Do you have a big day on the horizon? A wedding speech, an important job interview, or a high-stakes presentation? For many of us, the thought of addressing an audience can feel overwhelming. But it doesn’t have to be. With the right support and practice, you can transform fear into confidence.
That’s where Toastmasters International comes in. At Swords Toastmasters, we provide a supportive, structured environment where members develop the skills and self-belief to communicate with clarity and confidence. Guests are always welcome to attend for an obligation-free visit. One member who took that first step is Louise Duffy.
Louise said “After I got promoted, I quickly felt the dread of having to deliver presentations to senior management and speak in front of large audiences. I began researching ways to improve my skills and found Swords Toastmasters. From the very first meeting, the group was welcoming and encouraging. They provide a friendly, non-judgemental environment where you can become comfortable addressing a crowd. Everyone genuinely wants you to succeed, while also offering constructive feedback to help you grow. I’m pleased to say I now have no problem addressing an audience — whether delivering a speech or presenting. In fact, I don’t give it a second thought anymore. That transformation wouldn’t have been possible without Swords Toastmasters.”
Louise’s experience is a reminder that confident communication is not something you are simply born with — it is a skill that can be learned, practised, and mastered. If you’re ready to conquer your fear and unlock your potential, why not come along and see what’s possible?
Contact swordstm@gmail.com today to arrange your complimentary visit.
Swords Toastmasters is a club that helps people develop their public speaking, listening, and leadership skills, in a fun and supportive environment. Members join for a variety of reasons. Some, to progress their careers, to perform better at interviews, to practice for workplace presentations, or even for that all important wedding speech. If you would like to see Louise and her fellow Toastmasters in action, get in touch today, for an obligation-free visit. Perhaps you will be inspired to take the first step towards finding your own voice and changing your life!
Swords Toastmasters meet Every 2nd Monday from 8pm – 10pm at Forrest Little Golf Club, Forrest Road, Swords, Co. Dublin, K67 K825. For more information, email swordstm@gmail.com or contact the membership officer on 086 8538048.
Rush Community Council is delighted to announce that our annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade will take place on Tuesday 17 March at 1pm.
The theme this year is Pirates, Myths and Legends of Rush!!
Mark your calendars and come out to celebrate our fantastic community with a day full of colour, music, and local pride!
If you are interested in being part of the parade, please either pop into Rush Community Centre or email info@rushcoco.ie for more information and the application form, the closing date for applications is Monday 9 March.
Call for Parade Marshals
We’re currently looking for volunteer marshals to help make the day run smoothly and safely. If you can spare a couple of hours to support this wonderful community event, we’d love to hear from you.
Marshals play a key role in:
Rush is getting ready to sparkle in shades of sunshine as the Rush Daff Day Committee rolls out another unforgettable weekend of community spirit, celebration, and heartfelt support for the Irish Cancer Society.
For an incredible 38 years, this dedicated local committee has been spreading hope — raising a phenomenal €1 million since 1988! That milestone is a glowing tribute to the generosity, kindness, and unstoppable energy of the people of Rush. And if this year is anything to go by, they’re only just getting started.
A Weekend Packed with Heart and Happiness
Festivities burst into life at 6am on Friday, 20th March, when enthusiastic volunteers take to the streets to kick off a jam-packed programme of feel-good events:
Coffee Morning – Rush Community Centre
Pop in for a warm cuppa, indulge in a delicious selection of homemade cakes, and browse Irish Cancer Society merchandise — because cake tastes even better when it’s for a great cause!
Maisie’s Raffle
Get your tickets ready — there are some fantastic prizes up for grabs!
Garden of Hope – Rush Library (from March 16th)
Plant a daffodil in memory of a loved one or leave a message of encouragement for someone bravely facing cancer. A beautiful space filled with remembrance, love, and support.
Michelle’s Fun Run – Friday Evening, Harbour Park
Michelle’s running friends lace up once again to mark her 10th anniversary — a touching tribute filled with strength, solidarity, and smiles.
Dash and Splash Swim – Saturday, Rush South Beach
Feeling brave? Join the sea swimmers for a refreshing (and possibly chilly!) dip in support of Daff Day.
Village Twalk – Sunday Morning - Led by the ever-energetic Declan (CJ), this uplifting community walk promises plenty of chat, cheer, and bright yellow spirit.
Declan has been a driving force behind this year’s mission to truly “turn Rush yellow,” shining a spotlight on the very real and lasting difference fundraising makes for cancer patients and their families.
Most importantly, every single cent raised — 100% — goes directly to the Irish Cancer Society, funding lifesaving research and providing essential support services for those who need it most.
The committee’s powerful message says it all: “We won’t give up till cancer does.”
So dust off your brightest yellow, gather your friends and family, and join in. Let’s make this year’s Daff Day weekend the biggest, brightest, and most joyful celebration of hope yet.
Rush, it’s time to turn yellow!
AGM
Thank you to everyone who took the time to attend the Rush Tidy Towns AGM in January. The meeting wasn’t just a review of the past year—it sparked a lively discussion on how Rush can continue to evolve as a cleaner, greener, and more resilient coastal town.
We were delighted to reappoint all existing committee members and to welcome new member Louise, This year’s priorities reflect both community feedback and the practical needs of a growing town: tackling litter blackspots, progressing biodiversity corridors, improving pedestrian-friendly spaces, and deepening collaboration with local schools and businesses.
As always, Rush Tidy Towns is strongest when more voices are involved. If you’re interested in helping shape these projects. Whether as a committee member or a volunteer for occasional event, we’d love to hear from you at tidytownsrush@gmail.com. Even a single hour a month can make a real difference.
School Beach Clean
A huge thank you to the Community Care class from St. Joseph’s Secondary School, who recently took on one of the less glamorous but most important tasks on South Beach: clearing heavy tidal debris washed in by recent storms. Under the guidance of teacher Kevin, the students rolled up their sleeves and removed large items that pose risks to wildlife, walkers, and the overall health of the coastline.
What made this cleanup stand out wasn’t just the amount collected, it was the attitude of the students. They asked sharp questions about marine pollution, how debris travels along the coast, and why certain items keep appearing. Their curiosity and teamwork showed exactly why involving young people in environmental care has such long term value.
Their efforts have already made the beach safer for everyone who uses it, from families and swimmers to the wildlife whose habitat it is. Well done to all involved—your work has a visible impact on the community.
The races came thick and fast during February as club members were in action in Dundalk, Trim, Murcia and Donadea as well as cross country and indoor competition. Well done to all and to all the juveniles who participated at the Dublin Spraoi Games in the NIA. It’s not too late to take part in the 40-day 5k challenge and we hope you can join us for the Lusk St Patrick’s Day parade.
Local Round Up from last quarter: Coastal Bus Connects Group: On 3rd December, representative members of the communities of Lusk, Rush, Loughshinny and Skerries (Coastal BusConnects Group of which LAG is the Lusk representative) and local TDs Louise O’Reilly TD, Grace Boland FG, (apologies from Robert O’Donoghue TD) and Senator Lorraine Clifford-Lee met members of the National Transport Authority and representatives from the Department of Transport to discuss our BusConnects proposal for a continued all day, but improved service to Dublin City Centre. Apologies were made by the Minister for Transport, due to scheduling changes after President Zelensky’s visit. The NTA committed to providing a response in Q1 2026.
Lusk for Life-Lusk Town Regeneration Scheme: In December, the first Town Team meeting with the new community-led committee was held in the Fingal County Council buildings.
Lynne Barker, LAG was elected as the initial Chairperson of the group, and this position will be rotated. Community members currently on the team are Lynne Barker, Brian Arnold, Colin Browne, Frances Byrne and Michael Griffin. Local councillors will also sit on the team - Councillors Mark Boland, Corina Johnston, Eoghan Dockrell, Cathal Boland and Paul Mulville. The team will be supported by the Town Regeneration Office in Fingal County Council.
The committee also hosted the first Community Forum meeting on 18th February with representatives from a wide section of community groups and businesses attending. Both the Town Team and Community Forum are hugely positive steps towards delivering the Lusk for Life, Town Centre First Plan.
Public Consultation for Proposed Variation to Fingal Development Plan 2023-2029: In January, LAG made a submission to FCC regarding the proposed re-zoning of lands for housing development on two sites in Lusk for housing. Among the concerns raised included the volume of development in the town in the last two decades and the lack of accompanying amenities to support existing infrastructure.
Date for the diary! The LAG Annual General Meeting will be held on Tuesday, 3rd March in the Cottage Community Centre at 7pm. All are welcome, especially any members of the community who may be interested in joining and getting involved in supporting local projects.
Congratulations to Lusk ICA drama who are very proud to have been awarded the first place for best Sketch “The Big Surprise” written and directed by Anne Smithers in the ICA Wicklow Drama Festival 2026
We made mobiles valentine trinket boxes and surprise crackers.
We had a truly fantastic and insightful morning at An Grianán Adult Education College. The morning featured an opening address from ICA National President Mary D’Arcy.
We were privileged to hear thought-provoking contributions from:
Anna Ryan from Public Participation Networks
Ejiro Stratton from Hands For Unity
Ivica Milicevic from SOLAS Learning Works
Cynthia Ní Mhurchú, MEP
Alice Doyle of the Irish Farmers’ Association
Katherine O’Leary from the Farmers’ Journal
Siobhán Matthews of Soroptimists
Christine Lodge from Safe Ireland
Mairéad Phelan, ICA National Treasurer and Chartered Engineer
Commoning invites residents of Lusk to take active part in a series of collaborative design and building sessions to create a small social space for, and by, the town of Lusk.
In this project, all members get to be part of the design. No experience in construction or design is necessary, only a willingness to work with and understand others. Join the group, have a cuppa, and be a part of the future of the town! This is an inclusive project and everyone over 18 is welcome. A small pot of funding from the Arts Council and Create has been secured for the initial “research and development” phase, and there are opportunities for more in the near future.
The project is facilitated by architecture[vb] in collaboration with Lusk Community Council.
Architecture[vb] is a partnership between two recent architectural graduates, Jamie and Irene. Our work focuses on collaboration, vernacular materials, sustainability, and shared authorship in architecture. We have both worked with or studied Lusk during the course of our education and are now keen to build on that!
Jamie’s thesis, ‘Understanding the Everyday’, included a workshop with community members in Lusk. He now works for an architecture practice in Dublin that focuses on public architecture. Irene’s recent work includes a collaboration with residents of St Michan’s House in Dublin while specialising in sustainable and vernacular materials, collective ways of building, and permaculture.
The name commoning comes from the Commons - an area of land or resources that belong to and affect a community who manages them collectively. Many of these commons existed in Lusk, as the names of townlands show! commoning builds on this idea and uses ‘bottom-up thinking’ to create something truly by and for the community of Lusk.
Design Sessions: March 28th, April 11th+18th
Prototype Building Sessions: April 25th+26th
Location: Lusk Community Cultural Centre
To let us know about how we can make the sessions more accessible for you or for any questions, please email us at architecture.verb@gmail.com
This project is funded by the Arts Council Artist in the Community Scheme, managed by Create, the national development agency for collaborative arts.
Community Led Project to Transform Historic Passage into Biodiversity & Food-Growing Hub
A once-forgotten laneway in the heart of Lusk is set to become the town’s first Urban Park, with the design unveiled at a public meeting on Saturday 21st February in the Lusk Cultural Centre.
The Forgotten Laneway Project began over two years ago when local resident Mark Boland envisioned transforming the neglected passage into a vibrant community space. He was soon joined by two other Lusk residents, Colin Browne and Tara Ryan, and together they set about turning the idea into a deliverable project with the help of Fingal County Council.
The laneway itself forms part of Lusk’s layered history. Over the decades it served multiple purposes within the town including its use by the British Army to access the local remount farm, where horses were trained and prepared for service across the British Empire. Following the construction of the town’s ring road, the route fell into disuse and gradually became forgotten. Now, it is being reimagined as a future-focused community space.
The project team have worked closely with Fingal County Council community department and were granted a licence for the laneway in 2025. A key element of the initiative is the development of a genuine circular economy model. Food scraps from the adjacent HSE community facility will be converted into nutrient-rich compost and used in the park’s raised growing beds where local families will get to grow food sustainably within their own community. This approach reduces waste, supports soil health and promotes sustainable growing practices. After extensive consultation and planning, the team secured €52,000 from the Climate Action Fund, which will be used to enhance biodiversity and promote food growing within the new park. The Climate Action funding also included €12,000 for sustainable lighting for Lusk Athletics, allowing winter training to continue under energy-e icient floodlights. A further €50,000 was secured under the Community Recognition Fund, providing the capital required to start the transformation of the laneway.
With initial funding in place, the group commissioned award winning garden designer Peter Donegan MSGLD to create a design that is inclusive, accessible and biodiversity-rich. The proposed park includes raised growing beds, native planting, pollinator friendly features and community gathering spaces. Accessibility has been central to the design, ensuring the space can be enjoyed by people of all abilities.
Also, as part of the development, a competition will be launched among local art students in the town of Lusk to design a permanent centrepiece for the new Lusk urban park. A donation of €5,000 from the local Tidy Towns has been allocated to create an installation celebrating their 45 years in Lusk and honouring the extraordinary work of the original committee whose e orts helped shape the town.
The unveiling of the designs was held on the 21st of February in the local Cultural centre in Lusk and gave residents an opportunity to view the design, meet the project team and learn how to become involved. The Forgotten Laneway project team hopes the park will serve not only as a green space, but as a wonderful example of sustainable urban regeneration.
Through the Lens camera club are pleased to report very successful sales of our 2026 calendar, and we are delighted to have been able to donate €600 to the Donabate/Portrane Special Olympics group to help them on their way to competing in the 2026 Irish Special Olympics in June ( 18th to 21st ).
The Special Olympics group provides year round sports training, athletic competitions and developmental programmes for their members giving them the opportunity to participate in the sharing of skills and friendships with their families and other Special Olympic groups.
Through the Lens members look forward to cheering them on in the Irish Special Olympics, and getting some good photos, when they compete in June.
Through the Lens provides an informal, friendly and supportive environment to anybody interested in photography, whether it’s learning how to use your camera or how to get better pictures with your smart phone, all levels of photographic skills are catered for. The club is open to all over 18yrs, we meet every second Tuesday in Donabate Golf Club at 7.30pm and anyone interested is welcome to come along and give us a try. Look up our website www.thoughthelens.ie for further information.
