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On the 14th of September 2018, we had the amazing opportunity to learn about our local producers and the stories behind them. Mr Donal O’Driscoll from Skibbereen and Bandon credit union started us off with an insightful speech about what it takes to run a business.

Next up to the mic was Ms Fiona Field who is the manager for the Taste of West Cork. She told us about the ins and outs of how it came about. There are 41 towns and 6 islands involved in the 2018 Taste of West Cork.

The first cooking demonstration was done by winner of MasterChef USA 2016 Mr Shawn O Neale. He showed us the correct way to cut an onion, using a certain technique called the ‘claw method’.

Ms Siobhán O Callaghan, owner of Kalbos and Uilinn of Skibbereen was up next. She gave us an insight into her early cookery career and her successful business. She cooked up a lovely pasta dish, which we learned very affordable to produce.

Mr Noel Murphy, head of hospitality and tourism studies in CIT, explained to us what outstanding opportunities their courses give to their students throughout their time in college and for years after.

Then we got up and moving with Mr Jonathan Davis, who was a past pupil of St Fachtnas De La Salle. He has set up his own successful business called Bodyactive. He offers fitness classes locally here in Skibbereen.

Following the workout was local entrepreneur Mr Alan Kingston who set up Glenilen farm in Drimoleague. He gave us a very amusing presentation about the backstory of his company, and the ups and downs through the years.

Clara Hickey from Skeaghnore Duck, a qualified chef from CIT, showed us how to make an easily affordable dish using her families duck and local produce

The final food entrepreneur was Ms Avril Allshire Howe from Caherbeg and Rosscarbery recipes. She informed us about the evolution of their brand

To finish it all off was Ms Clare Gallagher who gave the closing address, to thank all those involved

Overall it was a very enjoyable successful day.

Written by SCS Home Ec students

The School Community would like to thank all those involved in today’s hugely successful conference. Thankyou to our neighbouring schools for travelling over. Thankyou to the Festival Committee, all the guest speakers, the BAM staff of SCS and in particular the Home Economics Department of SCS.