Port of Cork Schools Initiative Looks at the Transport History of Cork Harbour

Calling all 5th Class Teachers – Win a Free Boat Trip around Cork Harbour for your class

The Port of Cork has launched their Schools Initiative for 2012 and is calling on all 5th class primary school teachers to get their class involved. This year’s initiative is based on the theme ‘Ships, Steam Trains and Seaplanes – the Cork Harbour Connection’ and encourages school children to research Cork harbour and these methods of transports used in the past and today.

The Port of Cork Schools Initiative aims to teach 5th class primary school children about the rich history of Cork Harbour and its uses today as a natural harbour, commercial port and excellent leisure amenity. All participating 5th classes who take part in the Port of Cork Schools Initiative will be treated to a boat trip around Cork harbour, compliments of the Port of Cork and each class will also receive a certificate of participation. Awards will be given for the best artwork piece and best photograph. The overall best project will receive a tour on board one of the many large cruise liners visiting Cork during the summer of 2012.

Speaking about the 2012 theme, Captain Pat Murphy said: “This year’s theme encourages classes to research the history of ships, steam trains and seaplanes within Cork Harbour over past generations and perhaps compare these modes of transport to those used today. Cork Harbour has a rich history of different transport modes and many people may not know that Aghada on the East side of the harbour was a base for American Seaplanes during the early 1900’s. Though dramatically changed, ships, trains and seaplanes are still used in Cork Harbour today.”

He added: “2012 will also see the centenary of RMS Titanic commemorated in Cobh, highlighting Cork’s rich history with large Trans-Atlantic liners calling to the port. The 150th anniversary of the first train service on the Cork – Cobh line also takes place this year.”

Projects are to be presented in artwork format using paintings, models or photographs. Submitted projects will go on public display in Customs House before the winner is announced in April 2012. Closing date for entries is 30th March 2012.

For more information on this year’s schools project and how to get involved, please contact Captain Pat Murphy Tel: 021 4625312 or Email pmurphy@portofcork.ie<mailto:pmurphy@portofcork.ie> or visit www.portofcork.ie