We have great pride in congratulating DCDR volunteer Shea McKee on receiving his Gaisce Gold Award from Uachtarán na hÉireann / President of Ireland, Catherine Connolly, last week.
The Gaisce – President’s Award is similar to the Duke of Edinburgh award scheme that some of our followers may be familiar with from their school days. It recognises achievements for 14-25 year olds in the fields of sport, personal skill development, research, or community involvement. Shea achieved Gold, which is the highest category in the scheme. Shea’s Gaisce comes as well-deserved recognition of his contribution to DCDR over the last three years. Since joining, Shea has fully embraced volunteer life at the railway. He has been involved in everything from steam engine restoration, to shunting, to manning the buffet counter.
Lifelong skills learnt
Shea described the experience as being “amazing to partake in”. He added that he “was very grateful for the opportunity to work towards my Gaisce through the DCDR and SERC Downpatrick. I have learned so many lifelong skills, and made so many new friends along the way. It was the Gaisce scheme that led me to volunteering at the DCDR, and even after I banked enough hours to complete my award I kept coming back”.
Shea’s received his Gaisce in a ceremony alongside 49 other young people from across Ireland. The ceremony took place in Kilmainham, Dublin, last Monday. Recently-elected President of Ireland, Catherine Connolly, presented him with the award. Shea described the presentation as “a great honour” and “a day that will stand out in my memory for the rest of my life”.
Further accolades
This is not the first time Shea has been recognised for his work at the railway. SERC awarded his the title ‘Community Champion’ earlier this year. He also came runner-up in the SENI Awards for Young Person of the Year. In addition, Shea has been shortlisted for Young Volunteer of the Year in the next Heritage Railway Association Awards. These will take place in March 2026.
