Welcome to Ballyblack Women's Institute

Part of the Federation of Women's Institutes of Northern Ireland

Ballyblack townland itself is situated inland about three miles South-East of Newtownards but it is also close to the beautiful shores of Strangford Lough. We meet at 7.30pm in the Newtownards Sailing Clubhouse, Portaferry Road, Newtownards on the second Tuesday of each month from September to April and then move out to other venues of local interest during the months of May and June to accommodate the Sailing Club.

Our members currently come not only from the local rural community as expected, but also from outlying areas such as Newtownards, Comber, Donaghadee and Carrowdore and represent various walks of life. Our monthly meetings allow us to meet in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, providing women in the area, especially newcomers, with a unique opportunity to make friends and perhaps gain new interests. As new members are the lifeblood of any organisation, they are always welcome regardless of age or background.

The motto of the Federation of Women’s Institutes of Northern Ireland provides the basic framework for our activities:

"To unite in promoting any work which makes for the betterment of our homes, and the development and improvement of rural life, by providing a centre for educational activities."

An annually elected committee plans a varied and interesting programme for the year ahead and this includes workshops, demonstrations and talks, many of which focus on issues beyond the stereotypical view of women's interests. We also enjoy occasional members' nights, hospitality evenings and regular outings and these add greater variety to our meetings.

Ballyblack W.I. donates money to the designated WI Federation charities and also to one which is chosen annually by our members. We participate in the recording of the local talking newspaper, "Sound Around Ards" which is organised by the Newtownards Lions Club. Weekly audio tapes featuring topical newspaper and magazine articles are provided for visually impaired people in the Ards Peninsula and a number of our members enjoy being part of the reading teams each week.

The majority of members enjoy the added interest of entering the monthly competitions but even those who don’t are fascinated by the clever, original and often amusing items submitted. The winners are presented with a gift and a small ‘token’ cup to mark their success. Members in the first three places also receive extra points towards an ongoing competition for the highest attendance and competition points gained during the year, with the eventual winner being awarded the Edgar Salver.

A regional outlet for particular talents and skills is offered by the Federation which organises numerous competitions throughout the year in bowls, choral singing, scrapbook making, craftwork, painting, drama, golf, photography, quizzes, calligraphy, cookery, floral art and literary competitions etc. Although Ballyblack W.I.members do have a noteworthy record of achievement in many of these over the years, the camaraderie, fun and enjoyment of working together has always far outweighed the actual end result.