By Claire Lomasney
After months of hibernation and sheltering from the relentless rain, I finally found myself returning to the trails and reconnecting with nature. There is something restorative about stepping back onto a woodland path after a long winter. This particular outing, organised in liaison with Avondhu Blackwater Walking Trails and trail organiser, Vincent O’Flynn, brought me to a familiar yet ever-inspiring destination: Ballard Waterfall.
The team had already begun preparatory work to replace the old handrail and several steps near the waterfall. The newly built steps are designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding rock face and landscape, practical improvements that respect the natural beauty of the site. Of course, such work cannot be achieved without the proper tools: lengths of timber, stakes, cement, drills, not to mention a steady supply of tea and light refreshments to keep spirits high.
I was there to document the day’s progress, capturing both the dedication of the team and the picturesque scenery. With the recent rainfall, the waterfall was in magnificent form, the water cascading with renewed energy over the rocks below.
Full story in this week’s Print & Digital Edition.
