News
Killarney student wins Rotary Youth Leadership award
Mischa McCarthy, a fifth-year student at Killarney Community College, was one of 20 teenagers from across Ireland to receive a Rotary Youth Leadership Development certificate in Dublin.
The Rotary Ireland competition, which has been running for over 30 years, recognises young people with leadership potential based on their extracurricular activities.
Mischa and the other winners visited Belfast City Hall, Stormont, the European Parliament Offices in Dublin, and the European Parliament in Strasbourg.
They participated in a simulation of the European Parliament's work, debating and voting on EU actions to tackle disinformation.
Mischa is involved in music and dance, including the Light Opera Society of Tralee, her school choir, and the Tara Dore School of Dance. She also organised a concert for Belongto, an LGBTQ+ organisation.
Mischa said the trip helped her gain confidence and learn about global politics and the EU. She highlighted the visit to the European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg as a highlight.
“I believe the education system and the stress that many students experience due to the heavy workload is something that should be addressed. I feel that with the world modernising, the systems we have should also,: she said.
“I would highly recommend this trip to people that are interested in broadening their horizons and trying to figure out how they can use their voice for good. It was an incredible week, and I met people that I hope to keep in contact with for the rest of my life.”
Rotary Ireland District Governor Seamus Parle praised the students' passion for learning and their growth in confidence and communication skills.
FESTIVAL HIT: Local accordion virtuoso Liam O’Connor pictured performing alongside his family band members, daughter Saoirse on vocals and keyboards, and sons Oisín on guitar and Cillian on drums, during their high-energy set on the Salty Dog Stage at Electric Picnic in Stradbally last weekend. Photos: Paul Dargan
Camera Club exhibition opens at Killarney House
Killarney Camera Club’s 25th anniversary exhibition is open to the public at Killarney House until Sunday, October 4.
Mayor of Killarney Councillor John O’Donoghue officially opened the event, which features a wide range of work from local photographers capturing landscapes, people, and moments from home and abroad.
Speaking at the opening, Mayor O’Donoghue highlighted the rich natural surroundings available to local photographers. “We are so fortunate to live in such a beautiful part of the world, with dramatic mountains, lakes, rivers, forests, and a vibrant town centre, as well as beaches and open sea just a short distance away,” he said.
In a lighthearted admission, the Mayor admitted to storing hundreds of photos on his phone, adding that seeing the standard of work on display inspired him “to finally print some of my own photographs for posterity.”
The club was founded in 2001 as the Photographic Society of Killarney at the Park Place Hotel before adopting its current name in 2006. Founding member Seamus Long recalled starting with just eight members, contrasting it with today’s membership of over 30 photographers who meet at the ANAM Arts and Cultural Centre.
“There is nothing better than seeing your images in print, mounted and framed and hanging on a wall,” Mr Long said, referencing the club’s shift from traditional darkrooms to modern digital photography.
To mark the anniversary, the club has published a commemorative booklet featuring 25 select images from members past and present. The limited-edition booklet is available at Eason’s and directly from the club.
The exhibition runs daily at Killarney House until October 4. Admission is free and all are welcome.
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