Mid-year update ...

Most overheard comments lately - "Where has the year gone?" "Can you believe we're in June?" "How is it nearly the EOFY?" It seems we're all in the same boat, shocked that we are yet again, and still, being pulled along with the current.

We've been running a regular schedule of musical events at Blarney, thanks to Delsinki & Duzel Productions. These events have been exactly the shot in the arm we have needed. Life-affirming brilliance. Kylie Auldist, Brooke Taylor, Steve Kilbey, Steven Gates, Jeff Lang, (Fast) Eddy Boyle and so many more. We couldn't be more grateful to Craig and Stef (Delsinki & Duzel) for these fabulous events. And to the Ashmont Motor Inn for so generously subsidising their accomodation so it's even possible. We don't take anything from the tickets - that money goes directly to the Production company who then distribute it to their artists. We make a little coin from the bar on the night and that's it. But it's so much fun to be able to host these gigs. And we really appreciate the support of the local community. The performers enjoy these gigs as well, because, unlike performing in a pub, at Blarney they have the full attention of the crowd. Win win. If you want to hear about these gigs as they are coming up, subscribe to our newsletter.

Our next event is coming up this Saturday - Lachlan Bryan and Emily Barker!

Biblio Art Prize: We have made the decision to give the competition a rest this year. It's a huge amount of work to pull together and after 16 years of running it, I feel like I could use a break - and potentially our artists could use the break! In Port Fairy, we now have the incredible Glyph Gallery & Creative Space, and they are currently calling out for artists to submit to the theme of Summer Haven. You can check out that here, if you'd like.

We are currently pulling together the program for the fifth annual Port Fairy Literary Weekend. We have some incredible authors on board and we'll be releasing details in the very near future.

June/July Hours Shop hours are changing to: 11am - 4pm Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday.

Closed Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday

We're delighted to share that Ironbird Bookshop, on Port Fairy's main street, is soon to be under new ownership. The bookshop has been acquired by the wonderful Sarah Carter, a lovely local who we've known since we moved here 20 years ago. Starting in July, Sarah will be giving Ironbird a fresh new look and renewed energy, ensuring it continues to be a beloved spot for book lovers of all ages. We look forward to collaborating with Sarah to keep the magic of books and reading thriving in our community.

First Australians U3A class at Blarney, discussing Treaty.