By Tom Grace, founder, long-time Chairman and currently Life President of Cabragh Wetlands Trust.

Over the years Cabragh Wetlands has attracted many, and varying, interests, ranging from birdwatchers, botanists, entomologists, photographers, nature lovers, and recreational walkers.

It has also attracted much favourable interest and comment in the media, but perhaps its greatest promotor has been Eamon Brennan, whose beautiful and award winning pictures have done so much to capture the natural beauty of the area and it’s wildlife. Articles in the Tipperary Star by Adam Tozer and Jimmy Duggan created much interest in the wetlands goings on as did features by TippFM and Tipperary Mid-West Radio.

However, it was not all were and worry that occupied the minds of the wetlands volunteers as social and culture activities were introduced. From a very modest beginning the monthly music night hosted by Kathleen Flanagan grew and grew and attracted musicians, singers, dancers, and storytellers from a wider area.

Eileen Moore was one of the early musicians to arrive and an unbelievable gathering of talent followed in a short time, and while the visitors enjoyed the get-togethers, it would seem that the talented contributions enjoyed more so.

Environmental education and studies were promoted over the years and several thousand primary and secondary school students have achieved a basic knowledge of nature and how important it is to nurture and care for it, so that our world may continue to benefit from its munificence.

Much has been achieved over the years in Cabragh, and the value and importance of the work of the many people whose generosity in giving of their time and talents has been acknowledged by awards from the Henry Ford Foundation, AIB Better Ireland and Pride of Place. The support of Tipperary LEADER, Tipperary Co. Co, FAS, Thurles Lions, Shannon Development, and many other corporates and private donors made the development possible and is much appreciated. The founders vision of the environmental resource, education and recreation centre and a visitor attraction has made a lot of progress towards its realisation.

As the years pass into the decades and beyond, it is hoped that the selfless dedication of the many (sadly some no longer with us) who helped and continue to help to fulfil the Wetlands dream will inspire and sustain the little monument to mankind’s altruism.