Thank you! – Australia Day in Cobh

By any measure “Australia Day in Cobh 2014” on Tuesday 15th July was a tremendous success. Organised by Cobh Tourism and See You in Cobh to welcome 1500 Australians and 400 Kiwis on a 104 night round the world cruise from Sydney to Sydney, the audience and their reaction to all of the events exceeded expectations. Despite this being a Tuesday, the town was buzzing and a fantastic atmosphere prevailed throughout the town, but especially on the quayside as the Dawn Princess sailed.

Cobh Tourism and See You in Cobh wishes to thank all media outlets for helping to spread the word, the performers who gave of their time and talents so freely, the retailers of Cobh for the Australian themed window displays and in spite of an early sailing, the Cobh Confraternity Band for once again creating a magical atmosphere on the quayside. The events included a Blessing of the Bonnets ceremony in memory of all convict women transported to Australia. Entertainment included traditional music from Luasca and other accomplished trad musicians, Irish dancing from Aoife Ryan’s school of dance, Darragh McGann and the Band of 1 Southern Brigade under the baton of Capt. Brian Prendergast. The shop window display competition was won by Keen on Sport, with Cobh Pastimes, the Keen House and English’s Auctioneers taking the lesser honours. The judges took into account imagination, the physical effort involved, as well as the visual impact and entertainment value of each entry. The fantastic prize sponsored by Cork Harbour Boat Hire and The Quays Bar is an hour self drive boat trip with Cork Harbour Boat Hire followed by lunch for four people at The Quays Bar and Restaurant.

The following message was received from Mark Turner, the Cruise Director on Dawn Princess
“Just wanted to thank all involved in the Australia Day Celebrations today in Cobh; pax have not stopped commenting on how touched they were by the experience. We have many experienced cruisers and they have all said that there is no welcome similar anywhere.

Please do pass on our personal thanks to all the dancers, musicians and welcomers”. Best Regards, Mark Turner, Cruise Director, MV: Dawn Princess.

The Sea Princess will call to Cobh on 14th July 2015 on its world cruise from Australia and Cobh Tourism and See You in Cobh, with the assistance of the people of Cobh, look forward to doing it all again