I am tremendously honoured to be the GIS President for 2018/19.  I have been a financial member of the GIS since about 1979, when I first moved from Ireland to live in Geelong.  I lived in Geelong until I returned to Ireland in August 1992.

During those years I was a committee member, Secretary and Treasurer.  My children participated in Irish Dancing, Irish Language Classes, Pako Festa and many other Irish events.  It’s amazing to think that these traditions still continue today.

I am very proud of the GIS, it’s my passion and when I returned to Australia again, in 2012 I joined the GIS committee.  I hope the GIS  continues to be an important part of Irish/Australian family lives’ in Geelong.

The GIS has a long history in Geelong of assisting members in times of trouble.  My family and I will never forget the support and kindness that was shown to us many years ago, in our time of need.

I am looking forward to an exciting year ahead.

Deirdre O’ Hara