Community Notes: All the latest news from Carra Country
Cathal McCarthy, Anthony O’Connor, Michael Corrigan and Tom Joyce pictured at the recent Ballintubber Abbey Strategy launch. Picture: Tom Quinn
A profound thank you has been extended to everyone who participated on the Easter Monday Tóchar Phádraig half walk from the round tower in Aughagower back to Ballintubber Abbey.
It was a beautiful day and the organisers were delighted to welcome 74 participants, a tremendous turnout.
There is always something different to experience on each guided Tóchar walk. This Easter the fields were full of sheep and lambs and the woods abundant with bluebells and wild garlic.
Traditionally, pilgrims returning from Croagh Patrick would cleanse themselves physically and spiritually in the ‘Dancora’ or ‘Bath of the Righteous’ when they reached the Abbey, the ruins of which are situated in front of the Abbey at the statue of St Patrick.
This year, Fr Frank Fahey welcomed the walkers on their return as they received their certificates. Everyone is invited on the next guided full Tóchar Phádraig walks in June, July and August.
Ballintubber GAA Lotto Jackpot stood at €9,800 on Sunday night, April 20th. The numbers drawn were 7, 29, 30 and 33, and there was no Jackpot winner.
Consolation prizes went to Sean McCague, Kevin Curley, Electric Skyline, John O'Dowd, Alice Kate Cuffe and Olivia Hallinan.
The jackpot stood at €9,900 on last Sunday night, April 27th. You can play online via the club's Facebook page.
There was no winner of the jackpot of €12,000 in the Ballyglass FC Lotto draw in Connolly's, Hollymount, on Monday, April 21st, when the numbers drawn were 21, 29, 34 and 35. There was also no Match 3 winner.
Consolation prizes went to Jerry Cuffe, Joe Mahon, Anne Keane, Ross Malone and Una Maughan Prendergast.
The weekend jackpot stood at a hugely attractive total of €12,100. Go to www.smartlotto.ie to play.
Winners at Ballyglass Cards on Monday, April 21st, were: 1st, Michael Loftus and Liam Davoren; 2nd, Peter Glynn and Tomas Solan; 3rd, Tom Fitzpatrick and Breege Jennings.
The last 10 winners were Seamus Hughes and Sean Reilly and the raffle prizes went to Seamus Nevin and Martin Ford.
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.
Ballyglass FC recently announced a raffle as part of its year of celebrations to mark the 50th anniversary of the founding of the club.
The prizes, all generously sponsored by Riain Group, include a €1,200 Center Parcs voucher, €500 cash and a €250 Blue Book Hotel voucher. The draw will take place on June 2nd and tickets are available on idonate.ie, just search under Ballyglass 50th Anniversary.
Your support is very much appreciated.
If you would like to be part of the group of volunteers who keep Ballyglass village looking its best, contact Breege on 087-6292164 to get your name added to the group. There will be nothing too strenuous, just some sweeping, weeding, gardening and litter picking one evening per week. Many hands make light work.
Congratulations to Ryan and Shona Connolly on the birth of their baby son Paddy. Ballyglass FC have already ordered Paddy’s boots and shinguards! Best wishes to all the family.
The Lough Carra Catchment Associations (LCCA) will hold its next public meeting on May 20th.
The new Pre-School in Carnacon is currently taking enquires for September 2025. If you would like more information, please contact the provider, growingmindspreschool0@gmail.com, with any questions or enrolment information.
Ballintubber Abbey Visitor Centre and Gift Shop is open daily. Guided Tours are available, including Sundays after Mass.
A selection of souvenirs, gifts, books and cards are now available in the gift shop.
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PARTRY/TOURMAKEADY/KILLAWALLA
Progress is being made on the new Geo-trail initiative identifying boulders for Tourmakeady Woods Trail.
January’s Storm Éowyn was very severe on people, buildings, trees and forests, but it hasn’t prevented work identifying boulders to fit in a geodiversity trail in Tourmakeady Woods.
This walk, funded by Geological Survey Ireland, is a partnership with Coillte and the local Coiste Pobail Thuar Mhic Éadaigh. It is being implemented by the Geopark in association with Comharchumann Dhúiche Sheoigheach Teo.
Quarries and some other landowners in the Geopark region are generously providing boulders of particular rock types for the trail. The walk will consist of 10 to 12 boulders of distinct rock types set at intervals along the 500m walk from the Woods carpark to Tourmakeady Waterfall with a small information panel beside each. There will also be additional panels identifying various native species present in this People’s Millennium Forest.
The development will strengthen the link Tourmakeady and other communities have with the wider Geopark and develop the woods further for education and enjoyment. This is a wonderful unique development which will be attractive to visitors and also of educational benefit to many students.
The death has occurred of Mary Ronan, née White, William Street, Nenagh, Co Tipperary and formerly of Edmonton, London and Cappaduff, Tourmakeady.
Mary passed away peacefully in the care of Snowdrop House Care Home, surrounded by her loving family. She was the wife of Tom Ronan, Cappaduff, Tourmakeady, and was predeceased by her parents John and Peg, sisters Joan, Nellie and Anne and brothers James, Jack, Liam, Danny and Richard.
Mary is deeply regretted by her husband Tom, daughters, Sarah and Emma and son Jamie and the extended families, her brothers Tony, Michael and Joseph, sisters Peggy and Noreen, nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives, neighbours and friends to whom sincere condolences are extended.
Her funeral arrived at St Mary of the Rosary Church, Nenagh last Friday evening, April 25th. Requiem Mass was celebrated on Saturday morning followed by burial ceremonies in Lisboney New Cemetery.
May she rest in peace.
There was no winner of the jackpot of €16,800 in the Tourmakeady CLG Lotto on Saturday, April 19th, when the numbers drawn were 9, 15, 23 and 29.
The draw takes place each Saturday night 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. You can play online at www.smartlotto.ie or purchase tickets in local outlets.
A Lotto Bonus Number fundraiser for Tourmakeady NS will commence on May 17th next with a prize of €100 awarded each week based on the bonus number from the main lotto on Saturday night (Without Lotto Plus 1 or Lotto Plus 2).
For those who wish to take part, the cost is €100 for six months. Anyone who is willing to support the school, please contact it via 094-9544088 or email snthuarmhiceadaigh@gmail.com before Wednesday, May 12th.
In a recent Tourmakeady NS Lotto Ball Winning draw, Number 43 was the winning number and Annemarie Casey won the €100. Congratulations to the winners and many thanks for your continued support.
Tuar Mhic Éadaigh Social Club is due to meet again on this Thursday, May 1st, from 2 to 4pm. Why not pop along for a social get-together, light exercise, bingo, make new friends and enjoy the company. New members will be made most welcome.
First Holy Communion will be celebrated in Partry Church at 12.45pm on Sunday, May 4th, while First Communion Day in St Mary’s Church, Tourmakeady is on Sunday, May 11th, at 12.45pm.
The annual May Mass at Our Lady’s Shrine will take place at 11.30am on Sunday, May 4th.
Volunteers are needed to read and do Eucharistic Ministry in both Partry and Tourmakeady churches. Interested persons are asked to please give your name to Fr Jarlath or email partrytourmakeadynewsletter@yahoo.ie.
The Knitting Circle comes together on Monday nights in Halla Tuar Mhic Éadaigh from 7.30 to 9.30pm. Further details are available from 087-7657191.
Congrats to Partry AFC who have won the Oliver Kelleher Masters Cup defeating by Kiltimagh Knock United 9-2 in the final.
Partry AFC have won the Masters Cup two years in a row and captured the Division 2 title this year and also will play Division 1 next year.
Thanks to Oliver Kelleher Castlebar Ltd for their continued support of the competition.
Massive credit must go to player manager Mark Gibbons who has guided the club to extraordinary success over the last two seasons and to keeper Derek O’Sullivan who had the team looking the part with the new kit during the year. The lads will take a well-deserved break and will regroup again to have a crack at Division 1. Well done, lads.
The death has occurred recently of John Conway, Manchester. The deceased was a brother of Billy Conway, Tooreen, Partry.
May he 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. All are welcome.
Partry FC Bonus number draws take place mid-week on Wednesday nights. Congrats to Brendan and Laura Prendergast, Gortmore who were recent winners of the popular flutter.
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.
Congrats to Nora Coyne, Kilfaul and Paul Lennon who were recent winners of the draw. The latest draw was on Saturday night last, April 26th.
All proceeds are invested in local developments and village enhancement. Tickets are on sale from Jim O’Neill at 087-2860565. The support of the community is greatly appreciated.
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BREAFFY/ BALLYHEANE/ BELCARRA
The Breaffy senior men’s team has extended thanks to everyone who supported the recent table quiz and made it a huge club and community success.
A special word of thanks was tendered to Quiz Master, Richie Heneghan, for hosting such a fun and engaging quiz and thanks also to the amazing U-16 ladies of Breaffy LGFA Club who assisted with correcting the quiz questions and scores. To the quiz committee, social committee, parents, players and coaches, thank you for your endless hard work, time and invaluable support in making the evening a great success.
Finally, nights like this would not happen without the support of local businesses - Mulroy’s Londis at Moneen Roundabout, Breaffy House Hotel & Spa Resort, Staunton’s Pharmacy, ATIR Shapewear, Kavanagh's SuperValu Castlebar and Breaffy LGFA Club. Please continue to shop local and support our club's sponsors.
Congratulations to Aidan O'Shea on reaching an incredible 200 appearances for the Mayo team. What a magnificent achievement worthy of the highest plaudits.
There was no winner of the jackpot in the Breaffy GAA Lotto draw on April 22nd when the numbers drawn were 2, 12, 29 and bonus no 1.
Congrats to the weekly Lucky Dip winner Vincent McDonnell.
The jackpot stood at €15,100 on April 29th. Thank you for your ongoing support of Breaffy GAA.
The Belcarra 8k Fun Run will take place on Sunday, June 22nd. More details will follow regarding registration and Couch to 8k programme. It’s sure to be another great weekend in the village.
Belcarra Community Council’s Lotto jackpot stood at €11,400 on Sunday, April 20th, when the numbers drawn were 4, 14, 24 and 31.
There was no jackpot winner. The Lucky Dip winners of €30 were Jimmy Murphy, Mary Jo Cannon, Geraldine & Marie and Milo Nestor.
Thanks as always for the support of patrons. Tickets are on sale in Cunningham’s Costcutter, Cuffe Car Sales, Nestors and Flukies.
The next monthly card game in Belcarra Centre will be on next Monday, May 5th.
Sincere sympathy is tendered to Lorraine McCoy, Belcarra on the recent passing of her brother, Shane McGrory, Ballintra, Co Donegal.
May he rest in peace.
Kiddie’s handball classes are commencing in Belcarra Sports Centre. The fun event will be held on Sundays. The classes are open to all with no experience needed.
The Sunday morning handball sessions are set as follows: 10 to 11am, 7 to 10 years and 11 to 12pm, 10 to 12 years.
Come learn the game, have fun, and get active! If you have any questions, feel free to send Belcarra Handball Club a message on Facebook.
Handball practice for 4th, 5th and 6th class girls takes place in Belcarra Handball Alley every Wednesday after school from 2.45 to 3.45pm.
It’s all about fun, friendship, fitness, and building confidence through sport. This is a brilliant opportunity for girls to get active, learn a fast-paced and exciting sport, and be part of a fun, supportive team environment. Whether they’ve played before or are complete beginners, everyone is welcome!
Congratulations to Belcarra handballer Aaron Surdival, who earned his place on the Mayo U13 handball team after coming through one of the strongest trials in years, with over 50 talented young players battling for a spot.
Aaron and his Mayo teammates showed incredible heart and skill in the Connacht Championship, making it all the way to the semi-finals.
In a thrilling, hard-fought clash against Sligo, Mayo narrowly missed out with a final score of 79 to 74. It was a match full of grit, passion, and drama - and Aaron did Belcarra proud on the provincial stage.
A one-day retreat to Lough Derg will take place on Monday, May 5th. The bus will be leaving St Mary's Church in Westport at 5.30am and pick up in Castlebar is at the Fire Station at 5.45am.
For bookings, please, contact the Presbytery, Westport on 098-28871.
Adult mentors are required for Foróige's Youth Mentoring Programme.
Would you have an hour to spare in the week? If you are interested in supporting a young person, this is an enjoyable way to spend your time and have a positive impact on a young person’s life. For more information, please telephone 086-3835859 or 086-0471420.
Michael Sexton and his band provide the beat for a Céilí in Ballyheane Centre on Saturday night next, May 3rd. Admission is €12 and a great night's dancing is guaranteed.
The comfortable confines of Ballyheane Centre are the venue for enjoyable Bingo sessions on Wednesday nights each week at 9pm. There are generous prizes and refreshments are served.
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Balla/Manulla
Balla Vintage and Classic Motor Show and auto-jumble will take place on Sunday, May 11th, at Balla Mart (Eircode: F23 EC99).
Start your engines for a day of vintage motoring magic.
Enjoy a stunning display of classic cars, vintage bikes, tractors, and much more. At the auto-jumble, hunt for rare parts, retro finds, and motoring memorabilia.
The event is family-friendly and great fun for car lovers and casual browsers alike.
Public admission is a modest €10. Exhibitors and children go free. All are welcome - whether you're a lifelong enthusiast or just up for a unique Sunday outing, there's something for everyone. Gates open to exhibitors at 7am and to the public at 11am.
Proceeds go to several charities. For more details, call Liam on 087-8171479 or Peter at 087-2661512.
Balla Community Resource Development (Balla CRD) would like to inform the community that a Meals on Wheels service is available through Castlebar Social Services. For more information, please contact info@balla.ie or phone 094-9365846 or 087-1850860.
Balla GAA Lotto draw was held in The Rendezvous on April 17th for a jackpot of €3,800.
The numbers drawn were 21, 22, 28 and 35 and there was no jackpot winner. The €30 consolation prize winners were Robert Flatley (standing order), Tommy Walsh (annual) and John McNicholas (annual).
The latest draw was held in Flukies on Thursday, April 24th, when the jackpot stood at €3,900. Thanks to all who support Balla GAA lotto draws.
Manulla Community Centre Committee would like to thank everyone for their support in making the card game a great success. A donation of €1,330 has been given to the Mayo/Roscommon Hospice.
The latest Manulla FC jackpot stood at a massive €19,300 on last Sunday night, April 27th.
The club are deeply grateful for the weekly support of their patrons. Manulla FC online registration is now available for all members. Check out the club's Facebook page.
Balla Parish Church Choir is looking for people of all ages to join the choir and attend practice sessions. Email marieflanagan2004@gmail.com for further details.
Balla Centre Activities
There is a range of activities at Balla Centre:
Monday - Sewing classes at 10am; Yoga at 7pm.
Tuesday - Sheer Fitness Class at 6.30pm.
Wednesday - Bridge Club and physio-led Pilates at 7pm and 6pm respectively.
Thursday - Knit Wits at 7pm.
Friday - Yoga with Ann at 9.30am.
Balla Active Age Group will meet every Friday at 3pm in the Community Centre. New members will be made most welcome.
Saturday - 25 Card Drive at 9pm.
Hot Desk spaces are available in the new courthouse and meeting rooms in Balla Community Centre.
Contact Balla CRD at info@balla.ie or 087-1850860 for details.
A full-time office administrator is required for Balla CRD. Email applications to jobs@balla.ie.
Balla Bingo takes place on Sundays at Balla Community Centre or online at 8pm sharp.
There is a generous €12,000 prize fund at the weekend Sunday session. Don't forget to buy your books before 12 noon on Sundays.
Balla Bingo would welcome volunteers to assist on Sunday nights. Contact Balla CRD at info@balla.ie or phone 097-1850860 for information.
Balla Centre hosts a 25 Card Drive every Saturday night in Balla Community Centre. Call the centre at 094-9365843 for more information.
Manulla 25 Card Drive takes place at 9pm in the local centre on Sunday nights. All are welcome.
New 25 card players are always welcome.
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Errew and Clogher
Errew Centre was kindly decorated by the Breakfast and Afterschool Club children and Errew NS pupils have been busy with their Easter crafting.
Easter is always a lovely time of year around Errew with lambs and calves prancing in the fields and nature blooming in all its splendour.
Errew Community Committee was formed during the Easter holidays in 2021 to tidy up the ‘Old School’ and improve the area. Thanks to the community for your continued support ever since - four years on and the former Errew Girls’ School looks great and alive again.
Errew NS has now been included in the Hot School Meals Programme along with 20 other Mayo schools including local schools, Burriscarra NS, Carnacon, Craggagh NS in Balla, Mayo Abbey NS, Balla NS and Manulla NS.
The addition of further schools in Mayo is part of a major expansion. A hot school meal does wonders for children in terms of their physical and mental health, as well as their educational output.
The winners at Clogher Cards on April 18th last were: 1st, Tom Fahey and Derek Quinn; 2nd, Tom Begley and Michael Slattery; 3rd, Jimmy Connor and Tom Lyons; Last 10, Martin Moran and Thomas Fitzpatrick.
The 25 partners’ game continues every Friday night at 9pm.
There are still places available for the Croagh Patrick Heritage Trail walk on May 10th. All proceeds from the day will go towards the Mayo Roscommon Hospice.
The last bus will leave Murrisk at 8.30am and the walk itself will leave Aughagower at 9.30am. There are light refreshments at Aughagower in the morning and again at the halfway stage at Brackloon. At Campbell’s in Murrisk, there will be a celebratory barbecue and a time to wind down and relax. There is a back-up car available at all times if required.
So come along and enjoy the countryside, the scenery, good company and food and know that you are supporting a good cause. Please register at croaghpatrickheritagetrail@eventbrite.ie.
The Clogher Active Age Group enjoyed a spin to Mayo Abbey on Wednesday, April 23rd. They enjoyed a game of Bingo, visited the gardens and then had a wonderful dinner before returning home.
Sincere thanks are extended to Dermot for driving and to all the staff at Mayo Abbey for the warm welcome, great service and attention to detail.
A trip to Mayo Abbey is an annual outing for the group.
There was success for a large group of local children in the recent rounds of Community Games, including five All-Ireland qualifiers.
Huge congratulations to Donal McGinty (1st in U-14 handwriting); Conor Cannon (2nd in U-12 boys' handwriting), Roisin McGinty (2nd in model making); Daisy Hardcastle (2nd in U-14 model making); Natalia Boyle (2nd in U-10 art). 3rd lace Mayo medal went to John Boyle.
Well done to everyone who took part from the Carra area, you did yourselves proud!
