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New book traces lesser-known history of the Reeks area

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NEW BOOK: Tom 'Totty' O'Sullivan has written a book called 'Kerry Dreamtime Legends and Lore of the MaGillicuddy Reeks'. Photo: Michelle Crean

 

By Sean Moriarty

 

A Beaufort musician, historian and world traveller has written a new book on the legends and lore of the MacGillycuddy Reeks.

Tom ‘Totty’ O’Sullivan has self-published ‘Kerry Dreamtime Legends and Lore of the MaGillicuddy Reeks', a 300-page collection of stories, history and poetry from the foothills of Ireland’s highest mountain.

The official launch of the new book will take place next Thursday, December 12 at the Beaufort Bar at 8pm.

Originally from the Milltown/Castlemaine area, Tom currently lives in the townland of Alohart on the approach to Cronin’s Yard.

He previously ghost wrote a book for Milltown native Liam ‘The Bandon’ O’Shea entitled ‘Milltown and Back’ which told the story of O’Shea’s time living with Aborigines in the Australian Outback. He explained to the Killarney Advertiser how this was part inspiration for his new book.

“The Aborigines call their time travelling ‘their dream time’,” he said. “I was always interested in history, and I have done a lot of work with the Killorglin Archive. I have travelled extensively through Africa and India and have always been fascinated by the translation of place-names. Now that I am living in Alohart I realised there is a niche in the market covering this area.”

The book is full of fascinating titbits of knowledge of the area, like the reason why all the grottos in the area are facing west, that Ireland’s fastest river rises in Carrauntohil, or that ingredients for the local cure for baldness involves the preparation of the bladder of one the many wild mountain goats in the area.

“I have been told by people who have read the book that it is great for dipping in and out of, finding a random fact, and starting conversations based on that fact,” he added.

The book can be ordered directly from the author on 087 9807122 and proceeds will go towards the Beaufort Community Hall refurbishment project.

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Gary Moynihan wins racecourse style title

Style reigned supreme at Killarney Racecourse as local resident Gary Moynihan and Offaly’s Sylwia Novak captured the top honours at the Canella Lane Best Dressed Day. Moynihan, a local neuromuscular […]

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Style reigned supreme at Killarney Racecourse as local resident Gary Moynihan and Offaly’s Sylwia Novak captured the top honours at the Canella Lane Best Dressed Day.

Moynihan, a local neuromuscular therapist, claimed Best Dressed Gentleman in a made-to-measure six-button burgundy double-breasted suit with a navy check from Saville Menswear in Cork. He completed the winning look with a shirt and paisley tie from Simply Suits Killarney and brown derby shoes from Pavers at the Killarney Outlet Centre.
Best Dressed Lady was awarded to Novak, a hospital personal assistant from Tullamore, who wore a red polka-dot ensemble and custom hat designed by milliner Rita Daly, featuring sustainable jewellery made from recycled plastic.
Canella Lane owner Ciana Aspell praised the high standard of fashion on the day, while Killarney Racecourse Manager Karl McCay thanked the sponsors and racegoers for their support.
With the summer season now wrapped up, the team at Killarney Racecourse is gearing up for the October Festival on October 4 and 5, featuring its first-ever Student Raceday with SPIN South West on the Monday. Early ticket booking is advised.

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Gleneagle Concert Band opens recruitment drive for new members

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The Gleneagle Concert Band is inviting new members of all ages to join the ensemble as it prepares for its new season starting this September.



Open to children, young people, and adults from Killarney and surrounding areas, the band offers specialist instrumental tuition starting from age nine. Beginners can take lessons in clarinet, flute, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, French horn, euphonium, tuba, percussion, and drums before progressing into the main band.

No previous experience is required for adults or children. The band also welcomes adults who already play an instrument or wish to return to music after a break.

“What makes Gleneagle special is that our musicians don’t just rehearse in a room and play the occasional concert,” said Music Development Officer Vincent Condon. “They perform at major events, festivals and community occasions, take part in film productions, travel internationally and, importantly, have fun together as a band. The band is open to everyone. We welcome young people who want to learn an instrument, as well as adults who have previous musical experience and would like to return to playing.”

For information on registration and lessons, contact 087 222 9513 or visit the band’s social media pages.

Busy summer of events


The Gleneagle Concert Band has concluded a busy 12 months featuring public performances, festival appearances, and charity work.

Highlights included the annual summer street concerts in Killarney town, along with performances at Puck Fair, the Rose of Tralee, and the Summer in Killarney Festival. Band members were also involved in the filming of Jimmy, an upcoming Hollywood biographical drama based on actor Jimmy Stewart.

Community fundraising remained a focus over the past year, with the band supporting local causes including the Kerry Stars Special Olympics Sports Club and Recovery Haven Kerry Cancer Support House alongside a sold-out Annual Concert.

Following a tour to Seville in 2025, the band has confirmed its next overseas trip to Bilbao and San Sebastián in northern Spain, scheduled for August 2027.

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