Fermoy

Fermoy town is situated in the heart of Munsters Blackwater Valley. Fermoy is famous for its fishing and hospitality. Xplore Fermoy here.

Fermoy, Co. Cork, Ireland - Welcome to the Blackwater Valley

What is Fermoy Forum?

Fermoy Forum is a voluntary organisation made up of local people that works in partnership with your local businesses, community groups and the municipal authority to develop and communicate opportunities and implement plans for the economic, social and environmental development of Fermoy town.

Why has it been established?

In order to facilitate those within the community to work together through partnership to enrich our town as a great place to work, live and do business.

What are our objectives?

Working in partnership with Fermoy Municipal Authority, the forum’s activities include strategic business planning, pro-active sectoral development, feasibility assessment and management of projects, area branding, promotion, marketing and networking, communications, and monitoring/evaluation of projects and activities.

Membership Benefits

Establishing a representative body for Fermoy’s many businesses and non-profit organisations has never been more important than at this moment. Fermoy Forum is stepping into this role and has already established a working relationship with the Cork County Council as well as our Municipal Town Council and local Councillors.

As a subscribed member of the Fermoy Forum, we will work hard to represent your views, issues, needs and aspirations as we work closely with these state agencies. By encouraging a strong, unified business community, we help to create a stable local economy that provides a high quality of life for those who live and work in Fermoy.

Recent reports indicate that Cork County Council will have a reduced budget in the coming years. What budget is left will have to be used effectively. Fermoy Forum as a collective will be in a better position to advocate for better services than individual businesses and non-profits. 

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Michael Lyons

Chairman

David Horan

Vice Chairman

Father's Day is this Sunday, June 19th, which means it's time to start thinking about how to celebrate the day with Dad!

If you're in need of a little inspiration - and fancy supporting local businesses while you're at it - then you've come to the right place.

Here are some recommendations on where to dine, visit, and find the perfect gift this Father's Day...

For unique and thoughtful gift ideas, look no further than these local spots.

For the most stylish shirts, slacks, accessories and summer essentials: Su-Man and DV8 Fashion 

For that book he won't be able to put down: Fermoy Books 

For the best cards and last-minute gifts: Hanley's Newsagents 

Planning a special day out for Dad? Here's where to take him for some Father's Day fun.

Work up an appetite and head for a refreshing walk up Corrin Hill with dad. Then make a beeline for one of these popular lunch/dinner spots...

Treat Dad to an amazing lunch or dinner at one of town's premier lunch spots.

For a delicious Sunday brunch: Hanna's and The Heron Cafe 

<p>Father's Day is this Sunday, June 19th, which means it's time to start thinking about how to celebrate the day with Dad!</p>
<p>If you're in need of a little inspiration - and fancy supporting local businesses while you're at it - then you've come to the right place.</p>
<p>Here are some recommendations on where to dine, visit, and find the perfect gift this Father's Day...</p>
<h2>The Perfect Gift</h2>
<p>For unique and thoughtful gift ideas, look no further than these local spots.</p>
<img src="https://d2hz75cbudexsj.cloudfront.net/insideAppNews/images/4d66ff8e-7926-4a5e-8367-2440adb12bb6.jpg" alt="undefined" style="float:none;height: auto;width: auto"/>
<p></p>
<p>For the most stylish shirts, slacks, accessories and summer essentials: <a href="https://xploreapp.io/fermoy/shopping/su-man-csgdd" target="_self">Su-Man</a> and <a href="https://xploreapp.io/fermoy/shopping/dv8-fashion-gkbmn" target="_self">DV8 Fashion</a>&nbsp;</p>
<p>For that book he won't be able to put down: <a href="https://xploreapp.io/fermoy/shopping/fermoy-books-vsemq" target="_self">Fermoy Books</a>&nbsp;</p>
<p>For the best cards and last-minute gifts: <a href="https://xploreapp.io/fermoy/shopping/hanleys-newsagents-hqjzm" target="_self">Hanley's Newsagents</a>&nbsp;</p>
<p></p>
<h2>The Day Out</h2>
<p>Planning a special day out for Dad? Here's where to take him for some Father's Day fun.</p>
<img src="https://d2hz75cbudexsj.cloudfront.net/insideAppNews/images/3baa0b9a-4671-481f-930d-6fe82648344f.jpg" alt="undefined" style="float:none;height: auto;width: auto"/>
<p></p>
<p>Work up an appetite and head for a refreshing walk up Corrin Hill with dad. Then make a beeline for one of these popular lunch/dinner spots...</p>
<h2>The Sunday Dinner</h2>
<p>Treat Dad to an amazing lunch or dinner at one of town's premier lunch spots.</p>
<img src="https://d2hz75cbudexsj.cloudfront.net/insideAppNews/images/ffe88395-0320-4b29-bf1e-445c27f2a660.jpg" alt="undefined" style="float:none;height: auto;width: auto"/>
<p></p>
<p>For a delicious Sunday brunch: <a href="https://xploreapp.io/fermoy/restaurant/hannas-hcihv" target="_self">Hanna's</a> and <a href="https://xploreapp.io/fermoy/restaurant/the-heron-cafe-evhko" target="_self">The Heron Cafe</a>&nbsp;</p>
<p>For tasty comfort food: <a href="https://xploreapp.io/fermoy/restaurant/bella-cafe-ipcdn" target="_self">Bella Cafe</a>&nbsp;</p>


Shop Local: How to Spoil Dad This Father's Day

Summer is just around the corner, which means it's time to start planning a visit to one of Ireland's many beautiful islands! From heritage museums and old prisons to ancient forts and white sand beaches, there's something to suit every kind of explorer here. Check out these seven islands in Galway, Kerry, and Cork...

Aran Islands - near Galway City, Co. Galway

A trip to the Aran Islands never disappoints. Perched at the mouth of Galway Bay, these three islands — Inishmore, Inishmaan, and Inisheer — are jam-packed with natural wonders. From the ancient fort of Dun Aengus to the ruins of a 14th-century castle, there are plenty of historical attractions to explore. Check out the famous Worm Hole on Inishmore or the Plassey shipwreck on Inisheer.

The quaint villages are full of charm too; locals are known to be warm and welcoming, and the vast majority of them speak fluent Irish in addition to English. Don't forget to sample the incredible seafood on offer at some of the islands' charming restaurants and cafés.

Spike Island has a truly incredible history. Dominated by a 250-year-old fortress, the island is brimming with historical significance. The fortress was a functioning prison until 2004 but has since been turned into a museum. It houses several exhibitions and artefacts that provide a unique insight into Irish military history and the fight for Irish independence.

Guided tours come highly recommended — don't forget to check out the 'Old Ireland in Colour' exhibition that is currently on display. Meanwhile, the prison's former church has been converted into a bright and spacious cafe serving hot sandwiches and beverages.

Great Blasket Island - near Dingle, Co. Kerry

Dunmore head with Great Blasket Island in the background

Great Blasket is one of the Wild Atlantic Way's most breathtaking islands. Dramatic cliffs, sweeping views, sloping green fields and the sheer remoteness of the island have made it a popular summer attraction in recent years. A day trip out here on a clear, sunny day is a real treat!

Like many of the other islands on this list, Great Blasket bid farewell to its last permanent residents decades ago. But even though there's no running water, electricity, or WI-Fi on-site, overnight stays are still possible! Four cottages are available to rent, and a small café is open from April to October.

Inchydoney is a small island in West Cork, connected to the mainland by a causeway. Home to one of the most beautiful blue-flag beaches in the county, Inchdoney attracts visitors from far and wide during the summer months. But there's more to this little island than its beach. The 4-star, upscale Inchydoney Island Lodge & Spa perched along the shore is the perfect place to enjoy a luxury getaway. Meanwhile, the bustling town of Clonakilty is just a 10-minute drive away.

More info: www.wildatlanticwayonline.com/inchydoney-beach

Innisfallen Island - near Killarney, Co. Kerry

Lough Leane in Killarney National Park, where Innisfallen is located

Home to the ruins of a 12th-century monastery and Romanesque church, Innisfallen is a must-see during a trip to Killarney National Park. The Annals of Innisfallen were written on the island and are reportedly a major source of early Irish history. Visible from the site of Ross Castle, many local outdoor sports companies offer you the chance to kayak out to the island and check out the magnificent ruins for yourself. An excellent way to top off your visit to this beautiful national park.

More info: www.killarneynationalpark.ie/innisfallen-island 

Located off the coast of Glengariff in Co. Cork, Garinish is famous for its lush and colourful gardens.

Brimming with history, the island was owned by a family of English aristocrats, the Bryces, in the early- to the mid-20th century. The Italian Garden they created is by far Garinish's most acclaimed attraction — its stunning colonnades, raised terraces, and formal pool immediately transports you to Italian shores.

However, Bryce House is also worth a visit — the cottage has been frozen in time ever since ownership of the island was transferred to the Office of Public Works in 1953. Access to the island costs €5 for an adult and €3 for a child. Check out the website for more details on ferry times and admission prices.

No summertime visit to Connemara is complete without a trip to Inisbofin island. Located off the coast of fishing village Cleggan, Inisbofin is home to a wonderful selection of shops, eateries, hotels/B&Bs, and heritage attractions.

Explore the island's looped trails by bike, visit the Inisbofin Heritage Museum, book a walking tour with a local guide, or go for a dip at one of Inisbofin's white-sand beaches. Afterwards, head for a hearty meal or fireside pint at any one of the island's cosy restaurants and pubs.

To discover more stunning Irish attractions and start planning your next road trip, browse the Attractions tab in the Xplore Local App. Click 'Select Another Town' to find inspiration on where to eat, drink, stay, and visit.

<p>Summer is just around the corner, which means it's time to start planning a visit to one of Ireland's many beautiful islands! From heritage museums and old prisons to ancient forts and white sand beaches, there's something to suit every kind of explorer here. Check out these seven islands in Galway, Kerry, and Cork...</p>
<h2>Aran Islands - near Galway City, Co. Galway</h2>
<img src="https://d2hz75cbudexsj.cloudfront.net/insideAppNews/images/4f8bf26b-86d4-429f-90c1-92bb4fcd1084.jpg" alt="undefined" style="float:none;height: auto;width: auto"/>
<h5>A cottage on Inishmore</h5>
<p>A trip to the Aran Islands never disappoints. Perched at the mouth of Galway Bay, these three islands — Inishmore, Inishmaan, and Inisheer — are jam-packed with natural wonders. From the ancient fort of Dun Aengus to the ruins of a 14th-century castle, there are plenty of historical attractions to explore. Check out the famous Worm Hole on Inishmore or the Plassey shipwreck on Inisheer.</p>
<p>The quaint villages are full of charm too; locals are known to be warm and welcoming, and the vast majority of them speak fluent Irish in addition to English. Don't forget to sample the incredible seafood on offer at some of the islands' charming restaurants and cafés.</p>
<p><strong>More info:</strong> <a href="https://www.aranislands.ie/" target="_self">www.aranislands.ie</a></p>
<h2>Spike Island - near Cobh, Co. Cork</h2>
<img src="https://d2hz75cbudexsj.cloudfront.net/insideAppNews/images/3246503d-6238-432b-8e12-72b0414e18a3.jpg" alt="undefined" style="float:none;height: auto;width: auto"/>
<p></p>
<h5>View of Cobh town from Spike Island</h5>
<p>Spike Island has a truly incredible history. Dominated by a 250-year-old fortress, the island is brimming with historical significance. The fortress was a functioning prison until 2004 but has since been turned into a museum. It houses several exhibitions and artefacts that provide a unique insight into Irish military history and the fight for Irish independence.</p>
<p>Guided tours come highly recommended — don't forget to check out the 'Old Ireland in Colour' exhibition that is currently on display. Meanwhile, the prison's former church has been converted into a bright and spacious cafe serving hot sandwiches and beverages.</p>
<p><strong>More info:</strong> <a href="https://www.spikeislandcork.ie/" target="_self">www.spikeislandcork.ie</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Great Blasket Island - near Dingle, Co. Kerry</h2>
<img src="https://d2hz75cbudexsj.cloudfront.net/insideAppNews/images/3c42bf16-7c63-4fed-a8ec-87f136c20fff.jpg" alt="undefined" style="float:none;height: auto;width: auto"/>
<h5>Dunmore head with Great Blasket Island in the background</h5>
<p>Great Blasket is one of the Wild Atlantic Way's most breathtaking islands. Dramatic cliffs, sweeping views, sloping green fields and the sheer remoteness of the island have made it a popular summer attraction in recent years. A day trip out here on a clear, sunny day is a real treat!</p>
<p>Like many of the other islands on this list, Great Blasket bid farewell to its last permanent residents decades ago. But even though there's no running water, electricity, or WI-Fi on-site, overnight stays are still possible! Four cottages are available to rent, and a small café is open from April to October.</p>
<p><strong>More info:</strong> <a href="https://www.greatblasketisland.net/" target="_self">www.greatblasketisland.net</a>&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Inchydoney - near Clonakilty, Co. Cork</h2>
<img src="https://d2hz75cbudexsj.cloudfront.net/insideAppNews/images/805b8adc-fa3a-4ac7-a0b0-847dc208c5b5.jpg" alt="undefined" style="float:none;height: auto;width: auto"/>
<h5>Inchydoney beach</h5>
<p>Inchydoney is a small island in West Cork, connected to the mainland by a causeway. Home to one of the most beautiful blue-flag beaches in the county, Inchdoney attracts visitors from far and wide during the summer months. But there's more to this little island than its beach. The 4-star, upscale Inchydoney Island Lodge &amp; Spa perched along the shore is the perfect place to enjoy a luxury getaway. Meanwhile, the bustling town of Clonakilty is just a 10-minute drive away.</p>
<p><strong>More info:</strong> <a href="https://www.wildatlanticwayonline.com/map-of-cork-wild-atlantic-way/discovery-points/inchydoney-beach/" target="_self">www.wildatlanticwayonline.com/inchydoney-beach</a></p>
<h2>Innisfallen Island - near Killarney, Co. Kerry</h2>
<img src="https://d2hz75cbudexsj.cloudfront.net/insideAppNews/images/e496d7bf-db9f-4ed6-be58-ea15c5c50db7.jpg" alt="undefined" style="float:none;height: auto;width: auto"/>
<h5>Lough Leane in Killarney National Park, where Innisfallen is located</h5>
<p>Home to the ruins of a 12th-century monastery and Romanesque church, Innisfallen is a must-see during a trip to Killarney National Park. The Annals of Innisfallen were written on the island and are reportedly a major source of early Irish history. Visible from the site of Ross Castle, many local outdoor sports companies offer you the chance to kayak out to the island and check out the magnificent ruins for yourself. An excellent way to top off your visit to this beautiful national park.</p>
<p><strong>More info:</strong> <a href="https://www.killarneynationalpark.ie/visit-us/innisfallen-island/" target="_self">www.killarneynationalpark.ie/innisfallen-island</a>&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Garinish Island - near Bantry, Co. Cork</h2>
<img src="https://d2hz75cbudexsj.cloudfront.net/insideAppNews/images/9a5764a3-2728-423f-9ee1-c5c37479a615.jpg" alt="undefined" style="float:none;height: auto;width: auto"/>
<h5>The Italian Garden at Garinish</h5>
<p>Located off the coast of Glengariff in Co. Cork, Garinish is famous for its lush and colourful gardens.</p>
<p>Brimming with history, the island was owned by a family of English aristocrats, the Bryces, in the early- to the mid-20th century. The Italian Garden they created is by far Garinish's most acclaimed attraction — its stunning colonnades, raised terraces, and formal pool immediately transports you to Italian shores.</p>
<p>However, Bryce House is also worth a visit — the cottage has been frozen in time ever since ownership of the island was transferred to the Office of Public Works in 1953. Access to the island costs €5 for an adult and €3 for a child. Check out the website for more details on ferry times and admission prices.</p>
<p><strong>More info:</strong> <a href="https://garinishisland.ie/" target="_self">www.garinishisland.ie</a>&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Inisbofin - Connemara, Co. Galway</h2>
<img src="https://d2hz75cbudexsj.cloudfront.net/insideAppNews/images/0a52a88b-7ae3-41a7-b678-9e32cedf1705.jpg" alt="undefined" style="float:none;height: auto;width: auto"/>
<h5>A walking trail on Inisbofin</h5>
<p>No summertime visit to Connemara is complete without a trip to Inisbofin island. Located off the coast of fishing village Cleggan, Inisbofin is home to a wonderful selection of shops, eateries, hotels/B&amp;Bs, and heritage attractions.</p>
<p>Explore the island's looped trails by bike, visit the Inisbofin Heritage Museum, book a walking tour with a local guide, or go for a dip at one of Inisbofin's white-sand beaches. Afterwards, head for a hearty meal or fireside pint at any one of the island's cosy restaurants and pubs.</p>
<p><strong>More info:</strong> <a href="https://inishbofinferry.ie/" target="_self">www.inishbofinferry.ie</a></p>
<p style="text-align:center;"><strong>. . . </strong></p>
<p>To discover more stunning Irish attractions and start planning your next road trip, browse the Attractions tab in the Xplore Local App. Click 'Select Another Town' to find inspiration on where to eat, drink, stay, and visit.</p>


Seven Irish Islands to Visit This Summer

Community groups across the country have until July 3rd to submit their entry to the Get Ireland Growing Awards.

First launched in 2016, the Get Ireland Growing initiative provides support to community food growing groups all over Ireland. Over the years, several different kinds of groups/spaces have received funding, including schools, not-for-profit organisations, community gardens, GIY groups, crèches, and more. The initiative is organised by Energia in partnership with GIY.

In April 2022, they supplied 300 community growing kits to groups who had registered for the campaign on the Get Ireland Growing website. Now any group — regardless of whether or not they have registered — is encouraged to host a local gathering on July 2nd to celebrate Energia Get Ireland Growing Day.

How to Participate in Get Ireland Growing Day

Good news: You don't have to be part of an established group to get involved!

All you have to do is find some like-minded people in your community and begin your food growing journey. This can be done in a public or private space, depending on what is available to you. Get Ireland Growing Day is all about taking those first steps and connecting with other community gardeners across Ireland. 

And although it's too late to get your hands on one of those growing kits, there's still time to enter the annual competition.

A GIY annual subscription for a community hero from each of the four provinces.

A €500 GIY voucher for the winner of The Best Energia Get Ireland Growing Day.

A cash grant of €1000 for The Best Space Transformation.

To enter, showcase your community garden on social media by posting a photo/selection of photos and a description of what you do. NB: Use the hashtag #GetIrelandGrowing and tag the handle @energiaGIG to make your submission count.

Full T&Cs, as well as more information on the campaign, can be found on getirelandgrowing.ie. 

Irish non-profit Grow it Yourself (GIY) aims to provide people with the seeds, gardening advice, and recipes they need to embrace 'growing your own.'

A GIY subscription or voucher could give your group access to growing kits, online courses, in-person events at GROW HQ, seed packets, and a wide range of gardening, sustainability and cookery books.

So, what are you waiting for? Head over to your local garden centre, stock up on supplies, and start building your own growing community before July 2nd!

<p>Community groups across the country have until July 3rd to submit their entry to the Get Ireland Growing Awards.</p>
<p>First launched in 2016, the Get Ireland Growing initiative provides support to community food growing groups all over Ireland. Over the years, several different kinds of groups/spaces have received funding, including schools, not-for-profit organisations, community gardens, GIY groups, crèches, and more. The initiative is organised by Energia in partnership with GIY.</p>
<p>In April 2022, they supplied 300 community growing kits to groups who had registered for the campaign on the Get Ireland Growing website. Now any group — regardless of whether or not they have registered — is encouraged to host a local gathering on July 2nd to celebrate Energia Get Ireland Growing Day.</p>
<h2>How to Participate in Get Ireland Growing Day</h2>
<p>Good news: You don't have to be part of an established group to get involved!</p>
<p>All you have to do is find some like-minded people in your community and begin your food growing journey. This can be done in a public or private space, depending on what is available to you. Get Ireland Growing Day is all about taking those first steps and connecting with other community gardeners across Ireland.&nbsp;</p>
<h2>How to Enter the Competition</h2>
<p>And although it's too late to get your hands on one of those growing kits, there's still time to enter the annual competition.</p>
<p><strong>Prizes include:</strong></p>
<ol>
<li>A GIY annual subscription for a community hero from each of the four provinces.</li>
<li>A €500 GIY voucher for the winner of The Best Energia Get Ireland Growing Day.</li>
<li>A cash grant of €1000 for The Best Space Transformation.</li>
</ol>
<p>To enter, showcase your community garden on social media by posting a photo/selection of photos and a description of what you do. NB: Use the hashtag #GetIrelandGrowing and tag the handle @energiaGIG to make your submission count.</p>
<p>Full T&amp;Cs, as well as more information on the campaign, can be found on <a href="https://getirelandgrowing.ie/" target="_self">getirelandgrowing.ie</a>.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Note on prizes:</strong></p>
<p>Irish non-profit Grow it Yourself (GIY) aims to provide people with the seeds, gardening advice, and recipes they need to embrace 'growing your own.'</p>
<p>A GIY subscription or voucher could give your group access to growing kits, online courses, in-person events at GROW HQ, seed packets, and a wide range of gardening, sustainability and cookery books.</p>
<p>So, what are you waiting for? Head over to your local garden centre, stock up on supplies, and start building your own growing community before July 2nd!</p>


Get Ireland Growing Day: How to Participate & Win Prizes For Your Community

In the run-up to World Environment Day — which takes place this Sunday, June 5th — we thought we'd share a story about the importance of taking action in the face of uncertainty.

One day a terrible fire broke out in a forest, and a huge woodland was suddenly engulfed by a raging wildfire.

Frightened, all the animals fled their homes and ran out of the forest. As they came to the edge of a stream they stopped to watch the fire, feeling very discouraged and powerless, and grieving the destruction of their homes. Every one of them thought there was nothing they could do about the fire - except for one little hummingbird.

This particular hummingbird swooped into the stream and picked up a few drops of water, then flew into the forest and put them on the fire.

Then it went back to the stream and did it again, and it kept going back, again and again and again. All the other animals watched in disbelief; some tried to discourage the hummingbird.

And as the animals stood around disparaging the little bird's efforts, the bird noticed how hopeless and forlorn they looked.

Then one of the animals shouted out and challenged the hummingbird, asking in a mocking voice, “what do you think you are doing?”

And the hummingbird, without wasting time or losing a beat, looked back and said, “I am doing what I can.”

- Wangari Maathai, Nobel Peace Prize winner. 

World Environment Day 2022 is organised by the UN Environment Programme. This year, their #OnlyOneEarth campaign 'calls for collective, transformative action on a global scale to celebrate, protect and restore our planet.'

In light of that message, the story of the hummingbird is especially powerful. Because it's not always easy to 'do what you can' in the face of climate emergency doom and gloom. It's not always easy to see how your small, individual actions have the power to make a difference. 

Being a 'Hummingbird' — The Local Impact 

We can't solve the climate crisis on our own. We can't stop other people from causing harm to their natural surroundings. But we can certainly make our own corner of the world a better, healthier and more sustainable place to live.

On a positive note, there are already lots of ordinary people who are trying their best to achieve this. Take your town or community for example. Look closely and you'll be able to spot who the changemakers are.

They are the educators, the Tidy Towns members, the community gardeners, the animal lovers, and the campaigners for outdoor spaces.

They are the local activists who fought to secure funding for regeneration initiatives.

They are the food business owners who source their ingredients locally.

They are the landowners who leave space on their land for wildlife to flourish.

They are ordinary people, like you, doing what they can.

So you're not alone in your efforts. Collective, transformative action is possible when communities come together and work towards a brighter future.

How to Celebrate World Environment Day in Your Area

Shop local. Buy from small vendors and local food producers. This will reduce reliance on big corporations who do damage to the environment. By supporting your town's economy you're supporting the livelihoods of important changemakers.

Volunteer for a local wildlife organisation or Tidy Towns group. Your work may inspire others to do the same. 

Get outdoors and gain a new appreciation for your natural surroundings. Explore nature trails or woodlands near you (check out trails in the Xplore Local app) - just remember to 'leave no trace.' 

Plant pollinator-friendly plants. Make your garden a haven for wildlife and endangered insects like bees. 

Reduce, reuse, recycle. The first two are as important as the last. By making a collective effort, we'll turn our towns and villages into cleaner, healthier, and more attractive places to live. 

Days like World Environment Day are vital reminders of how vulnerable our environment is — and how much we need to protect it. Like the Hummingbird, we have to keep trying our best and keep pushing for change. 

To learn more about World Environment Day and why it's happening, check out this guide.

<p>In the run-up to World Environment Day — which takes place this Sunday, June 5th — we thought we'd share a story about the importance of taking action in the face of uncertainty.</p>
<h2>The Story of the Hummingbird</h2>
<blockquote>One day a terrible fire broke out in a forest, and a huge woodland was suddenly engulfed by a raging wildfire.</blockquote>
<p></p>
<blockquote>Frightened, all the animals fled their homes and ran out of the forest. As they came to the edge of a stream they stopped to watch the fire, feeling very discouraged and powerless, and grieving the destruction of their homes. Every one of them thought there was nothing they could do about the fire - except for one little hummingbird.</blockquote>
<p></p>
<blockquote>This particular hummingbird swooped into the stream and picked up a few drops of water, then flew into the forest and put them on the fire.</blockquote>
<p></p>
<blockquote>Then it went back to the stream and did it again, and it kept going back, again and again and again. All the other animals watched in disbelief; some tried to discourage the hummingbird.</blockquote>
<p></p>
<blockquote>“Don’t bother.”</blockquote>
<blockquote>“It’s too much.”</blockquote>
<blockquote>“You’re too little.”</blockquote>
<blockquote>“Your wings will burn.”</blockquote>
<blockquote>“Your beak is too tiny.”</blockquote>
<blockquote>“It’s only a drop."</blockquote>
<blockquote>“You can’t put out this fire.”</blockquote>
<p></p>
<blockquote>And as the animals stood around disparaging the little bird's efforts, the bird noticed how hopeless and forlorn they looked.</blockquote>
<p></p>
<blockquote>Then one of the animals shouted out and challenged the hummingbird, asking in a mocking voice, “what do you think you are doing?”</blockquote>
<p></p>
<blockquote>And the hummingbird, without wasting time or losing a beat, looked back and said, “I am doing what I can.”</blockquote>
<p style="text-align:right;"><strong>- </strong>Wangari Maathai, Nobel Peace Prize winner.<strong> </strong></p>
<p style="text-align:center;"><strong>. . . </strong></p>
<p>World Environment Day 2022 is organised by the UN Environment Programme. This year, their #OnlyOneEarth campaign 'calls for collective, transformative action on a global scale to celebrate, protect and restore our planet.'</p>
<p>In light of that message, the story of the hummingbird is especially powerful. Because it's not always easy to 'do what you can' in the face of climate emergency doom and gloom. It's not always easy to see how your small, individual actions have the power to make a difference.&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Being a 'Hummingbird' — The Local Impact&nbsp;</h2>
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<p>We can't solve the climate crisis on our own. We can't stop other people from causing harm to their natural surroundings. But we can certainly make our own corner of the world a better, healthier and more sustainable place to live.</p>
<p>On a positive note, there are already lots of ordinary people who are trying their best to achieve this. Take your town or community for example. Look closely and you'll be able to spot who the changemakers are.</p>
<p>They are the educators, the Tidy Towns members, the community gardeners, the animal lovers, and the campaigners for outdoor spaces.</p>
<p>They are the local activists who fought to secure funding for regeneration initiatives.</p>
<p>They are the food business owners who source their ingredients locally.</p>
<p>They are the landowners who leave space on their land for wildlife to flourish.</p>
<p>They are ordinary people, like you, doing what they can.</p>
<p>So you're not alone in your efforts. Collective, transformative action is possible when communities come together and work towards a brighter future.</p>
<h2>How to Celebrate World Environment Day in Your Area</h2>
<ul>
<li><strong>Shop local.</strong> Buy from<strong> </strong>small vendors and local food producers. This will reduce reliance on big corporations who do damage to the environment. By supporting your town's economy you're supporting the livelihoods of important changemakers.</li>
<li><strong>Volunteer</strong> for a local wildlife organisation or Tidy Towns group. Your work may inspire others to do the same.&nbsp;</li>
<li><strong>Get outdoors </strong>and gain a new appreciation for your natural surroundings. Explore nature trails or woodlands near you (check out trails in the Xplore Local app) - just remember to 'leave no trace.'&nbsp;</li>
<li><strong>Plant pollinator-friendly plants. </strong>Make your garden a haven for wildlife and endangered insects like bees.&nbsp;</li>
<li><strong>Reduce, reuse, recycle.</strong> The first two are as important as the last. By making a collective effort, we'll turn our towns and villages into cleaner, healthier, and more attractive places to live.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<h3>Only One Earth</h3>
<p>Days like World Environment Day are vital reminders of how vulnerable our environment is — and how much we need to protect it. Like the Hummingbird, we have to keep trying our best and keep pushing for change.&nbsp;</p>
<p>To learn more about World Environment Day and why it's happening, check out <a href="https://wedocs.unep.org/bitstream/handle/20.500.11822/40017/WED2022.pdf?sequence=3&isAllowed=y" target="_self">this guide</a>.</p>


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