Council set to unveil ‘The Stories of the River’ Project at Strule Arts Centre, Omagh

Fermanagh & Omagh District Council is launching ‘The Stories of the River’, a significant intergenerational initiative focused on celebrating the River Strule with the development of a rich media collection. On Thursday 30 May 2024, at a free event in the Strule Arts Centre, Omagh, the project, which was developed in collaboration with South West College and with support from partners including the Mellon Centre for Migration Studies (Liam Campbell), the Loughs Agency (Dr. Sarah McLean), and Omagh Heritage Forum, will be showcased and celebrated.

‘The Stories of the River’ aims to encapsulate the rich natural and cultural heritage of the River Strule, an iconic landmark in Omagh. The river is not just a physical feature but a source of community, nostalgia, and a sense of home for many. This project has enabled students from South West College to produce a variety of media presentations, including animations, podcasts, documentaries, and short films, each telling the diverse stories of the river, from its biodiversity and climate action efforts, to its folklore and romantic tales.

Chair of the Fermanagh & Omagh District Council, Councillor Thomas O’Reilly, expressed his enthusiasm for the project saying,

“We are delighted to have animations, podcasts, documentaries, and short films created for us, to help inform future generations of the stories from our River Strule and ensure that its legacy continues to flow through the heart of the community. I’d like to sincerely thank the students from South West College, without whom this project could not have come to fruition.

The launch event promises to be an enriching evening, highlighting the students’ hard work and the river’s historical and cultural significance. This project not only serves as an educational tool but also as a celebration of local heritage and talent. I encourage everyone to join us at the launch event”.

The event is free and starts at 7pm. Reserve tickets through the Strule Arts Centre website: https://struleartscentre.co.uk/show/stories-of-the-river-strule/.