Friends of Ireland

Friends of Ireland Society- Cairde Na hÉireann

' Ourselves are not only where we are, but where we have come from'. Patrick O'Farrell, historian of Ireland and Australia

Founded in 1985, theFriends of Ireland Society ACT Inc. or, in the Irish Language,Cairde na hÉireann,reflects the deep interest of many people in the Canberra region in their Irish origins and in the links between Ireland and Australia.

The Societyseeks to promote a better understanding of modern Ireland (both North and South) and of the distinctive contribution that the Irish have made to the Australian way of life.

Our guest speaker nights are particularly popular. They are usually held at the Canberra Irish Club on the third Wednesday of the month.with an optional pre-meeting meal beforehand. Past speakers include Booker Prize winning author, Thomas Keneally; the curator of the National Museum's Not Just Ned Exhibition, Richard Reid; European Union Ambassador,David Daly;H.E. Mairtin O Fainin, Ambassador of Ireland; andH.E. Helen Liddell,the former UK High Commissioner.

Other events include the St Patrick's Day Ecumenical Service, Bloomsday, and the annual Eureka Dinner and Lecture. which commemorates the Eureka Rebellion (3 December 1854). The 2011 Eureka Lecture was given by renowned author, Jackie French.

The Society is supported by the Canberra Irish Club. We encourage members & their friends to support the Club. Becoming a Club member, enjoying a meal from the new Irish-style menus at Molly Bloom's, or arranging your work / family function there, are all practical ways to ensure the continuation of an Irish Club in Canberra.

MARCH EVENTS:: 12noon-1pm, Saturday 17 March. Annual St Patrick's Day Ecumenical Service, Australian Centre for Christianity and Culture, Blackall Street, Barton ACT. Welcome by Rev Prof James Haire, Uniting Church. Speaker: Rev Fr. Frank Brennan SJ Light refreshments afterwards. No booking needed. Enquiries: Angela 6231 9104

12.30pm Wednesday 21 March. Lunchtime event.' Exposing the Ancestors: The fate of the Koh-I-Noor Diamond' An illustrated talk by Dr Auriol Weigold, University of Canberra .on the British Raj and how her Irish relatives 'removed' the famous Diamond from India. Enjoy great Indian food or select from the normal lunch menu. Bookings to Barry, 6287 7587

Irish language classes 2012: The Society runs Irish language classes for beginners and advanced students. For more information see Irish Language classes page on this menu or call Bruce Kenna on 6288 8326. Classes re-starts in Feb 2012.

PUBLICITY
Cairde Na hÉireannpublicises its activities on theIrish Voiceradio programme on 2XX at 10.30 am on Sundays;Queanbeyan FM Radio;and in the Fridge Door column inThe Canberra Times.

All of our events are open to the public.Why not become a member?You'll find a warm welcome! Membership fees start from a low $10, and 2 year memberships and direct debit facilities are available.Members receive a regular newsletter.

Membership and general enquiries toKen Riordan6286 1218, orTania Bradley6251 4838.