Kilcullen Diary: Community Awards a thanksgiving for the 'Spirit of Kilcullen'

A very appropriate Thanksgiving decorative theme was provided for the Kilcullen Community Awards held in Kilcullen Town Hall last evening, writes Brian Byrne. That was due to the work of a group of CPC Transition Year students under the direction of Georga Dowling of the Food School TY module. Seasonal decorations were provided by Kildare Farm Foods.

The TY group who created the theme for the evening with Georga Dowling and TY Coordinator Glenda Groome.

With refreshments beforehand in the adjoining Heritage Centre, the full-house audience was in appropriate good humour as Kilcullen Community Action's Eoin Houlihan set things in motion. A total of 12 awards were presented, selected from public nominations.

Eoin Houlihan of KCA, MC for the evening.

Thanking the TY group for 'incredible work' over the previous days, Eoin said it was wonderful to see the young people having such a central role in the community event. He then reminded those present of the 'remarkable' contribution by Tidy Towns volunteers who work tirelessly with litter picks, weeding, and various cleanups, "ensuring that every corner of our community shines." He also expressed appreciation to Kildare County Council for grant-aiding many valuable projects, to public representatives — especially Cllr Tracey O'Dwyer whose work has made meaningful differences to the community — and to local businesses for their 'invaluable' generosity and involvement in supporting KCA's work.

Julie O'Donoghue (centre), Kilcullen Library, with Ilona Brede and Martin Sheridan of the Community Garden team.

The award for the Best Community-Driven Public Space was presented to the Kilcullen Community Library Garden team. Created by KCA in partnership with KCC Library Services, the citation noted that the project has created a vibrant space that brings community members together, fostering a spirit of environmental stewardship and social connection for people of all ages.

Residents of Hermitage Park with the trophy and TY students Sean Hoey and Rose Hayes (back) who helped with the presentations.

Hermitage Park was awarded Best Wildlife-Friendly Estate for exceptional commitment to fostering a natural sanctuary for local wildlife. The citation highlighted how residents have created diverse habitats, from wildflower meadows to birdhouses and insect hotels, making the estate a safe and welcoming space for various species.

Lavina Walsh and Kamila Saternus accepting the award for Cnoc Na Greine Estate from KCA's Derek Hoey.

The Cnoc na Gréine Housing Estate won the award for Best Biodiversity Impact in recognition of outstanding efforts to create a thriving ecosystem within their community. Initiatives include pollinator-friendly planting, bird habitats, and native species landscaping, transforming communal spaces into rich havens for local wildlife, making the estate a model for community-driven ecological impact.

Enda O'Neill and Cathy Phelan accept the award from KCA's Tony O'Sullivan.

The facility's 'invaluable' role as a central hub that brings the community together won the Best Business Award for Kilcullen Community Centre. Through diverse programmes, events, and services, the Centre actively supports local groups, facilitates activities for all age groups, and provides a welcoming, accessible space that fosters connection and well-being.

Jack Courtney accepting the award from KCA's Ilona Brede.

Two Excellence in Sports awards were given — the first to young Kilcullen darts star Jack Courtney, who brought home a silver medal after Team Ireland reached the World Junior Darts Championship Cup Final in December 2023. Jack’s skill, focus, and dedication have shone on the international stage, inspiring young athletes in Kilcullen and beyond.

Ian Dillon accepting the award from KCA's Ray Kelly.

The second Excellence in Sports award went to Ian Dillon of Kilcullen Pitch & Putt Club, presented for his dedication and skill in helping the Ireland team win the recent World Pitch and Putt Championship.

Vaneska Mojzesova accepting her award from KCA's Martin Sheridan, with her coach Elma Darcy.

Two Youth Awards were presented during the evening, the first to Vaneska Mojzesova, a dedicated gymnast since the age of 7. In June on this year, she put Kilcullen on the map by winning first place in Lyrical Dance and third place in Acro Dance in international competition. The citation read that for the past three years, Vaneska has demonstrated leadership by guiding and coaching younger gymnasts during classes, performances, and competitions and is a role model to all girls.

Amy Barker accepting her award from KCA's Sorcha McCoy.

Amy Barker also won a Youth Award for establishing a running club in Kilcullen, open to individuals of all fitness levels. Her passion for fitness and commitment to inclusivity have made a significant impact on the community, inspiring many to embrace an active lifestyle.

Sarah Gillespie and Katy Palmeiri accepting their award from TY student Sean Hoey.

The Thornton Lace Mosaic Project was awarded one of two Best Community Arts awards in recognition of an 'innovative and meaningful initiative' which pays tribute to the legacy of Thornton Crochet Lace and the local women who contributed to its production in the 19th century. Led by Sarah Gillespie of the Camphill community, in collaboration with mosaic artist Katy Palmieri, this project reflects a significant aspect of Kilcullen’s history.

KCA's Antoinette Buckley presents Teresa Nurse and her Kilcullen Bridge Cinema team of Lions with their award.

The second Community Arts Award was given to the Kilcullen Lions Club’s Kilcullen Bridge Cinema initiative, with Teresa Nurse as the driving force behind the project to reintroduce cinema to Kilcullen. Her vision and dedication to improving the cinema reflects her commitment to enriching community life in Kilcullen and her Lions Club team have revitalised community engagement with cinema

Tess Lambe receives her award from her former science teacher in CPC, Noel Clare.

The first of two Special Awards was given to Nicholastown native and former CPC student Professor Teresa 'Tess' Lambe in recognition of her outstanding contributions to science and public health, notably in her co-designing of the Oxford–AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine. As a dedicated scientist at the Oxford Vaccine Group, she played a pivotal role in the fight against the pandemic, demonstrating exceptional innovation and leadership in vaccine development that is estimated to have saved more than 6 million lives globally. Her achievements serve as an inspiration to aspiring scientists and to the wider community, highlighting the importance of research and collaboration in addressing pressing health challenges.

Mick Spencer, Renate Mataje, and Abby Phelan receiving their award from KCA's Sorcha McCoy.

The second Special Award went to Mick Spencer, Renate Mataje, and Abby Phelan for their quick actions at the Kilcullen Community Centre when faced with a medical emergency. Using the Centre's defibrillator, they saved a person's life, demonstrating exceptional courage and composure under pressure and highlighting their training and preparedness. The event underscored the importance of community members being equipped to handle emergencies.

KCA Chair Ann Cashman presents the award to the KCE Community Employment team led by Noel Clare.

The Chairperson's Award, the final one of the evening, recognised the outstanding efforts of the Community CE Scheme led by Noel Clare, a 'pivotal part' of KCA activities which tirelessly works to make Kilcullen a better place for all. Their contributions had a big part to play in the Silver Medal which Kilcullen was awarded in the 2024 Supervalu National Tidy Towns awards.

Eoin Houlihan concluded by thanking the Awards Committee for their work, Joe O'Connor who has produced the actual awards for the event down the years, and those who had attended the event to celebrate the 'spirit of Kilcullen'. "For all those people who do so much for the town, let's carry the energy and pride from this evening forward and continue to build an amazing work done in our community."