Video by David Mc Gloin
The Swilly Sisters Shed members were up bright and early last Saturday to fill the air with song during a powerful Dawn Chorus fundraiser.
The unique summer solstice gathering at Rathmullan Pier, combining music and sea swimming, drew strong support from across the region and beyond, with “Sisters” from Fanad Head to Letterkenny in attendance, alongside visitors from Northern Ireland, Wales, and Scotland.
Following the musical performance led by Bri Carr, an optional sea swim encouraged many to take to the water, with some enjoying their first dip in years.
Photos courtesy of Austin Murray
A spokesperson for the Swilly Sisters Shed highlighted the significance of the event, stating, “The Summer Solstice is traditionally a time of peak light, and celebrated as a symbol of abundance, growth, and renewal and its connection to the cycles of Nature. It is an opportunity for us all to pause and align with the joyful spirit of the sun, and welcome summer blessings into our lives.” The Rathmullan Sisters certainly paid a fitting tribute to this sentiment.
Despite an unexpected technical hitch with the generator, which unfortunately meant no amplification, the spirit of the performers was undimmed.
The singers and musicians, alongside the inimitable choir mistress Bri Carr, delivered an uplifting performance.
The event was boosted by generous local support. Eunan Gormley, a butcher, and John Edwards from Ramelton, kindly sponsored the breakfast ingredients. Chef Artur Assis ensured everyone was promptly served by his hard-working team. Thanks were also extended to the Donegal Volunteer Centre, Rathmullan Sailing Club, and several “Swilly brothers,” including Dave, Austin, David, Seamus, and especially David McGloin, who rose extra early to capture the “dawning of the day” on video.
A bucket collection raised an impressive €2,177, all in aid of the RNLI Lifeboats charity.
Will ‘The Dawn Chorus’ become an annual event? Time will tell!
