Your Story, Our History: Londonderry YMCA

Episode 16: Heritage Exhibit Audio Tour

In this final instalment of Your Story, Our History, we step away from the interview desk to explore the history of the Londonderry YMCA through our new Heritage Exhibit. While the previous 15 episodes focused on the personal lived experiences of our community, this finale serves as a guided audio tour of the physical exhibit now housed at Drumahoe. Narrated by our Heritage Committee, the tour provides a factual overview of the organisation’s past across seven key themes—from our earliest milestones to our modern-day impact. This episode acts as a permanent audio guide to the exhibit, ensuring that these stories and records are preserved for generations to come.  Although this concludes our podcast series, we invite you to visit the Londonderry YMCA in person to explore the exhibit and archive for yourself. The Tour Voices: Catherine, Stephen, Reuben, Gillian, Alex, John, and Hannah. Our history is your story.

Episode 15: Community, Youth - Gareth Lamrock

In the final interview of the series, Gareth Lamrock takes us on a journey through his lifelong connection to the Londonderry YMCA. Having watched the building rise from the ground in the 80s, Gareth went from a teenager playing his first punk gig for a "curry chip" payment to becoming a cornerstone of the youth work team for decades. Gareth reflects on the evolution of the organisation—from its early days as a sports-focused club to the vibrant, inclusive youth centre it is today. He shares memories of filmmaking projects, music videos premiering at the Nerve Centre, and the unique "hierarchy" of the youth club fireplace. We also hear about the hilarious antics of Sam Starrett and the supernatural side of Drumahoe with the legend of the resident ghost, Dead Ned. It is a fitting conclusion to our oral history, celebrating a career built on "learning on the job" and the enduring power of community.

Episode 14: Rugby, Youth, Community - Kris Dunn

Kris Dunn’s connection to the Londonderry YMCA began in 1983, standing in a field as a primary school student for the building's opening ceremonies. In this episode, Kris reflects on a lifetime spent at Drumahoe—from helping his mother with hostel breakfasts to his 20-year career on the rugby pitch. He shares behind-the-scenes stories of the rugby club’s rise toward the All-Ireland leagues, the influence of international guest coaches, and the "unconventional" training methods of Willie Lamrock. Now a long-standing member of the Board of Directors, Kris discusses the complexities of keeping a historic organisation running, from funding challenges to the importance of retaining good people. He reflects on the skills he’s gained in the boardroom, particularly the ability to see the world through others' eyes. Ultimately, Kris defines the YMCA not by its buildings or individual projects, but by its enduring "family ethos"—a thread that has been woven through his life and the community for over 169 years.

Episode 12: Community & Youth - Gillian Simpson

Gillian Simpson has been part of the YMCA for four decades. In this episode, she reflects on her lifelong connection to Drumahoe, beginning with her parents, Pat and Willie Lamrock. Gillian shares nostalgic memories of beetle drives, fundraisers, and the excitement of the disco era—including the time she joined the staff for dinner with a visiting actor from the soap Neighbours. Now a member of the Board of Directors, Gillian discusses the transition from youth worker to strategic leader, the challenges of securing funding, and how her confidence has grown over the years. She speaks fondly of her father’s ethos—that you must give back to your community—and reflects on his "big vision" in establishing the Drumahoe site. It’s a story about family legacy and the magnetic pull of an organisation that, as Gillian says, is "not easy to leave."

Episode 13: Youth Work - Rhianna Hegarty

Rhianna Hegarty represents the new generation of leadership at Londonderry YMCA. In this episode, Rhianna shares how a simple invitation to join the youth club in Currynierin transformed her life path. From trainee to professional youth worker on the E2T programme, she reflects on how the YMCA provided the opportunities she needed to turn a passion into a career. Rhianna discusses the importance of building relationships and trust with young people, ensuring they know they always have someone in their corner. She describes the YMCA as a "warm place" that brings joy to the community—a place people choose to be. With a mantra of "don't give up, keep trying," Rhianna’s story is an inspiring look at how the YMCA continues to nurture and empower the youth of today.