NSW Premier Barry O'Farrell

The premier of New South Wales Barry O’Farrell will officially launch the Bloomsday On Bondi celebrations on June 16, the Irish Echo has learned.

Premier O’Farrell will join a motley crew of fine actors, acclaimed writers and other luminaries at the famous beach for a day-long celebration of James Joyce’s Ulysses at Bondi Pavilion.

June 16 is the day on which Joyce set his famous novel and has become known as Bloomsday, after Leopold Bloom, a central character of the book.

Bloomsday On Bondi begins with a traditional Irish breakfast at 10am which will be accompanied by readings from Ulysses by, among others, acclaimed actors Maeliosa Stafford and Chris Haywood.

Consul General Of Ireland Caitríona Ingoldsby, one of the day’s organisers, said she was very pleased that the premier had agreed to come along and support this new Irish cultural festival.

“We’re delighted that the Premier is able to join us to officially launch our Bloomsday festivities,” she said.

“This celebration of Irish literature and music is another example of the huge number of multicultural events being organised by communities in Sydney with the valuable support of the authorities.’

The choice of Bondi as the location for the event is no accident, Ms Ingoldsby explains.

“We have chosen the location because of Bondi Beach’s iconic status around the world, because of the high number of Irish people who have made their temporary or permanent home there, and because beach scenes and proximity to the sea are such important elements of Joyce’s novel,” she said.

The all-day event will feature readings from Joyce’s work, theatrical performances, film and Irish music at the Bondi Pavilion on Saturday 16 June.

There will also be an exhibition on the Life and Work of James Joyce commissioned by the Irish Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

Mr O’Farrell will officially launch Sydney’s Bloomsday celebrations during the morning session (10am–midday) where guests will enjoy a delicious Bloomsday breakfast inspired by Irish favourites.

Expect a few famous faces later in the day as well, as among our readers are former federal Minister Susan Ryan AO, writers Mark Dapin, Ursula Dubosarsky and Suzanne Leal, poet Jamie Grant and actors Chris Haywood and Zoe Carides,

Tickets are required for the breakfast ($15) and evening ($20) sessions.

The afternoon session with readings from Ulysses  and Irish music from 12.30 – 16.00 will be open to the public free of charge.

To book your tickets, click here.