AN abundance of joy and nostalgia filled the air at the recent reunion of the class of 1975 from the Sacred Heart Secondary School, Clonakilty that took place at the Emmet Hotel to celebrate the 50th anniversary of their school-leaving year. 

During the afternoon, some 42 class mates that travelled from various locations including as far away as Perth and New York, shared stories, laughter and warm memories of their school days. 

Given the passage of time, it wasn’t surprising that the reminiscing brought a high spirit of good humour and camaraderie and of course promises not to let time or distance break the very special bonds that exist. 

Also remembered in a special way were their fourteen classmates that have sadly gone to their eternal reward while those that could not attend due to ill health or other circumstances were also fondly remembered. 

Tributes were paid to their dedicated teachers that helped guide them through their formative years, laying the foundations for their future paths and helping to shape the individuals they are today. 

In essence, the occasion marked connection, reflection and a shared appreciation for the enduring bonds formed all those years ago in the classrooms and corridors of Sacred Heart Secondary School. 

In her address Bríd O’Donnell said: ‘It’s a real joy to welcome you all here today as we mark an incredible milestone - 50 years since we left the gates of Sacred Heart Secondary School in Clonakilty. 

‘It’s hard to believe it’s been half a century, and yet, looking around the room, the spirit and friendship we shared all those years ago remains as strong as ever. 

A special word of thanks must go to Margaret (Hart), who has so kindly stepped into the role of the late Mother Antonio and acted as bursar for today’s reunion; to Anita (Ryan) for generously opening her home to us for the planning of today’s reunion, those meetings were full of memories, laughter, and more than a few cups of tea, and to Kay (McGrath) and Sephine (Sheehy) whose hard work and dedication helped bring us all together today. Without your efforts, this special celebration simply wouldn’t have happened. 

Here’s to friendship, to shared stories, to old laughter and new memories - and to many more happy years ahead.’ 

The organising committee consisted of Bríd O’Donnell, Sephine Sheehy, Kay McGrath, Margaret Hart and Anita Ryan. 

 – Martin Walsh