Ballyhoura Science Day Hits The Right Spot In Croom

An active, fun-filled day was had by more than 1000 people who made their way to Croom Sports Complex last Saturday for the Ballyhoura Science Fair, as part of national Science Week 2019, sponsored by Science Foundation Ireland.
Ballyhoura Beo, the environmental and recreational arm of Ballyhoura Development, organised and hosted the event, with lots of hands-on demos and events on the day, which were enjoyed by children and adults alike.
Exhibitors on the day included Dr. Barry Fitzgerald, the ‘superhero scientist’, who entertained the crowd with the science behind all of our favourite superheroes. Attendees had the opportunity to see some of the real life gadgets used by superheroes, including an invisibility cloak and an Iron Man suit.
Wild Encounters thrilled children with their display of exotic animals, many of which had been rescued from the pet trade. The children were delighted to touch and interact with snakes, lizards and the highlight for many – Séamus the Skunk. The team from Griston Bog Outdoor Classroom in Ballylanders were popular with all, presenting an opportunity to learn about the long history of bogs and the important role that they play in the fight against climate change. Inland Fisheries Ireland helped many to catch virtual fish with their hands-on fly fishing simulator, while smaller children enjoyed ‘seeing like bees’ through specially provided glasses, and learning about the vital role of bees in maintaining biodiversity.
Students from Coláiste Chiaráin in Croom presented their innovative edible bowls and plates. This project is aiming to reduce the amount of single use plastics used in the school.
The Ladybirds and Brownies from Knocklong and Kilmallock, and the Scout Troop from Croom earned their STEM Healthy Food and Healthy Body Badges at the Science Fair, as well as having lots of fun.
The safefood.eu Community Food Initiative was another big draw on the day, providing not only healthy snacks, and free kitchen utensils, but sharing lots of information about healthy eating, cooking, shopping and food safety to an attentive crowd.  Chef Brendan O’Donnell cooked a healthy noodle salad, couscous salad and homemade tomato sauce, on site, with visitors receiving a free ingredient pack to recreate it at home.  The ‘Do you know your Food Pyramid?’ competition had over 200 entrants, with Trish O’Connor winning a Smoothie Maker, with her amazing time of 11.15 seconds!
Ballyhoura Beo would like to express their thanks to all the exhibitors, attendees and Elaine Butler from Croom Development Association for making the inaugural Ballyhoura Science Day such a fun filled success.