The story of Bonniconlon ICA - a vibrant, active guild
THE Mayo Federation of the ICA has guilds in 12 locations, from Ballina to Meelick and further west to Mulranny, but one guild in particular is a fine example of a lively, competitive and talented group who celebrate together both their local and national successes.
Bonniconlon guild was first formed in 1968 with 30 members and its first president was Mary McManus from Knockroe, Bonniconlon.
The guild dwindled in later years when most of the older members died and were not replaced by new members.
Then in February 2007 the new guild was formed principally by Margaret O’Hara with help from former federation president Susan Murphy.
Fourteen ladies attended and membership increased, including one member from the original guild, Penny Foy.
Meetings were held in the River Inn, Bonniconlon. Then, as membership increased, they moved to the Grove Ballroom until the new renovated community centre was opened. They now meet every Monday evening.
It has offered a new life for all, offering social inclusion.
The intervening years to present have produced a vibrant rejuvenated guild, active locally and in the Mayo federation, supported with grants through the ETB, Age Action, the Ballina Municipal District and Mayo North East.
This has enabled its members to experience and take part in such activities as dancing, singing, mixed media art, painting, pottery, patchwork, silk painting, swimming, aquarobics and Tai Chi.
Social media, computing and leadership courses were also made available to members.
The members have been very active and involved at guild, federation and national level, supporting local charity events and fundraising activities.
They have also helped out with the senior citizens' party, participated in the west of Ireland mini-marathon raising money for Rock Rose House, and purchased a reclining chair for the Sunflower Room at St. Joseph's Hospice, Ballina.
The guild has also served nationally, representing Mayo as federation presidents, by Barbara Meer and Kay Devine.
During the recent lockdown the ladies kept in contact, supporting one another, and when guidelines permitted, they were able to meet up and continue extending their talents and activities.
In national ICA competitions, the guild won the Eleanor Gibbons Shield for singing, and earned second place in the Guild of the Year competition by producing a wonderful guild year book. They have also twice represented Mayo in the national table quiz.
More recent guild competitions held over the summer have demonstrated that they are a truly talented guild.
Recently several members have undergone a course in the use of the defibrillator.