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13 Dec 2025
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13 Dec 2025
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Limerick Clare Amateur Radio Club members Derek and Alan operating in Loop Head Lighthouse using voice communication as part of the 26th annual International Lighthouse/Lightship Weekend
COUNTRIES as far away as Japan were contacted by the Clare Loop Head Lighthouse over the weekend.
500 lighthouses and lightships throughout the world were contacted by members of the Limerick/Clare Amateur Radio Club as part of the 26th annual International Lighthouse/Lightship Weekend (ILLW).
The amateur ham radio enthusiasts from across the Mid-West gathered at the West Clare lighthouse as part of the 26th annual International ILLW and made contact with 40 countries.
During the 48-hour weekend broadcast, visitors to the lighthouse were able to listen in to communications with amateur radio stations across the world.
Contact was made with all continents, with operators in Japan and Australia particularly keen to get in touch. Contact was also made with an operator in Alaska, and this was the highlight of the weekend as that location is one of the most sought-after locations worldwide.
Leonard Cleary, Director of Tourism Development and West Clare Municipal District at Clare County Council, said: “Members of the Club reported being very happy with the number and variety of contacts made and feedback from visitors about this additional feature to the Experience was very positive.”
Dermot Gleeson, Chairman of the Limerick/Clare Amateur Radio Club, commented, “The Club has always enjoyed its visits to Loop Head and this year was no different, despite the challenging weather!
“The Club operated two stations, one of which was located at the entrance to the Lighthouse so members of the public could listen to some of the transmissions, and this proved to be popular.
“We are very grateful to all of the staff of Clare County Council and the Commissioners of Irish Lights for their help in planning this event and for allowing us to use the grounds as part of the International Lighthouse and Lightships Weekend.”
Loop Head Lighthouse Experience is one of 17 Great Lighthouses of Ireland, an all-island tourism initiative of Irish Lights.
Located at the mouth of the Shannon Estuary with its origins dating back to the 1670s, the lighthouse was first opened to visitors in 2011 and has since become one of West Clare’s most popular attractions.
The lighthouse also is one of two Signature Discovery Points in County Clare along the route of the Wild Atlantic Way.
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