Local Notes: Ballintubber U16 team coaches and captain after winning County U16A championship.
Ballintubber U16 team coaches and team captain, Tiernan O’Toole pictured at a post-match reception at Clogher GAA Complex. Picture by Tom Quinn
Glory! Glory…mine eyes have seen another Ballintubber win in the County U16 ‘A’ championship after a twenty year lapse. What a thriller, played occasionally in shocking inclement conditions and yet the result was in the mix until the final minutes of extra time. The Westport boys gave it everything especially in the first ten minutes of the second half when, with the elements wind and rain in their favour and they pressed hard like demons. But Ballintubber never relented, never yielded and showed huge character in forging out the win embellished by the scoring of five magnificent two pointers. But this was a full team effort - salute the team mentors and the superb U16 panel: Noah Murphy, Ciaran Earley, Tiernan O’Toole (captain) Jack Loftus, Mathias Dolan, Ross Malone, Finnian Brady, Cillian Reilly, Adam Burton, Rory McGreal, Conor Hoban, Richie Finnerty, Sean Prendergast, Cillian Donnelly, Noah Donnelly, Teegan Heneghan, Niall Spellman, Ethan Clarke, Eoghan Lyons, Cian Brady, Darragh Breslin, James Staunton, Christopher Feeney, Conor Fahey, Mathew Corbett, Ryan Summerville, Daithi Feerick and Ethan Nally.
Ballintubber GAA lotto jackpot stood at €11,700 on Sunday, August 31. The numbers drawn were 12, 17, 21 and 35. Consolation prizes went to Rhys Jones, Una Loughran, Martin Burke, Pat Egan, Jnr, Oliver Finnerty and Peter Rowan. The jackpot stood at €11,800 on Sunday, September 7.
Following the recent postponement of the last Tóchar walk, an additional Tóchar walk date is fixed for Saturday, September 20. On this new date, pilgrims can choose from two journey options: Half Tóchar (17km) – Ballintubber Abbey to Aughagower or Full Tóchar (35km) – Ballintubber Abbey to Croagh Patrick.
Whether you take the half or full journey, this is a chance to walk in the footsteps of pilgrims past, surrounded by prayer, reflection, and community. Places are limited so book now to secure your spot.
There was no winner of the lotto jackpot when the draw was held on Monday, September 1. The numbers drawn from the drum were 1, 4, 18 and 31. Charlie O’Malley and Chloe Kelly each matched 3 numbers. The consolation prize winners were Declan Quinn, Ellie Derrig, Fran and David McNamara. The latest draw had a jackpot of €13,900 up for grabs.
Ballyglass Foróige is currently recruiting new leaders. If you can spare a couple of hours on a Friday evening and enjoy working with young people, contact Sheila on 087 6704916.
Ballyglass Community Childcare Centre are recruiting staff, both full time/part time Early Years Educators. If you are interested in applying for a role in this busy and vibrant service, email ballyglasschildcarevacancies@gmail.com for further information or check the social media pages for details.
The next market in Ballyglass Centre will take place on October 25. This is the gala Halloween market and a packed attendance is assured.
A new 6-week block of yoga classes will begin in Ballyglass Community Centre on next Tuesday, September 16, from 7.30 to 8.30pm. The fees are €75 for 6 weeks. Contact Emma to book your place on 087 9973357. Beginners are very welcome.
A caretaker/cleaner is wanted for Ballintubber Abbey. Immediate start is possible, 19.5hrs week, CE scheme. Flexible working hours are available. Contact Suellen manager@ballintubberabbey.ie or 094 9030934 for more detail and to check eligibility.
The Lough Carra LIFE Project Manager position is now being advertised. Please note that although the advertisement suggests a short contract until October 2026, there is an understanding that the project will be extended until October 2027. The closing date for applications is September 18.
Congrats to Louise Dowling who was named as the Mayo LGFA senior championship ‘Player of the Week’. Louise smashed home a goal just after half-time and again in injury-time to ensure victory for Carnacon LGFA. The Carnacon ladies beat Charlestown 2-6 to 0-5.
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A new Demand Responsive Transport Bus service (DRT) is commencing in Tuar Mhic Éadaigh and will run every Tuesday and Thursday to Castlebar. Passengers that would like to travel on this Local Link service are asked to contact the office on 094 9005150 or email mail@locallinkmayo.ie to register. It is a pre book service the day before travel. Free Travel Pass will be accepted.
Lough Mask is the only one of the 'Great Western Lakes' that has a Blue Dot. Blue Dots are awarded to the best quality waters. They have the highest ecological quality of all waters and often a greater diversity of species that are sensitive to pollution.
The Great Western Lakes are made up of Loughs Mask, Corrib, Carra, Conn, Cullin, Arrow and Sheelin and represent one of Ireland's most unique and valuable freshwater ecosystems.
The weekend lotto jackpot on last Saturday, September 6, stood at €18,800. 5, 6, 10 and 25 were the numbers drawn at the previous draw and there was no jackpot winner.
Concertina classes will be starting in the middle of September, every Monday in Tourmakeady and every Tuesday in Corr na Móna. There are a few spaces left and will be allocated on a first come first served basis. Contact 087 7782640 for more information.
Congratulations to Áine Ni Eanachain, daughter of Ann and Padraig O’hÉanacháin, Goirtin Mor, Tuar Mhic Eadaigh who recently celebrated her 21st birthday with family and friends at Máire Luke’s Bar and Restaurant. Áine who is currently teacher training in MIC Limerick is wished every success and happiness down the decades.
Joyce Country and Western Lakes Geopark personnel have sent subscribers the latest newsletter illustrating progress towards achieving UNESCO status, the completion of the Geoparks signage plan, the upcoming business training for the communities, and biodiversity and heritage events, progress on the Erasmus+ project, a new partnership with Corrib Beo, a farm walk event with Teagasc, progress on the development of a Geotrail in Tourmakeady woods, and the progress on Biodiversity Action plans for communities and Ireland’s Fossil Heritage. https://joycecountrygeoparkproject.ie/.../newsletter.../.
Joyce Country and Western Lakes recruitment of a tourism officer is open again with a deadline for applications extended to Friday, September 12. More info at https://joycecountrygeoparkproject.ie/.../recruitment-of.../.
The weekly parkrun in Tuar Mhic Eadaigh takes place on Saturday mornings at 9.30am. Participants can run, walk or jog the 5k.
Mayo County Council are inviting people who swim at beaches, lakes and rivers to help identify areas that should maintain existing bathing waters designations and areas that are commonly used for swimming but not identified at present. The closing date is September 26. More information at https://www.mayo.ie/news/Bathing-Water-Identification-2025.
Next Saturday night, September 13, is Barbecue Night at Paddy’s Restaurant in Tuar Mhic Eadaigh. Interested persons can book a table by calling 094 9544243 or 094 9544005.
A Life in the Spirit Seminar will run until October 12 at St Mary’s Church, Partry. This is a beautiful experience in deepening the faith, learning scripture, making new friends, transforming lives and above all receiving wonderful gifts of the Holy Spirit. There will be different speakers each week. For all inquiries contact Angela on 089 2462-524. All welcome but children must be over 14 years old.
The numbers drawn in the recent Killawalla lotto were 1, 2, 7 and 19. Consolation prizes went to Mary Hallinan, Niamh and Sinead Conway and Paul Kelly. The latest draw was held in Pakie McEvilly’s on September 7.
Congratulations to Killawalla lads Rory McGreal and Darragh Breslin and the U16 Ballintubber team on winning the Homeland U16A Championship Cup on Sunday week in McHale Park in a very tough battle against a strong Westport team which went to extra time. Well done lads.
Killawalla Community Playschool committee wish to form a reserve panel of Playschool and Afterschool staff for September 2025. This panel will be called on to provide substitute cover throughout the year. Expressions of interest are sought from candidates with minimum QQ1 Fetak Level 5in Early Childcare. Email CVs and cover letter to Killawallaschool.com and /or phone 086 3953961 for any further queries.
A poultry sale takes place at McEvilly’s Pub, Killawalla, on the second Sunday of each month. Contact Joe on 086 1520460 or Johnny on 087 2233245 for details.
Partry AFC weekly draws takes place on Wednesday nights each week. Congrats to Kenneth O’Malley, Kilfaul who was a recent winner of the popular weekly draw. The annual fee for membership of the weekly draw, €120 is now due. Patrons can pay through, cheque, bank transfer, or the Club’s Playpal link. New members would be especially welcome.
Partry Residents Association draws take place on Saturday evenings with generous prizes in the weekly numbers draw. Congrats to Conor O Mahony, Ballygarry and Tommy Heneghan, Churchfield, who were recent €100 winners in the weekly draw.
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A story from an Errew Girls’ NS pupil, Mae Lavelle, written on the May 5, 1938 as part of the duchas.ie Schools’ Folklore collection was featured in the ‘Battle of Castlebar - Year of the French 1798’ commemorative exhibition held recently in Belcarra Community Centre on the 227th anniversary of this local, historical event.
A most enjoyable, informative evening hosted by Mayo History and Heritage Group, in conjunction with Mayo County Library and Belcarra Community, commemorated the French landing of 1798, the Battle of Castlebar, and the engagement with British forces at French Hill.
Sincere thanks have been extended to Michael M O'Connor and Jim O’Connor for all their work in keeping local history to the forefront in the community.
A painting by the late Bridie Geraghty (née Conway) proudly displayed in Errew NS shows the Frenchill Monument erected by James Daly and Patrick Nally in 1876 to mark the spot where a party of French Cavalry, travelling under a flag of truce, were killed by English forces. The monument bears the inscription:
‘In grateful remembrance of the gallant French soldiers who died fighting for the freedom of Ireland on 27th August 1798. They shall be remembered forever’.
Belcarra Community Council’s lotto jackpot has now reached €13,400. The jackpot stood at €13,300 on Sunday, August 31. The numbers drawn were 4, 25, 30 and 31. There was no jackpot winner. The lucky dip winners of €30 were Ann McAuliffe, Bernice McDonnell, Kathy O'Toole, and Lucy McNamara.
Belcarra Parent and Toddler Group resumed meetings on Wednesday last, September 3 in the community centre. The group meet from 10.30am to 12pm on Wednesdays and babies, toddlers, pre-school children are welcome with a parent or minder.
This is another lovely opportunity available to children in Belcarra village. Group singing classes will take place in the centre on Mondays for 6 to 8 year olds and also for 8 to10 year olds. Registration is required and details can be had from 087 692 6753 or email carramusicschool@gmail.com.
Sr Mary O'Malley who does tremendous work in Kenya has given an account of all the splendid work that she and the Missionaries carry out, caring for the ill and the people most in need. If persons would like to give financial help on a once off or ongoing basis contact Sr Mary by email: mary@momalley.or.ke.
The juveniles – 60x30 court and mixed doubles showdown will take place on Sunday, November 2. These Belcarra Handball Championships for the Corley Cup will provide top class competition.
Mayo Recovery College begin their Autumn Winter 2025 suite of mental health and wellbeing modules on the following dates throughout September in the Atlantic Technological University in Castlebar (online option also). Everyone is welcome on Tuesday mornings, September 16 and 23 at 10am ‘Recovery, Let’s talk’. Thursday evenings, September 18 and 25 ‘All about Stress’ is at 5pm. Call/ text Karen McHale on 086 0294901 or email: karen@mentalhealthireland.ie to register. New participants are warmly invited to begin at any time throughout the semester.
Breaffy GAA lotto for Tuesday, September 2 had the numbers 2, 7, 24 and bonus number 5 drawn and there was no jackpot winner and no match 3 winners. The jackpot stands at €17,000 on this Tuesday, September 9.
Claire and Larry Staunton of the Punch Bowl were honoured to present Helen from the Ballyheane/Ballintubber Community First Responders with a brand-new mobile AED defibrillator, donated from proceeds at the recent Ballyheane Goes Country Music Festival. This is the first mobile AED unit which will serve the Derrywash area - a vital addition for emergency response in the community. A massive thank you is extended to this incredible team of trained volunteer responders who dedicate their time to saving lives.
A sincere “thank you” has been extended to a local business, Dwayne Bourke Bodyworks for the sponsorship of jerseys and footballs for the Ballyheane FC U12's 2nd team. And the team celebrated it with a win against Ballyglass FC. Thanks also to Amy in Kit Stop for her help in supplying the jerseys. If any other local business wishes to sponsor for the youth's or senior teams, make contact with the club on Facebook, Instagram or club representative.
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The death occurred last week of Thomas (Tom) Mullaney, Cregg, Balla, Co. Mayo. Tom’s passing is a huge occasion of sorrow to his grieving family and many friends across the community and county. Tom was hugely popular for his gentlemanly ways, his generosity, friendship and warmth of personality. He was a gifted young man possessing many skills especially with the sport of boxing at which he excelled. Tom will be forever missed in Claremorris Boxing Club and in the entire boxing community which held him in the highest regard.
Predeceased by his father Michael and brother Joe, he is deeply regretted and remembered with great love by his mother Bridge, brothers PJ, Dermot, Johnny and Michael, sister Marie, brother-in- law, sisters-in-law, uncles, aunts, nephews, nieces, cousins, relatives, neighbours and wide circle of friends to whom sincere condolences are extended. Thomas remains reposed at Balla Funeral Home on Monday evening, September 1, from 5 until 7pm. His Funeral Mass took place in St. Cronan’s Church Balla on Tuesday at 11am with burial ceremonies taking place afterwards in the adjoining cemetery. May he rest eternally in the peace and happiness of heaven.
Balla GAA lotto draw was held on the Thursday, August 28, in The Rendezvous for a jackpot of €5,700. 6, 28, 30 and 33 were the numbers drawn and there was no jackpot winner. The €30 consolation prize winners were Gary Boyle (Standing Order), Alan Heneghan (Standing Order) and Patrick Brampton (Online). The latest draw was on Thursday, September 4, in The Shebeen when the jackpot stood at €5,800.
Looking for a calm, safe space for your child? Balla Community Centre offers a state-of-the-art sensory room designed for children and adults with additional needs, autism, ADHD, or sensory challenges. This is a supportive environment for relaxation and therapy. If you would like to find out more drop an email to info@balla.ie or call on 094 9365846 / 087 1850860.
Breathwork classes will be commencing on Tuesday week, September 17, in Balla Community Centre at 8pm. Take time to relax, restore, and reconnect with yourself through guided breathwork sessions with Carmel at Sage Wellbeing. To book your places call 087 697 2726.
Peter Tonra and @jprlly will be doing the inconceivable on October 10, as they abseil off Croke Park. This is in collaboration with Mayo Cancer Support, who has initiated the “Brave the Drop” challenge. Not only is this a testament to the cause itself, but also a credit to the mentality and dedication of the lads. Donation link is:
https://eventmaster.ie/.../Balla_Belcarra_Brave_the_Drop...
Congratulations are extended to Conor Walsh on his appointment as deputy principal of Balla Secondary School. He is wished every success in the years ahead with his new role.
Taekwondo for kids aged 6 to 12 years is taking place in Balla Community Centre, Mayo ITF on Thursday evenings. The sessions will run from 6.15 to 7pm and from 7.15 to 8pm.Taekwon-Do is a fantastic activity for children and young people of all ages. As a physical activity, Taekwon-Do helps develop agility, balance, coordination and speed. It improves movement quality and promotes the long term athletic development of the child. Taekwon-Do classes also help to promote discipline and focus. Email: taekwondoshots@gmail.com or WhatsApp 087 9542816 for further information.
Pickleball sessions run in Manulla centre during the week. Persons who are interested should call Loretta on 087 4657012.
Mayo Academy Darts for young people aged between 9 and 17 years old take place on Friday evenings in Manulla Centre commencing at 6.30pm. For more details call Shane on 087 6794282.
Sincere sympathy is extended to May Moran, Lakelands, Manulla, on the recent passing of her uncle, Fr Paddy Hagan, St Patrick’s Missionary Society, Kiltegan. Dia dean trócaire ar a nAinm.
A new veterinary practice has opened at the Western Farmers, Co-op, serving Balla and surrounding areas. The vet who operates the practice, Shane McCarvill is wished great success with the new venture.
As the days shorten and darkness falls early, safety and peace of mind become more important than ever. A Personal Monitored Alarm provides reassurance that help is only a button press away — 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Immediate assistance is available in case of emergency. Peace of mind for you and your loved ones - simple and discreet to use. Apply today and enjoy the comfort of knowing you’re never alone. info@balla.ie 094 9365846 or 087-1850860.
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Clogher 500 Club
All those who wish to join Clogher 500 Club should contact Bernie on 087 2721574 for an annual subscription of €60 which yields membership of 12 monthly draws for €500 prizemoney. The online link is https://clogherenvironmentalgroup.clubforce.com/products/membership . Your support helps the upkeep of local facilities: a new modular preschool, the upkeep of the community hall, and investment in local facilities. There is an end of year raffle for all members. Congrats to the first 500 Club winner Kieran McDonagh. The draw took place in the Clogher Community Hall on Sunday, August 31. If there are people who would like to join there are still oodles of time to enter the next draw on September 28.
Culture Night takes place nationally on Friday, September 19. This year the culture event in Clogher will take place from 6.30-8.30pm at Clogher Community Centre to be followed by the usual card game at 9pm. Come along and enjoy a night of cultural celebration with storytelling, music, songs, basket weaving as well as other interesting events and guests. This night is free to all and refreshments will be served.
Congratulations to the 5 former Errew NS pupils and all their U16 Ballintubber GAA teammates on their thrilling Mayo U16 Division A Championship win over Westport on Sunday week. Errew can be proud of Conor Hoban, Finnian Brady, Seán Prendergast, Ciaran Earley and Cian Brady. The final score after extra time was Ballintubber 1-24, Westport 2-17.
Winners in the Clogher Cards for Friday, August 29, were 1st Mary Morrin and Pat Griffith and Mary McDonagh and Breege Blake, 2nd Gay Conway and Eileen Donnelly, 3rd Derek Quinn and Tommy Fahey, Last 10 Joe and Shane Thomas. The 25 progressive games continue every Friday at 9pm.
Last week the Clogher Community bid a fond farewell to Tom Mc Loughlin who has been the Community Employment Scheme Supervisor for the past thirteen years. During his time in Clogher, Tom made many friends in the local area. He oversaw the completion of many fine projects which are a testament to his vision and commitment. Tom, Rita, Grace and Daniel are wished all the very best for their future lives and endeavours and fervently hope they will come back to visit often.
A Céad Mile Failte is extended to Alicia McSharry who has joined the Community Employment Scheme to replace Tom McLoughlin. The community look forward to getting to know Alicia in the months and years ahead and they wish her the very best of luck in her new role.
