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High tech interpretive centre officially unveiled

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A stunning new exhibition aimed at educating visitors on every aspect of the town and its world-famous park has been officially unveiled at the iconic Killarney House.

The new interpretative centre, Gateway to Killarney National Park, is a must-see for locals and tourists alike and offers a wonderfully immersive insight into all things Killarney. The history, the great people who lived here and our park’s unique eco-system, it’s all covered in this spectacular, high tech attraction, which is located on the upper floor of the house. Trust us: it really has to be seen to be believed.

The official opening was attended by a number of notable guests, including cousins of John and Mary McShain and the Viscount de Vesci, Tom DeVessey, who is a nephew of the last Earls of Kenmare.

Speaking at the ceremony, General Manager of Killarney House and Gardens Pat Dawson paid tribute to the work of former Park Superintendent Dan Kelleher.

“Dan was able to reassure the McShains that the State would take care of the property that they wanted to be in public ownership – including Ross Castle, Innisfallen Island, the lakes and this property here at Killarney House and Gardens,” Mr Dawson said.

“Without Dan’s professional and reassuring advice to the McShains, who knows what might have transpired and we might all be on the outside of the Golden Gates looking in instead of being here to enjoy and appreciate the gift that the McShains have given us.”

He also thanked former minister Jimmy Deenihan for the role he played in redeveloping the previously disused Killarney House.

“At a difficult time for our country, (Jimmy Deenihan) ring-fenced the necessary funding, with the support of the then Minister for Tourism and now our Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar, to allow for the commencement and completion of a €10million restoration and refurbishment programme at Killarney House and Gardens.”

Sr Pauline McShain, John and Mary McShain’s only child, was unable to attend but she passed on a message from her home in the USA.

“With much joy and deep appreciation, I am writing this today to celebrate the long-awaited opening of Killarney House. This house holds great meaning to our family. Many years ago, my parents chose to spend the remainder of their lives here in this town enchanted by the natural beaut of Ireland, and the delightful spirit and humour of its people.

“My father, John McShain, a dedicated and often overworked contractor, came to Killarney to relax and fins solace among the mountains and lakes. This haven, however, became more than a break from his busy life. The people of Killarney opened their doors to my parents, and they soon found a home filled with friends and family thousands of miles from America.

“I wish I could be there today to see the transformation of our family home, but we are all there in spirit.”

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HeartBeat to host Advanced Healthcare Directive information night

Anne O’Shea Clarke, Regional Manager of SAGE Advocacy Mid & South West Regions, will provide a comprehensive explanation of the process involved in properly creating an Advanced Healthcare Directive (AHD) […]

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Anne O’Shea Clarke, Regional Manager of SAGE Advocacy Mid & South West Regions, will provide a comprehensive explanation of the process involved in properly creating an Advanced Healthcare Directive (AHD) on Tuesday, April 29, starting at 8pm in the Parish Centre, Park Road.

An ADH is a document which sets out your instructions in relation to healthcare treatments in the future, when you no longer have the capacity to decide. AHDs are not solely relevant to older individuals. Young adults can also significantly benefit from putting these directives in place for themselves or when assisting loved ones. Attendees will gain valuable ‘Knowledge is Power; regarding legal and personal matters
The meeting will specifically look at two key application forms: the standard AHD Form and the Think Ahead / my form.
Prior to the main meeting, a Blood Pressure. and Pulse Clinic will be available from 7:15pm until 8:00pm sharp. Following O’Shea Clarke’s presentation, there will be a Question & Answer session, followed by tea and coffee.
SAGE Advocacy, the national service for older people, works to ensure access to information, support, and independent advocacy, while also providing safeguarding services across various settings, including homes, day centres, hospitals, and nursing homes.
They also support vulnerable adults and healthcare patients in situations where other services may not be available.
For further information, email anne.osheaclarke@sageadvocacy.ie or visit www.sageadvocacy.ie.

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Singer-songwriter Lillie Foley releases second single

Local singer-songwriter Lillie Foley, from Whitebridge Manor, has released her second single of 2025, titled ‘That’s Life’, on all major streaming platforms. ‘That’s Life’ is described as a powerful blend […]

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Local singer-songwriter Lillie Foley, from Whitebridge Manor, has released her second single of 2025, titled ‘That’s Life’, on all major streaming platforms.

‘That’s Life’ is described as a powerful blend of pop and soul music, drawing on Foley’s own life experiences. The track marks a further step in the promising career of the emerging local artist.
Recorded at the renowned Windmill Lane Recording Studios in Dublin, ‘That’s Life’ showcases Foley’s emotive lyrics, soulful vocals, and a sound that is both modern and deeply personal. Collaborating with music producer and audio engineer Hermann Ogulla, Foley has crafted a song that blends her Irish background with contemporary musical styles, aiming to resonate with listeners in Ireland,and beyond.
Foley said: “This is a song about resilience and accepting that bad things happen in life and we just have to get on with it and move on as best we can.”
‘That’s Life’ is the second of several songs Foley has planned for release in 2025.

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