In Pictures; ‘Full Steam Ahead’ at launch of 60th National Steam Rally

The 60th National Steam Rally was officially launched on Saturday 15th June at Stradbally Woodland Railway, located on the picturesque grounds of the Cosby Estate.

This landmark event, organised by the Irish Steam Preservation Society, was a spectacular celebration of steam engines, vintage machinery, and family fun.

Nigel Glynn, Chairperson of the Irish Steam Preservation Society, addressed the gathering of guests, volunteers, and steam enthusiasts, emphasising the vital role that society plays in benefiting the community through its activities and initiatives.

“The Irish Steam Preservation Society is dedicated to promoting the permanent preservation of steam-powered machines and related equipment, ensuring that future generations can learn about Ireland’s rich steam engine and vintage heritage,” said Mr Glynn.

This year’s National Steam Rally will take place on August 4 and 5. The group had originally planned to have sixty full-sized steam engines to celebrate their 60th anniversary, yet have said that this year’s event has “surpassed all expectations.”

“What started as a goal of ‘Sixty For 60’; has grown beyond belief! “This year’s rally will boast the largest gathering of steam engines ever seen in all of Ireland," Mr Glynn stated.

The event will also feature a wide array of attractions, including live music and dancing with performances from artists such as Susan McCann and Cliona Hagan among others, a variety of food stalls and trade displays to cater to all tastes and interests, and numerous family-friendly activities making it a perfect outing for families.

Additional attractions include a pet farm, food tent, amusements, a craft village, a sawbench display, sawing with steam, a vintage tar display, children’s activities, a blacksmith’s village, a road making display, vintage cars and tractors, miniature steam engines, motorbikes, vintage threshing displays, sheepdog demonstrations, oil engines, trucks and much, much more.

In his speech, Mr Glynn highlighted the society’s commitment to environmental responsibility.

“We are proud and privileged that our society demonstrates environmental responsibility. In 2023, we became the first event in all of Ireland and beyond to use a carbon-neutral biofuel, crafted and supplied by Arigna Fuels. 

While it was not perfect and does need a bit of tweaking, our commitment to sustainable energy practices sets an example for other events and industries,” Mr Glynn said.

The society’s efforts also extend to supporting local charities, including Laois Hospice, Stradbally Meal on Wheels, and Aoibheann’s Pink Tie, a charity that supports families of sick children.

“The funds raised from our activities support these vital local charities, indirectly benefiting the public and community-based organisations,” the Chairperson noted.

To mark the occasion of the official launch, a Flash Sale on tickets is now live, offering a 20% discount on all tickets from June 15th to June 29th. This special offer makes it an ideal time to secure tickets for the showcase event.

“We hope you will support and assist in whatever way you can when the time comes,” Mr Glynn concluded.

“It is important that we keep the society alive, vibrant, and running for another 60 years.”

The 60th National Steam Rally will be held on August 4th, 5th at the Cosby Estate, Stradbally, Co. Laois, with a 60th Anniversary Celebration Street Party, and Steam, Vintage Parade, taking place in Stradbally on Saturday 3rd August, from 5pm.