Local Notes: Ballintubber defeated Burrishoole in 1st round of the Kelly Cup.
The Ballintubber team that defeated Burrishoole in the first round of the Kelly Cup. Back row - Jason Gibbons, Diarmuid O'Connor, David McHale, Brendan Walshe, Jack Prendergast, Mathew Coyne, Sean McEvilly, Rory Cunningham, Ethan Lyons, Ciaran Gavin and Josh Mahon. Front Row from left, Noel Geraghty, Eoin Lyons, Gavin Murphy, Joe Geraghty, Michael Plunkett, Finian Burke, Daniel Malone, Martin Fox, John Kerrigan and Stephen Burke. Pic by Tom Quinn.
The Next Chapter official launch – ‘Ballintubber Abbey’s Next Chapter: Bridging History and Future’ will unveil exciting developments for the Abbey’s future. The event will take place on Monday, April 7, at Ballintubber Abbey. The official launch will run from 11am to 12 noon and a live broadcast by Mid-West Radio will take place from 9am to 11am.
The event will mark the launch of a new website and booking system, the presentation of the Strategic Plan for 2025–2028, and an update on the commencement of the Ballintubber Abbey Cultural and Heritage Visitor Centre, set to commence later this year.
The community are honoured to welcome Minister Dara Calleary and Minister Alan Dillon, who will be present for the official launch.
Why not participate in the Open Day until 3pm to explore its rich history and exciting future plans. Discover all that Ballintubber Abbey has to offer and learn more about exciting upcoming developments.
Ballintubber GAA lotto jackpot stood at €9,400 on Sunday night March 23. The numbers drawn were 11, 17, 29 and 36. Consolation prizes went to Marie Burke, Deirdre Hynes, Pat Garry, John Heneghan, Padraic Burke, and Anna Stanton. The jackpot stood at €9,500 on last Sunday night, March 30.
Ballintubber senior team were defeated in round two of the Kelly Cup in Balla on Saturday week last. Balla were superior to a weakened Ballintubber side who were short a number of regulars on the evening. Ballintubber U16 team and Balla had a tight and exciting encounter in Division 1 of the league on Sunday week in Clogher. Ballintubber got the upper hand in the second half and ran out winners on the scorline, 1-13 to 1-7 for Balla.
The Ballintubber Abbey Passion Play will take place on April 14, 15 and 16, at 9pm. Each year this pre-Easter story of the passion of Christ attracts hundreds of appreciative visitors to Ballintubber Abbey grounds. Any angels who may be available to take part are asked to please contact Cas on 087 2934772 or Teresa at 087 2424927. Adults supervising the care of children, contact 094 9030934 or Fr Michael to obtain a Garda vetting form.
Chloe Reilly Fitness will run a new fitness class in Ballyglass Community Centre on Thursday nights, starting on April 3. The classes will start at 6.30 and a 4-week block will cost €40. This class is suitable for all fitness levels and it blends cardio, HITT, and strength training, so participants can expect to boost their fitness, build strength and have a great time in a supportive environment. Contact Chloe on 087 6802225 for further information and to book your place.
The results of Ballyglass FC lotto draw held on March 24, were as follows: 5, 9, 10 and 35. There was no winner of the €11,600 jackpot. The match 3 numbers winner was Noah Connor. The consolation prizewinners were John Loftus, Ross Burke, Marion Loftus O'Hara (x2) and Declan Morley.The jackpot stood at €11,700 last weekend on March 31.
The winners from Monday, March 24, were: 1st Patricia Jennings and Margaret Mannion, 2nd Kevin Burke and Tom Fitzpatrick and 3rd Sean and Frances Reilly; Mary Brennan and Noel Costello. The last 9 prize was won by Jimmy Sheridan and Mary Morrin and the raffle prizes went to Sean and Frances Reilly. Congrats to all the winners and thanks to all the players for their continued support. The 25 progressive games continue every Monday night at 9pm.
The new pre school in Carnacon are currently taking enquires for September 2025. If you would like more information contact the provider, growingmindspreschool0@gmail.com with any questions or enrolment information.
Ballintubber Community Council have organised an annual litter pick up day on April 12. Volunteers are needed for the worthy project.
Ballintubber / Killawalla Badminton Club are open to new members and beginners are most welcome. The sessions take place at Ballintubber Community Centre on Tuesdays from 8 to10pm. Contact Laura on 089 4011720.
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The 8km Out of the Woods is an event suitable for all family members and will take place in Tourmakeady on April 27 at 1pm. Walk, jog or run through the beautiful Tourmakeady woods. This super event is enjoyed annually by many athletes and members of the local community. Lots of refreshments back in the community centre to refuel. Entry fees are €20 and U16s free.
Thuar Mhic Éadaigh GAA lotto stood at €16,400 on March 22. 4, 14, 21 and 29 were the numbers drawn and there was no jackpot winner.
The weekend jackpot on Saturday, March 29, stood at €16,500. The draws take place on Saturday nights weekly and there are two online prizes of €40 and also a €40 Cairde prize each week. All funds raised support club development and the support of patrons is deeply appreciated.
In round 2 of the Kelly Cup competition, Tuar Mhic Eadaigh enjoyed a 1-8 to 0-10 victory over Louisburgh.
Irish classes in Halla Tuar Mhic Éadaigh are postponed until further notice. The classes are expected to commence with the appointment of a new tutor.
Tourmakeady NS lotto bonus ball winner on Saturday, March 15, was Number 42 - Michael John Casey and on Saturday, March 22, Number 37 - Noel and Sophie O' Coileain. Congratulations to the winners and many thanks for your continued support.
Tuar Mhic Éadaigh Social Club is due to meet again on this Thursday, April 3, from 2-4pm. Why not pop along for social get together, light exercise, bingo, make new friends and enjoy the company.
Ciorcal Cniotáil/Knitting Circle: Tegan a Grúpa Cniotáil le chéile gach Oiche Luan i Halla Thuar Mhic Éadaigh ón 7.30-9.30 in. Fáilte roimh bail nua. The Knitting Circle comes together on Monday nights in Halla Tuar Mhic Éadaigh from 7.30-9.30pm. Further details are available from 087 7657191.
Pilates classes - beginner or intermediate, suitable for all ages will run every Tuesday in Killawalla Centre from April 1 to April 29. The events will take place from 7 to 8pm and the fees are €45 for a five week slot. Information is available from 087 3326077.
Sincere sympathy is accorded to Anne Lally, Dereendafderg, on the recent passing of her sister Imelda Werner, Chicago, USA. Condolences are also tendered to Mary Ludden, Balloor, on the passing of her mother, Ann McManamon, Castlebar. May they both rest in peace.
Partry Bingo sessions take place in the comfortable confines of Partry Centre on Monday nights each week. There are lots of generous prizes and a lovely atmosphere to savour by patrons.
Tourism Development Plan 2026-2023 - a public meeting to give people an opportunity to have their say on tourism in the inland Mayo area will take place in Halla Thuar Mhic Éadaigh on this Thursday, April 3, from 7-8.30pm. Register in advance by emailing Jackie.Burns@failteireland.ie. All members of the public are being invited to attend the meetings. Edel Healy is the Wild Atlantic Way Officer with Failte Ireland. Other meetings are to be held on Thursday, April 3, from 2–3.30pm in Lydon’s Lodge Hotel, Cong: Wednesday, April 9, 2–3.30pm in The Dalton Inn, Claremorris; 7.00–8.30pm ;in Knock House Hotel; Thursday, April 10 from 2-3.30pm, Bridge Street, Castlebar and 7-8.30pm in the Park Hotel, Kiltimagh.
Partry Centre is the venue on April 5 for a Ceile Mor. The ‘Rise the Dust’ Ceile Band will provide the music from 9pm to midnight.
Partry FC bonus number draws take place mid-week on Wednesday nights. Recent winners were Mike and Lil Cronin, Ballygarry. The club are deeply appreciative of the ongoing support of the community.
Partry Residents Association draws take place on Saturday evenings with generous prizes in the weekly numbers draw. Recent winners of €100 were Tim and Ann Foley with number 42. The latest draw was on Saturday night last, March 29.
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Belcarra Community Council’s lotto jackpot has now reached €11,100. The jackpot stood at €11,000 on Sunday, March 23. The numbers drawn were 3, 25, 28 and 32. There was no jackpot winner. The lucky dip winners of €30 were Helen O'Donnell, Charlie O'Malley, Abby Nestor and Fran and JP Reilly. On March 30, the jackpot stood at €11,100.
The annual general meeting for Belcarra Community Council takes place on this Tuesday, April 1, in Belcarra Community Centre at 9pm. All household representatives in the community are welcome.
Belcarra Group Water Scheme Area Survey - Belcarra Community Co-Operative Society Ltd has issued a gentle reminder for the return of the online survey from its members. The feedback from this survey will help form an understanding of the home energy needs of the people of Belcarra community. Should you need a hard copy, contact Mary Jo at 087 9282102 or Mary B.
The next monthly card game will be held in Belcarra Centre on Monday, April 7. All card players experienced and novice are welcome to attend the progressive 25 Drive.
The Gold Circle membership package is as follows: Breaffy GAA membership for 2025, 1 weekly entry into the club's lotto and 1 Mayo County Board Draw ticket (six draws with prizes ranging from €10,000 to €200). A strong take-up of the value for money deal is anticipated.
Congratulations to Nadia Collins the winner of the club rugby draw for 2 corporate tickets and a stay at Breaffy House Hotel. Congrats also to Rhoda Cramp the winner of the members draw, of 2 general admission tickets. Breaffy GAA Club has extended a ‘thank you’ to everyone who supported the draw.
HopeSpace operates throughout the year. 'HopeSpace CLG provides a free one-to-one listening service for children and young people (4 -17 years old) who are impacted by grief caused by bereavement. See hopespace.ie, contact Áine at support@hopespace.ie or call 091 342566/087 4667506 for more details.
The death took place last week of Ann McManamon nee McGowan, Riverdale Court, Castlebar and formerly of Inishbiggle Island. Ann passed away on March 20, in University Hospital Galway and her passing is an occasion of great sorrow to her family and friends. Predeceased by her husband John, parents Brian and Annie, daughter Geraldine, her sisters Patsy (McGowan) and Teresa (Dixon), grandchildren Gerard (Neary) and Dara (Moylette), she is deeply regretted by her family, daughters Christina Moylette (Islandeady), Mary Ludden (Ayle, Westport) and Connie Fitzgerald (Castlebar), sons John (Islandeady) and Bryan (Co. Roscommon), brother Peter (Edinburgh), brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, grandchildren, great- grandchildren, nephews, relatives, neighbours and friends to whom sincere condolences are extended.
Ann remains reposed in Coady’s Funeral Home, Castlebar, on last Tuesday, March 25, from 5.30pm with removal at 7.30pm to the Church of the Holy Rosary, Castlebar. Requiem Mass was celebrated on Wednesday morning at 11.30am and Ann was laid to rest afterwards in Ballyheane Cemetery. May she rest eternally in the peace and happiness of heaven.
Mayo County Council Arts Service is now inviting applications for their Mayo Culture Night Event Fund 2025. The fund supports the cost of events programmed for Culture Night which takes place on September 19. If you are a not-for-profit organisation, local community group, arts, heritage and cultural group, venue, or society, and are considering running an event for Culture Night in your area, visit https://www.mayo.ie/arts/programme/culture-night to find the application guidelines and form for the Mayo Culture Night Event Fund 2025. The deadline for applications is 5pm on Monday, April 7.For further information contact mayoculturenight@mayococo.ie.
Adult mentors are required for Foróige's Youth Mentoring Programme. If you are interested in supporting a young person, this is an enjoyable way to spend your time and have a positive impact in a young person’s life. For more information telephone 086 3835859 or 086 0471420.
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The death took place last week of Nancy Golding ( nee O’Dea), Main Street, Balla, Castlebar, Co Mayo. Her passing is an occasion of great sorrow to her family, many friends and peers who held her in the highest regard. Predeceased by her husband Mick, her sister Maureen, brothers Tommie and Francis, Nancy is deeply regretted by her children, Gina Gielty (Castlebar), Karen Vaughan (USA) and John Golding (USA), sons-in-law Michael and Donal, daughter-in-law Kate, her beloved grandchildren Rachel, Gerard, Jonathan, Cathal, Colmán, his wife Siobhán, Ava and Jake, her many nieces and nephews, brother-in-law Jimmy Golding (Balla), relatives, friends and neighbours to whom sincere condolences ate extended.
Nancy’s remains reposed at the Balla Funeral Home on last Saturday evening from 5pm with removal at 6.30pm to St Cronan’s Church, Balla. Her funeral Mass was celebrated on Sunday at 1pm with burial afterwards in the adjoining cemetery. May she rest eternally in the peace and happiness of heaven.
Balla GAA lotto draw was held on the Thursday, March 20, in Flukies for a jackpot of €3,400. 6, 7, 19 and 20 were the numbers drawn and there was no jackpot winner. Congrats also the lucky dip consolation prizewinners on the night, Margaret Connolly (cash sale), Michelle McCormack (online) and Liam Fahey (annual).The latest draw was held on Thursday, March 27, in The Railway Tavern when the jackpot stood at €3,500. Thanks to all who support Balla GAA lotto draws. Balla GAA commentary team are seeking new recruits to get involved. No experience necessary, no pressure whatsoever, training will be provided. Contact Dean Kenny on 087 9282102 for further details.
Congratulations to Balla Secondary School Transition Year student, James McGreal, who has won an incredible educational trip to Strasbourg through the Graduate.ie weekly quiz programme. James will represent Balla School alongside 23 other students from across Ireland, taking part in a Euroscola Youth Parliament at the European Parliament. He will also meet MEPs and visit other educational and cultural landmarks during the trip. A big thank you has been extended to Mayo County Council for sponsoring this fantastic prize.
The latest Manulla FC jackpot stood at a massive €18,900 on last Sunday night, March 30. The new extension to the running / walk track is now open at Manulla FC. The club look forward to seeing many people using it for walks and runs to getting steps in each day. The club are very lucky to provide these facilities for the players, members and community. Village Renewal Funding Minister Alan Dillon has announced that funding of €20,000 has been awarded from his department to four Mayo projects, which will be used to support communities in taking climate actions that will improve their local areas. Balla is among the successful Mayo projects and the Community Resource Development will receive €2,500 funding to complete a Town and Village Renewal report.
Balla Parish Church Choir is looking for people of all ages to join the Choir and attend practise sessions. Email marieflanagan2004@gmail.com for further details.
Mayo musician Train Room aka Joe Monaghan, has released a new video to accompany his latest single 'Station Road'. The video, a reflection on growing up in 1980's Ireland, was shot in Balla.
Mayo County Council has invited expressions of interest from local community groups who wish to be nominated to the 2025 IPB Pride of Place Competition in association with Co-operation Ireland. Groups interested in being considered for nomination are asked to apply detailing their preferred category with a one-page typed summary (no more than 160 words) setting out their proposal to: Eileen O’Connor, POP Liaison Officer, Mayo County Council, Mayo House, Moneen, Castlebar, Co. Mayo or by emailing eoconnor@mayococo.ie. Closing date for receipt of expression of interest is 4pm on Friday, April 11.
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Clogher is very lucky to have another new defibrillator installed in the area. The new defibrillator is at the Clogher Heritage Cottage / Forge in Newtown (F12 PF99) and has been funded by the Department of Rural and Community Development. This is a major asset for local people as well as all the walkers who avail of the Clogher Bog Walks and Newtown Forest Trail. Representatives of the DRCD, the Rural Walks Officer from South West Mayo Development Company, and the Clogher Environmental Group were on hand last week to celebrate the installation. Hugh thanks to all involved.
The launch of the Croagh Patrick Heritage Trail annual walk took place in Clogher Community Hall this week. The walk which is from Aughagower to Murrisk will take place on Sunday, May 10 and all profits from the day will go to the Mayo Roscommon Hospice. Bus transport will be available from Murrisk back to Aughagower on the Sunday morning where there will be tea/ coffee and scones for all the walkers and helpers. Refreshments will be served at Brackloon School and there will be a celebratory barbecue at Campbell’s of Murrisk to round off what promises to be a very enjoyable day. The walk will commence at 9.30. Please register at croaghpatrickheritagetrail@eventbrite.ie.
Results for Friday, March 21, were 1st Bridie McDermott and Michael Giblin, 2nd Gay Conway and Joe Thomas and Derek Quinn and Tommy Fahey, 3rd Bernie Heneghan and Majella Corbett, Last 10 Mary Morrin and Pat Griffith and Breege Blake and Eileen Moran. Game continues every Friday night at 9 pm.
Work is continuing on the Community Action Plan for Clogher Community Futures. A group of 20 Stakeholders in the area have been interviewed on their views and ideas for the area. The community surveys have been distributed and collected. Thanks to everyone who took the time to gives their views and ideas for the future of Clogher. The surveys are being analysed by an independent group and the results will be on display at the Community Day in Clogher on Sunday, April 27, from 2-5 where there will be an opportunity to vote for the different ideas, meet your neighbours and have a cup of tea.
The area finals of the Carra Community Games are fast approaching and will be announced in the coming weeks. There are a number of activities and age groups in sports and swimming, as well as art, handwriting, model making and chess. More information is available from Berni at 087 2721574. There is also information to be had on the Carra Community Games Facebook page.
Spaces are available for Yoga in Errew Community Centre on Thursdays starting on April 3, at 7pm for a 4 week block. Contact Lorraine on 087 6835623 to book your place.
Errew Re-turn bin is empty ready for more bottles and cans. Thanks for supporting this community venture. All donations really help towards the running costs of Errew Centre.
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Mayo Abbey Centre have recently purchased a defibrillator with support from the Community Refurbishment Programme. They are now organising free defibrillator training for community members. This training will take approximately 2 ½ - 3 hours and if you are interested in being trained call the centre on 094 93 65987 for details.
The next card game is held in Mayo Abbey Resource Centre on Thursday, April 17, at 9pm. All are welcome.
Why not come along on Thursday mornings and join the walking group which starts from the community centre at 10.30am. All are welcome, walk as little or as much as you like and please bring a hi-viz. Call Ann on 086 605 7568 or call the centre 094 93 65987 for information.
Mayo Sports Partnership are holding a couch to 5km training programme in Facefield School on Monday evenings and it commenced yesterday, Monday, March 31, at 7pm. The programme is aimed towards men and women, young and not so young, who would like to walk, jog or run a 5km. Please come along bring your hi viz. No charge.
Mayo Abbey Community Employment Scheme have vacancies in payroll/accounts and other areas. Department of Social Protection eligibility criteria apply. Call Craig at Mayo Abbey Centre 094 93 65987 to find out more or email craig@mayoabbey.ie.
Month’s Mind Mass for Michael James Higgins, Dublin and formally Knocknakill, Mayo Abbey, will take place at 10am on Sunday, April 6, at Mayo Abbey Church of Our Lady Queen of Peace and St Gerald.
