The Kerryman (South Kerry Edition)
EXCITING LINE-UP FOR AUTUMN TALKS
ALL ASPECTS OF LOCAL LIFE UP FOR DISCUSSION AS KILLARNEY HOUSE HOSTS ANNUAL EVENT
THE stunning surrounds of Killarney House will host this year’s exciting list of speakers at the annual ‘Autumn Talks Series’ which runs from October 5 to November 9.
Now in its thirty-fourth year, the series initially started in Muckross House before moving to hotels in Killarney town centre; however, it was always envisaged - once Killarney House was up and running - that it would stage the event and everyone is now looking forward to returning to the park.
The talks strive to encapsulate aspects of local heritage, culture and conservation which generates a vast cross-section of interest. The speakers are experts in their respective fields and over the decades the lectures have attracted a loyal following among the public. The Autumn Talk Series also attracts the attention of local schools whose pupils may have a particular topic under discussion as part of their curriculum.
“There is huge local interest in the talks and when you have experts who specialise in their topics, people respond to this. It’s also a time of year when people have a little bit more time to take stock of the wonderful nature and culture that surrounds them,” said Conservation Ranger, Padruig O’Sullivan.
The speakers will include professional photographer Valerie O’Sullivan (Oct 5) who will talk about the people and places of Co Kerry – a theme expertly captured through Valerie’s work. Well known author and journalist Donal Hickey will talk about his publication which focuses on the history of rowing in Killarney (Oct 12). Tim Burkitt of the Kerry Deer Society – which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year – will discuss the challenges and future opportunities for the society (Oct 19).
This year also marks the 150th anniversary of the Innisfallen crosier discovery and Griffin Murray will talk about this national treasure of local importance (Oct 26). It goes without saying that trees are an integral part of Killarney National Park, and tree doctor Michael Garry will lecture about ‘Proactive Tree Management’ (Nov 2). It’s ten years since the White Tail Sea Eagle were reintroduced to Ireland and expert Allan Mee will present an overview of this exciting project (Nov 9).
“The big focus this year is the fact Killarney House is the venue. Not only is this a central location for people, but it’s also a very historic setting which adds to the appeal of the event. Admission is free and we’ve no doubt that people will attend the lectures in huge numbers again this year. All talks start at 8pm,” added Padruig.