Port of Waterford 1111

Podcasts

Episode 1

In the first episode of Port of Waterford 1111 we meet and hear the story of the O’Hanlon family.

For Gavin, Derek and Michael O’Hanlon, crane driving isn’t just a job—it’s a legacy. For four generations, they have been an integral part of the Port of Waterford’s daily operations, manoeuvring towering cranes with precision and skill high above the bustling docks.

Gavin reflects on how the path was paved for him by his older brother, who taught him the ropes. “He was the one who taught me, and I also taught the younger one here, too,” he shares, smiling at Derek. Tom says, “It’s unusual—I’ve never met another crane-driving family before.”

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Also on SPOTIFY or APPLE PODCAST

Episode 3

Moving Cargo, Connecting Communities: Waterford Port Podcast Highlights 1,111 Years of Trade and Tradition

The Port of Waterford continues its podcast series titled Port of Waterford 1111, marking an extraordinary 1,111 years of maritime activity on the River Suir. Hosted by renowned maritime broadcaster Tom MacSweeney, the series brings listeners inside the operations of one of Ireland’s most historic and strategically important ports.

In the latest episode, MacSweeney meets with key figures shaping the present and future of the port, including Shane Buckley (Coxswain of the pilot boat), Victor Whitty (Marine Pilot), Ian Moriarty (Deputy Harbourmaster), Albert Lennon (General Manager, South East Port Services), and Paul Keating (Suir Shipping). These voices offer a rare and engaging glimpse into the complex and vital work behind the scenes.

From Viking voyages to modern multimodal operations, this is a celebration of 1,111 years of connection, resilience, and renewal.

Have a listen…

Also on SPOTIFY or APPLE PODCAST

Episode 5

Voices of the Quay: Waterford’s Living Maritime History

As we continue to celebrate our extraordinary 1,111 years of maritime legacy, this new episode of the Port of Waterford 1111 podcast shines a spotlight on the personal stories that bring that history to life.

In this episode, hosted by veteran maritime broadcaster Tom MacSweeney and released in the lead-up to National Culture Night 2025, listeners are invited to walk the quayside through the memories of three iconic Waterford figures: Tony Fitzgerald of Fitzgerald’s Menswear, June Darrer of Dooley’s Hotel, and Ann Cusack of the Granville Hotel. These conversations offer a rich tapestry of experiences that span generations; from cattle being driven through the streets and dockside flooding, to family-run hotels, meat factories, and the rise and fall of industrial landmarks.

The episode paints a vivid picture of a city in transformation. It touches on everything from smuggling nylons and chasing loose cattle, to rebuilding after floods and reimagining the riverfront. Each guest shares deeply personal reflections on how the port shaped Waterford’s economy, character, and community spirit. Whether it’s stories of dockers splicing rope, emigrants arriving on the Great Western, or spontaneous acts of civic beautification on a derelict quay, the episode is a love letter to the enduring vitality of the river and the people who made it central to their lives.

As Waterford continues to evolve into a modern destination city, the podcast reminds listeners of the resilience and adaptability that have always defined it. With the addition of new infrastructure like bridges and green spaces, the river remains not only a historic artery but a living part of the city’s future.

Have a listen…

Also on  SPOTIFY or APPLE PODCAST