Celebration of Official Opening of Sandymount Community Centre

by Louise Whelan

Photos by: Keith Brennan and Louise Whelan

The former Iris Charles Centre in Newbridge Avenue has officially been renamed The Sandymount Community Centre. A community day was launched on June 11th, where a massive street party took place which included music, food, an art room, face painting, market stalls from local businesses and centre users, a trad sesh in the garden, a magic show, outdoor activities, and a soft play area.

Trad session

Local residents and the wider community came out in full force to celebrate a fun-filled day which was planned to perfection by the organisers.

Entertainment included the Shellybanks Junior Choir who sang their little hearts out on stage while the Ukleladies gave a fabulous belly dancing number that had the crowd captivated with their graceful swaying and fluid movements.

The fabulous Ukleladies

Special guest, Irish media personality, Brendan O’Connor cut the ribbon in style in front of an enthusiastic, lively crowd, then everyone was treated to live performances from the musical talents of Ringsend Rockschool students.

Brendan O'Connor
Brendan O’Connor doing the honours
Ringsend Rockschool

A massive thank you went to Sandymount and Merrion Residents Association (SAMRA) and Sandymount
Tidy Towns Community Association (STTCA) for all their support in partnering up with the centre, representing the Sandymount area, along with DCC and all the wonderful sponsors on the day who
added their generosity to the event.

Free food!

Special mentions to the community centre manager, Jessica Ryan and her two core volunteers, Kara Herriot and Kalle Ryan for making sure everything ran smoothly.

Neurodiversity Sandymount

Sandymount Community Centre has gone from strength to strength since its transformation and revamp
in recent months, all down to the hardworking team, dedicated volunteers and steadfast
committee members.

It aims to be a vibrant hub for a wide range of community groups and activities that bring people together to promote positive change.

To find out more or see what’s on offer, get in touch on their social media or the website at sandymountcommunitycentre.ie

Outdoor activity – Treasure Hunt
Market stalls
Market stalls
Free icecream!