Killarney-born actress Jessie Buckley has made history by becoming the first Irish woman to win the Academy Award for Best Actress.

The 36-year-old secured the honour for her performance as Agnes Hathaway in Hamnet, the film adaptation of Maggie O’Farrell’s celebrated novel directed by Chloe Zhao.

Buckley was visibly emotional as her name was announced, breaking into tears before taking the stage. In her acceptance speech, she dedicated the win to the “beautiful chaos of a mother’s heart,” a nod to the film’s exploration of a couple navigating the profound grief of losing their son.

Beyond thanking her team, she paid tribute to the women who “create against all odds,” stating: “Thank you to the incredible women that I stand beside. I am inspired by your art and your heart.”

The win has sparked celebrations across her home county. Norma Foley TD said: “What a night in Hollywood! Congratulations to our leading lady Jessie Buckley—the first Irish woman to win an Oscar for Best Actress. A phenomenal achievement by a phenomenal woman. Proud of you Jessie. Ciarraí Abú!”

Local councillor Maura Healy-Rae added: “It’s a massive achievement and we are all very proud of her. We really appreciate the exposure she has given to Killarney, Kerry and Ireland all over the world.”

The actress’s roots in the town’s arts scene remain a point of pride. Her mother, Marina, is a well-known singer and harpist, and Jessie was a dedicated member of the Killarney Musical Society. Former Mayor of Killarney and long-time society member Marie Moloney described the local atmosphere as “electric.”

“She came to us in the year 2000 and she was in the children’s chorus in Joseph and His Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat,” Moloney said. “She came again in 2008 at 17 years of age and auditioned and got the lead role in Carousel as Julie Jordan.” That performance earned Buckley a best actress award at the AIMS amateur music awards, foreshadowing her future success.

President Catherine Connolly also congratulated the star, calling the win “an historic moment.” The President said: “This achievement is a thoroughly deserved testament not only to Jessie’s outstanding performance in Hamnet, but to her performances both in film and on stage across her career to date.”

The Killarney Valley Classic and Vintage Club is putting the finishing touches on its latest project, a full-scale recreation of the iconic “Mystery Machine” from the Scooby-Doo franchise.

The van is set to make its highly anticipated public debut at the Killarney St. Patrick’s Day parade this Tuesday.

The project involved a complete restoration of a Toyota LiteAce van, which was transformed into the world-famous cartoon vehicle.

The club received significant support from Kellihers Toyota, who assisted in sourcing the necessary parts to get the vintage Japanese van back on the road.

The Mystery Machine first appeared on television in 1969 in the animated series Scooby-Doo, Where Are You! and quickly became one of the most recognisable vehicles in pop culture. Known for its distinct psychedelic bright blue and green paintwork with orange flower decals, the original design was inspired by 1960s panel vans.

Members of the Killarney Valley Classic and Vintage Club have spent months ensuring the replica is as faithful to the Hanna-Barbera original as possible.

The club is well known for its creative restoration projects, and this latest build is expected to be a major highlight for children and families lining the parade route.