Local Notes: Unveiling of Ballyglass Heritage Notice Board.
Ballyglass Heritage Group - L to R: Sally Keane, Rita Nestor, Leona Nestor, Breege Jennings, Mena Mahon and Nora Conroy pictured at the unveiling of the Ballyglass Heritage Notice Board last week. Pic by Tom Quinn.
The 13th International George Moore Conference will be held in the Mayo Campus of the Atlantic Technological University in Castlebar running from this Tuesday to Thursday, May 5 to May 7. “George Moore Landscape and Memory” is the title of the three day event which will feature talks on the literary legacy of George Moore with references also to the Moore family. The International George Moore Conference will engage with the man and his writings, with particular focus on the influence of landscape and memory in his literature, and especially on the persistent influence of his Mayo roots and origin.
Many international visitors, academics and historians are expected to attend. There will be seven panel discussions, talks, poetry, music, a conference dinner and drama performances. There is a full schedule of highly attractive events over the three days organised by ATU history lecturer, Dr Fiona White and details for can be had on the ATU website - for registration for the event see Eventbrite.
Ballyglass Heritage group unveiled a new information board at the community centre on Friday week last. The board details some of the most prominent heritage sites in the Ballyglass area, with a map showing their locations and a QR code linking visitors to written information about each one. The project came about when the group completed a series of online Heritage Keepers workshops, presented by a group called BurrenBeo. A grant was made available on completion of the workshops, and the information board was funded by this grant. Local councillor Cyril Burke unveiled the board in front of a large group of attendees on Friday evening, in glorious sunshine. There was a very interesting talk by Seán Hallinan in the community centre afterwards, on one of the sites highlighted on the board, Mountpleasant House. The fascinating history of this local landmark, sadly no longer in existence, was brought to life in a very comprehensive way for all in attendance. Refreshments were served afterwards.
The committee thank Councillors Cyril Burke and Al McDonnell. Thanks also to all who helped organise this event, to all who came along and to all who show an interest and commitment to keeping the history of Ballyglass alive for generations to come.
The winners from Monday, April 27, were; 1st Mary Brennan and Philip White, 2nd Michael Loftus and Liam Davoren and 3rd Mary Boyle and Breege Jennings; Seamus Nevin and Martin Ford. The best of last 10 were Richard and Mary Carney and the raffle prizes went to Peter Glynn and Tomas Solan.
Congratulations to Joyce Country and Western Lakes on achieving UNESCO Global Geopark status. It is wonderful that Carnacon, Moorehall, Clogher, Ballintubber Abbey, Church Island, Killawalla and much of the Tochar Phádraig are part of this special recognition. It is a fantastic achievement that will benefit the whole community. Well done to the officials, Michael, Ben, Trish, Sinead, and Dominic for making it happen.
The annual cemetery Masses rota is as follows: Burriscarra: Saturday, July 4, at 7.30pm, Killawalla on Sunday, July 5, at 10am and Ballintubber Abbey Cemetery Abbey on Sunday, July 5, at 11am.
The annual Ballyglass “Darkness into Light” walk will take place on May 8. Participants can pay on the day or register online. All are welcome and refreshments will be served.
Yoga classes in Ballyglass Community Centre start on this Tuesday, May 5, (4- week block) from 7.30 to 8.30pm. Beginners are welcome, no experience required. Spaces are limited and booking is essential. Message Emma via WhatsApp at 087 9973357.
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The Joyce Country and Western Lakes (JCWL) Geopark received its UNESCO Global Geopark accolade, following its ratification at the UNESCO executive board meeting in Paris. It becomes the first UNESCO Global Geopark in Connacht, located across north County Galway, south-west County Mayo inclusive of the Gaeltacht, and the fifth on the Island of Ireland. Exclusively, the JCWL UNESCO Geopark includes the only Gaeltacht region in a UNESCO site on the island of Ireland and globally.
This high-profile international badge of honour recognises the JCWL Geopark’s outstanding natural beauty, unique culture, rich heritage, Irish Language, progressive and strong community spirit along with its inspired people. Embracing new opportunities also forms part of the agenda especially those which complement the sustained developmental efforts of people and their communities in order to achieve the coveted UNESCO status for the region.
The accolade recognises the outstanding work of its 20 local communities, dedicated staff and partner agencies Údarás na Gaeltachta, Geological Survey Ireland, Mayo County Council and Galway County Council, a community representative group JCWL GeoEnterprise and a local development co-op Comharchumann Dhúiche Sheoigheach Teo. Other significant contributors include Fáilte Ireland, National Parks and Wildlife Service, Coillte and Inland Fisheries Ireland.
Heartfelt thanks has been extended to all the exhibitors who brought their wonderful crafts, homemade items and home baking to the Geopark celebration at Halla Tuar Mhic Éadaigh last week. There was a large selection of lovely handmade items from the local knitting group. Thanks to the musicians, to Carmel from the puppet show, children from the local national school for the artwork. Thanks also to Michael Hegarty-Geopark Manager for his help and to all who attended and to those who helped with the tea and refreshments.
Thanks to Niall Tiernan who supplied a generator for the day (power was off) so the event could go ahead and to John Gibbons who came down in the morning early to set it up. Thanks also to Tom Heneghan for all his help on the day and during the week preparing for the event.
There was much sorrow in Killawalla last week at the passing Anthony (Tony) Flynn, Kinuary, Killawalla, Westport. Tony passed away peacefully in the Sacred Heart Hospital surrounded by his family. Tony was in his 90s and was deeply respected in his home community and was supportive of all community initiatives. Tony was a gentleman and a very talented and hardworking craftsman having built many houses in the area and a dedicated farmer. He was a very intelligent and up to date man keeping up with the world as it changed so much over the years. He could converse with young and old and enjoyed a pint in McEvilly’s. He will be greatly missed by his family and his wonderful neighbours and friends.
He is deeply regretted by his sisters Kay and Margaret (UK) brother Michael (Killawalla) nephews, nieces, neighbours and friends to whom sincere condolences are tendered. His remains reposed at Killawalla Community Centre on Sunday, April 26, from 6 to 8pm. Requiem Mass was celebrated on Monday at 12 noon with burial afterwards in the local cemetery. Dia dean trócaire ar a nAinm dilis.
The weekend lotto jackpot on Saturday, April 25 stood at €20,000. 1, 2, 15 and 21 were the numbers drawn 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.
Partry Women’s Circle is inviting ladies on Thursday, May 14 for an evening with Jen Sheridan, a women’s health physiotherapist. Jen will be talking about the small changes that can make a big difference at various stages of women’s lives. The venue in the Mons Horan centre at 8pm and all women over 18s are welcome and not just Partry women. There is a modest €5 fee.
An Art Exhibition' Landscape & Memory - The Moore’s of Moore Hall' will be launched at 6pm on Thursday, May 7, in Westport Town Hall. The theme of this exhibition is 'Landscape and Memory'. The subject matter is the Moore Family and Moore Hall. The exhibition coincides with the 13th International George Moore Conference taking place in the Atlantic Technological University (ATU), Castlebar from Tuesday, May 5 to Thursday, May 7. The conference has been organised by ATU in conjunction with the George Moore Association.
The art exhibition is a very exciting joint venture between WestInk, the Wright Group and Deirdre Walsh of Partry. It promises to be a top class exhibition in various media celebrating the Moore’s and Moore Hall in its historical and geographical context in Co Mayo.
All are invited to join the sunrise walk on May 9 at 4.15am. This year the chosen charity is Pieta House - Ending Suicide - Beginning Hope. Participants are requested to meet at Killawalla Community Centre Bring and hi-viz and a head torch. Refreshments will be available afterwards in the centre. Donations can be given on the day and for anyone who cannot make the walk see the link below so you can donate online. https://www.idonate.ie/fund.../killawallacommunitycouncilgm1.
The Alzheimer Society Tea day will be held on Thursday, May 7, in Ballinrobe Parish Centre, from 11am to 1pm. Each year the Alzheimer Society of Ireland hosts a Tea Day to help raise awareness for local services in Mayo. Join them on May 7, for music, craic, chat and a raffle on the day.
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The death occurred last week of Maura (Mary) Lyons née O’Connor, Skiddernagh, Manulla, Castlebar, Co. Mayo. Maura was formerly a native of Clonwhelan, Edgeworthstown, Co Longford and she passed away passed away peacefully in Mayo Hospice, Castlebar surrounded by her heartbroken family. Her passing is an occasion of great sorrow to her family and many friends and peers who held her in the highest regard.
Predeceased by her parents Andrew and Nora, sisters Dympna, Noreen and Margo, brothers Sean, Michael, Peter and Andy, she is deeply regretted by her husband Tom, sons Timmy (Patricia), Tommy (Sinéad), Walter (Noreen), Rodney (Kathy), daughters Lorraine (Paul Jennings), Andrea (Kieran Fahy, Milltown, Co. Galway), Sharon (Eddie Bourke), her 19 grandchildren Lee, Lauren, Josh and their mother Nicola, Cian, Mark, Matthew, Anna, Ethan, Eoghan, Gavin, Callan, Leah, Ava, Rhain, Abby, Adam, Daniel, Grace and Millie, sister Rose (Armagh), brother Arthur (Armagh), brothers-in-law Timmy and Martin, sisters-in-law Bernadette and Phyllis, nieces, nephews, relatives, the Egan family, Mountain View, Castlebar, neighbours and many good friends to whom sincere sympathy is extended.
There was a large attendance present as her remains reposed in Belcarra Community Centre on Sunday, April 26, from 5 to 7pm. Her funeral cortege arrived at St. Anne’s Church, Belcarra on Monday at 10.45am. Requiem Mass was celebrated by Fr Brendan Kilcoyne, Fr Frank Nally and Fr Michael Farragher at 11.30am. Maura was laid to rest afterwards in Keelogues Cemetery. May she rest eternally in the peace and happiness of heaven.
Breaffy GAA lotto had the numbers 1, 22, 25 and bonus number 1 drawn on April 28. There was no jackpot winner and no match 3 winners. The jackpot stands at €20,400 on May 5, this Tuesday night.
Congrats to Belcarra Foróige who competed a litter pick on a recent Friday evening of the village playground, pitch, and MUGA, as part of the An Taisce Spring Clean. Thanks have been extended to Surdivals for the ice cream for the litter pickers which went down a treat.
There are new ATU Galway Sports Scholarships for handball players. Belcarra Handball Club is delighted to share that ATU Galway has partnered with GAA Handball to introduce aligned scoring categories for Sports Scholarships for the 2026/27 academic year. This is a fantastic opportunity for students competing at club, county, national or international level to receive support while continuing their education. The new system is designed to recognise players across a wide range of levels and help them balance sport and college life. Handball personnel will be working closely with ATU Galway over the coming months as this new initiative is rolled out, and any interested players and their parents are strongly encouraged to take a look at https://www.atu.ie/.../scholarships/sports-scholarships...
Congratulations to James Niland, Aughagower and Aaron Surdival of Belcarra Handball Club on winning silver medals at this year’s U13 Doubles Connacht Handball Championships.
In the Belcarra Community Council lotto draw the numbers drawn on Sunday, April 26 were 1, 14, 27 and 28. There was no winner of the lotto jackpot. The consolation prizewinners were Adam Ward, Fiona Ryan, Marie Reilly and Chloe Ruane. The weekend jackpot stood at €6,300 on last Sunday night, May 3.
The Christian Community have welcomed Seamus Kiely and Eloise Rose Gallagher who were baptised recently in St Anne's Church, Congratulations to their parents and families.
Sincere sympathy is accorded to the family, relatives and friends of Patrick (Patsy) Fadden, Cherryfield House, Westport Road, Castlebar and Linenhall Street, Castlebar, formerly of Hollyhill, Castlebar. Patsy’s requiem Mass was celebrated in The Church of The Holy Rosary, Castlebar on Saturday morning at 11am followed by burial ceremonies in Ballyheane Cemetery. May he rest in peace.
The annual Ballyheane Goes Country music festival kicks off from June 5 to June 7. There is a top line-up on all three nights with Michael English and Andy Feery getting the festival underway on the Friday night. Derek Ryan and Olivia Douglas are the top attractions on the Saturday night followed by the High Kings and the super-talented Milo and Vinny on the Sunday night. Tickets which are sure to be in brisk demand are available from the Ballyheane Goes Country Festival Website or from The Punch Bowl, Ballyheane.
Everyone is invited to share a cuppa on Friday, May 8, between 10.30am and 1pm in the social services building in Castle Street to help support people suffering from dementia and their families in the community.
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The death has taken place of Tom Monaghan, Station Road, Balla, Co. Mayo and formerly of Ballyclogher, Balla. Tom passed away peacefully on Monday, April 27, in the care of the staff of Mayo Hospice, Castlebar, surrounded by his loving family.
Predeceased by his parents, Hugh and Margaret, his infant brother Hubert, brothers John, Mike and Jim, brothers-in-law Dennis, Thomas and Philip, sisters-in-law Nan, Mary, and Patricia. Tom is deeply regretted by his wife Mary, daughters Catherine and Anne Marie, sons Thomas, Michael, John and Joseph, sons-in-law Pearse and Lars-Erik, daughters-in-law Eve, Virginia and Marion , his adored grandchildren Aoife, Patrick, David, Shannon, Ethan, Eoin, Ana, Michael, Hugo, Louise and Shona, his sisters Kathleen and Delia, brothers-in-law Bill and Patsy, sister-in-law Eva, nieces, nephews, neighbours and friends to whom sincere condolences are tendered. His remains reposed at the Balla Funeral Home on last Thursday evening, April 30, from 6 until 8pm. Tom’s Funeral Mass was celebrated at 12.30pm in St. Cronan’s Church, Balla, on Friday, May 1, with burial ceremonies taking place afterwards in the adjoining cemetery. Ar dheis De go raibh a nAinm.
Balla GAA Lotto draw was held on Thursday, April 23 in The Railway Tavern for a jackpot of €9,000. 23, 26, 28 and 30 were the numbers drawn and there was no jackpot winner. The €30 consolation prize winners were Lisa Corish (online), Geraldine Surdival (online) and Matthew Lyons (cash sale). The latest draw was held on last Thursday, April 30 in The Shebeen when the jackpot stood at €9,100. Thanks to all who support Balla GAA lotto. Well done to Balla Junior team on their first league outing on Sunday week. It was a fine day in Clogher with the full time scores; Balla 1-13 Ballintubber GAA 1-12.
The death occurred last week of Dambisa Ogojiaku née Tiso, Balla, Co. Mayo. The deceased was formerly of East London, South Africa and she passed away at Mayo University Hospital, Castlebar on April 25. Dambisa is deeply regretted by her daughters Milly and Khanyi, son Austen, grandchildren Njabulo, Tasha, Junior, Binki, Moesha, Lelethu, Sbu, grandaughter-in-law Claire, great-grandchildren Amber, Petunia and Jason and her many friends in Ireland and back home in South Africa to whom sincere sympathy is tendered.
Dambisa was well known in Balla and Castlebar, where she worked for many years as a home help and provided much needed care to numerous people. A funeral service took place at Kilcoyne’s Funeral Home, Thomas Street, Castlebar, Co. Mayo on last Saturday, May 2, from 1pm to 4pm with funeral afters in Bohola.
The family would be very grateful for any assistance you could give by donating to Dambisa’s GoFundMe page. Every donation means more than words and will contribute to the funeral arrangements and help fulfil her wish to be repatriated. Thank you in anticipation of your kindness and support. May she rest in peace.
Balla Classic and Vintage Show 2026 will take place on Sunday, May 10, at Balla Mart Grounds, Balla, Co. Mayo. It will be a fantastic day celebrating classic, vintage, and modified vehicles. There will be cars, tractors, motorcycles, auto jumble, food stalls and family-friendly fun and entertainment. All proceeds go to local charities. It is an opportunity to support the community while enjoying a brilliant day out.
The death occurred last week of Mary Gerard Mullaney, Boleyard, Shraheens, Balla. Predeceased by her husband Jimmy and son Kieran, she is deeply regretted by her children James, Mary, John, Anne, Martina, Teresa, Gerard, Aidan, Declan and Thomas, sister-in-law Mary, sons-in-law, daughters-in law, grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family, neighbours and friends to whom sincere sympathy is extended.
Mary Gerards remains reposed at The Sheridan Memorial Community Centre, Bohola on last Tuesday evening from 5 until 7pm with removal to the Church of the Immaculate Conception and St. Joseph, Bohola. Mary Gerards Funeral Mass was celebrated on Wednesday morning at 11am followed by burial ceremonies in St Joseph’s Cemetery, Bohola. Dia dean trócaire ar a nAinm dilis.
Last week, Claremorris Golf Club was the location for Balla Secondary School's new annual in-house golf competition. Eleven players took to the course in tough conditions, trying to become the first name engraved on our new trophy. The students showcased some excellent talent, complementing each other’s shots and having fun. The winner was separated by a count back. Congratulations to Patrick Griffith, who put in a solid performance, just pipping Jack Heneghan to claim the elusive prize. The list of winners was as follows: 2nd place: Jack Heneghan and 3rd Dylan Broderick. The best overall female: Emily Griffith, nearest the pin was Patrick Griffith and the longest drive went to Dylan Broderick. Finally, a sincere thank you is extended to Aidan Moran for sponsoring the range card.
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Congratulations to Marian Deasy, Sean Corcoran and the staff of Electric Skyline Ltd on the successful fundraiser and ‘Live for Lorcan’ safety awareness campaign. Electric Skyline presented a donation of over €30,000 to the Beaumont Hospital Foundation following their attendance at the Workers’ Memorial Service in Dublin. The donation was presented by managing director Sean Corcoran, head of HSQE Fiona Kemski, and safety ambassador Marian Deasy, following their attendance at the Workers’ Memorial Ceremony earlier in the morning. The event included an address from Minister of State Alan Dillon. After the ceremony, the group went to the Beaumont Hospital to formally make the presentation. The contribution formed part of “The Skyline Summit”, an Electric Skyline company charity initiative that saw staff take on a six-hour continuous hike on Croagh Patrick on Saturday, April 25. The event was organised to raise awareness of the Live for Lorcan initiative, which promotes a stronger, more human approach to workplace safety. Congratulations and well done to all.
Results of the card game played on Friday, April 24, were 1st Joe and Shane Thomas, 2nd Gay Conway and Jimmy Connor, 3rd Breege Blake and Michael Giblin and Mary McDonagh and Tom Fahey Last 10 Mary Morrin and Pat Griffith. The committee thank all the players for their continued support. The game continues every Friday night at 9pm.
Beginners in Irish Sign Language course of 6 classes will commence in Clogher Community Centre starting on Tuesday, May 26. Anyone interested in this course should contact Bernie on 087 2721574 to book a place. This course is being partly funded by the MSLETB and will be facilitated by Cuileann Bourke.
Deepest sympathy is extended to Sharon Bourke, Newtown on the passing of her mother, Maura Lyons, Manulla. May she rest in peace.
