Local Notes: Ballintubber U15's take part in Feile in Derry.
The Ballintubber U15 team pictured before their departure to Derry to participate in the Féile competition. Diarmuid O’Connor dropped by to wish them well. Picture by Tom Quinn
Ballyglass Active Age group have been taking advantage of the summer weather recently with some days out. The group recently paid a visit to Horkan’s Garden Centre, where they enjoyed their time browsing through and buying plants, shopping in the Edinburgh Woollen Mills and relaxing with a meal in the Bay Leaf restaurant. The group had their annual picnic in the beautiful surroundings of Moorehall, where they started off with a leisurely walk along the many trails through the woods and finished with a picnic of home-baked treats made by members of the group. The woods in Moorehall became the venue on the warmer sunny days for the group’s exercise class, where they used their walking poles to improve mobility and fitness. Last week the group visited Kylemore Abbey where they enjoyed tea and scones before exploring the grounds and attending Mass in the chapel. The trip continued on to Clifden where they did some shopping and they stopped for a delicious evening meal in Burke’s of Clonbur on the way back, bringing a wonderful day to a close. Such enjoyable days don’t happen without the organisational skills of the committee. Thanks to Maureen, Mary and Aggie for all their hard work. Thanks also to John the bus driver who is always very accommodating. Ballyglass Active Age meets every Tuesday at 11am at their exercise class. New members are always very welcome.
Growing Minds Preschool is based in Carnacon village, Co Mayo (F12 NY38). They are now taking enrolments for ECCE September 2025 and the session times are Monday to Friday, 9.15am-12.15pm.
This is a play-based learning curriculum, highly qualified and experienced staff, bright and engaging indoor and outdoor play areas, with a safe and nurturing environment. To enrol, or to arrange a visit, contact Claire Chapman on 085 705 2271 or email growingmindspreschool0@gmail.com.
Ballintubber GAA lotto jackpot stood at €10,800 on Sunday night, June 29. The numbers drawn were 16, 19, 22 and 29. Consolation prizes went to Conor Corley, Emer, Bridie and Michael Kelly, Declan and Damien Corbett, Rachel Murphy, Holly and Emily Coleman. The jackpot stood at €10,900 on last Sunday night, July 6.
Ballintubber GAA Club in association with the local community council is hosting a social night in Corley’s Abbey Lodge on Saturday, July 19, to mark the recent retirement of Garda Tom Fleming. Tom has been based in Tourmakeady and Partry Garda Stations over several years and has served all the local communities from Finney to Ballyglass. It promises to be a great night. The event commences at 9pm. Finger food will be served. There is no admission charge. All are welcome.
The results from Monday, June 30, Ballyglass FC Lotto draw are as follows - the numbers drawn were 18, 29, 32 and 33. There was no winner of the €13,000 jackpot and Leona Nestor was the only Match 3 winner. Consolation prizes went to Kathleen King, Joe Glynn, Niall Sheridan and TC Connolly. Play now to be in with a chance of winning next week’s jackpot. Go to smartlotto.ie to play. Ballyglass Card game winners.
Winners from Monday, June 30 were 1st Willie Davoren and Michael Loftus, 2nd Kevin Bourke and Kathleen Mooney; Patricia Jennings and Margaret Mannion and 3rd Seamus Nevin and Martin Forde; Dinny McDonagh and Francie Conway. The last 9 winners were Jimmy Sheridan and Mary Morrin; Chris Turner and Pat Griffith and the raffle prizes went to Peter Glynn and Tomás Solan. 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.
Do you need a slow and mindful yoga session with gentle poses and calming breathwork to release tension and bring a deep sense of relaxation? Come as you are to this one-off yoga session from 7.30 to 9pm in Ballyglass Community Centre on this Tuesday evening, July 8. No experience needed. Book now with Emma on 087 9973357.
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 is nothing too strenuous, just some sweeping, weeding, gardening and litter picking one evening per week. Many hands make light work, please turn out and help.
The next Ballyglass Market will be held on Saturday, August 23, in Ballyglass Community Centre. Save the date and net a bargain.
Tóchar Phádraig is a sacred pilgrim route from Ballintubber Abbey to Croagh Patrick, following the ancient chariot road travelled by St Patrick himself. Step onto a path walked for over 1,500 years. Guided walks bring you through stunning landscapes, fairy hills, and places steeped in legend and story. Upcoming walk dates: Saturday, July 26, and Saturday, August 30. Book your walk online at: https://www.ballintubberabbey.ie/tochar-walks/.
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The annual Ceol Na Locha festival will run this year from Monday, August 11, until Friday, August 15. Traditional music classes will run each day from 10an to 2pm with top tutors. Nighttime will see a vast array of entertainment, with traditional sessions and ceile’s in local venues around Tuar Mhic Eadaigh. Details and bookings for all classes are available from 094 9544295. Bígí linn i dTuar Mhic Éadaigh, Co. Maigh Eo, le haghaidh féile bliantúil Ceol na Locha a bheas ar siúl i mbliana ón 11ú go dtí 15ú Lúnasa. Seachtain lán de cheoil traidisiúnta, damhsa, ealaín agus neart imeachtaí eile. Bígí linn le haghaidh seachtain lán do craic agus spraoí í nGaeltacht Thuar Mhic Éadaigh ar bhruach Loch Measca, beidh Céad Míle Fáilte romhaibh.
A social function will be held in Corley’s Abbey Lounge on Saturday,19, July to mark the occasion of the recent retirement of Garda Tom Fleming who has served the communities of Ballintubber, Partry and Tourmakeady areas for many years. More details to follow.
Ballintubber Abbey was the scenic setting recently for the wedding of Michaella Heneghan, daughter of Veronica and Michael Heneghan, Srah and Andrew Finney of Rathkenny, Co Meath. After a most colourful ceremony celebrated by Fr Jarlath Heraty, P.P the newlywed couple hosted a gala reception for their families and friends in Breaffy House Hotel. The popular couple are wished many years of great joy and happiness in their married lives.
Róisin Seoighe is the new Irish Language Officer for Dhúiche Sheoigheach and Tuar Mhic Éadaigh. Róisin replaces Stiofán Seoighe who was in the post for the past few years. The classes have commenced on Wednesday mornings with beginners running from 11am to 12 and intermediate class from 12 to 1pm. The next class is tomorrow morning, Wednesday, July 9. Persons who are interested can contact Róisin on 0873970227 or email opt.cdst@gmail.com.
The annual Cemetery Mass at Churchfield will be on Friday, August 1, at 7.30pm and Tourmakeady will take place on Sunday, August 3, at 11.30am with Kilkeeran (Partry) on Monday, August 4, at 6pm.
It has been announced that a brand new Irish Summer Camp will run at Coláiste Muire, Tuar Mhic Éadaigh from July 14 to 18 from 10am until 3pm daily. The camp is open to all 4th, 5th, and 6th class primary school students and this camp is suitable for all levels of Gaeilge. Students will improve their Irish through a wide range of fun activities, such as sports, drama, arts and crafts, cooking, and the 'camps fittest family' challenge. The cost is €60 (camp t-shirt included). For more information contact; spraoinalocha@gmail.com.
The annual summer Barbecue at Paddy’s Bar and Restaurant will take place this year on Saturday night next, July 12. An entertaining night with DJ Lorcan Cawe and a two course buffet menu is sure to attract many folk. It is advisable to book now by email naoise@paddy.ie or phone 094 9544005 or 094 9544243.
The weekend lotto jackpot on Saturday, July 5, stood at €17, 900. 1, 4, 9 and 29 were the numbers drawn at the previous draw and there was no jackpot winner. 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. You can play on line / Ticéadaí le fáil ar líne Ag: https://smartlotto.ie/clg-thuar-mhic-eadaigh/. Ta ticéadaí ar diol sa siopao O’Tooles/Oifig a Hoist/ Máire Luke’s/ Lough Mask Inn.
Joyce Country & Western Lakes Geopark is seeking a dynamic and outgoing Tourism Officer to join a small dedicated team of three in the Joyce Country & Western Lakes Geopark region. This role, funded by Údarás na Gaeltachta, requires a fluent Irish speaker who will be responsible for promoting the Geopark locally, nationally, and internationally, managing events, and engaging with local businesses to develop sustainable tourism initiatives.
Additional responsibilities include developing guided tour offerings, managing social media and digital marketing campaigns, and coordinating with research institutions and geological societies to enhance the Geopark’s profile. Participation in a prescribed training programme during employment is mandatory. This is an ideal opportunity for someone passionate about heritage tourism, geology, and the Irish language to make a meaningful impact in one of Ireland’s most spectacular landscapes.
Email info@jcwlgeopark.ie for job specification. CV with cover note to be submitted by 5pm on Monday, July 14.
The annual 2025 Cúl Camp will be held at Páirc Naoimh Muire running from July 21 to July 25 running from Monday to Friday. Places can be booked at kellogsculcamps.gaa.ie.
Volunteers are needed to read and do Eucharistic Ministry in both Partry and Tourmakeady Churches. Interested persons are asked to please give you name to Fr Jarlath or email, partrytourmakeadynewsletter@yahoo.ie.
The winner of the Tourmakeady NS lotto bonus ball school fundraiser on Saturday, June 21, was Seamus and Aisling Gibbons, Gortnacullin.
Ciorcal Cniotáil/Knitting Circle is on summer holidays at the moment. The group will resume activities again in September.
Killawalla Community Day was another huge success. Killawalla Community Council has thanked everyone who helped prepare for the big day. To everyone who helped in any way from getting the grounds ready and marking out the areas, to all who helped on the day with tickets, races and tea and buns. Thanks also to everyone who gave spot prizes and sponsorship and to those who came to support on the day and helped fundraise by supporting the 50-50 bonus ball draw.
Warm congratulations are extended to Myles Kelly of Moate, Ayle and his partner Maria Mariscal on the recent birth of their baby son Matty. The popular family are wished great joy and fulfilment at this special time.
The annual community day was held in Killawalla on Sunday, June 29. There was a high participation in many novel events and amazing prizes on offer. Music was by the talented Conor Duffy and a bumper raffle was held in Pakie McEvilly’s.
Partry AFC weekly draws takes place on Wednesday nights each week. Congrats to Neil Donnelly, Ballintubber and Johnny and Nonie Horan, Partry who were recent winners.
Partry Residents Association daws take place on Saturday evenings with generous prizes in the weekly numbers draw. Congrats to Michael Heneghan, Ballinrobe and Jonathan and Theresa O’Neill who were recent winners. The latest draw was on Saturday night last, July 12. All proceeds are invested in local developments and village enhancement. Tickets are on sale from Jim O’ Neill at 087 2860565.
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Breaffy/Ballyheane/Belcarra
The current Ballyheane Community Council has reached the end of their three-year term and there will be an election to form a new committee. Ballot papers were distributed to every household on the weekend of July 5 and 6. The completed ballot paper will be collected on July 12/13. Each household is asked to nominate one male and one female to represent their area. An appeal has been made to younger people in the community to take this opportunity to get involved in a very progressive community. Several projects highlighted in the Community Futures programme 2022-2027 are currently underway. The handball alley, the extension to Ballyheane National School, restoration and the maintenance of the old graveyard, road safety projects on the approach and main road to and from Ballyheane and new stands for Ballyheane Soccer Club, to name but a few projects that are in train. The Tidy Towns group, weekly bingo, kids club, Active Age, and social events have the support of the community council members. The group thank all who have given their time over the last three years and look forward to a new committee that will initiate new projects while maintaining the existing projects. In doing so, it will bring the young and older members of the community into the future and further enhance Ballyheane. Please take this opportunity to vote and participate in the future of Ballyheane.
The annual Townland v Townland tug of war competition will take place at the Belcarra Sports Day in early August. Townlands are urged to get your teams ready for Saturday, August 9: Men’s and Ladies competition -Teams of 8 - 6 pullers + 1 sub and 1 coach. The pride of your townland is at stake - no pressure. Let the training commence.
On July 13 there is a One Day- One Competition - One Club Handball Legends competition. Belcarra Handball Club is calling all past and present members for an epic showdown in the 60x30 alley for a mixed doubles event. Bring the buzz, the banter, and enjoy the game. It’s the Nestor Cup 2025 – make it legendary. There are some spaces available in the weekly U10 session for boys and girls on Sundays from 10-11am. If you know anyone who might like to give handball a go, they’re more than welcome to come and try it out.
Belcarra Community Council’s lotto jackpot has now reached €12,500. The jackpot stood at €12,400 on Sunday, June 29. The numbers drawn were 6, 11, 19 and 21 and there was no jackpot winner. The lucky dip winners of €30 were Caroline Quinn, Helen O’ Donnell x 2 and Ger Lester.
Belcarra community were delighted to welcome back the Corrib Branch of the Irish Caravan and Camping Club on a recent weekend. They have made Belcarra their summer stop for many years now and it was always a pleasure to host them.
In 2025 they went the extra mile, bringing their very own replica of a traditional Irish fireplace, where they cooked up delicious Moran’s bacon. The smell alone was enough to make everyone for miles around hungry. The group enjoyed a fun-filled and relaxing stay in the scenic village.
Breaffy GAA Lotto results for July 1, were 11, 14, 26 and bonus no 5 were drawn and there was no jackpot winner. Congrats to Mags Heath Barniskey a €250 match 3 winner. The jackpot stood at €16,100 on this Tuesday, July 8.
Volunteers are needed for a bucket collection in aid of Ballyheane/Ballintubber CFR on next Friday, July 11. Persons who are available should contact Kenneth on 087 6101087 for further details regarding the day.
The comfortable confines of Ballyheane Community Centre will be the venue for a Ceile on Saturday night, August 9. Music for the occasion will be by Michael Sexton and his band. Admission is €12.
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Balla GAA lotto draw was held on the Thursday, June 26, in The Shebeen for a jackpot of €4,800. 2, 11, 22 and 27 were the numbers drawn and there was no jackpot winner. The €30 consolation prize winners were Robert Flatley (standing order), Kenneth Moran (standing order) and Richard and Helen Monaghan (annual). The latest draw was held on last Thursday, July 3, in Flukies when the jackpot stood at €4,900.
A “Meals on Wheels” service is available from Castlebar Social Services. For more information, contact the service on 094 90 21378 or email castlebarsocialservices@cvss.ie.
Booking is now open for the FAIreland Summer camps in Manulla FC facilities on Monday, July 14. Booking closes at midnight on Thursday, July 10. Manulla FC was delighted to partner with Mayo Autism Camp and @mayosportspartnership in supporting and facilitating Sports Ability Week. It was a wonderful week of activities for the club. Manulla FC Club lotto jackpot stood at €1,600 for last Sunday nights draws.
Manulla summer camp is back at Manulla FC this summer for a week of football and fun. Connor Kilker Coaching is back again from the August 18-22, for his second year in Manulla FC. Parents wishing to book a place on the camp, should text your child’s name and age to 083 1753142. Places are limited so please try and book early to avoid disappointment. Last year was a huge success.
Applications for the monitored personal alarm are available at Balla Community Centre for eligible people aged 65 or over. Contact Balla CRD at info@balla.ie or 087 1850860 for further information.
On Tuesdays, Sheer Fitness Classes take place at 6.30pm. 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. Contact Balla CRD info@balla.ie or 087 1850860 for details.
Balla Community Centre has been named as a county finalist for the 2025 National Lottery Good Causes Awards. Being named county finalist is a reflection of the amazing work ongoing in Balla as a community. Best wishes to all.
Balla bingo takes place on Sundays at Balla Community Centre or online, 8pm. 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 game takes place at 9pm in the local Centre on Sunday nights. New 25 card players are always welcome.
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The Errew Monastery Boys’ School 50th Anniversary commemoration took place last week as past pupils came together for a most memorable occasion to mark the closure of the historic school. Br Conal Thomas who grew up next to the Monastery led the short prayer service in the adjoining Errew cemetery remembering the deceased members of the community. A wonderful evening of remembrance was had by all.
Clogher Community Futures launch will take place on Sunday, July 20, at 2pm. Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment Alan Dillon will perform the official launch in Clogher Community Centre. Everyone is welcome to attend.
Clogher Summers Walks continue every Tuesday evening at Clogher Heritage Complex at 7pm and every Thursday morning at 10 am at Clogher Community Centre. There is a choice of distances at both venues and refreshments and a chat afterwards. Everyone is welcome to participate. These walks are along country roads so wear hi-vis jackets for safety. Refreshments are available after each walk.
The results of the card game held in Clogher on Friday, June 26, were 1st Joe and Shane Thomas, 2nd Tom Fitzpatrick and Breege Blake, 3rd Derek Quinn and Tom Fahey. Last 10 Gay Conway and Bernie Heneghan. Game continues through the summer.
A supervisor is required for a Community Employment (CE), Clogher Environmental Group Scheme. The works location is Clogher, Claremorris, County Mayo F12 EK24 and the start date is late August/early September. Interested persons are asked to forward a current CV and cover letter to clogherenvigroup@gmail.com or telephone 094 93 60891.
The Local Link provides a bus service through Clogher on Tuesday and Thursday each week. Ring Matt Rowley at 085 1251633 on the previous day to avail of the service. This service is free for travel pass holders.
