Mountmellick Christmas Tree Committee is embarking on an exciting new initiative in O’Connell Square that they say will be delivered by end of 2026.
The Committee this week launched The Valley Star Project – a reimagining of the Mountmellick Christmas Tree through the lens of climate.
The Committee say that the design and fabrication of the new Christmas Tree will be climate friendly and sustainably powered.
“What is most innovative about this strategy is that the structure will be a sculptural work that remains in situ outside of the Christmas season,” a Committee representative said.
Mountmellick Christmas Tree Committee was awarded a €50,000 grant to establish prototypes of Christmas Trees with sculptural structures that creatively respond to climate action and explore energy transitions from fossil fuels to green renewables.
The funding came from the Creative Ireland Programme – Spark Creative Climate Action Fund II.
The Valley Star Project is the only initiative in County Laois awarded funding for 2024, and has the potential to become a flagship example of how we adapt to, and live with climate change as it becomes part of our daily lives.
Chair of Mountmellick Christmas Tree Committee, Paddy Buggy said: “As we embark on this exciting journey, we find ourselves on a path that is not just forward-thinking, but downright innovative.
“The Valley Star Project isn’t merely about a tree at Christmas; it’s about reimagining, reinventing, and renewing. It’s about weaving the threads of sustainability into the festive fabric of our community.
“In this first year of the initiative, we will have an engaging programme of workshops & collaborative events that will serve as the foundation for The Valley Star Project.
“These activities will not only be an opportunity for us to learn & grow, but will also be a crucial phase where we gather essential data, harness the power of community engagement, & move forward in alliance towards our shared vision.
“This endeavour is a unique opportunity for community groups and the people of our town to come together, showing a united front.
“Our Georgian Square, already steeped in history and charm, is set to become the canvas for a beautiful aesthetic piece that reflects our commitment to a greener and more sustainable future.”
“Community participation allows for each of you to become an integral part of The Valley Star Project journey.
“Whether you are an artist, a student, a business owner, or simply someone passionate about our community, your input is invaluable.
“Together, we can shape & mould this project into something that transcends the ordinary – a symbol of unity, creativity, and environmental stewardship.”
Committee Member Maurice Lynch, went on to guide the audience through the committee’s narrative since they took over in 2020.
Acknowledging the avid interest of the local community and the pivotal point in 2023 when the steel “stem structure” had to be removed he said
“Was there a problem? No – there were several,” Mr Lynch said.
“As the saying goes, ‘rust never sleeps’ and this emerged as the main problem, making the structure a health and safety hazard.
“Added to that were several electrical issues, resulting in the voluntary committee members, having to repair them during the 2022 Christmas period.
“By moving away from things just being done to us, or for us, to a situation where things are done with us and by us. Via Active community participation co-creation, research, collaboration, and partnership, we will get there.”
Catherine Casey, Head of Climate Change at the Heritage Council was the guest speaker at the launch.
A former Heritage Officer for almost two decades with Laois County Council, Ms Casey has an in-depth knowledge of Mountmellick, and its rich heritage.
“The Valley Star Project in Mountmellick is a perfect example of how powerful this intersection between climate, heritage and communities can be,” Ms Casey.
“What makes The Valley Star Project particularly important is its potential to be a model for other towns across Ireland.
“It is not just about reimagining a Christmas tree; it’s about reimagining the future of Mountmellick and setting an example for communities nationwide.
“It’s a project that perfectly encapsulates how heritage and climate action can work hand in hand for a sustainable future.”
The Valley Star Project aims to demonstrate how community collaboration and creative activity can marry local interests, heritage, and cultural assets, while integrating tools to adapt to climate change.
To find out more about the project, contact hello@thevalleystar.ie and follow the project on the Mountmellick Christmas Tree social media accounts on Facebook and Instagram.
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