Principal Maria O’Regan and Minister for Children, Disability and Equality Norma Foley.HOLY Family National School celebrated a major milestone on Saturday as pupils, past pupils, families, staff and members of the wider community gathered to mark the school’s 50th anniversary in a day filled with fun, memories and excitement.
The school grounds were transformed into a vibrant festival atmosphere, with activities and entertainment for all ages.
Children enjoyed bouncy castles, face painting and delicious ice cream throughout the day, while adults relaxed and socialised over refreshments from the popular coffee truck and barbecue in the school yard.
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The event brought together generations of families connected to the school, providing an opportunity to reflect on five decades of education, friendship and community spirit since the school’s opening in 1976.
Enjoying her ice-cream is Ella who is starting in Junior Infants in Holy Family in September.The highlight of the celebrations was undoubtedly the much-anticipated helicopter drop fundraiser for an astroturf facility on the school grounds.
Local celebrity and former Holy Family NS pupil Tadhg Fleming took to the skies accompanied by Pádraig McGillycuddy of Ballygarry Estate Hotel, who piloted the helicopter for the special occasion.
Before boarding the helicopter, Tadhg addressed the large crowd gathered on the school grounds, thanking everyone for their support and helping to build anticipation for the draw.
Maureen Murphy, Conan Clifford, Maria O’Regan (Holy Family), Pádraig McGillycuddy (Ballygarry Estate Hotel & Spa), Terry O’Brien (Mayor of Tralee and past pupil), Tadhg Fleming (past pupil).Carrying three schoolbags on board, the helicopter then lifted off to the delight of spectators below.
As excitement reached fever pitch, the first schoolbag was dropped and landed on grid number 462 making Mario Tusinki the first lucky winner of €1,000. The second drop landed on grid number 2293, with Leo Doyle claiming the second prize of €1,000.
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The final drop was the most eagerly awaited of the day, carrying the grand prize of a brand-new car or a cash alternative of €30,000.
When the winning ticket number 539 was announced, Monika Banach was revealed as the delighted grand prize winner, sparking huge celebrations among the crowd.
Young Nico with his mom Aimee and teachers Katie Crowe and Clodagh Carey.Monika is a parent in the school with her sons Nico (5th class) and Darren (Junior Infants) on hand to celebrate with her.
The event was a tremendous success and showcased the strong sense of community that has been at the heart of Holy Family NS for the past fifty years.
Organisers expressed their gratitude to all volunteers, sponsors, supporters and attendees whose efforts helped make the golden anniversary celebrations such a memorable occasion.
As Holy Family NS looks ahead to the future, the school can take great pride in the generations of pupils, families and staff who have contributed to its rich history and enduring legacy over the past half-century. Scroll down for photos…
Jade and Catherine McCannon, MC and staff member Kayleigh Quirke and Ava McCannon.
Maria O’Regan with early bird draw winner Mary Thea Brosnan who won two All-Ireland tickets and €500 cash.
Principal Maria O’Regan with former teacher Máiréad Kerrisk and Maureen Murphy.
Former pupils Kieran Donaghy and David Moran at the event on Sunday.
A number of Holy Family NS pupils enjoying the activities on Sunday
Katelyn returned to her old primary school along with her brother Darragh who is in 1st Class in Holy Family.
George Dineen and Michael Lynch: Georgr Dineen, Norma Foley, George Dineen Jnr and former teacher Michael Lynch.
A group of children enjoy the fun at Holy Family NS.
