Siblings Thomas, Anna, Rachael and Niall McCarthy lost their father Patrick to suicide on 1st May 2020. Stunned they returned home to the family farm in Ballinadee, near Kinsale and endeavoured to pick up the pieces and support their mother Ann. They resolved to take on a project in memory of their father Paddy who had taken such pride in his farm and family. Apart from farming Paddy loved music, notably Bruce Springsteen, dancing and parties. There were no warning signs, Paddy was only 59 when he died.
Sisters Anna and Rachael, brother Thomas and Anna’s fiance, now husband wanted to keep themselves busy and positive as we entered the first Covid Lockdown as well as coping with grief.
An old bus was purchased to be converted into a bespoke but quirky AirbnB rental. The three siblings pitched in converting the bus into luxury accommodation over 7 months.
Ballinadee Bus was one of the lockdown projects that featured on Dermot Bannon’s Super Small Spaces, which aired on RTE One, the bus was also included in an edition of Nationwide as well as a great deal of press coverage.
The farm in Ballinadee is situated in a superb area, surrounded by beautiful countryside and close to some wonderful beaches on the Wild Atlantic Way. The farm is close to KInsale while Clonakilty and Bandon are short drives away. The attractive hamlets of Kilbrittain and Ballinspittle are nearby. Apart from Ballinadee Bus the farm has a small campsite where tents can be pitched as well as larger facilities for Camper Vans. There is a coffee shop on site along with a play area for children.
The siblings have raised €50,700 for mental health charities, notably Kinsale Your Support Service and Pieta House.
On 6th – 7th June the McCarthys are hosting a family weekend on the farm with lots of activities and entertainment. The event is to thank all their customers and visitors.
Working together has brought the siblings closer and their efforts are a great memorial to their father, who surely would be proud of what has been achieved in his honour.
For more information please visit www.ballinadeebus.com