg, Collopy relied on the ancient oral tradition to captivate the audience through spoken word, presence, and music.

Contrastingly, social media creator Eoin Reardon brought traditional heritage into the modern digital age.

Known for sharing his traditional green woodworking craft with millions online, Reardon hosted a hands-on workshop demonstrating traditional utensil crafting techniques while engaging attendees through the lens of modern storytelling.

The events brought together two completely different methods of preserving Irish heritage—one rooted in the timeless art of the fireside seanchaí, the other leveraging modern platforms like TikTok to keep historic skills relevant for a global, digital audience.

Photos: Valerie O’Sullivan.

Young anglers land catches at Barfinnihy Lake

Nineteen young anglers took to the waters of Barfinnihy Lake on Friday evening, August 21, for the Killarney Salmon and Trout Angling Club’s annual juvenile competition.

Ideal conditions saw nearly every participant catch a fish on the night, supported by watching parents, grandparents, and experienced club members who provided tuition throughout the event.
The competition was run under the Inland Fisheries Ireland Sponsorship Programme 2026. Inland Fisheries Ireland sponsored permits for the evening and provided on-the-bank assistance through Assistant Fisheries Inspector Tim Moore, alongside colleagues Jose and Paul.
Every young participant received a goody bag aimed at fostering interest in aquatic species and environmental conservation.
“We are delighted with the ongoing support from Inland Fisheries through their support program,” said club secretary Mike Doody. “It allows the club to offer an evening’s fishing to local juveniles with tuition from experienced club anglers and knowledge from the Fisheries team.”
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