Explorer Pat Falvey and ice swimmer Nuala Moore to speak at West Cork charity event

Explorer and motivational speaker Pat Falvey will be joined by ice swimmer Nuala Moore at an event in West Cork next weekend, when a local community comes together in support of a young man who is preparing an Arctic expedition for charity.

Ivan Bagnall is aiming to support Sightsavers Ireland with his Arctic Sunrise fundraiser.

Sightsavers is a global charity working to prevent avoidable blindness and promote disability inclusion. Ivan’s plan is to hike across Finland to see the first sunrise of 2026 in the Arctic and to host a series of events in advance of the adventure, in aid of his chosen charity.

Next Saturday, Ivan’s aunt, Gráinne Bagnall, is hosting a special day promoting wellness and inspiration at her home at Ballymoney House in Ballineen.

‘The event honours the memory of Ivan’s late mother and celebrates courage, connection, and giving back,” Grainne told The Echo.

The day begins with a forest bathing session at Manch Private Estate and Woodlands at 10.30am with a guided, meditative walk through nature designed to calm the mind and awaken the senses.

“Despite the name, forest bathing involves no water or swimwear — it’s about slowing down, tuning in to the sights, sounds, and smells of the forest, and reconnecting with the natural world in a peaceful, restorative way,” said Grainne.

In the afternoon, Ballymoney House will host a motivational talk, from 3pm–5pm, featuring two of Ireland’s most accomplished polar adventurers.

Pat Falvey is the first Irish person to complete the Seven Summits, and has led multiple expeditions across the Arctic and Antarctic, including journeys to the South Pole and Greenland’s ice cap.

He’ll be joined by Nuala Moore, a world-record-holding extreme swimmer who has conquered some of the most dangerous polar waters on Earth.

“This expedition is about more than reaching the Arctic — it’s about honouring my mother’s legacy and helping others see the world more clearly,” said Ivan.

Advance registration is essential for both events. See Ivan's Forest Bathing Fundraiser on Eventbrite for more.