All About Cork: Consultation open for safe Ardfallen crossing proposal 

Independent Cllr Kieran McCarthy is calling on residents in the Ardfallen area of Ballinlough to be aware of the reworked pedestrian crossing proposal at Eglantine Park and Ardfallen Park Junction, outside GOGo’s Cafe.

Cllr McCarthy noted: “Before the summer there was a proposal regarding a proposal for a pedestrian crossing in Eglantine Park.

“From the resulting public consultation, the proposal was deemed unsuitable and the scheme was reworked.

“The reworked proposal now involves the junction of Ardfallen Park and Eglantine Park or the junction of GoGo’s Café.

“The proposal involves a raised table, junction tightening, a new footpath and two zebra crossing points would be installed at the junction of Eglantine Park. The new footpath would provide pedestrian connectivity between Browningstown Park and Scoil Bhride Eglantine and the zebra crossings would allow pedestrians to safety cross Eglantine Park and Ardfallen Estate routes.

“The addition of two new speed tables on the approaches from Douglas Road and Browningstown Park will further contribute to traffic calming in the vicinity of the school,” concluded Mr McCarthy.

Plans and particulars of the proposed works will be available for public inspection until Monday, October 27, at https://consult.corkcity.ie.

The deadline for receipt of submissions and observations is also October 27, at 5pm.

Submissions can be made electronically via Cork City Council’s Online Consultation Portal at https://consult.corkcity.ie or at the public reception desk of Cork City Council’s offices at City Hall, Anglesea Street, Cork T12 T997, between the hours of 10am to 4pm, Monday to Friday, excluding bank holidays.

Lots of fun at pumpkin picking event

Douglas Pumpkin Patch returns to the enchanted forest where a magical pumpkin wonderland awaits.

This year they’ve planted more pumpkins than ever before, so you’ll be spoiled for choice. From mini and monster to cute and crazy, there’s a pumpkin for everyone waiting to be picked.

Whether you’re visiting for the first time or carrying on a family tradition, there’s magic to be found around every corner.

From little hands picking out their very first pumpkin, to capturing golden autumn moments in our new displays, the patch is filled with memories to treasure.

Wander the enchanted forest, discover your perfect pumpkin, enjoy tractor displays, say hello to our friends at the animal park, tuck into tasty autumn treats, and uncover little moments of seasonal wonder throughout the patch.

One of the organisers said: “Our pumpkin patch offers, home grown pumpkins, the enchanted forest, seasonal treats and much more.

“All of our hot chocolates, teas and coffees are now made with milk from our wonderful neighbours @laplandfarmmilkhut, a family-run dairy farm right here in Douglas.

“Their milk, from cows grazing freely on lush green fields, is gently pasteurised and non-homogenised on the farm, and delivered fresh every single day – giving your drinks that natural, creamy, fresh from the farm taste every time.

“Supporting local has never tasted so good - let’s celebrate Irish farmers and local producers this autumn. We’re also thrilled to welcome back @themenucakery to Douglas Pumpkin Patch this season with their delicious bakes and cakes. Treat yourself… because pumpkin spice and all things nice belong here” They are located at Castletreasure Christmas Tree Farm, Douglas, Eircode: T12 R673.

They will be open next weekend, October 25-27 inclusive from 11am to 5pm, with the last booking at 4pm. Tickets at: https://shop.beyonk.com/urlrkyp2/experiences/mxyn0tzz?theme=32B0A2

Credit union hopes to empower teens to talk about money and build for future

Empowering teens to talk about money, build confidence, and plan for the future is the plan for Elevate Credit Union’s first-ever Financial Literacy Book for Secondary Schools, a practical resource designed to help teenagers start meaningful conversations about money and develop essential personal finance skills.

The credit union is headquartered at Douglas Village, with branches at Grange, Passage and Glanmire.

The book was created in collaboration with students and teachers from Coláiste an Phiarsaigh, ensuring it is both relevant and engaging for young people.

It covers key topics such as saving, budgeting, borrowing, and planning for the future, providing students with the tools and confidence to make informed financial decisions that will benefit them throughout their lives.

“Talking about money at a young age gives students a head start,” said Gary Hanrahan, marketing manager at Elevate Credit Union. “We believe that by opening up these conversations now, we’re helping them build independence, confidence, and the ability to make smart financial choices as adults.

“Financial literacy isn’t just about numbers — it’s about creating opportunities and shaping a better future.”

Each secondary school within Elevate Credit Union’s common bond will receive 100 free copies of the book.

A digital version is also available for download on the Elevate Credit Union website, ensuring students and teachers can access the resource anywhere, anytime.

This initiative follows the success of Elevate Credit Union’s primary school financial literacy book, released earlier this year — the first of its kind produced by an Irish credit union.

With this new project, Elevate Credit Union continues to champion financial education and support the development of informed, confident, and financially capable young people in the community. For more information and to download the book, visit their website or follow their social media channels.

Halloween GAA camp

Douglas GAA Club will be holding a Halloween Camp during the school holidays.

You can now book your Halloween Camp place for senior infants to sixth class players. The camp takes place from Monday, October 27 to Thursday, October 30. See the club’s website for more or you can buy at this address: https://douglasgaa.clubforce.com/products/membership.

The club’s AGM is taking place on Sunday, November 30. Should any member be interested in getting involved in helping with the administration of the club get in touch with the club secretary at: secretary.douglas.cork@gaa.ie.