The Magheraveely Community and Development Association (MCDA) are working closely with Fermanagh and Omagh District Council on the revival of Killyfole Lough.
Arlo, Beau, Leona and Rose McEneaney.
The Council officially launched the Killyfole Lough Water Recreation Project on Wednesday, June 14 following significant improvement works which saw a total investment of more than £800,000.
The works, which were funded by the Council with support from the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs’ Challenge Fund and the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, included the replacement of five bridges, four boardwalks and path improvements.
The funding also supported the development and installation of a suite of signage and nature trail interpretation panels, the refurbishment of the outdoor classroom at the adjacent ‘secret garden’, and the development of a school education programme to promote knowledge of the rich biodiversity around the lough.
Ciaran Cassidy prepares to leave for a spin on a canoe.
A couple of days later, on Friday, June 16, a special community event was organised by Magheraveely Community and Development Association to celebrate the reopening of Killyfole Lough and the revival of the secret garden.
A spokesperson for the Association said: “Words of thanks to the previous Killyfole Development Association, who once held a vision, a passion for the local area and those who created the original board walks and pathways.
“Their historical knowledge and research of the local area and townlands – the crannog, waterworks and millhouse – has been gratefully received and [is] evident for the new generation as a history of their roots.”
Canoeists out on the lough waters.
Commenting that Killyfole Lough is not only cherished by the locals but admired by visitors and tourists further afield, the spokesperson continued: “It is a vital space for health and wellbeing, a place of quiet reflection.
“It is an educational resource for our youth, bringing the younger generation closer to nature.
Shaun, Cahir, Cailán and Niamh.
“It is a shared community space, bringing together connections for the development of community relations and peace for the future – thus benefitting the whole community.”
The spokesperson added: “We are so thankful to have such a beautiful space on our doorsteps, and the MCDA and newly-formed Killyfole and Magheraveely Men’s Shed will continue to pursue further community and wellbeing activities, and further developments of Killyfole Lough and nature reserve.”
Freya Mulligan and Conor Faux.
Activities at the opening event included watersports by Blue Green Yonder, a foraging walk and demo by Oakwood Bushcraft, and live music by the Manleys Folk band and The Hand Me Downs.
It was a fantastic community event enjoyed by all in attendance.
The evening was sponsored by McGrory’s Construction and Tom McManus groundworks.
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