“Splendour in Flowers and Stone” is now history. St. Colman’s Cathedral was embellished with the most wonderful and varied designs – definitely interpretation at its best. The size of the Cathedral seemed daunting at first but you all rose to the challenge with your amazing designs. Viewers were most impressed by the clever interpretation of the titles and the sensitive decorations throughout. One spectator commented “I know now why it’s called Floral Art.” Passengers from the US, Canada and the Continent, travelling on the cruise liners, described the festival as “World Class” – so exhibitors take a bow!

The concert on Saturday night featuring Amanda Neri and supported by the RTAI Cork Choir provided much needed relaxation after the busy staging. She enthralled her audience with a carefully chosen repertoire. Audience participation was a feature and it was great to hear “Tulips from Amsterdam” and “Funiculi Funicula”resounding throughout the huge nave.

Running a National Festival on this scale requires much help and support. I was so fortunate to have an amazing team - Mary Frahill, Margaret Ahern, Bridie Terry and Noreen Forbes. Thank you to Cobh Flower and Horticulture Club and to all the AOIFA members who helped on stalls, with catering, the raffle and stewarding - a special word of appreciation to those who travelled long distances to be with us.

Now it’s from the sublime to reality! The Floral Art classes are continuing. Thank you to the Teachers’ Committee and teachers for their excellent organisation and tutoring. It is so rewarding to see the progress being made from class to class. Christmas Dem time is upon us and I wish our Demonstrators safe travels on their way around the country. Plans are underway for the Judges’ Course which will commence in autumn 2020.

I look forward to meeting up with you all again at the Council Meeting on 7^th Nov – one not to be missed - Carola Keane, NAFAS, has some surprises up her sleeve!

Mary