Last Friday night, 15th September 2023, was a case of the curtain closing on the 70th. Tydavnet Show for 2023. Almost 80 show officers, stewards, helpers and landowners all got together in Jack’s bar, Tydavnet village for the traditional after-show party. All present enjoyed and appreciated the hospitality of Jack McCarville, the food tastefully prepared by Kate McAree and the music supplied by DJ Michelle. Following the food MC for the night Gerard Sherlock welcomed everyone to the party. He welcomed Mr. Ray Brady, President ISA, to the event and thanked him for taking the time to attend.

Looking back at this year’s show he remarked that the 70th Show will long be remembered as a very challenging show due to the weather and in particular Storm Betty which blasted through the country the night before showday. This weather challenge was met head-on by all the Tydavnet Show volunteers who were committed to ensuring the Show ran as smooth as possible. The fact that Tydavnet Show hosted 2 All-Ireland Finals this year meant that it wasn’t a case of cancelling the show as competitors were already travelling to the show from all over Ireland. Indeed all competitors and exhibitors attending the show were very complimentary to all the organisers for the very positive spirit and enthusiasm they showed.

Gerard thanked wholeheartedly all the committee and volunteers who worked so hard in preparing, stewarding and cleaning-up after the Show. He said it was a tremendous achievement to have the show-field cleared by 8.30pm on the evening of the show. Great credit he said to all the young people who help out as they are the future of the show for the next 70 years. Gerard compared the show to a giant jigsaw and the importance of every volunteer where each volunteer is a piece and if one piece is missing the show can’t happen. Later on ISA President Ray Brady reiterated the great credit due to all Tydavnet Show personnel for pulling off a tremendous community event in difficult circumstances. “The spirit of a community is really shown when faced with a challenge” he said.

A special part of the evening was the presentation to 3 committee members who have recently retired from their positions. First to be called was Susanne Graham. Suzanne served as secretary from 2007-2020. Gerard described Suzanne as a very efficient and skilful secretary who ensured all paperwork was always completed. Her computer skills were also a great asset to the show as technology plays a big part in the running of shows today. Suzanne was unique in that she didn’t come from a rural background but still embraced the duties of secretary very quickly. Next to be acknowledged was former chairwoman of the show Peggy Treanor who served in the position from 2011-2018. Gerard stated that Peggy came in as chair for the 60th Show and enjoyed many successes in her first year including the Co. Monaghan People of the Year Award. Peggy as chair always handled every situation with fairness and professionally. The third lady to be acknowledged was Catherine O’Donoghue. Catherine served a total of 50 years as assistant-secretary for Tydavnet show. This position involved recording of results on show-day and was a job that required efficiency and patience. Remember too that for many years before technology was introduced recording was done with pen and paper. Over the years Catherine’s pleasant and welcoming characteristics were well received by all attending the show.

The final presentation of the night was made to a newly-wed couple James and Catherine Sherry. James holds the very important position of Chief Safety Officer of the show. Indeed this year’s show was a challenge for him in particular but he ensured the 70th show passed off without any incidents.

Gerard concluded the night by thanking everyone who attended especially Ray who also received a presentation as a token of thanks for all the work he does on behalf of shows. Ray commented a special thanks to local Minister Heather Humphreys on the great financial support she and her Department allocates to shows. Without it many shows would not survive. Gerard also thanked all the media personnel who give so much time and coverage to Tydavnet Show – Veronica Corr, Peader Mc Mahon, Gary Mc Enaney and especially Rory Geary who has covered many show events over the years. Their time and patience is much appreciated. Rumour has it that preparations have already begun for the 71st. SHOW on SATURDAY 18th AUGUST 2024!!!

See images on the night from Monaghan Pix Gary……https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=1339021480376363&set=pcb.1339025280375983

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