Local Notes: All the news from Carra Country
Photographed above are the University of Colorado Denver students who completed their inaugural study abroad programme in collaboration with the ATU Mayo campus earlier this year. Killawalla, Ballintubber Abbey, Tourmakeady and Cong featured on the first day of the programme. Picture: Michael Larkin
The death occurred last week of PJ Brett, Carrowhall, Ballyglass, Claremorris.
PJ passed away peacefully in the wonderful care of the staff at the Mayo Hospice, Castlebar.
PJ was known as a kind and helpful neighbour and friend to all who knew him and he was a skilled plasterer by trade. He endeared himself to many with his hard work and pleasant genuine, warm personality. PJ also loved his sport - Ballyglass FC and his beloved Liverpool for soccer and Balla Golf Club for the game he loved and was very skilled at.
His passing is an occasion of great sorrow to his family and many friends and neighbours who held him in the highest regard.
Predeceased by his loving wife Goretta, he is deeply regretted by his adoring sons Keith and Gary, daughter-in-law Ann, grandchildren Sadie and Seán, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews and nieces, friends, and neighbours.
His remains reposed at Ballyglass Community Centre on Monday evening with removal to the Church of Our Lady Queen of Peace and St Gerald, Mayo Abbey. PJ’s Requiem Mass was celebrated on Tuesday morning with burial afterwards in the local cemetery.
Ar dheis De go raibh a nAinm dílis.
The death has taken place of Mary Rodgers, Clydagh, Ballinlough and Ballyglass, Claremorris.
Mary passed away peacefully at Mayo University Hospital on October 4th.
Predeceased by her father Bernard and her sister Breda, she is deeply regretted by her heartbroken mother Peggy, brothers Brian (Oranmore), Padraic (Ballinlough), adored nieces Shauna and Leah, nephews Cian and Darragh, sisters-in-law Bernie and Sharon, her loving partner Michael Martin and his family, relatives and friends to whom sincere sympathy is tendered.
Her remains reposed at Donnellan’s Funeral Home, Clare Street, Ballyhaunis on Wednesday evening and her funeral arrived at the Church of the Immaculate Conception, Ballinlough on Thursday for Requiem Mass at 12 noon. Burial ceremonies took place afterwards in the local cemetery.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.
There was no winner of the jackpot in the Ballyglass Lotto draw held on Tuesday, October 6th, in the Clubhouse when the numbers drawn were 1, 2, 16 and 18.
Jarlath Moran matched three numbers while the consolation prize winners were Darren Reilly, Paula Staunton, Rita Nestor, and Zack Coyne. The weekend draw had a jackpot of €19,700 up for grabs. You can play online or by tickets from any committee member or where tickets are on display.
The results of Ballyglass Cards from Monday, October 5th, were: 1st, Michael Loftus and Liam Davoren; Pat Griffith and Chris Turner; Tomas Solan and Peter Glynn; 2nd, Kevin Burke and Breege Jennings; Sean Reilly and Jimmy Sheridan; 3rd, Patricia Jennings and Dave Gibbons; Martin Ford and Seamus Nevin.
The best of last 10 prize went to Mary Brennan and Phillip White. The raffle winners were Mary Brennan and Phillip White.
Congrats to all the winners and thanks to all who support Ballyglass card games, which continue every Monday night from 9pm in the Community Centre.
Dancing classes are a wonderful way for children to build confidence, make friends and pick up a new skill.
Irish dancing classes for children will continue in Ballyglass Community Centre every Wednesday from 4.30 to 5.30pm. The cost is €8 per lesson, pay as you go. All welcome.
Save the date for the next Halloween Market in Ballyglass Community Centre on Saturday, October 31st. Wear your costumes and join in the fun! More details in the coming weeks.
Ballintubber GAA lotto jackpot stood at €8,300 on Sunday night, October 4th, when the numbers drawn were 1, 2, 11 and 28.
There was no jackpot winner. The consolation prizes went to Peter Ronan, Ruth Jordan, Johnny and Angela Corcoran, Martin Larkin, Marian Heraty and Shona Berry.
The jackpot stood at €8,400 for last Sunday night’s draw. You can play online.
A Singles 25 Card Game has commenced in Carnacon Community Centre on Thursday nights at 8.30pm. All card players, novice and experienced, are welcome.
Sincere sympathy is extended to Breege Feerick, Burriscarra, on the recent passing of her father, John Conway, Rathduff, Balla.
May he rest in peace.
Carnacon Parent and Toddler Group meet every Wednesday at 10am in Carnacon Community Centre.
There is first aid training on October 14th and 21st.
All parents, guardians grandparents and childminders welcome.
Down Syndrome Ireland's recent church gate collection, which was held in the parish, raised €975.54. Thanks for your continued support.
Coffee Morning in aid of Mayo Hospice will be held in Ballyglass Community Centre (F12 D500) on Sunday, October 18th, from 10am to 2pm hosted by Nuala Heneghan and Bernie Reilly. All donations much appreciated. Call in for a chat and a cuppa while supporting a very worthy cause.
The annual general meeting of Ballyglass Community Childcare will take place on next Thursday night, October 15th, at 8pm. All members are asked to be in attendance.
Sincere sympathy is extended to Una Donnelly, Banogue’s, and Rose Moffat, Castlecarra on the passing of their father, Bertie Carty, Boyle.
Sympathy is also extended to Sean McHugh, Cortoon on the passing of his brother-in-law Larry McHale, Turlough.
May they rest in peace.
The Christian Community welcomed its newest member, Oran Thomas Hayes, who was baptised in the Holy Trinity Abbey, Ballintubber, on Saturday, October 3rd. Congratulations to his parents.
The Rambling House is back again in the Scioból, Ballintubber. It runs from 8.30 to 10.30pm on Thursdays. The next session is on Thursday, October 15th, from 8.30pm to 10.30pm. Come along and join the group for songs and stories.
Tom Lyons will provide adult music lessons in the Scioból, Ballintubber on October 15th, starting at 8pm.
Ballintubber Over 55 Club resumed their meetings on Mondays at 10.30am in Ballintubber Resource Centre. New members are always welcome to join the enjoyable weekly morning sessions.
Ballintubber Abbey staff are delighted to welcome Bel Canto to the beautiful surroundings of Ballintubber Abbey for a special evening of music on Sunday, October 25th.
Bel Canto will be joined by ‘Sing On’ Ladies Choir, a String Ensemble featuring members of Headford Music Works, and the Ballintubber Abbey Choir.
Doors open at 6.30pm and the concert commences at 7pm. Tickets are priced at €15.
All proceeds will go towards the Ballintubber Abbey Preservation Fund.
Come along and enjoy a wonderful evening of music in the unique atmosphere and acoustics of Ballintubber Abbey.
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PARTRY/TOURMAKEADY/KILLAWALLA
The Knitting Circle and Coiste an Halla in Tourmakeady are currently working on a special community project for Christmas this year. The group is busy crocheting colourful squares which will be used to decorate a Christmas tree that will be erected in the village during the festive season.
As the Christmas tree will be located outdoors and exposed to the elements, a strong and durable frame made from galvanised steel is required.
The Knitting Circle would love to involve the whole community in this project and is asking for your support. If you would like to make a donation towards the Christmas lights for the tree or decorations around the tree, your generosity would be greatly appreciated.
A donation box will be available where members of the community can make a contribution.
Every donation, no matter how small, will help the group create something colourful, festive, and special for everyone to enjoy this Christmas.
Partry Women’s Circle will host another Felting evening on Thursday evening, October 22nd, in the Mgr Horan Centre. The evening will commence at 8pm with Sue Stanley. Sue will provide all materials needed so just bring yourself and a smile. All ladies over 18 are welcome and not just Partry ladies. A modest €8 fee to cover tutor, materials and refreshments pertains.
The jackpot in the Tour Mhic Éadaigh Lotto stood at €20,000 on Saturday, October 3rd, when the numbers drawn were 6, 10, 25 and 29.
There was no jackpot winner.
The draws take place on Saturday nights weekly and there are online prizes of €40 and 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.
Waterfall editorial committee are busy preparing for the 39th edition of Waterfall magazine. Advertising material is urged to be forwarded by as soon as possible. Articles of interest, historical pieces, wedding photographs, prose, and poems should be emailed to waterfalltme@gmail.com. as soon as possible.
Tuar Mhic Éadaigh Social Club has commenced again on Thursdays. Senior folk are invited to come along and enjoy light exercise, bingo, a chat, and a cuppa!
Tourmakeady Wood Parkrun runs every Saturday, meeting in the carpark of the Wood at 9.30am. This is a timed 5k route. It is a vibrant community event and encourages people of all ages and abilities to get active, enjoy outdoors and connecting with others. It is also completely free!
It is open to walkers, joggers, runners, families, and dogwalkers if the dog is on a short leash. All are welcome to participate in this hugely enjoyable weekly event.
Tourmakeady Knitting Club have resumed their knitting sessions after the summer break.
The group meet on Monday nights from 7 to 9.30pm in the Halla. New members are always welcome.
A sincere 'thank you' has been extended to Killawalla Community Council for their generous donation of €500 towards the renovation of St Patrick’s Church, Killawalla.
St Vincent de Paul Churchgate Collection will take place in Killawalla on Sunday, October 25th. Please contribute generously to this worthy cause.
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BREAFFY/BALLYHEANE/BELCARRA
The death has taken place of Kathleen Barnicle, of Cloonduane, Belcarra, Castlebar.
Kathleen passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her loving family. Her passing is an occasion of great sorrow to her family, relatives and many friends and neighbours who held her in high regard.
Predeceased by her loving husband Tom and her parents Patrick and Margaret Staunton, Kathleen is deeply regretted and lovingly remembered by her daughters Patricia, Marion and Theresa, sisters Bridie Boyle (Ballyglass), Joan and Frank Flanagan (Boyle), sons-in-law Barry Power and Kieran O’Gorman, grandchildren Nathaniel, Cillian and Andrew, sisters-in-law Kitty Devine and Nora McCormack, nieces, nephews and extended family, neighbours, carers and friends to whom condolences ate tendered.
Her remains reposed at Balla Funeral Home on last Tuesday evening, October 6th, from 5 until 7 pm. The removal of her remains took place on Wednesday morning last to St. Anne’s Church, Belcarra for Funeral Mass at 11am. Burial ceremonies took place afterwards in Guesdian Cemetery.
May she rest in peace.
There was no winner of the jackpot in the Breaffy GAA Lotto on Tuesday, October 6th, when the numbers drawn were 2, 8, 19 and bonus number 4. There was no Match 3 winners either.
The jackpot stands at €22,700 on this Tuesday night, October 13th. Thank you for your ongoing support of Breaffy GAA. You can play online at www.breaffygaa.ie or in local outlets.
In the Belcarra Community Council lotto draw, the numbers drawn on Sunday, October 4th were 8, 19, 20 29. There was no winner of the lotto jackpot.
The €30 consolation prize-winners were Ronan Prendergast, Tommy Fahey, Margaret Gavin, and Jimmy Murphy.
The weekend jackpot stood at €8,600 on last Sunday night, October 11th. Thanks as always for the support of patrons. Tickets are on sale in Cunningham’s Costcutter, Cuffe Car Sales, Nestor's and Flukies and online.
Chair Yoga has commenced in Belcarra Centre on Tuesdays from 10.30 to 11.30am. The classes are beginner friendly. Message Emma for more information and to book your place call 087-9973357.
Irish dancing runs from 5.45 to 6.45pm on Tuesdays. Call Thelma on 087-9545305 for details.
Belcarra Crafters meet at 8pm on Tuesdays. All welcome.
Every Wednesday, from 9.30am to 12 noon, the Parent and Toddler Group meet. For more information, call 087-629972.
Pilates is held from 7.30 to 8.30pm on Wednesdays. Call Natalie at 087-234695.
Set dancing is on Thursdays from 8.30pm – beginners welcome. On Fridays – Taekwon-do is from 4 to 5pm for 6 to 12-year-olds. Call 087-3596732 for information.
The Belcarra Baby and Toddler group is back on Wednesdays, running from 10:30am to 12 noon. It is open to all babies, toddlers and preschool children accompanied by their parent or minder.
Sincere sympathy is tendered to Caroline Cunningham, Ballyfarna, on the recent passing of her mother, Bridie Corcoran (nee Mannion), Carramore, Newport.
May she rest in peace.
The Mayo branch of the Down Syndrome Ireland have extended huge gratitude to the people of Balla, Belcarra and Mayo Abbey for their generosity in contributing a total of €1,060.62 in the recent churchgate collections.
Ballyheane Community Council are looking for assistance from the community with tidying of the Old Graveyard in Ballyheane on Sunday, October 18th, from 10am. All assistance will be greatly appreciated.
Ballyheane bingo session takes place every Wednesday at 8.30pm in the community centre. All welcome. Raffle on the night and refreshments served.
Yoga sessions take place in Ballyheane Centre on Thursdays at 7.30pm. Why not come along and relax your body and mind. Contact Virginia at 087-2831400 for more details.
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BALLA/MANULLA
The death occurred last week of John Conway, Rathduff, Balla.
In his 98th year, John passed away peacefully at his son Michael’s residence. His passing is an occasion of great sorrow to his family and many friends made down the decades.
Predeceased by his loving wife Noreen, parents Michael and Bridget (nee Walsh), sister May and brothers Martin, Michael, and Joseph, John is deeply regretted by his loving family - sister, Phyllis (Bristol); children Johnny (Rathduff), Mary (Headford), Breege (Burriscarra) and Michael (Ardboley); daughters-in-law Patricia and Irene; sons-in-law Justin Feerick and Kieran Dooley, adored grandchildren, Shane, Aoife, Evan, Niall, Ciara, Niamh, Sean, Daithí, Chloe and Kyle; sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, neighbours and a large circle of friends to whom sincere condolences are extended.
John’s remains reposed at the Balla Funeral Home on last Saturday evening, October 10th, with removal to the home of his son Michael. His Funeral Mass was celebrated at 1.30pm in St Cronan’s Church on Sunday with burial ceremonies taking place afterwards in the adjoining cemetery.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.
Congratulations to Declan Giblin who was the recent winner of the Balla GAA Lotto jackpot of €11,300.
Declan's lucky numbers were 1, 8, 9 and 25.
Consolation prizes went to Carmel O'Neill (online), Catherine Larkin (online) and Billy Finn (cash sale).
The jackpot merry-go-round commenced again on Thursday night last, October 8th, in the Shebeen with a new jackpot of €3,000. Thanks to all who support Balla GAA Club.
On Saturday, November 28th, Manulla FC will host a 50th anniversary celebration dinner in Breaffy House Hotel & Spa Resort.
This will be a night of nostalgia, gathering of friends and a celebration of what the past 50 years have been for Manulla FC - a magnificent achievement for the club.
Pop the date in your diaries - the club would love to see you there, a memorable event, not to be missed! More details to follow.
The Balla Cuppa Club runs every Wednesday morning from 10am to 12 noon. Call into the centre for a cuppa, a friendly chat, read the newspaper or have a look at our library of books. All are welcome.
Balla Community Centre is delighted to be taking part in Climate Action Week 2026, happening from October 12th to 18th nationwide! The centre have exciting plans, and they will be sharing details on their social media pages.
The jackpot is growing again in Manulla FC's Lotto and stood at €1,800 on last Sunday, October 11th. Manulla FC are deeply grateful for the continuing support of the community.
Balla Centre is looking for friendly, dependable volunteers to join the fantastic bingo team. They are seeking a volunteer to assist with bingo sessions for approximately two hours once every six weeks. It’s a wonderful way to meet new people, have a bit of fun.
No experience needed – just bring your enthusiasm and a smile. Send a message or get in touch today at 094-9365846 or 087-1850860.
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ERREW/CLOGHER
The annual Clogher Halloween Tractor Run will take place on Sunday, October 25th, from the Clogher Community Centre (F12 EK24).
Registration is at 4pm and costs €20 per tractor.
For the children, there is a mini tractor run at the school grounds as well as pumpkin picking and treats.
This promises to be a fun family day. For further details, contact Alan at 087-9032809 or email cloghercommittee@gmail.com.
The results of the card game held in Clogher on Friday, October 2nd, were - 1st, Gay Conway and Eileen Donnelly shared with Jimmy Connor and Tommy Lyons; 2nd, Joe Thomas, and Breege Blake shared with Mary Morrin and Pat Griffith; 3rd, Eileen Moran and Tommy Fahey.
The last 10 winners were Martin Moran and Finian Bourke.
The games continue every Friday night. Everyone is welcome.
Condolences to the family of the late Kathleen Barnicle, nee Staunton, of Cloonduane, Belcarra who passed away recently. Sympathy to her daughters Patricia, Marion and Theresa, her sisters Joan and Bridie, sons-in-law Barry Power and Kieran O'Gorman and all the extended family members.
May she rest in peace.
A sincere 'thank you' has been extended to Errew Ladies’ Group for hosting another successful and most enjoyable Coffee Morning fundraiser with all proceeds going towards the local Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation.
It was a lovely morning catching up with neighbours and friends over tea, coffee, and plenty of home-bakes. Thanks to the generosity of everyone who supported this event, the ladies raised over €1,000.
It was a fantastic amount for a small community highlighting how valued and important this facility is for the people in this area. Donations can still be given to any committee member this week before the final total is submitted!
Special thanks to Catherine Hoban, Bernie Thomas, and Marian Deasy for being such wonderful and inviting hosts in Errew Community Centre. Thanks also to everyone who helped out on the day, provided the delicious treats, and braved the rain to come and support!
Errew Ladies’ Group meet every Wednesday at 7pm in Errew Community Centre. Chair yoga with Ann is the organised activity for the next few weeks. The cost is €10 per person per class.
Refreshments and chats afterwards! New members always welcome!
Suggestions for future activities or talks always welcome too! Please contact Eileen Conway for more details on 087-9227567.
There will be an interesting evening outlining the importance, benefits, and protection of Bumblebees in the community. The event is scheduled for 7pm at the Clogher Heritage Complex/Cottage (F12 PF99) on this Tuesday, October 13th. All are welcome and refreshments will be served.
The next Clogher 500 draw will take place on Sunday, October 25th. This will be the October Bank Holiday weekend and will also coincide with the annual fundraising Tractor Run for adults and a mini-run at the school for children. Further details later.
Tickets are available from any member of the committee or online. Thanks to all who supported the Clogher 500 draw for the past year.
