Awards thank those who are 'Spirit of Kilcullen'

A very appropriate thanksgiving decorative theme was provided for the Community Awards held in Kilcullen Town Hall last week. A total of 12 publicly-nominated awards were presented, including one to a Kilcullen woman who spearheaded the development of a Covid vaccine credited with saving the lives of up to 6 million people. A trio of local people who saved the life of a person during a medical emergency were also honoured.

The theme was created by a group of CPC Transition Year students under the direction of Georga Dowling of the Food School TY module using seasonal decorations provided by Kildare Farm Foods. The students also helped with serving refreshments in the adjoining Heritage Centre prior to the event, helping ensure that the full-house audience was in appropriate good humour when Kilcullen Community Action's Eoin Houlihan went on stage to read out the winners' citations. 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, and to public representatives and local businesses for their 'invaluable' generosity and involvement in supporting KCA's work.

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.

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

The Cnoc na Gréine Housing Estate won Best Biodiversity Impact in recognition of their creating a thriving ecosystem within their community. Initiatives include pollinator-friendly planting, bird habitats, and native species landscaping made the estate a model for community-driven ecological impact.

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

Two Excellence in Sports awards were given — the first to young Kilcullen darts star Jack Courtney, who brought home a silver medal when Team Ireland reached the World Junior Darts Championship Cup Final in December 2023. The second award went to Ian Dillon of Kilcullen Pitch & Putt Club, a member of the Ireland team which won the recent 2024 World Pitch and Putt Championship.

Two Youth Awards were presented during the evening, the first to Vaneska Mojzesova who has a number of international dance achievements and demonstrated leadership by guiding and coaching younger gymnasts during classes, performances, and competitions. Amy Barker also won a Youth Award for establishing a running club in Kilcullen, her passion for fitness and commitment to inclusivity inspiring many to embrace an active lifestyle.

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.vThe second 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 and her Lions Club team revitalising community engagement with cinema

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. A 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. 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.

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 Chairperson's Award, presented by Ann Cashman, recognised the outstanding efforts of the local 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."