It was all sunshine and smiles for the Retired Members’ Association’s first ambassador-led outing at Lough Boora Discovery Park, County Offaly, on Sunday 7th June.

Members from around the country gathered for an enjoyable afternoon of walking through the park’s beautiful scenery, all under the watchful eye and knowledgeable guidance of RMA ambassadors Larry Lyons and James Gerard Monahan.

Larry Lyons, who suggested the location, describes Lough Boora as a “hidden gem”. With its extensive walking trails, impressive sculpture collection, lakes and beautiful natural surroundings, few would argue against him.

The low, undulating terrain of the park provided the ideal environment for more casual and older walkers.

Members gathered at the park’s café before heading out on their adventure shortly after 12.30pm.

Larry said: “We had a great turnout on the day, from the very young to the not so young. Some decided to go along at their own pace while others joined in the group walk. After exploring this magical outdoor wonderland, we ended up back in the café for more food and chats.”

Larry was happy to see how much his fellow retired members enjoyed the day out, and he encouraged anyone who missed it to take part in the next. He said, “Friendships were forged, and the feeling afterwards was when and where will the next event take place?”

The walk is part of a wider effort to increase the social side of the RMA and build a friendly, supportive culture among retired members.

Membership officer Claudia Jennings has confirmed that more outings are in the works. She said: “We are already putting our thinking caps on and exploring ideas for future ambassador-led events and activities. If you have a suggestion for activities, outings or initiatives you would like to see organised for retired members, we would be delighted to hear from you.”

You can send your suggestions to retiredmembers@forsa.ie.

If you are retired or retiring, and don’t want to miss the next one, make sure to join the Retired Members’ Association.

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