Tributes paid to ‘remarkable’ Lobinstown woman who died suddenly in Australia

Tributes have poured in for a young Lobinstown woman who died suddenly in Australia.

Sarah Halpenny (29) , a highly regarded teacher and talented Gaelic footballer, had been living and working in Melbourne at the time of her death.

Sarah had been a highly regarded teacher at St Joseph’s National School, Kingscourt, where she was remembered as an exceptional educator deeply admired by her pupils and colleagues alike.

In a tribute, the Kingscourt Parish Facebook page described her as a “wonderful teacher and friend”, adding that the school community was “the poorer” for her loss.

“Sarah was an amazing teacher, who was equally loved and adored by her pupils. She was also held in such high esteem and regard by all her colleagues and friends,” the post read.

Originally from Lobinstown, Sarah had a strong involvement in Gaelic games throughout her life. She played her early underage football with Syddan GAA, later representing Dee Rangers, before continuing her playing career with St Kevin’s GAC in Melbourne after moving to Australia.

St Kevin’s GAC paid tribute to her as a committed and fearless player who quickly became a key member of their senior women’s team.

“On the field, she was an outstanding defender determined, fearless in the tackle, and tireless in her work rate,” the club said.

“In a very short space of time, she became an ever-present figure in our senior women’s team and a key part of one of the most successful periods in the club’s history.”

The Melbourne-based club noted that Sarah was part of the team that secured several competition titles, including the club’s first-ever 7s title earlier this year, along with Intermediate League, 9s and 11s honours.

Syddan GAA also expressed its heartbreak at her passing, recalling her early playing days with the club and her continued connection to football at home and abroad.

While living in Melbourne, Sarah also made a significant impact in her professional life. She worked as a teacher at Sacred Heart Primary School in St Albans, where she was regarded as a positive and caring influence on students, colleagues and the wider school community.

A death notice states that "Sarah will be forever remembered and greatly missed by her heartbroken partner Ciarán, parents David and Yvonne, sisters Emma and Grace, all surrounding family and her large of circle of friends."

In memory of Sarah, a fundraiser has been set up on GoFundMe, with proceeds intended to support the cost of bringing Sarah on her final journey home to Ireland and to support causes close to her heart to honour her legacy. Donations can be made here