Month: September 2025

Leading Industry Figures To Take To Stage At NI Manufacturing and Supply Chain Conference

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Key industry figures from across the country have been confirmed as speakers for the upcoming Northern Ireland Manufacturing and Supply Chain Conference & Exhibition, taking place at the Eikon Exhibition Centre this Thursday (Sept 11).

The one-day event, in partnership with Queen’s University Belfast and The Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre (AMIC), will bring together businesses from the engineering, production and supply chain sectors for focused discussions on productivity, digital transformation, skills and innovation.

Four stages at the event will host over 60 sessions with topics including robotics and automation, IoT, sustainability, climate tech and procurement to finance and funding, 3D printing and more.

Over 100 speakers are set to take to four stages. One stage will focus on Robotics and Automation, IoT, Industry 4.0 and Digital Transformation. It will feature industry thought leaders such as Sam Turner (CEO) and Colm Higgins (CTO) of AMIC, Ian Gardner (account technical leader at IBM) and Beata Dagiel (head of business development at Software Interactive). Moderator Tina Calder from Excalibur Press will also host a Scaling Digital Transformation in NI discussion with Graeme Ralph (head of digital factory at AMIC), Nick Rowe (commercial director at Irish Manufacturing Research) and Martin Naughton (MD at Galvia Digital).

Ian Gardner said events like the NI Manufacturing and Supply Chain Conference & Exhibition give industry professionals the opportunity to learn from each other: “The world is changing at a pace and conferences like this offer an incredible opportunity for people with common interests, experience and expertise to get together and share thoughts, opportunities, ideas and make amazing connections.”

Fellow speaker Beata Dagiel of Software Interactive echoed his sentiment: “By sharing projects we have completed for our clients we hope to inspire and encourage professionals to start thinking outside of the box and dive deeper into the world of AI with confidence.”

Alongside digital transformation, sustainability is another key theme at the conference.

On the Sustainability, Renewable Energy and Climate Tech stage speakers such as Kara Bailie (deputy director for Belfast Region City Deal), Ben Craig (head of partnerships at Carbonfit), Gillian McKee (sustainability and ESG consultant at Giraffe Associates), Chris Martin (head of sustainability at Danske Bank UK) and Gareth Martin (director audit and insurance at Deloitte) will discuss a range of topics from green manufacturing and how organisations evolve in their sustainability journey to manufacturing with purpose.

Tender and BID consultant Brendan Cunningham of B2C Tenders will also be joining president of Lisburn Chamber Ruth Young and Tina Calder (Excalibur Press) to discuss the importance of sustainability in your tendering and procurement processes.

While sustainability is a critical focus, discussions will also turn to efficiency and resilience within supply chains.

On the Lean Productivity, Supply Chain and Logistics stage, industry thought leaders such as John McLune (director of skills and competitiveness Invest NI), Barry Taylor (managing director of Manufacturing & Engineering Growth & Advancement), Nigel Irvine (owner of Specialist Expert Solutions Ltd) and Dr Hangfei Guo (associate professor in Supply Chain Management at Queen’s University Belfast) will discuss adopting lean productivity, growing exports, managing sales performance and rethinking supply chains in uncertain times.

This stage will also host a panel discussion on resilient supply chains, moderated by Lee Bristow (director of AI & Cyber Governance and Compliance, Saros Consulting) and will feature panelists such as Richard Jackson( COO, Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre (AMIC)), Caroline Sweeney (trade manager, InterTradeIreland), Bronagh Millar, (characterisation manager, Polymer Processing Research Centre, Queen’s University Belfast), and  Rob Picken (SVP digital Transformation and Partnerships, Sourceability).

Innovation in manufacturing processes will also take centre stage, with dedicated sessions on 3D printing. This area of the programme will spotlight how cutting-edge technologies are reshaping production, with speakers such as Dr Adrian Boyd (Senior Lecturer at Ulster University) and Cathal Finch (Area Sales Manager at Tyrolit Abrasives).

Later in the day, attention will shift from technology to people, with the same stage hosting discussions on the future of work and business support. Industry leaders, including Don Leeson (non-executive director of Translink), Dr Jonathan Acheson (Ulster University), Michael McKenna (Antrim & Newtownabbey Borough Council), Mark Johnston (Johnston Financial Solutions), Alan Lowry (Chair of FSB) and Patrick McGirr (AICC) will share their insights in panel discussions.

Alongside headline sponsors, in partnership with Queen’s University Belfast and The Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre (AMIC), the NI Manufacturing & Supply Chain Conference & Exhibition is also supported by Inspire 3D, Henry R Ayton, Engenuity Cluster, FAST Technologies, Irish Manufacturing Research CLG, SA Partners, Inspire 3D and Target Integration.

Registration is free and further information and tickets are available at northernirelandmanufacturing.co.uk

LOCAL DELIGHTS AND SEASONAL GIFT INSPIRATION AT LOUGH NEAGH ARTISANS MARKET

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Sunday 21st September shoppers, foodies, and craft lovers are in for a real treat as the highly anticipated Lough Neagh Artisans Market brings together the best of local produce,
handcrafted goods, and unique gift ideas to the shores of Lough Neagh, outside the Lock Keeper’s Cottage in Toome.

From 12 noon to 4pm, the open-air market will offer visitors a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere with views as spectacular as the stalls. With over 40 local traders confirmed, the
event promises a vibrant showcase of artisan food and drink, handmade crafts, jewellery, art, natural skincare, and unique gifts.
Whether you are shopping for a September birthday, getting ahead for the winter season, or even starting your Christmas shopping early (with just over 90 days to go), the Lough Neagh
Artisans Market is the perfect place to find one-of-a-kind items while supporting local makers and producers.
Market organiser Una Johnston of TIDAL shared her excitement about this year’s market. Una said: “The Lough Neagh Artisan Market is all about celebrating the talent, creativity, and quality of local producers. We’re thrilled to welcome back so many returning traders, as well as some fantastic new faces. It’s a great opportunity to explore unique products, meet the people who make them, and enjoy a truly authentic shopping experience in a beautiful setting. With autumn just around the corner and Christmas not far off, it’s the perfect time to discover something special.”
Shoppers can look forward to a feast of flavours, from gourmet street food and homemade bakes to locally roasted coffee and craft condiments. The market will also feature a handpicked selection of gift-ready goods including hand-poured candles, knitwear, wooden toys, prints, ceramics, and eco-friendly homewares. Families can take to the Lough for a boat trip and enjoy live entertainment on the shoreline.

The Lough Neagh Artisans Market has grown in popularity, thanks to its commitment to quality and its support for independent businesses and sustainable shopping. By buying directly from local creators and producers, shoppers are helping to strengthen the local economy and reduce their environmental impact.
For more information, follow Lough Neagh Artisans on social media.

Seamus Heaney HomePlace Welcomes “Apeirogon” The Until We Talk Tour With Colum McCann, Bassam Aramin & Ramin Elhanan, with music from Colm Mac Con Iomaire

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We are honoured to announce a unique evening with acclaimed author Colum McCann as he returns to HomePlace. 

He is joined by Rami Elhanan and Bassam Aramin, the two bereaved fathers whose extraordinary friendship and shared grief inspired the internationally celebrated novel Apeirogon.  Together they bring us “Apeirogon” The Until We Talk Tour on Sunday 12 October at 4pm.

At a time when the world is witnessing deepening conflict and polarisation, their presence offers a vital reminder of the power of empathy, dialogue, and human connection across divides.

The conversation will be interwoven with music from long-time collaborator and renowned composer Colm Mac Con Iomaire, bringing depth and poignancy to this evening of story, song, and solidarity.

Our three guests will speak about the book and the lived reality behind it—shining a light on the work of the Parents Circle, a grassroots organisation of bereaved Israeli and Palestinian families committed to peace. As Ireland welcomes these voices of courage and reconciliation, the call to widen and support the “parents circle” resonates with urgency and hope, reminding us that even in the darkest moments, there is a path toward mutual understanding.

This event takes place on Sunday 12 October at 4pm, tickets £20

Tickets for this event go on sale at 10am on Friday 5 September, and can be  purchased by calling the box office on 028 7938 7444 or online at

The History Detectives: New Exhibition at North Down Museum

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A fascinating new exhibition, The History Detectives, is now open at North Down Museum’s Long Gallery. The exhibition is free and open daily.

The project began when three like-minded local historians – Leanna Russell, Moira Concannon and Lesley Simpson, realised that comparatively little had been published about the history of their home area of Balloo and Killinchy. Determined to fill this gap, they undertook their own detailed research into the people and places that shaped their community.

History detectives Leanna Russell, Moira Concannon and Lesley Simpson visiting Sheila Graham (second from right) at Moorhall, Killinchy.

The History Detectives follows their journey into the past and showcases the sources they used, from maps, leases and wills to letters and photographs. These materials reveal the lives of farmers, millers, publicans, shopkeepers, doctors, postmasters and Presbyterian ministers from Balloo and surrounding townlands across past centuries.

The exhibition also features a range of artefacts, including loaned items from the Public Records Office NI and the National Museums NI, offering visitors a rare chance to see this history brought vividly to life.

Alongside the exhibition, visitors are invited to a special talk, How to Become a History Detective, on Thursday 9 October at 7pm in North Down Museum (booking essential).

The session will be led by local history detectives Lesley Simpson, Moira Concannon and Leanna Russell, who will share their experiences of researching the history of Balloo and Killinchy, as well as offering practical advice on how anyone can begin exploring their own local history.

Speaking at the opening of the exhibition, The Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Gillian McCollum said: North Down Museum is always grateful to have an opportunity to create new relationships with our communities and to provide a platform where interesting and diverse stories of the past can be explored and enjoyed by our visitors, both local and those from further afield. The museum is committed to celebrating and promoting every part of our Borough and we hope to enjoy a closer relationship with Killinchy going into the future.”

North Down Museum’s Manager, Arlene Matthews added: “We are so pleased to have an exhibition that celebrates the rich history of the Killinchy area. To explore this fascinating heritage, we have been able to secure some rarely seen, incredible loans from National institutions as well as from our local community.”

 

The History Detectives can be viewed in North Down Museum’s Long Gallery until Sunday 16 November. Admission is free.

For more information, visit: The History Detectives | AND Culture

BarCamp Belfast ‘Unconference’ Back For Second Year As Part Of Belfast TechWeek

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Following a successful comeback last year, the organisers of BarCamp Belfast are bringing the popular “unconference” back to the city.

The event will be closing out Belfast Tech Week at the Oh Yeah Centre in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter on 26th September from 10am-5pm.

Last year, the unconventional open-environment conference saw over 15 sessions delivered to more than 300 attendees. This year promises even more, with 17 sessions and a diverse line-up of speakers from Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland and even one international voice joining via livestream from the USA.

And this year will be no different with an eclectic lineup of individuals from all sectors, including founders, designers, developers, creatives, supporters and more to be announced over the coming weeks.

Building on Andy McMillan’s 2009 success, organisers Marty Neill (of AirPOS Pay & Retro Rooms) and Jennie Wallace (Beyond Skin) have brought the captivating day to fruition alongside the event’s headline sponsors Options Technologies, AirPOS Pay, Infinity 21, The Alchemists Forum, Morrow Communications and media partner Excalibur Press.

Speaking on the need for events such as this, Marty Neill stressed the importance of nurturing in-person learning and social communication.

Marty said: “With tech and entrepreneurial culture now very much shifting towards working from home we felt it was more important than ever to get the community together and Belfast Tech Week looked like the perfect time to do it.

“BarCamps and Biz Camps thrived back in the day as places to meet, spaces to learn and as environments where the sparks of starting something were lit. 

“We’re hoping that we’ll see some of the older heads from the original events rubbing shoulders with the new generation of makers and builders, transferring knowledge, making contacts and hopefully sharing some collective wisdom over a pint or two.”

“We’ll also be helping the Oh Yeah Music Centre in their campaign to buy their building with all proceeds on the day being donated to The Dandelion Group”

Not a wholly new concept, unconferences feature a lack of overt structure, with the non-hierarchical arrangement enabling attendees to deliver volunteered talks on a subject of their choosing, rather than specific speakers being hand-picked.

The event on September 26 will move away from traditional conference models to bring a dynamic, community-driven experience unlike anything else in the city.

Co-organiser Jennie Wallace added: “BarCamp is about creating a space where anyone can contribute, learn and share. This year, we’re covering everything from ‘How to Retire in 10 Years’ to ‘AI Disasters in PR’.

“We want to ignite ideas in all kinds of creatives. AI is a big theme this year because that’s what people are talking about, but the variety means there’s something for everyone.

“For us, it’s about learning, collaboration and fun. We want people to meet new contacts, strengthen networks and be inspired in an informal and accessible way.”

This year’s BarCamp will feature 17 sessions across two stages, covering topics as diverse as how to retire in ten years, using AI in PR, accessibility in design, generative coding, neurodiversity and email marketing.

Admission is free of charge and with its fully accessible venue, on-site bar and catering by Oui Poutine, attendees are encouraged to drop in and out throughout the day, listen to talks, or even step up and deliver one themselves.

Anyone registered for the event is granted the opportunity to freely discuss topics in front of an audience, granting exposure to otherwise unspoken subjects.

For more information about #BelfastBarCamp2025 and to register interest for the September 26 event, go to barcampbelfast.com

Final Chance to See Ulster American at The Sanctuary Theatre

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Courtesy of Collette Creative

Bright Umbrella Theatre Company’s production of David Ireland’s acclaimed black comedy Ulster American is entering its final week at The Sanctuary Theatre in East Belfast, with the last performance taking place on Saturday, September 6.

The show, directed by Bright Umbrella founder and artistic director Trevor Gill, opened on August 26 and has since played to engaged audiences in the intimate 120-seat theatre.

Starring James Boal as Leigh Carver, Caroline Curran as Ruth Davenport and Andrew McClay as Jay Conway, the three-person cast has brought Ireland’s volatile and darkly comic script to life just streets away from where the playwright first drafted parts of the work.

The play unfolds in real time over 75 minutes, charting a late-night meeting between an American film star, an English director and a Northern Irish playwright. What begins as a professional discussion quickly unravels into confrontation, exposing tensions around identity, power and artistic integrity.

Speaking about the production, Trevor Gill said: “It is a pleasure to stage Ulster American by David Ireland in East Belfast, where he is from. We have a very strong and experienced cast well capable of delivering what is a challenging script. David Ireland’s work is a carefully crafted mixture of satire, shock and black humour. We can guarantee a memorable night at the theatre.”

The production has also drawn positive responses from critics. Belfast Times reviewer Jeff Meredith described it as “a sharp and unsettling experience that lingers long after the curtain call”. 

Robin Elliott and Jane Hardy from In The Stalls podcast called it “strangely compelling”, adding that “it leaves you questioning in a new way” and described the ending as “an incredible, bloody denouement” that left them “slightly traumatised”. They also praised Caroline Curran for delivering “a truly great performance as Ruth” that showed “what a fine actress she is”.

Ulster American has gained a reputation internationally for its brutal humour and uncompromising treatment of themes such as misogyny, consent and cultural identity. It contains very strong language, graphic violence and references to sexual assault.

The production is part-funded by Belfast City Council and supports the company’s wider programme of performance, education and community engagement.

Evening performances take place at 7pm, with a 2pm matinee on the final day.

Tickets for Ulster American at The Sanctuary Theatre are on sale now at www.brightumbrella.co.uk

Queen’s Graduate Revives Belfast Publishing Service After Cathedral Quarter Blaze

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Almost three years after the business was devastated in a fire at Cathedral Buildings Belfast media and marketing company Excalibur Press has revealed they’ve brought back their publishing department thanks to a Queen’s graduate.

Following the blaze in their Donegall Street premises, caused by arsonist Patrick Gough who was jailed for the devastation, the company were forced to retire their small publishing department that had brought to life the work of 23 authors across Northern Ireland since its inception in 2015.

Thousands of pounds worth of stock was lost in the fire and the company struggled to revive the ailing department.

Chief vision officer and founder of Excalibur Press, Tina Calder, explained: “The fire at Cathedral Buildings in Donegall Street completely decimated our business and over the last three years my staff and I have had to make some really tough decisions such as retiring our publishing department in order to save the main business. 

“When Queen’s graduate Niamh Cooper asked if she could do a funded internship with us last year we jumped at the chance to start supporting young people again at the business.

“It became clear very quickly that Niamh had a natural aptitude for editing and publishing and so we agreed to publish Patience Bradley’s book Princess Mary’s Long Journey Home, a children’s book Patience had hand written in a notebook.

“Niamh’s dedication to supporting Patience, who is dyslexic, and helping her bring the book to life showed me that there might be life in the publishing department yet, albeit a slightly different offering from before.

“Alongside Niamh we started accepting the enquiries and created a new series of packages that are more than just publishing someone’s book for them. Instead, now we support authors through the entire journey with everything from ghost writing, line editing, copy editing and setting up their Amazon accounts, to helping them create a PR plan to support the launch of their book.

“I’m delighted Niamh has brought this department back to life and look forward to seeing how she develops it over time.”

Since Niamh’s arrival at Excalibur Press she has gone on to secure ongoing publishing work for the business alongside client relationship manager Carole King.

Niamh said: “As a recent 2025 graduate, it has been such a privilege to be able to work alongside wonderful authors in order to bring their books to life. 

“I’m very excited to continue building my skills and experience, whilst working alongside a wonderful team to grow the publishing department.”

In the last few months Niamh has overseen the publishing of 3 books: Holywood author Patience Bradley (Princess Mary’s Journey to Find True Love), County Devon writer Mike Menhennitt (Mount Radford School) and Ballymena journalist Jonathan Traynor (Race The Undead). 

Niamh is currently working with a portfolio of authors where she is supporting them with editing and publishing their own material and has opened the Excalibur Press diary for enquiries from new authors.

Author Patience Bradley said: “I’m delighted to be working with Excalibur Press again after they supported me with the release of my books Where Do You Go To My Lovely in 2017 and The Housework Workout in 2018.

“Working with Niamh on Princess Mary’s Long Journey Home was an absolute pleasure. She had her work cut out for her deciphering my notebook but she did an excellent job.

“Not just that, when we hit a bump in the road when I was struggling to figure out how to illustrate the book in the way in which I wanted Niamh supported me to use AI to help me create exactly what I wanted in a way that worked for me and the book. 

“Excalibur Press also looked after my book launch, PR and setting up my Amazon account so that I have full oversight of all my own sales.

“I’m already thinking about my next book and can’t wait to work with Niamh and the team again.” 

At the end of September Niamh will also be managing the release of Excalibur Press founder Tina Calder’s book I’ve Just Put My Socks On Standing Up, a frank and honest account of her 10 stone weight loss journey using the widely talked about medication Mounjaro.

Tina said: “I love writing and I love telling my story but I knew I didn’t have the time to do everything myself when it came to writing about my own personal experiences. Once Niamh had revived our publishing department it became apparent I could start working on my series of mini books covering aspects of my life that I speak about publicly and at events.

“We’re starting with my weight loss journey at the end of September but I’ll also be looking at topics such as my late diagnosis of ADHD, my struggle with the chronic condition Fibromyalgia, imposter syndrome and resilience and a few others.

“One thing I’ve been excited to see is how Niamh has weaved the wider Excalibur Press ethos of transparency into her department. There’s no get rich quick schemes or false promises of fame and fortune, it’s simple, honest advice that gives authors the ability to make informed choices about their publishing journey.”

To find out more about Excalibur Press’ publishing services contact niamh@excaliburpress.co.uk or go to excaliburpress.co.uk/publishing-packages

Belfast Orangefest Launches New Public Engagement Campaign To Help Shape Its Future

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Orangefest, the cultural brand established by the County Grand Lodge of Belfast, has launched a new public engagement campaign aimed at shaping the future of its year-round programme of events, outreach, and celebrations.

With the help of Belfast-based media and marketing agency Excalibur Press, the initiative will see the development of a refreshed brand, messaging framework, and marketing strategy for Belfast Orangefest. A goal of which is to broaden participation, build deeper community connections, and ensure the festival reflects the evolving cultural landscape of Northern Ireland while remaining true to its heritage.

The project will involve a wide-ranging listening exercise with the public and key stakeholders. This includes opportunities for individuals and organisations to take part in interviews, surveys, workshops, and digital feedback sessions, ensuring the strategy is shaped by those it represents and impacts.

William Hughes, Director of Development at Belfast Orangefest said: “We want to hear from people across the community – whether they’ve been involved in Belfast Orangefest for years or are engaging with it for the first time. 

“This campaign is about listening, reflecting, and building something together that feels open, inclusive and proud of our cultural identity. 

“Our aim is to create a festival that celebrates heritage in a way that connects with all generations and backgrounds.”

Orangefest is the brand responsible for promoting Orange cultural events throughout the year including a series of fringe events in Belfast during the 12th of July celebrations, but in recent years it has evolved to include a growing programme of family-friendly events, educational activities, and cultural outreach throughout the year. 

The new campaign will support that evolution by refining how Belfast Orangefest presents itself publicly and helping shape its future direction.

Tina Calder, strategist and chief vision officer of Excalibur Press said: “This project is about more than just the development of Orangefest – it’s about people, stories and cultural connection. 

“Our goal is to work collaboratively with communities to develop messaging and engagement strategies that are authentic, respectful, and meaningful. 

“We want to ensure Orangefest reflects the values of the people involved in it and resonates with wider society, both now and in the future.”

As part of the campaign, Excalibur Press will deliver a comprehensive strategy covering stakeholder engagement, marketing and PR, content development, media analysis, and brand storytelling. A key focus will be exploring how the history and values behind Orangefest can be communicated in ways that inspire curiosity, bridge divides, and build understanding.

William Mawhinney, Director of Development of Belfast Orangefest added: “We believe Orangefest has the potential to be a powerful platform for community celebration, education, and unity. But that only works if we listen – really listen – to the people it represents. 

“This strategy is an open invitation for the public to help us shape a festival that speaks to today’s Northern Ireland.”

Members of the public are now being invited to register their interest in participating. 

Whether you’re a supporter, a curious observer, or a community member with ideas to share – this is your chance to shape something meaningful.

All you have to do to get involved is fill out an expression of interest at >> https://forms.gle/d21E3PsFB3u2f9UE7 

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