Last week, Claddagh was honoured to welcome Her Excellency Fiona Flood, Ireland’s first female Ambassador to Australia, for morning tea at our office.
What began as a meeting between the Ambassador and Claddagh became an opportunity to bring together several Irish community organisations for a warm and engaging discussion about the strength and vibrancy of our Irish community here in Western Australia.
Her Excellency shared insights into her priorities, from maintaining our deep ties with Ireland to recognising Australia as home to one of the largest Irish communities abroad, and the opportunities ahead in trade, investment, and partnership.
There was no shortage of laughter either, including a light-hearted moment when the Ambassador mentioned someone had once called Irish people in Australia “climate refugees” – a reminder of why so many of us have made this sunny corner of the world our home away from home.
As we approach 80 years of Irish–Australian diplomacy in 2026, it was a pleasure to host Her Excellency and her team, and to share the work Claddagh and others are doing to keep our community connected, cared for, and proud of its heritage.