Soroptimists Mullingar return with guest speaker Lorraine Murphy

At the first meeting of Soroptimists Mullingar after their summer break, Lorraine Murphy, an accomplished author and Toastmaster, was the guest speaker.

Members were delighted to be back and there was a wonderful exchange of stories on what had been happening since the last meeting, in June.

They reflected on their successful summer outing, organised by member Marian Mortel. That included a visit to Drumshambo Gin Factory, a cruise on the River Shannon, and a lovely meal in Carrick-on-Shannon.

The members planned their upcoming events for the Soroptimist Public Speaking Competition, actions for ‘Orange the World’ for awareness to stop violence against women and their Christmas fundraising lunch on December 1 in the Greville Arms Hotel.

The highlight of the evening was guest speaker Lorraine Murphy, who delivered the speech that secured her second place in the International Toastmasters Speech competition, held in Liverpool in May.

She shared the background to her writing of the book ‘Into the Woods’ and her progress as an author.

Sarah McCormack, on behalf of the Soroptimists, congratulated Lorraine on her success and highlighted her as an example for many women and girls on how never to give up.

Anne Melly thanked the friends who had also joined to hear Lorraine’s speech and presented Lorraine with a small gift to mark her visit to the Soroptimist meeting.

New members are always welcome to Soroptimists Mullingar – if you interested in friendship and making a contribution to the community, contact Anne Melly 086 8232868 or any member.