The McNally family from Rostrevor have been hosting two annual fundraising events over the past five years in memory of their son and brother, Kieran, who sadly passed away in 2019 from cancer. Throughout this time, the family has supported a range of local cancer charities.
This year, all proceeds were donated to Daisy Lodge, Cancer Fund for Children’s purpose-built therapeutic centre between Bryansford and Newcastle. The facility helps families across the island of Ireland affected by cancer.
The therapeutic short breaks at Daisy Lodge give families a chance to spend quality time together in a safe and supportive environment, far removed from the pressures of cancer treatment and hospital wards.
The first event of the year took place on Saturday, 26 July — a very successful working dog show in Burren. It is now recognised as one of the largest dog shows in Ireland.
The event has been revitalised in recent years by Kieran’s brother, Stephen, a passionate working dog enthusiast, alongside the support of close friends. Together, they have developed the show into a hugely popular family day.
The overall dog show winner was Marty McDonald, with his winning terrier Rebel. Marty received the prestigious Sean Doran Cup, presented by the Doran family. The Doran family also generously donated a £500 Hastings voucher, which contributed significantly to the day’s fundraising. The lucky winner of the voucher was Stephen Mackin, and an incredible total of £17,000 was raised as a result of this event.
The McNally family would like to thank everyone who gave their help, support and sponsorship to ensure the dog show went so well, including the Toner and McGovern family, Burren, for the use of their field; Burren Gun Club; Sloan Rent-a-Loo; Kellys Point Hire; Carr Contracts; Killowen Contracts; The Ghan Filling Station; PC Plant; O’Hare and McGovern; Magee Joinery Ltd; Nathan Doyle Contracts; Garrivan Groundworks Ltd; Kilbroney Bar; Phelim Magill; Old School House; and Darren O’Hare.
“Following the success of the dog show, we held our annual Kieran McNally Memorial Walk from Kilbroney Park, taking in some scenic views from Rostrevor mountain,” the family explained. “The walk provided an opportunity to remember Kieran, sharing stories and enjoying the great company along the way. On their return, everyone was treated to a barbecue, refreshments and live music from Darren O’Hare. A raffle was held on the day, with some great prizes.”
“In addition, a separate raffle was held with three great prizes – namely two Six Nations Rugby tickets with an overnight stay in Dublin, won by Oonagh McConville; a £100 voucher for the Posh Pig Restaurant in Warrenpoint, won by John Cunningham; and a £100 voucher for the Ghan Filling Station, Rostrevor, won by Down GAA.”
“In total, £5,000 was raised, making the overall amount raised and presented to Daisy Lodge £22,000.”
