The Cabragh Wetlands are a hidden gem in the heart of Tipperary

When Thurles Sugar Factory closed in 1988 one of the most valuable legacies it left behind was the old settling ponds in Cabragh.

Initially dismissed as a site only fit for a town dump, some locals, including the local Gun Clubs, recognised its potential as a nature reserve. As time went on the Cabragh Wetlands Trust was formed.

Its members have developed a unique multipurpose amenity which is open to visitors all year round. The wetlands have a series of paths and ponds running through a marsh thick with reeds .

This is home to a wide variety of wildlife, most notably winter migrating birds. Most Irish people, especially those living inland, have never been to a real natural wetland, given that about 90% of them have been lost to reclamation for agricultural purposes.

As well as being rich in biodiversity, wetlands recycle water, provide a carbon sink and contribute to flood control. But a nature reserve is far from being the only amenity Cabragh Wetlands provides.

Recreation and education are promoted too. On the first Tuesday night of each month an Irish traditional music session is held from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. This is in a comfortable setting, different from the usual pub scene.

Everybody is welcome. Frequent courses covering a range of subjects and suitable for different age groups are held. Dialogue is encouraged but not insisted on.

A walk through the spacious building lets the visitor view exhibits such as stuffed wild animals, videos, posters and reference books related to the natural world and traditional arts and crafts.

For those of maybe a deeper philosophical bent, or who may merely be trying to make sense of our own lives and our place on the planet, the outdoor Cosmic Walk illustrates the creation story of the universe.

The original idea came from Miriam McGillis, Genesis Farm, New Jersey, U.S.A. and was funded by a generous donation from St. Patrick’s Missionary Society, Kiltegan, Co. Wicklow.

The ten sculptures are the work of Philip and Liz Quinn, Stonemad Studios, Holycross. The walk and the sculptures represent the birth and development of the universe.

It is all covered, from the first expansion through the evolution of life and the development of civilisation. The story as represented here draws on the four human wisdoms.

These are often overlooked in the rush of the modern world – science, the classics, women and indigenous peoples.

A few generations ago our ancestors were academically and technically illiterate but were highly earth literate and in tune with the natural world.

The cosmic walk helps us to make this reconnection. Visitors come to Cabragh for many reasons.

Some for a quiet walk, some for wildlife observation, some for entertainment or education, some for reflection and many to see a flagship environmental project developed through local initiative. Visitors are always welcome.

For further information visit the website at https://cabraghwetlands.ie/