All About Cork: New guide to help families explore the great out doors

A buggy friendly greenway from Carrigaline to Crosshaven is among the Cork attractions in a new printed and online guide offering families an opportunity to explore the great outdoors.

‘Keep Moving in Nature’, is a free brochure packed with inspiration for walking, wheeling, and wandering coastal, river and wood trails in the Ring of Cork, Cork Harbour and East Cork this summer.

Created by SECAD and building on the success of the 2023 interactive online edition, the A5 brochure brings 17 scenic outdoor trails to life through striking photography and minimal text — making it a perfect companion for all ages, including those with literacy or eyesight challenges.

Whether it’s a forest stroll along the Carrigaline to Crosshaven greenway, a forest stroll through Glenbower, Marlogue or Castlemartyr, or a coastal hike along the Ballycotton or Knockadoon cliff walks the guide has something for everyone.

With several routes suitable for wheelchairs and buggies — including the Passage West Greenway, Youghal Boardwalk, and Fota House and Gardens, the brochure is designed with inclusivity and accessibility in mind.

‘Keep Moving in Nature’ is available free of charge online and at tourist offices throughout the region, thanks to a partnership with Fáilte Ireland’s tourist office network and the Cork Library network.

The project, responds to a growing demand from both locals and visitors for printed resources promoting rural and nature-based recreation. Commenting on the brochure launch SECAD spokesperson and project co-ordinator Elga Ryan said: “This time of year, is perfect for getting outdoors

The guide will inspire you to explore somewhere new each time, and it’s also a great free resource for visitors looking to enjoy Cork Harbour and East Cork. Whether you’re a local looking for a new weekend walk, or you have family or friends visiting the area, the guide is a perfect way to make the most of Cork’s incredible natural offering, while supporting local tourism and encouraging healthy, outdoor activity.”

People can pick up the free brochure from their nearest tourist office or Cork library branch, or download a digital version online at: www.ringofcork.ie/outdoor #Ireland2040 #OurRuralFuture.

From Crosshaven to Iceland!

Carrigaline United purchase 24 acres of land at File Mile

Carrigaline United AFC has taken a huge step towards facilitating its future expansion following the purchase of 24-aces of land at File Mile.

In a post of its Facebook page, the club said it was “delighted to share some truly exciting news”.

“This landmark move represents a huge step forward in securing the long-term future of our club.

“The new site will allow us to expand our facilities, develop new pitches, and create a space that supports football development for generations to come — from grassroots to senior level,” read the post,” read the post.

“But lest us be clear: Ballea Park will always remain our main base and the beating heart of Carrigaline United.

“Our roots are deep here, and nothing will change our connection to the ground that has shaped our story for more than 50 years.”

It went on to say that the move was about securing the legacy of the club “not replacing it.”

“It’s about future-proofing our club while staying true to where we came from.

“For more than 50 years, Carrigaline United has been at the heart of our community, and this investment reflects our deep commitment to: Providing top-class facilities for all players; supporting the growth of our academy, schoolboy and girls, youth, women’s and men’s football; enabling more opportunities for participation, coaching, and community engagement, and building a sustainable future for one of Cork’s largest and most vibrant football clubs.”

The club said all of this would not be possible without the “tireless work of our committee, members, coaches, volunteers, and supporters - past and present.

“Your belief and backing continue to drive this club forward. There’s still a long road ahead, but this is a defining moment in our club’s journey — one that ensures we’re not just planning for tomorrow, we’re building it.”

Men’s Shed at Roberts Cove

The Carrigaline Men’s Shed took a variety of exhibits to the Roberts Cove Vintage Festival last Sunday. In their new marquee, they displayed a selection of wood crafted pieces turned by Gerard Dubois, and fairy doors designed and made by Colm Giltinan.

The men also displayed a large range of old hand tools, that attracted great attention.

Brian Clough had three Lister stationary 1 and 1 & 1/2 horse power engines and a 4hp Bamford stationary engine up and running for the day. Also on display was the Massey Harris reaper and binder which was refurbished by the Men’s Shed for the Vintage Festival committee in 2021/ 2022. This Massey Harris reaper and binder was used to cut and bind 500 shaves of barley for their trashing demonstration on Sunday afternoon. Other members involved in the transport and display were Finbarr Heas, Mike Bradshaw, Jerry Crowley, and John Kelleher. Also in attendance were chairman Barry Cogan, Roger Curtin, Hans Grossman, Barry McCarthy, and Kevin Meaney.

Start running

Do you want to start running? Then look no further Carrigaline Athletic Club is delighted to announce that their next Couch to 5K (C25K) programme of 2025 will be starting on Tuesday, September 2, at 7pm (over 18s only).

The eight-week programme, which costs €65 per person, includes: Carrigaline AC and Athletics Ireland membership for the remainder of 2025, weekly training with our AI trained coach (and support from our club members), detailed training plans, and continuous oversight.

Places are limited Register your interest via membership.athleticsireland.ie.

Macra in Tullamore

Carrigaline Macra farm skills team of Nick Sweetman, Peter Thompson, and Diarmuid Kiely representing Seandún Macra division will travel to Tullamore show this Sunday, August 10, to compete in the All-Ireland finals having qualified in Pallaskenry earlier in the summer. We wish them the very best of luck.

Luxury dress sale

The Carrigaline Musical Society will hold a luxury dress sale on Saturday at the Carrigaline Lions Youth Centre Church Road, P43 FR80.

The event, which will run from 2pm-5pm, will feature a range of dresses, handbags, and shoes, as well as a raffle and refreshments. Members will also stage musical performances at 3pm, 4pm and 5pm. All are welcome.

Keep it tidy

Carrigaline Tidy Towns volunteers who do so much to promote cleanliness are disappointed with people who consistently discard litter. People who drop cigarette butts, vapes, paper wrapping and pizza cardboard boxes are liable to receive a €150 fine. Last week several bags of clothing were dropped adjacent to the full clothes banks in the Owenabue car park. Tidy Towns volunteers re-bagged the dumped clothing and had it ready for collection. Tidy Towns volunteers should not be expected to clean up after others.

Enquiries to Carrigalinett@gmail.com.