image: Alina Holyst
The IHBC hosted a stall at the recent sell-out Heritage Network Conference 2026 in Northern Ireland, and was delighted to share congratulations and celebrations with Alice Ullathorne IHBC as she marked her first year as Chair of the Network at a conference that reached from Belfast to Armagh (and beyond)!
Alice said: ‘It’s been a great year for the network delivering the Essential Network project supported by National Lottery Heritage fund and consolidating the growth of the Heritage Network in recent years.’
‘I was so proud to be able to chair the Heritage Network conference this year which was as ever a place for inspiration, learning and sharing heritage challenges’
IHBC Director Seán O’Reilly helped on the stand with IHBC’s new Northern Ireland Branch Chair Alina Holyst, and Branch Vice Chair Joanne Curren (former Branch Chair) and architecture student Lauren Forte.
Seán O’Reilly said: ‘I’d like to thank the IHBC’s volunteers, networks and staff – including our own Sarah Homer who could not attend – that made this such a successful event for the Institute, and particularly also the Heritage Network staff and officers.’
‘The event itself was also distinguished by the usual variety of talks, walks and events including, this year, Mexican Dancers!’
‘Our stand seemed as busy as the whole conference at times, while the only IHBC material to survive the enthusiastic and engaged delegates there was what we had to keep for our Branch!’
‘We also had a hugely useful time networking with and learning from delegates and exhibitors, this year our own first there as formal Network members too.’
‘Indeed two big service opportunities with other exhibitors are now being explored by us following early discussions there, alongside more partnerships around the critical issue of early and foundation skills development.’
‘All in all, it was an outstanding success!’
See more background at
and HERE
