On Saturday night (12/06/2021) Paluma hosted a 90th birthday party for our local living legend – Leslie Hyland. About 40 of Les’ friends and extended (Paluma) family joined him to mark the occasion with dinner and drinks. The Community Hall was transformed into shades of emerald green and orange to honour Les, his Irish heritage and his enormous and ongoing contribution to our village community. The whisky and wine flowed as freely as the lively conversation, before everyone enjoyed an amazing banquet of food to rival any restaurant. As always, Paluma’s cooks were outstanding in producing enough food for a small army. No-one went home hungry, that’s for sure!
Some outstanding presentations were made in honour of Les by Lynn, Peter, Jamie and Anne. Lynn compiled and presented a photo essay of Les’ life from birth to 90. Peter, Jamie and Anne were eloquent in expressing the great respect, appreciation and love we all have for Les Hyland and each gave renditions of the remarkable contribution he has made to the Paluma community over the past 35 years. There were a few Irish jokes, a lot of Irish whisky, good humour and camaraderie. Les received an array of birthday gifts including enough whisky to last him until the next birthday!
Special thanks to all those who contributed to making the occasion a special night for Les including Lynn, Peter, Jamie, Colwyn and Charlie. Lynda was exceptional as always at multi-skilling with her decorating and bar-tending.
Les’ birthday is actually on Monday (14 June) so we all wish him the very best on the day. And just to let you know Les, we are already planning your 100th birthday party!!
Text & Photos by Michele Bird