Learn more about Robert, one of Barretstown’s hardworking hidden heroes, in
Keepers of the Enchanted Forest
You mightn’t ever imagine that when you so kindly give to help children with cancer and other serious illnesses come to camp for healing magic, you’re protecting nature and biodiversity in Ireland too. Robert Farrelly, one of our hidden heroes at Barretstown, is at the heart of it…
He is an experienced mountain guide, a search and rescue volunteer, and a steward of our grounds who grew up in a cottage (now named for his late mum, Nancy) right here at Barretstown. And to know Robert Farrelly is to know his biodiversity reports. From the deer to the damselfly, to Ollie the otter and the return of the red squirrel, Robert monitors them all as part of his work with our dedicated team tending Barretstown’s beautiful 500-acre campus.
There is no such thing as a typical day. “It could be mowing or weeding, or taking care of a fallen tree. Our team tries to go home happy and exhausted at the same time,” Robert smiles, knowing sometimes he might then be called out on a mountain rescue mission that evening. But at the heart of all things Robert Farrelly is a love of Barretstown’s grounds and keeping everything welcoming for the children and families who can come to camp thanks to your kind heart. You make all the difference here.
Need to find the perfect gift?
Sponsor a tree in our Enchanted Forest with your donation of €75 in honour of someone special.
We’ll dedicate a tree in their name in The Enchanted Forest beside Barretstown’s magic castle, and home to 5,000 exquisite native Irish trees – all grown through caring gifts like yours that help children with serious illnesses.
You will receive a beautiful pack with a personalised Enchanted Forest Certificate bound in a special folder – a lasting legacy for in memoriam gifts as well. We’d be delighted to help.
To get started, visit https://barretstown.org/the-enchanted-forest/
✨ Discover more incredible stories! Dive into our latest newsletter!