SLÁINTE
The vision of who to be, is the bridge to your potential.
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There is a fountain of youth: it is your mind, your talents, the creativity you bring to your life and the lives of people you love. When you learn to tap this source, you will truly have defeated age.
Sofia Loren
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BACKGROUND
After qualifying in Environmental Science Tom worked with spirited young people and adults, through wildlife conservation, life skills and outdoor pursuits. He delivered workshops fusing Graffiti Art/Music Production/DJ Skills, designed intervention programs and training courses and managed and delivered qualifications to help people move forward in life.
In his 30's he discovered surfing through his friend Grizzly Dan, got the bug and moved to Ireland in 2010. A job in Westport became his base, and after three intense seasons overseeing an activity company, Tom set up Westport Photography Tours circa 2012. To his surprise, by the time the books and vinyl and a coffee machine were installed, he'd created a wine bar instead.
In his 30's he discovered surfing through his friend Grizzly Dan, got the bug and moved to Ireland in 2010. A job in Westport became his base, and after three intense seasons overseeing an activity company, Tom set up Westport Photography Tours circa 2012. To his surprise, by the time the books and vinyl and a coffee machine were installed, he'd created a wine bar instead.
Evolution
Tom's aim is to create a homely space that promotes ethically sourced food and naturally made wine.
He uses his business to support local, small-scale growers and producers and help to promote kindness and equality, and helps support indigenous tribespeople across the world, by raising awareness through his film club.
He uses his business to support local, small-scale growers and producers and help to promote kindness and equality, and helps support indigenous tribespeople across the world, by raising awareness through his film club.
Until he created the Gallery, the building remained unused from the time it was built, a relic of the Celtic Tiger. Now it nestles in the thriving Brewery Place, an ode to the brewery that used to be in the old white building (an old IRA safehouse) next to the car park. The car park itself used to be an orchard, fitting then, that he stocks local apple juice, and Irish keeved cider along with his wines.
Around 2015, he discovered natural wines and committed to only selling organic/biodynamic/natural wines, becoming the first bar in Ireland to specifically do so in the process. With a focus on supporting local products and small-scale producers, he also picks up a few tasty treats from his sourcing journeys, some of which are only available here in Ireland, in The Gallery.
PEACE GARDEN
In 2020 created the garden area, a place to sit and relax, in a quiet and private location. It's also a great place to be able to store your bike safely whilst you have a look around Westport or read a book from Westport's first free mini library.
Please note the garden is currently undergoing refurbishment, and aims to be back open summer 2026.
Please note the garden is currently undergoing refurbishment, and aims to be back open summer 2026.