Neighbours and friends from the Lissivigeen and District Community Alert area enjoyed a memorable day out in West Kerry recently, with a full coach travelling to Dingle for their annual outing.

The group set off on the morning of September 4, with organiser Christy Lehane describing it as “a great day that everyone had been eagerly waiting for.” The destination had been chosen months earlier, and the trip attracted many of the same regular travellers who had taken part in last year’s outing to Ballymaloe House.
“The skies looked dark when we boarded the bus,” said Mr Lehane, “but as soon as Inch Strand came into view, we knew the weather was on our side.”
The journey included a running commentary from former councillor Michael Gleeson, who acted as guide until the group reached Dingle, where they met local historian Tadhg Ó Coileáin. After a coffee stop in town, the first visit was to Páidí Ó Sé’s pub in Ventry, where the sunshine gave everyone the perfect chance to take photos beside the statue of the late football legend.
“Some people went inside to see the photos of all the famous visitors who called there over the years,” said Mr Lehane. “No one was in a rush, everyone just relaxed and soaked in the atmosphere.”
From there, the bus travelled on along the Slea Head Drive, where the group took in spectacular coastal views and listened to Tadhg’s stories about the history and folklore of the area. A visit to the Blasket Island Centre followed, where the group watched a documentary about the lives of the islanders.
Lunch was served at Ceann Sibéal Golf Club, where the group enjoyed a four-course meal. “The food and the service were first class,” Mr Lehane said. “Everyone agreed it was a great choice for our main stop.”
He added that the highlight of the day was their guide, Tadhg Ó Coileáin, whose deep knowledge and passion for the area made the trip truly special. “Tadhg filled our heads with stories of local history, the films shot around Dingle, and of course, the footballing legends from West Kerry,” he said.
On the way home, the group was treated to songs, stories, and accordion tunes from Paddy Hughes, rounding off what Mr Lehane described as “a most enjoyable and memorable day out for everyone involved.”

Emerging local actress Kyla Shine- Leane recently took part in an masterclass at West End House School of Arts, where participants were led by local Hollywood star Michael Fassbender.

Fassbender, who founded the Killarney-based acting school, returned home to share his wealth of experience from years on stage and screen, offering students an invaluable opportunity to learn from one of the film industry’s finest.

For Kyla, the experience proved both transformative and inspiring.

“Participating in a masterclass with Michael was truly a transformative and unforgettable experience,” Kyla said. “His approach to emotional truth and character analysis challenged me to look deeper through technique and connect with my deep instincts.

“There was a constant emphasis on presence and vulnerability which allowed us to reach deeper and actively listen to one another as he brought an honesty and intensity to each and every performance.

Kyla left the masterclass feeling more confident in her acting skills. She said: “As an actor, the most valuable lesson learned was watching his process — it was both humbling and inspiring, watching him push everyone in the room to their highest potential. I felt more confident to take risks, embrace my authenticity, and trust my instincts, not only in the craft but in life.”

Everyone at West End House is so grateful to have had this experience and, as always, it was an absolute pleasure to work with Michael.”