Hardy souls braved elements for Patrick's Day swim

Images: Noel Clare.

Ten hardy Kilcullen people braved the chill of the St Patrick's morning Liffey in the Spout Sponsored Swim to raise funds for the KCA Kilcullen Heritage Wall mural, writes Noel Clare. They were Patricia Byrne, Tony Gahan, Gary Mulhall, John Langan, Susan Langan, Eoin Houlihan, James Byrne, Gary O’Shaughnessy, Tomasz Gil, and Nicky Langan.

Well done to Patricia Byrne, who came up with the idea, and thanks to all who braved the elements and took to the Liffey this morning.

Thanks also to the Canoe Club for allowing us to use their wonderful facilities and to all who turned out to support the effort.

Donations can still be made to the fund through the QR Code below.

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The passing of Sheila Peacocke

The death has occurred of Sheila Peacocke, née Keenan, St Brigid's Avenue, Kilcullen, on 17 March 2026, peacefully in her 93rd year in the loving care of the staff at Curragh Lawns Nursing Home. 

Predeceased by her loving husband Hugh, brothers Tom and Kevin, sisters Molly, Patsy and Nancy, Sheila's passing is deeply regretted by her loving sons Hugh and Ger, daughters Katherine, Christine and Ann, brother Jim and sister Chris, sons-in-law, daughters-in-law, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, neighbours, relatives and friends.

Sheila will be reposing at her family home (R56 N634) on Thursday, 19 March from 4pm until 8pm with prayers at 7.30pm.

Removal from there will be on Friday, to The Church of the Sacred Heart and St Brigid, Kilcullen, arriving for the 11am funeral mass, which may be viewed on this link. This will be followed by burial in St Brigid's Cemetery. 

Family flowers only please. Donations, if desired, to the "Friends of Naas Hospital", for which purpose there will be a donation box in the church.

Rest in Peace.

The passing of Harry Conway

The death has occurred of Harry Conway, Brannockstown, Kilcullen, on 16 March 2026, suddenly at his residence. 

Beloved husband of the late Monica, Harry's passing is deeply regretted by his loving son Austin, daughter Sandra, daughter-in-law Angela, sisters Pauline and Bridie, grandchildren Lesley, Paul, Sarah, Austin, James and Cian, great granddaughter Hayley, extended family, neighbours, relatives and friends.

Funeral arrangements later.

Rest in Peace.

Kilcullen cyclists compete in Carrick-on-Suir

Dathai Killeen of Kilcullen Cycling Club came in third in today's race in Carrick-on-Suir, writes Liam Walker. Fergal Regan finished 5th, and Gavin Stapelton was 7th.

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New crochet class in Community Centre

Places are filling up fast for a special crochet workshop taking place in Kilcullen next month. The beginner-friendly session, which is also suitable for improvers, will run on 8 April from 7–9pm in the Carter Room at Kilcullen Community Centre. 

The workshop costs €25, with all tools and yarn included in the fee. The class will be led in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere, making it ideal for those picking up a hook for the first time or returning to the craft.

With limited spaces available, early booking is advised. To secure a place, contact Jennifer on 087 2628305 or visit Instagram at @costellocrochet_.

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Whist Drive on Thursday

This month's Kilcullen Lions Whist Drive is this Thursday, 19 March.

As usual, the venue is Scoil Bhride, with play starting at 8pm.

All whist players welcome.

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Happy St Patrick's Day

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Inspiring night remembered Noel Scullion and Liam O'Flynn

Images: Cllr Tracey O'Dwyer.

An emotional and inspiring night of remembrance and music took place in Kilcullen Town Hall last Saturday, writes Brian Byrne, as the community came together to honour the legacy of two much‑loved figures, the late artist Noel Scullion and legendary uilleann piper Liam O’Flynn.

Hosted by Kilcullen Community Action, the event celebrated the remarkable contributions of both men to the Dún Ailinne Interpretive Park, a space dedicated to preserving and sharing the heritage of Dún Ailinne. The evening was marked by a powerful sense of community, belonging, and pride in local history. Among those present were members of both families — Jack and Joe Scullion, Noel’s sister Catherine, and Liam's wife Jane.

Those in attendance reflected on how Scullion and O’Flynn helped bring the story of Dún Ailinne to life through art and music. Their work, it was noted, has left an enduring imprint on Kilcullen and continues to inspire both residents and visitors. 

Noel Scullion's remarkable sculpture forms a central feature of the Interpretive Park. His work has become a symbol of creativity, connection, and respect for heritage. Noel Clare spoke warmly of Noel’s generosity, his artistic courage, and the unique way he brought meaning to public spaces. A video was played of the installation of the sculpture back in 2008; it was an insight into the actual work involved in the piece, the accuracy, the weight, and the care.

Ray Kelly spoke of the master uilleann piper as one of Ireland’s most treasured musicians. "Liam’s influence continues to resonate both locally and nationally," he said. "His artistry, humility, and deep musical tradition have left a lasting imprint on Kilcullen." There were shared personal stories of Liam’s kindness, talent, and unwavering dedication to Irish music.

The musical highlight of the night was a performance by acclaimed All‑Ireland winning uilleann piper Colm Broderick from County Carlow, the current  TG4 Young Musician of the Year, who played on the very pipes once played by the late Liam O’Flynn. The two pieces, composed by O'Flynn for the dedication of the Interpretive Park in 2008, were Knockaulin and The March of the Clanns, commissioned from him by KCA and sponsored at the time by Sir Anthony and Lady O'Reilly of Castlemartin.

Joined by Niamh Dalton on concertina, Broderick’s playing filled the hall and was described as a fitting and moving tribute to O’Flynn’s memory. Art pieces created by Emmet Dalton, a former colleague and friend of Noel, and by local artist Kieran Behan, also a friend, were presented to the families of both men, and to the two main drivers of the project when it started back in 2002, Kieran Forde and Noel Clare.

Kilcullen Community Action was praised for organising what was widely regarded as a touching and fitting tribute to two great artists, ensuring that their legacy and heritage will continue to resonate in the community for years to come.

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Green St Patrick's Day light for Spout Swim

Conditions are looking good for tomorrow's Spout Sponsored Swim, writes Noel Clare. No flood is planned.

The event, in aid of funds for the KCA-sponsored Kilcullen Heritage Wall mural, is set to take place at 10.30am on St Patrick's Day.

Participants will enter the water at the Canoe Club.

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Successful Women's Day at Burke's Kilcullen

Alison Browne and Annmarie O’Neill. (Images: Burke's Pharmacy.)

Burke’s Pharmacy in Kilcullen hosted a hugely successful International Women’s Day event on Saturday, 7 March, celebrating women’s health, community, and connection, writes Brian Byrne. The pharmacy team welcomed local women for an afternoon of expert talks, pampering, and family-friendly activities, all centred on raising awareness of key health issues affecting women.

Lorna Keating, Advanced Nurse Practitioner in Preventive Cardiac Health at Naas Hospital, opened the event with a presentation on early warning signs of cardiac problems in women. She outlined the contributing risk factors and practical steps women can take to protect their heart health. Those present described her as an “amazing lady,” noting how fortunate the community is to have her expertise at their local hospital.

The focus then turned to the benefits of self-care, with Burke's team member Alison Browne delivering an engaging talk on the health benefits of yoga and meditation for women. Her contribution highlighted the role of mindfulness and movement in managing stress and supporting long-term wellbeing. 

The final talk was given by Annmarie O’Neill, founder of Thrombosis Ireland and a volunteer with the Irish Heart Foundation. She described how she navigated a thrombosis diagnosis at a time when little support was available, and how that experience motivated her to set up Thrombosis Ireland. Her presentation gave attendees a clear and informative insight into risk factors for blood clots in women and how to stay safe.

Throughout the day, the Burke’s Kilcullen team provided refreshments and goodie bags, creating a welcoming atmosphere where everyone felt valued. Local beauty professional Rachel Conlon provided free shellac nail treatments, while Jennifer Carey organised face-painting, balloons, and treats for children.

A raffle raised €300, which will be matched by Burke’s Group owner, Joan Kilgallon, with all proceeds going to the Irish Heart Foundation.

Staff members Alison Browne, Louise Connolly, Louise Carey, Amy Smyth, and Joanise Van Vuuren say the enthusiastic turnout and positive feedback show a clear appetite in the community for events that support women’s health, connection, and empowerment. They hope this will be the first of many similar gatherings.

Alison Browne, Louise Connolly, Louise Carey, Amy Smyth, and Joanise Van Vuuren.

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Name the new GAA pitches

An art competition has been launched to find a name for Kilcullen GAA's new pitches for 2026. The contest is timed to coincide with the return of the juvenile academy next Saturday.

Young members are invited to use the guide provided for inspiration and to note that the judges have a strong preference for names in the Irish language.

Entries should be submitted by email to pitchname.kgaa@gmail.com.

Kilcullen GAA Academy for boys and girls aged 5-12 returns 21 March, as also does the Nursery for boys and girls aged 3-4.

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Full house turnout for KCA Table Quiz

The winning team are presented with their prize by KCA chair Ann Cashman. (Photos: Noel Clare.)

A large crowd attended the KCA Table Quiz held in Fallon’s on Friday night, and the establishment had to press every available table and chair into service to accommodate the turnout.

Ray Kelly acted as quizmaster for the event, with questions set by Joe Kelly. Special thanks were extended to Sean and Patrick, along with all their staff at Fallon’s, for their support on the night and for providing finger food for participants.

Proceeds from the quiz will go towards the proposed mural near the mart. Work on the mural will begin once plastering on the building is completed and has had sufficient time to dry.

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