EVENTS
Nollaig na mBan
Nollaig na mBan - Open Mic Night
Nollaig na mBan (Women's Christmas) is a fun traditional Irish celebration of women's contribution to the festive season.
On 6 January (the Epiphany feast day marking the official end of Christmas) Irish women have gathered together over the centuries to relax a little and enjoy some female cheer.
The Prankqueans and Friends will be marking the eve of 'Nollaig na mBan' by gathering to celebrate women's creativity and ongoing societal contribution in music and spoken word. Enjoy some craic and camaraderie with fellow creative spirits by enjoying a first half evening of performances.
We will have a short interval during which pizza will be available (veg option but no other special dietaries catered for).
The second half of the program hands over to the audience a chance for those who may wish to take to the stage (2-4 minute). If you would like to participate in the Open Mic - please email Áine at ainemdepaor@gmail.com with your name and proposed performance.
Ticket sales will be donated to support the Irish Support Agency who carry out important work to care for vulnerable people of the Irish Australian community of NSW.
CPR for Kids Training
Learn baby and child CPR and first aid with expert facilitators
Sunday 15th February 2026 - 10.30am - 1.30pm
Mill Hill Community Centre, Bondi Junction
Over approximately 3 hours, paediatric nurses share with you their years of experience in a wide range of situations, and there is lots of hands on practice during the class. The entire group will get the chance to put evidence-based theory into practice on the lifelike baby and child CPR manikins. You will all learn how to give CPR and what to do in case of drowning, fever, burns, choking, poisoning, head injuries and more.
This training is suitable for parents/caregivers of children from 0-8years.
Expectant mums are also welcome to attend.
Please bring a yoga mat/towel for supporting your knees while practicing the training.
Refreshments provided.
About CPR Kids
As paediatric nurses (and parents ourselves), we know that children can get themselves into all sorts of trouble, in the blink of an eye. And they do. You barely have time to think, but your child will be relying on you.
Our expert paediatric nurse educators are truly passionate about baby first aid, and give you skills and knowledge so that when the time comes, you can take charge and be confident to help your child in an emergency. We pride ourselves on being recommended by leading maternity hospitals and obstetricians.
The Irish Support Agency would like to thank and acknowledge Waverley Council for generously providing the funding that makes this community event possible.
SPACES ARE LIMITED, REGISTER NOW TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT.
THIS TRAINING IS FREE OF CHARGE, IT IS IMPERATIVE THAT IF YOU CAN NO LONGER ATTEND, PLEASE LET US KNOW ASAP SO WE CAN FREE UP THE SPACE.
Shoulder to Shoulder
SHOULDER TO SHOULDER 2026
Sunday, 29 March 2026
Prince Henry Centre, Little Bay NSW
Join us for the 5th annual Shoulder to Shoulder event—a day dedicated to men's mental health and wellbeing.
What to expect:
Peer support and connection with men from the Irish community
Stories of resilience from those with lived experience
Open discussions about emotional health
A supportive and inclusive environment
This event provides a space for men to share, listen, and focus on their mental health journey.
Topics and contributors:
Unplugged - Shane Brennan
The power of giving back - Ronan McDomhnaill
Let's talk Gambling - Angus Boyle
Opportunities for connection beyond the pints: WNOW, Ryan Guilfoyle, Man2Man and more
Lived Experience Panel with Ronan MacDomhnaill, Seamie Collins, Caolan Travers and Dave Dewey
Seniors Christmas Lunch
Our Seniors Christmas Lunch will take place on Wednesday 10th December in Penrith Gaels Cultural and Sporting Association.
A delicious festive lunch awaits, as well as our raffle and merriment.
Cost: $10 Members/$15 Non-Members
We would like to extend our appreciation to Penrith Gaels for awarding us a grant to make this event possible.
Rambling Irish - Circular Quay to Watsons Bay
Circular Quay to Watson's Bay
Date: Sunday 7th December
Time: 9.30am
Meeting Point: Circular Quay Train Station
Accessibility: Grade 3, Some steep sections, including stairs, involved
Transport: Parking is limited at Circular Quay.
Public transport is recommended.
Route:
The walk from Circular Quay to Watson's Bay is one of Sydney's most spectacular coastal journeys, weaving 10 kilometres through some of the harbour's most stunning scenery. Starting from the bustle of Circular Quay with its Opera House views, the path takes you through the Royal Botanic Gardens' lush greenery before hugging the harbour's edge past stately mansions and hidden beaches in exclusive suburbs like Point Piper and Vaucluse. You'll discover secret coves, historic landmarks like South Head's lighthouses, and breathtaking cliff-top vantage points where the Pacific Ocean meets Sydney Harbour. The trail culminates at Watson's Bay, where you can reward yourself with lunch and a coffee.
Pack your swimmers and lunch.
Duration: 3hrs
Length: 10km one-way
IRISH COMMUNITY BOOK CLUB
Join the Irish Support Agency's community book club which meets on the last Thursday of each month at 6pm in the Gaelic Club, Surry Hills.
A book club is a lovely way to discover new books and to meet new people!
This month we are reading ‘‘By any other name’’, by Jodi Piccoult.
Please note our next meeting on Thursday, 27th November 2025. As this will be our final meeting of the year, we'll be adding some festive cheer to mark the occasion.
Songs for Samhain
The Irish Support Agency is honoured to have been chosen as the beneficiary of this beautiful upcoming event, ''Songs for Samhain'' on Saturday 22nd November in the Gaelic Club, Surry Hills.
Samhain is an ancient Celtic festival marking the changing seasons. Come and celebrate the start of Sydney's summer with a glass of sangria (or a pint of Guinness, if you prefer!) as you listen to some of the finest singers and musicians in the Irish tradition currently living in Sydney. This concert is the second in a series growing from the fortnightly Thursday singing sessions at Sydney's Gaelic Club.
Featured singers and musicians include: Sarah Jane Kelly, Martin Horan, Eddie Pierce, Cam Samy, Orla Donohoe, Paul Gallagher, Shay Finley, Mia Moran, Breda Sheehan, Sean McLoughlin, Cameron Mather
Tickets are only $20 each.
Thank you to everyone involved and so generously donating their time
Trivia at the Gaelic Club
A fundraising trivia night in aid of the Irish Support Agency
Join us at the Gaelic Club on Wednesday 19th November at 7pm for a traditional tráth na gceist.
This will be a trivia night filled with questions, music rounds, pictures and amazing prizes to be won.
Tickets available for individuals and tables of 4 and 6. To ensure you get a spot, please pre-book, we cannot guarantee tickets at the door on the night.
All of the funds raised will go towards the Irish Support Agency’s client support services.
Rambling Irish - Jacaranda Walk
Iconic Jacaranda Walk - Kirribilli and Lavendar Bay
Date: Sunday 9th November
Time: 9.30am
Meeting Point: In front of the Museum of Contemporary Art, Circular Quay
Accessibility: Grade 3, Some steep sections, including stairs, involved
Facilities: Toilets are available at Milson's Point Station
Transport: Parking is limited at Circular Quay.
Public transport is recommended.
Route: We will depart Circular Quay and walk across the iconic Harbour Bridge. The views are unreservedly breath taking. We will then descend the steps to Kirribilli where the magic begins.
Nothing says warm weather in Sydney like a street full of jacaranda trees in bloom. As if Sydney wasn’t already the prettiest city in Australia, once the warmer months hit we find ourselves living in nothing short of a magical, lavender-coloured wonderland.
The season runs from mid-October, and peaks in mid-November as summer really starts to roll in. There’s a little piece of magic by the name of McDougall Street. Come spring, tourists and locals alike flock to this fairytale avenue in Kirribilli, where the splendid arch of jacaranda trees creates a lavender-hued dome, perfect for spring selfies. Just remember to be road safety aware at all times and mindful of residents.
Duration: 1hr 30min - 2hrs 30min
Length: 4km one-way
IRISH COMMUNITY BOOK CLUB
Join the Irish Support Agency's community book club which meets on the last Thursday of each month at 6pm in the Gaelic Club, Surry Hills.
A book club is a lovely way to discover new books and to meet new people!
This month we are reading ‘‘Yellowface’’, global bestseller by Rebecca F Khuang.
Next meeting will take place on Thursday 30th October 2025.
Rambling Irish Walk - Coogee to Bondi
Coogee to Bondi walk
Date: Sunday 12th October
Time: 9.30am
Meeting Point: Coogee Pavillion
Accessibility: Grade 2 track. Suitable for most ages and fitness levels with occasional steep sections of stairs. Not suitable for prams or wheelchair users.
Transport:
Bus to Coogee from Eastern Subs or CBD - return from Bondi via bus.
Route:
Enjoy one of Sydney’s most iconic walks, taking in beautiful beaches, cliff tops and great cafes along the way. Top attractions: Bondi Beach, Tamarama Beach, Bronte Beach, Clovelly and Coogee Beach.
Dogs are allowed on leads.
Duration: 2-3 hours of walking
Length: 6km
Rambling Irish Walk - Taronga Zoo to Spit Bridge
The Rambling Irish are back just in time for Spring
Join us for our next walk across the Harbour Bridge.
Date: Sunday 14th September 2025
Time: 9.30am
Meeting Point: Taronga Zoo Wharf
Transport: Ferry from Circular Quay and Return via Bus
Route: Escape the city and immerse yourself in one of Sydney’s most breathtaking coastal walks. The Taronga Zoo Wharf to Spit Bridge walk is a scenic 10km trail that winds through lush bushland, secluded beaches, Aboriginal rock engravings, and stunning harbour viewpoints. Starting at the iconic Taronga Zoo, this walk takes you along the Middle Head and through the pristine coves of Sydney Harbour National Park.
Distance and time: 10km - 3 hours
Level: Grade 3 track. Suitable for most ages and fitness levels, however not suitable for prams or wheelchair users.
Dogs not allowed.
Christmas in July Ball and Community Appreciation Awards
SAVE THE DATE – CHRISTMAS IN JULY BALL AND COMMUNITY APPRECIATION AWARDS
The Christmas in July Ball and Community Appreciation Awards 2025 is the ISA’s biggest annual fundraiser — and a night not to be missed! This special event helps us raise essential funds to ensure we can continue providing the vital support our community relies on.
We’d be absolutely delighted to have you join us on the night. By supporting this event, you’re helping us to be there for you and others in the community, whenever we’re needed most.
As always, we’ll be celebrating five incredible individuals through our Community Appreciation Awards, so expect plenty of excitement, festive cheer, and heartfelt moments throughout the evening.
Your ticket includes:
3 Course Festive Feast
5.5 Hour Beverage Package
6 Piece Live Band and Dancing
Auction, Raffle, and Giveaways
ISA Members and Volunteers receive a 10% discount on tickets - please use code ISACIJ at checkout.
SENIORS MID YEAR LUNCH
This year we are hosting our fabulous Mid Year lunch at the Parramatta Leagues Club at 12pm on Wednesday 9th July 2025.
A beautiful lunch awaits as well as our raffle.
Cost: $10 per person for members/$15 for non-members
Should you wish to become a member of the Irish Support Agency for only $11, you will be eligible for the reduced rate on both lunches in the year.
Bookings essential.
IRISH COMMUNITY BOOK CLUB
Join the Irish Support Agency's community book club which meets on the last Thursday of each month at 6pm in the Gaelic Club, Surry Hills.
A book club is a lovely way to discover new books and to meet new people!
This month we are reading ‘‘The Nightingale’’ by Kristin Hannah.
Next meeting will take place on Thursday 26th June 2025.
IRISH COMMUNITY BOOK CLUB
Join the Irish Support Agency's community book club which meets on the last Thursday of each month at 6pm in the Gaelic Club, Surry Hills.
A book club is a lovely way to discover new books and to meet new people!
This month we are reading ‘‘My Favourite Mistake’’ by Marian Keyes.
Next meeting will take place on Thursday 29th May 2025.
Rambling Irish Walk - DARLING HARBOUR TO WOOLWICH
DARLING HARBOUR TO WOOLWICH
Date: Sunday 25th May 2025
Meeting Point: Pontoon Bar , Cockle Bay Wharf - 9.30am
Accessibility: Easy to Moderate
Transport:
Public Transport to Darling Harbour - Return via Ferry
Route:
Enjoyable 13km urban route crossing the Anzac Bridge and traversing through leafy suburbs.
Duration: 3.5hours of walking
Length: 13km
Rambling Irish Walk - Family walk in Centennial Park
Family Walk -Centennial Park
Date: Sunday 4th May 2025
Time: 9.30am
Meeting Point: Centennial Homestead
Accessibility: Flat walk, prams, dogs welcome
Transport:
Parking onsite but can get very busy on the weekends.
Route:
The Grand Drive circuit is 3.6 km, and is beautiful flat walk that can be enjoyed by all ages and abilities. We will meet at the Homestead and complete the circuit, returning to a cup of tea and snack setup by the ISA. All families are welcome, mums, dads, babies, toddlers, older kids. Whether you are new to Sydney or simply looking to meet other Irish families - this is the walk for you. The ISA will be on hand to answer any questions that you may have.
Duration: 2 hr 30min - 3 hr
Length: 3.7km
Head to Head
A 50km fundraising walk in aid of the Irish Support Agency
Saturday 26th April 2025 - North Head Manly - Watson's Bay
Join the challenge today
Step 1: Sign up
It only takes a minute. You can sign up solo, or take on the challenge with your friends, family or workmates as a team.
Step 2: Raise funds
Your personalised fundraising page makes it super simple. Plus you’ll get support and advice, every step of the way.
Each challenger is asked to raise a minimum of $500 to participate.
Step 3: Walk 50km
You’ll have fun, you’ll get fit, and you’ll join others stepping up to raise funds for the Irish Support Agency.
Pioneered by Irish Support Agency President, Alan Humphreys, this 50km walking challenge is a symbol of hope, resilience, and the power of community coming together for a common purpose. It's a reminder that every step forward, no matter how small, can lead to positive change and transformation.
Embarking on a 50km fundraising walk is not just a physical challenge; it's a journey of solidarity, purpose, and resilience.
IRISH COMMUNITY BOOK CLUB
Join the Irish Support Agency's community book club which meets on the last Thursday of each month at 6pm in the Gaelic Club, Surry Hills.
A book club is a lovely way to discover new books and to meet new people!
This month we are reading ‘‘Four Letters of Love” by Niall Williams.
Next meeting will take place on Thursday 24th April 2025.
Women for Women
08/04/2025: THIS EVENT IS NOW SOLD OUT AND AT CAPACITY.
Saturday 12th April | Kensington Park Community Centre
A Women's mental health and wellbeing event which focuses on why women should, and need to prioritise their mental health and wellbeing.
Featuring leading practitioners and industry experts as well as community members courageously sharing their lived experience story.
Join us for a day of discovery, inspirational talks and conversation, helping us to feel more aware of what's really going on for us.
IRISH COMMUNITY BOOK CLUB
Join the Irish Support Agency's community book club which meets on the last Thursday of each month at 6pm in the Gaelic Club, Surry Hills.
A book club is a lovely way to discover new books and to meet new people!
This month we are reading ‘‘The Coast Road” by Alan Murrin.
Next meeting will take place on Thursday 27th March 2025.
Rambling Irish Walk - WATSONS BAY TO BONDI BEACH
WATSONS BAY TO BONDI BEACH
Date: Sunday 23rd March 2025
Time: 9.30am
Meeting Point: Robertson Park Gazebo, Watsons Bay
Accessibility: Coastal cliff walk, heights, some steps involved.
Transport:
Public transport is recommended.
Route: The coastal walk between Watsons Bay and Bondi Beach is a stunning clifftop trail that showcases Sydney’s dramatic coastline. Stretching approximately 8km, the route takes you past The Gap’s rugged cliffs, historic Macquarie Lighthouse, and the scenic beaches of Dover Heights and North Bondi. With breathtaking ocean views, fresh sea air, and a mix of bushland and coastal suburbs, this walk is a perfect blend of nature and city life.
Duration: 2 hr 30min - 3 hr
Length: 8km
Optional: Swimming at Bondi Beach, bring swimwear and towel
Irish Author Event - An Evening with Niall Williams and Christine Breen
Join us at NSW Parliament on Tuesday 4th March, to hear from renowned Irish authors Niall Williams, best known for his novel Four Letters of Love, and Christine Breen, who will be in conversation with Professor Elizabeth McMahon from UNSW.
Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to meet the authors in person and hear firsthand about their creative process and inspirations. There will be an opportunity for a Q&A with the authors as well as a book signing.
The event is run in partnership with the Consulate of Ireland, Sydney and the Ireland Funds Australia.
Tickets are available until 14th February or until sold out. All funds raised through ticket sales will in aid of our work here at the Irish Support Agency.
IRISH COMMUNITY BOOK CLUB
Join the Irish Support Agency's community book club which meets on the last Thursday of each month at 6pm in the Gaelic Club, Surry Hills.
A book club is a lovely way to discover new books and to meet new people!
This month we are reading ‘‘The Queen of Dirt Island” by Donal Ryan.
Next meeting will take place on Thursday 27th February 2025.
Rambling Irish Walk - Parramatta to MEADOWBANK River Walk
Parramatta to MEADOWBANK River Walk
Date: Sunday 23rd February 2025
Time: 9.30am
Meeting Point: Parramatta Train Station, Parramatta Sq Exit
Accessibility: Flat walk, pram friendly, dog friendly
Transport:
Public transport is recommended.
Route:
This is an enjoyable walk from Parramatta to Meadowbank in Western Sydney, New South Wales. It's a lovely riverside trail passing through different landscapes as it traces the Parramatta River.
Duration: 2 hr 30min
Length: 10km - Point to Point
IRISH COMMUNITY BOOK CLUB
Join the Irish Support Agency's community book club which meets on the last Thursday of each month at 6pm in the Gaelic Club, Surry Hills.
A book club is a lovely way to discover new books and to meet new people!
This month we are reading ‘‘The Covenant of Water” by Abraham Verghese.
Next meeting will take place on Thursday 30th January 2025.
Rambling Irish Walk - Woolloomooloo - Circular Quay - BARANGAROO Foreshore Walk
barangaroo/circular quay/woolloomooloo foreshore walk
Date: Sunday 19th January 2025
Time: 9.30am
Meeting Point: In front of Bell’s Hotel, Woolloomooloo
Accessibility: Flat walk, pram friendly, dog friendly
Transport:
Public transport is recommended.
Route:
We will depart Wolloomooloo and follow the existing foreshore paths to Mrs Macquarie’s Chair, through the Royal Botanic Gardens and around the Sydney Opera House.
Brace yourself for bustling Circular Quay, then head under the Sydney Harbour Bridge, into Walsh Bay and Millers Point before arriving at Wulugul Walk to relax and enjoy Barangaroo and a swim in the newly opened Marrinawi Cove. Please bring swimmers and a towel.
Duration: 1hr 30min
Length: 4km one-way
Nollaig na mBan
Celebrate Nollaig na mBan with Music, Creativity, and Community
An Evening with the Prankqueans | Sunday 5th January 2025
Join the Prankqueans at the Gaelic Club, to celebrate the traditional Irish Women's Christmas (Nollaig na mBan), to honour women’s contributions during the festive season and beyond! This long-standing Irish tradition is a time for women to relax, connect, and celebrate together.
The Prankqueans and Friends invite you to a vibrant evening of music, spoken word, and camaraderie. Kicking off with performances showcasing women’s creativity and societal contributions and in the second half, it’s your time to shine—step up to the stage for a 5-minute slot or enjoy some fun karaoke!
This is a celebration of women's contributions but it is open to everyone.
All ticket proceeds will support the Irish Support Agency, which is dedicated to assisting members of the Irish Australian community during times of vulnerability or distress.
Seniors Christmas Lunch
Our Seniors Christmas Lunch will take place on Wednesday 11th December in Penrith Gaels Cultural and Sporting Association.
A delicious festive lunch awaits, as well as our raffle and merriment.
Cost: $10 Members/$15 Non-Members
We would like to extend our appreciation to Penrith Gaels for awarding us a grant to make this event possible.
Rambling Irish - Cape Banks
Date: Sunday 8th December
Time: 9.30am
Meeting Point: La Perouse Museum
Transport:
390X from Juniors Kingsford or take bus L94 or 394 to La Perouse from Circular Quay, Martin Place, or Hyde Park via Maroubra Junction.
Route: Cape Banks walking track is a beautiful coastal walk in La Perouse with views across Sydney’s Botany Bay.
Located less than 20km from Sydney city, this return walk heads from La Perouse to Cape Banks, in Kamay Botany Bay National Park. The trail is easy to follow and mostly flat, with the option for a swim at Congwong Beach.
Walking:
Distance and time: 7km return
Level: Grade 3 track. Suitable for most ages and fitness levels, some small steps required. There are also sections of sand, bush tracks and boardwalk. Not suitable for prams or wheelchair users.
IRISH COMMUNITY BOOK CLUB
Join the Irish Support Agency's community book club which meets on the last Thursday of each month at 6pm in the Gaelic Club, Surry Hills.
A book club is a lovely way to discover new books and to meet new people!
This month we are reading ‘‘Hamnet” by Maggie O’Farrell. A big screen adaption is underway with Irish stars Paul Mescal and Jessie Buckley.
Next meeting will take place on Thursday 28th November.
Rambling Irish - Lane Cove National Park (Copy)
Date: Sunday 24th November
Time: 9.30am
Meeting Point: Rushcutters Bay Kiosk
Transport:
Train to Kings Cross Station, Return via Ferry from Watson’s Bay
Route: The scenic walk from Rushcutters Bay to Watsons Bay is a 10 km trail through some of Sydney’s most exclusive suburbs, mostly following the coastline of Sydney Harbour.
This relatively easy walking track takes in beautiful parks, quiet beaches, and picturesque bays, with spectacular Harbour and city views to enjoy from start to finish.
You can then take the ferry back to Circular Quay for full range of transport options.
Walking:
Distance and time: 10km one-way
Level: Grade 3 track. Suitable for most ages and fitness levels, some steps required. There are also sections of sand, bush tracks and boardwalk. Not suitable for prams or wheelchair users.
Dogs welcome.