Freda Kinnarney has officially retired as secretary, operations manager, and company secretary of Tullamore Show & FBD National Livestock Show.
The announcement was made at the show’s AGM in December 2020, following her 28-year involvement with one of Ireland’s best-known agricultural shows.
Began work in 1992
In a statement, a spokesperson for Tullamore Show & FBD National Livestock Show, said:
“Freda has always been a strong member of the Show team and the announcement has come as a great shock to many.”
“Freda began her work with the Tullamore Show in 1992 in the cookery section and since 1997, she has been our secretary and a driving force behind our show operations. The Tullamore Show has gone from strength to strength, despite four cancellations during its 29-year history.”
“Freda is retiring from her roles as secretary, operations manager and company secretary on January 12th, 2021. She will remain as a member of our committee and undoubtedly, we will be seeking her valuable assistance in the future.”
Brenda Kiernan, chairperson, Tullamore Show, said: “Freda, all down through the years has guided each and every one of us.”
“You could go to Freda with a problem and she had it solved almost instantly. Her professionalism was just outstanding and helped bring Tullamore Show to the heights it has reached.”
“She will be sadly missed by everyone, especially me. We wish her health and happiness in her retirement.” Kiernan concluded.
Covid-19 pandemic ‘maybe sowed the seed’
After her announcement in December, Freda Kinnarney said:
“It has been a pleasure and an honour to be involved with such a tremendous team, whose expertise has contributed to the success in staging Ireland’s premier one-day event. It was my privilege to share in the show’s developments, challenges, and achievements in recent years.”
“I will sadly miss the camaraderie, the buzz and the excitement surrounding show day. I suppose the year out this year [2020] was a taste of a less pressurised lifestyle and maybe sowed the seed of a possible retirement.”
Concluding, the spokesperson said: “Freda, we thank you for your many years of hard work, long days and diligent efforts working behind the scenes.”
“The future will be very different without you as our secretary. Nevertheless, we send you our best wishes for a very happy retirement!” they concluded.
