Local Notes: Ballyglass ladies attend First Aid course.
Ballyglass ladies attending a recent First Aid course in Ballyglass Community Centre - Front row: Nora Conroy, Maureen Murphy, Sadie Corbett, Claire O’Malley (facilitator) Bridie McIntyre, Margaret O’Dowd, Rita Nestor. Back row, Marian Prendergast, Rosaleen Halligan, Mena Mahon, Mary Brennan, Noreen Longworth and Sally Keane. Picture by Tom Quinn
Ballintubber GAA lotto jackpot stood at €6,600 on Sunday night, February 1. Congratulations are extended to John Duffy, Killawalla East who was the winner of the jackpot. The now retired former Ballintubber senior footballer had the lucky numbers 4, 5, 12 and 28. Best wishes to John and the Duffy family who are renowned lifelong club supporters.Consolation prizes went to Oliver Mortimer, Brian Kenny, Flor Donoghue, Jack Barnicle, Stephanie Lally and Margaret Mannion.
The most-won lotto jackpot in Mayo commenced again on last Sunday night, February 15, with a new €5,000 Jackpot.
Conor Finnerty is now running a variety of strength and fitness classes throughout the week at Ballintubber Centre Gym facilities. There are specialist women’s and men’s classes and also mixed classes available. There is also a personal training, nutritional and lifestyle feature. Details can be had from Conor at 089 4340905 or email conorfinnerty2010@gmail.com.
Sincere sympathy is extended to Jimmy and Sean Kilcoyne, Knockaraha and Eileen Donnelly, Ballyheane, on the passing of their sister Della Bourke, in the UK. Della is remembered with great affection by her many friends in her home parish. May she rest eternally in the peace and happiness of heaven.
Deepest sympathy is extended to Mary Kelly, Lufferton and Ann Corbett, Moorehall on the passing of their sister-in-law, Kathleen Flynn, Crimlin. May she rest in peace.
Tom and Julie McNally have extended thanks to everyone for their kind donations for their Christmas Lights at their home which were in aid of Hospice Sunflower. An impressive total of €2,197 was raised for the worthy cause.
There was no winner of the jackpot in the Ballyglass Lotto draw held on Monday, February 9, in the clubhouse. The numbers drawn from the drum were 2, 3, 6 and 34. Rose Doherty and Frank Keane each matched 3 numbers. The consolation prize winners were John Walsh, Jamie Curtin and Bernard Haywood. The weekend draw had a jackpot of €16,200 up for grabs.
Results from Monday, February 9: 1st Seamus Nevin and Martin Forde; Judy Clarke and Kitty Rumley, 2nd Jimmy Sheridan and Majella Corbett and 3rd Patricia Jennings and Margaret Mannion shared with Tomas Solan and Peter Glynn. The best of the last 10 prize went to Kathleen Mooney and Kevin Burke and the raffle winners were, Richard and Mary Carney. Thanks to all the card players and well done to the winners. Card games continue every Monday night in Ballyglass Community Centre from 9pm.
Volunteers are needed for the next few months to help out with the planned renewal of our Community Futures plan. This five-year plan will help decide as a community what projects people would like to see to enhance the village and benefit the residents going forward. A short survey will be distributed to all households in the area on the February 28 and they will be collected again on March 7. Anyone who is interested in joining the steering committee or helping distribute the surveys is very welcome. Contact Leona on 087 9936663.
Lough Carra LIFE was pleased to attend the Oireachtas recently, alongside other LIFE-funded projects and partner agencies, to contribute to discussions on the importance of LIFE programme funding.
It was a privilege to share experiences of how LIFE funding supports practical, evidence-based actions to protect water quality, enhance biodiversity, and work collaboratively with farmers, landowners, and local communities and the LCCA within the Lough Carra catchment. Thank has been extended to Annmarie Meaney, Surface Water Officer and Nicola Byrne, Project Manager with Lough Carra LIFE Project.
It was emphasised that continued LIFE funding is vital to ensure that these projects can build on existing progress and continue to deliver long-term environmental benefits. LCCA are grateful to the Oireachtas Committee for the opportunity to engage on this important matter and to contribute to national-level discussions on environmental protection and sustainable funding.
A relic of St. Carlo Acutis, the 15 year old Italian teenager will go on display next weekend in all the churches of the parish. Saturday evening February 21, after 7.30 pm Mass in St Mary's Church, Carnacon and on Sunday morning, February 22 after 10am Mass in Killawalla and also after 11am Mass in Ballintubber Abbey. A first class relic of Carlo will be available for veneration after the three weekend Masses. There will be an opportunity to be blessed with the relic and everyone is welcome. It is especially hoped young people and children will come along as Carlo was a 15 year old who died from Leukaemia in 2006 and is a modern role model for young people. Carlo had a great devotion for the Eucharist. The rosary will be recited during veneration at each church.
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One hundred and three years on from the famous Tourmakeady Ambush (Luíochán Thuar Mhic Éadaigh), mounted by the South Mayo Brigade of the IRA on May 3, 1921, the communities from which the Brigade was drawn will remember that courageous event so important in the War of Independence in Ireland. It has been announced that the Commemoration Event for the unveiling of the monument in memory of all volunteers of the Tourmakeady Ambush will take place on Sunday, May 3, at 6pm at Srah Bridge. All are welcome to attend.
Seo e an fogra “Tá athas orainn dáta an seoladh don leacht cuimhniúcháin i gcuimhue ar Oglaigh Luíochain Thuar Mhic Eadaigh a fhogairt. Beidh sé ar siúl ag Droichead na Sraithe 3ú Bealtaine 2026 ar 6.00 i.n. Fáilte roimh chuile dhuine”.
The death occurred last week of Margaret (Peggy) Philbin nee Gibbons, Rathbawn Drive, Castlebar; London and formerly of Ballinern, Partry, Co. Mayo. Margaret passed away peacefully at Hollymount Nursing Home with her family by her side on February 5. Predeceased by her beloved husband Mattie, her parents Stephen and Mary, she is deeply regretted by her loving daughters Martina, Geraldine (Patrick), Frances (Mo), grandchildren, great-grandchildren, brother Sean Gibbons (Partry), sister Maura Farragher (Castlebar), sister-in-law Margaret, brother-in-law John, nephews, nieces, relatives, neighbours and friends to whom sincere condolences are extended.
Her remains reposed at Partry Community Centre on the Saturday evening, February 7, concluding with evening prayers at 6.30pm. Her funeral cortege arrived to St. Mary’s Church, Partry on the Sunday afternoon, February 8, at 1.15pm for Requiem Mass at 1.30pm with burial ceremonies taking place afterwards in Ballyovey Cemetery. Dia dean trócaire ar a nAinm.
The National Hill Sheep Conference takes place on Wednesday, February 18, at 7pm in the Westport Woods Hotel, Westport, Co. Mayo. Attendees will gain an insight into the Teagasc Hill Sheep Research Programme and Water Quality in the Irish Uplands. The presentations will be followed by a forum on Marketing Hill Lamb.
Congrats to Edel and Niall Lydon, Treenlaur who were recent winners of the Tourmakeady NS lotto bonus ball school fundraiser draws. If you wish to take part in the weekly draw the cost is €100 for six months. Persons who are willing to support, contact the school via phone 094 95 44088 or Email - snthuarmhiceadaigh@gmail.com.
Beidh Cruinniú Cinn Bliana i Coiste Cultúr Teanga agus Forbartha Thuar Mhic Éadaigh ar siúl san Halla Pobail ar an Máirt 24ú Feabhra ar a seacht (7pm) a clog.
Teagasc are looking for an inspiring female farmer to serve as Ireland’s ambassador for International Year of the Woman Farmer (IYWF) 2026! This is your opportunity to share knowledge, goals and lived experience as a female farmer in Ireland and represent Irish women farmers at both a national and global stage. Find out more and apply at https://bit.ly/4rytvJt.
An indoor market in Tuar Mhic Éadaigh commenced on February 7, and will continue on the 1st Saturday every month thereafter from 11am to 3pm in Halla Pobail, Tuar Mhic Éadaigh, Co. Mayo. The market features a diverse mix of handcrafted, homemade, home-grown and locally produced wares. The market reflects the creativity, skills, and traditions of the area, with everything from artisan foods, natural skincare, artworks and crafts, to unique fresh designs and locally made gifts. For further details make contact by email to makersmarket.tme@gmail.com.
The latest community council lotto draw took place in McEvilly’s lounge on February 8. Killawalla lotto will shortly enjoy a “makeover”. All current annual tickets are still valid until the changeover is complete.
The South West Mayo Development Company currently has a general operative vacancy available on the Rural Social Scheme (RSS), placement in Partry circa area. To be eligible to join the RSS you must be in receipt of a social welfare payment, such as e.g. Farm Assist or Jobseekers Allowance. You must also be linked to an active family farm or have a farming connection. Individuals interested in this position on the RSS please contact Maura Murphy 087 1983863 for a confidential enquiry.
Sincere sympathy is accorded to Mrs Pat Roberts, Kilkeeran, Partry on the death of her sister Gertrude Hamilton O’Neill, Sydney, Australia. May she rest eternally in the peace and happiness of heaven.
St. Mary's NS Partry are now taking enrolments for the new school year 2026-27 for information contact the school 094 9543060 or email: stmarysns2017@gmail.com.
Partry AFC numbers draw is held on Wednesday nights weekly. Congrats to Mike Gibbons, Partry and Jennifer and P J Sheridan, Tourmakeady who were recent draw winners.
Partry Athletic underage registration and presentation night took place on last Sunday, February 15, at 6.30-7.30 in the Partry Community Centre.
Partry Athletic is calling on girls born in 2012/2013 to contact club officers if they are interested in playing U15 girls football for the coming season. New players are welcome and encouraged to join and play with the club.
Partry Residents draws take place on Saturday nights at 8pm. Recent winners were Joe Grimes, Partry and Joanne Hynes, Partry. Memberships of the draw are available from 087 2860565. All funds raised go towards village enhancement and worthy local infrastructure improvements.
Co Mayo Ploughing Championship is looking for a location in South Mayo to host the 2026 ploughing competition. If folk are interested or know of a suitable location willing to be considered call Gerry on 087 967 9996.
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Breaffy/Ballyheane/Belcarra.
Breaffy Rounders is holding three adult open days and everyone is most welcome to attend. If you are looking to rekindle your love of Rounders or just to try something new you are invited to join. These open days will take place in Castlebar Celtic Astroturf pitch from 4pm to 5pm on Sunday's, February 22, March 1 and March 8.
You’ll learn about the game and most importantly, have fun. Contact the club for more details at via Direct Message, email Secretary.Breaffy.Mayo.Rounders@gaa.ie or message 086 1679596 Breaffy GAA Celebration Night.
Breaffy GAA will celebrate a successful year for the senior team on Saturday, February 28, in Breaffy House Hotel. There will be a medal presentation to the Division 1 League Winners 2025 and the Kelly Cup Winners 2025.
The doors open 7pm with the 3-course dinner commencing 7.30pm. Wine and music will feature and it will be a night to bring together members, supporters, community, family and friends. Tickets - https://breaffy-gaa-tickets.sumupstore.com/or 086 795 8388.
Breaffy GAA lotto results for February 10 had the numbers 10, 22, 24 and bonus number 2 drawn. There was no jackpot winner and no match 3 winners. The jackpot stands at £19,300 on this Tuesday night, February 17. Breaffy GAA Club has extended best wishes to senior player Daire Morrin and Tanya Flynn on their recent wedding. The couple are wished great joy and happiness in the decades ahead.
In the Belcarra Community Council lotto draw the numbers drawn on February 8, were 1, 3, 18 and 21. There was no winner of the lotto jackpot. The consolation prizewinners were Noel Feeney, Ger Lester, Walter Lyons and Patricia Walsh. The weekend jackpot stood at €5,200 on Sunday last, February 15.
The winners of the monthly Belcarra card game were 1st Cathal Hennelly and John McCormack, 2nd, Tommy Fahey and Michael Costello, Tommy Lyons and Kitty Rumley, 3rd Sarah Gilligan and Rita Armstrong, John and Ann Dyra. The last 9 winners were, Tom and Mary Ansboro, Judy Clarke and Sean Staunton. The raffle prizes went to Conor Heaney, Mary McGough and Michael Carney. The next 25 drive in Belcarra centre will be on Monday night, March 2.
Community Games events are starting up soon again. If your child is interested in taking part in individual events or team events send a private message for more details and to register your interest with Balla/Belcarra area committee. All young athletes and participants are looking forward to another great year of Community Games 2026.
Congratulations to Belcarra NS who are Cumann na mBunscol champions. In the biggest game of the season, Aaron Surdival delivered a superb performance with Belcarra NS winning 11-9 in the final game. Congrats also to Rori Ruane who finished in an incredible second place. She represented her school and community with total class. Massive credit is due to the whole school and coaches.
Belcarra National School are now taking enrolments for the next academic year. Contact the school to get your form. Please share with relevant people who may be interested in starting their child’s educational journey in Belcarra with the added @belcarraafterschool. Details are available from 094 9032210 or email 0ffice@belcarra.ie.
Ballyheane FC has announced that the Club U15 team is looking for talented players to join for the upcoming season. There will be expert coaching and team development will be a strong feature in a dynamic team environment. Boys born in 2012/2013 should call Joe at 087 240 0201.
Looking for guidance on how to manage your farm/land in a more nature friendly manner? Maybe this is the programme for you. 50 spots available offered on a first-come, first-served basis. More info and application here https://f.mtr.cool/rghinndgfu. Farming for Nature is funded by the National Parks and Wildlife Service and the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine.
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Balla Centre are hoping to establish a First Responders Group and are inviting caring, committed community members to get involved. This is a chance to make a real difference, supporting neighbours, friends, and families when it matters most. No experience needed as all training is provided. What really is required are people with willingness to help and a commitment to their community. If you’d like to be part of this vital, life-saving team, Balla Centre would love to hear from you. Contact the Centre on 094 9365846 or 087 1850860 to find out more.
It is proposed to hold the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Balla again this year but it is necessary to have floats and community participation to proceed. The special event belongs to the whole community and it will happen if the community gives wholehearted support. Clubs, businesses, schools, and community groups are urged to participate. Persons who can organise a float are requested to get in touch and keep up this wonderful tradition. Call Balla CRD 094 936 65846 or 087 1850860.
Balla GAA lotto draw was held on Thursday, February 5, in Flukies for a jackpot of €7,900. 5, 20, 21 and 30 were the numbers drawn and there was no jackpot winner. The €30 consolation prize winners were Alan English (Standing Order), Jody Kilkenny (Standing Order) and Michael Quinn (Cash Sale). The latest draw was held on last Thursday, February 12, in The Railway Tavern when the jackpot stood at €8,000. Thanks to all who support Balla GAA lotto draws. All who intend to register as a Balla GAA member are requested to do so in good time. Registration is now open. Follow the link on the Club Facebook page. Balla GAA have extended a sincere “thank you” to Harrington Concrete and Eamon O’Malley for their kind sponsorship of O’Neil’s footballs for the junior and minor teams.
Due to overwhelming demand, Balla Community Resource Centre are delighted to announce that they have secured a second Spring Gardening Course. Spaces are limited, so don’t miss your chance to join up for this hands-on, practical gardening experience. Learn new skills, meet fellow garden enthusiasts, and bring your green spaces to life. Contact Sheona on 087 1850860 | info@balla.ie.
Manulla FC Club lotto jackpot stood at €4,900 for last Sunday nights, February 15 draws. Manulla FC has extended congratulations to all the award winners at the recent Youth's Awards night in Manulla Community Centre. Many well deserved awards were presented on the night in acknowledgement of player's commitment, determination, talents and team work ethic. Each of the coaches found it difficult to choose one Player of the Year and one Most Improved Player per team as there were so many possible recipients. Thanks to all club players who represent Manulla FC on and off the pitch and a massive appreciation also to the team's coaches and the player's parents for giving so willingly of their time. The future is bright for Manulla FC.
An enrolment evening for Manulla National School takes place tomorrow on Wednesday, February 11, from 7 to 8pm for pupils and their families. For enquiries email secretary@manullans.ie or call 094 9032010.
Congratulations are extended to Gemma McWalter, Balla and Liam Joyce, Islandeady who were married recently in St Cronan's Church, Balla. The couple are wished great joy and lifelong happiness in their married lives.
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A large group from Castlebar Boy Scouts together with their leaders and some parents visited the Clogher Heritage Complex on Sunday, February 8, to avail of the Bog Loop Walks. The younger members enjoyed the shorter Newtown Forest Trail while the older group tackled the 8km Clogher Bog Walk which takes in Drum Graveyard. Afterwards everyone enjoyed tours of the Forge, the Heritage Cottage and the Community Garden. Refreshments were served for everyone. As a mark of appreciation for everything Anita Glancy, Group Leader presented a framed Castlebar Boy Scout Scarf as well as three badges representing the Western Provence, the Mayo Scout County Badge and a Group Badge of 1st Mayo Castlebar Group. Sincere thanks are extended to all the visitors and to the staff of the Community Employment Scheme and the Volunteers who all helped out on the day.
The results of the Clogher card game on Friday, February 6, were, 1st Gay Conway and Joe Thomas, 2nd Tom Fitzpatrick and Martin Moran and Mary Morrin and Pat Griffith, 3rd Jimmy Connor and Gus Sweeney and Tom Fahey and Breege Blake. The last 10 winners were Kathy O’Toole and Mary Jo Cannon and Mary McDonagh and Michael Giblin. The progressive 25 game continues every Friday night at 9pm.
Clogher Active Age Group is planning their outings, projects and classes for the coming year. New members are always welcome. The Group meet every Wednesday morning at 11 am at the Clogher Community Hall. A bus service is also available for people who might like to avail of it.
Errew Women’s Group meets every Wednesday from 7 to 8pm in Errew Community Centre. Contact Eileen on 087 922 7567 for more details.
Would you be interested in sharing your home and supporting a person with a disability for a few hours, per week or month or more regular? Western Care is looking for people, singles/ couples/ families to provide respite breaks for children and adults across Co Mayo, in your own home. If you are interested or would like further information, contact Ruth Kneafsey, Home Share Coordinator on 094 9029148.
