Local Notes: Ballintubber win the homeland Minor Division 4 final.
The talented Ballintubber team pictured after winning the Homeland Minor Division 4 final in a hard fought 3-15 to 2-15 duel with Moy Davitts played in Balla last week. Picture by Tom Quinn
The death took place last week of Joseph (Joe) Moran, Knockaraha, Ballintubber, Co Mayo. Joe passed away peacefully, at Galway University Hospital surrounded by his family on May 24. Joe was a staff member of Mayo County Council and previously Westport Town Council where he was widely popular with colleagues and all he encountered with his daily duties. He was fondly regarded for his quiet genuine helpful temperament and warm disposition. Joe was a true gentleman with a wealth of knowledge, quiet, charismatic, and full of kind and intelligent wit. Always friendly and approachable, he was ever willing to share his insights and stories. Joe’s presence enriched every conversation, and he will be remembered fondly by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.
Predeceased by his parents Tommy and Joan, he is deeply regretted by his brothers Patrick, Martin and Frank, sisters Roseanne (Scardaune) and Margaret (Newport). Joe will be sadly missed by his nephew Keith, nieces Ellen and Amy, brothers-in-law Kevin O’Connor and Michael Mulchrone, also by is work colleagues in Mayo County Council, relatives, neighbours and a wide circle of friends to whom sincere sympathy is extended. His remains reposed at Ballintubber Resource Centre on Monday evening from 5.30pm with removal at 7.30 to Ballintubber Abbey. There was a huge attendance present for his funeral Mass on last Tuesday at 12 noon with burial afterwards in the adjoining cemetery. May he rest eternally in the peace and happiness of heaven.
Ballintubber GAA lotto jackpot stood at €10,300 on Sunday night, May 25. The numbers drawn were 1, 5, 7 and 24. Consolation prizes went to Caroline Anne McArdle and Ann Duffy, Jimmy Fahey, Kevin Donnelly, Anthony Morrin, Caoimhe Hughes. The jackpot stood at €10,400 on last Sunday night, June 1. Play Ballintubber lotto at: https://member.clubspot.app/.../ballintubber-gaa/fundraisers. Ballintubber minors beat Moy Davitt’s in the Homeland League Division 4 final on the scoreline of Ballintubber GAA 3-15 to 2-15.
Ballintubber Cycling Club will host the annual Ollie Roache Memorial Cycle on Sunday, June 15. There will be a choice of two scenic routes for participants to choose from 80k and 40k, taking in the wonderful scenery of Moore Hall, Lough Carra, and Ballintubber Abbey, to name a few highlights. The commencement times are 9am and 9.30am at Ballintubber Resource Centre F12T2C9. Register online on Eventmaster https://eventmaster.ie/event/xLb8CPyS91.
The results from Monday, May 26, of Ballyglass FC lotto draw are as follows: the numbers drawn were 17, 19, 20 and 34. There was no winner of the €12,500 jackpot and no match 3 winner. Consolation prizes went to Joe Glynn, Aoibhinn Byrne, Anthony Byrne, Bridie Morley and Georgina Quinn.
The winners from Monday, May 26 were1st Noel Costello and Tomás Solan, 2nd Judy Clarke and Kitty Rumley and 3rd Mary Boyle and Pat Griffith. The last 9 winners were Patricia Jennings and Margaret Mannion; Dinny McDonagh and Francie Conway and the raffle prizes went to Patricia Jennings and Margaret Mannion.
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. Nothing is too strenuous, just some sweeping, weeding, gardening and litter picking one evening per week.
Congratulations to the children from Mountpleasant NS, Ballyglass, who received the sacrament of First Holy Communion in St Mary’s Church, Carnacon, on Saturday week last, May 24. The children did their families and school proud on their big day. Thank you to Fr Farragher and the choir of St Mary’s church for the beautiful ceremony and to Mrs Grimes, Mrs Leydon, Philly and all the staff from the school for preparing the children so well. Thanks also to the organisers of the party in the community centre afterwards. Well done to all the boys and girls: Ava Staunton, Caolan Heneghan, Aoibhinn Murphy, Hannah Staunton, Oisin Lavin, Jayden Walsh, Ria Killeen, Dayna O’ Toole, James Hallinan, Kate Nestor, Kate McGuinness, Conal Mulroe, Ciaran Corbett and Rian O’Boyle.
The death has occurred in Chicago, USA of Jimmy McGing, late of Parks and Dereendafderg. Jimmy aged 99 years was the last member of the McGing family of the past generation to pass away. He was a brother-in-law of Margaret McGing, Parks, and sincere sympathy is extended to her and his family and relatives and friends on both sides of the Atlantic. Dia dean trócaire ar a nAinm dilis.
An invitation has been issued for volunteers to join Lough Carra Ambassador Programme. They are looking for enthusiastic persons aged 18 plus to learn about the unique qualities of Lough Carra through field trips and webinars from environmental and heritage professionals and join the Lough Carra Bio-Blitz in August as part of Heritage Week.
Part of the ‘Our Lake, Our Heritage’ project is made possible with funding from the Heritage Council. Make contact by this Thursday, June 5, to take part. Find out more details at www.loughcarra.org/ambassadors.
World Otter Day fell on a recent Wednesday. While these elusive mammals are rarely seen, they leave behind some tell-tale signs especially the remains of a shellfish feast at one of their favourite dining spots at Lough Carra. Otters also usefully leave their distinctive-smelling spraint (droppings) at elevated vantage points, such as rocks. So if you are visiting the lake keep your eyes peeled, and you might just spot a clue or two. Otters are sensitive to water quality, and the measures undertaken to improve water quality in Lough Carra will also hopefully improve the numbers of otters present.
Ongoing conservation efforts to protect Carra’s otters are being led by the Lough Carra LIFE Project and the NPWS, alongside research into the genetic diversity and movement of the local otter population. Please report any sightings.
There was a great attendance once again at the recent LCCA public meeting. Thanks have been extended to the guest speakers Caoimhe Hickey from Geological Survey Ireland and Natalie Duncan from Tobin Consulting Engineers. They provided an in-depth report into the groundwater investigations they have carried out at Lough Carra. Some of the key actions included mapping karst features, conducting groundwater tracing, and monitoring springs and water levels.
This work is essential for improving our understanding of the catchment’s hydrogeology—how groundwater moves beneath the surface—and the potential pathways through which water, and the nutrients it may carry, can enter the lake. With this knowledge, targeted measures can be applied to specific areas of the catchment to help reduce pollution more effectively.
Cemetery Masses and Veneration. The summer cemetery Masses programme is as follows, Burriscarra Saturday, July 5, at 7.30pm, Killawalla Sunday, 6, July at 10am and Ballintubber Abbey on Sunday, July 6 at 11am. Veneration of Sacred Heart Statue blessed in Rome by Pope Francis will take place in the Parish from May 31 to June 5.
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Tourmakeady and Partry communities have extended a profound 'Thank you' for gallant service to Garda Tom Fleming who has retired after 42 years. The community has said 'goodbye' to a dedicated and selfless member of the Garda Siochána who has been a steadfast presence in the area, protecting and serving all with unwavering kindness, care and commitment.
Tom has always gone above and beyond his duties, always putting the safety and well-being of others before his own. He had an abundance of kindness, compassion, empathy and his ready smile made a lasting impact on all he encountered. He will be greatly missed, and his legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of those he has encountered. He is wished all the best in his retirement, and may it be filled with joy, peace, health and happiness deserving of a great 'Community Policeman' who gave his all.
The death has taken place last week of Mary Treacy, née Kerrigan, Pearse Terrace, Westport and formerly of Killawalla. In her 95th year, Mary passed away at her son Pat and his wife Kay’s residence in Derrintaggart, Newport. Predeceased by her husband Paddy Joe, her infant daughter Margaret and son-in-law Noel Kerins, brothers Tom, John and Michael Mary is deeply regretted by her family, Pat (Derrintaggart, Newport), Pauline Kerins (Cavan) and Marie O’ Connor (Ballyjamesduff, Cavan), her daughter-in-law Kay, son-in-law Pete, grandchildren Shirley, Jason, Keith, Kieva, Jonie, Cian, Thomas, Niamh, Paraic, their partners, great-grandchildren, great-great granddaughter, brothers, sisters, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, relatives, neighbours and friends to whom sincere condolences are extended.
Mary’s remains reposed at McGing’s Funeral Home on last Thursday evening, May 29, from 5 until 7pm. Mary’s Requiem Mass was celebrated at 11am on last Friday, May 30, in St. Mary’s Church, Westport with funeral proceeding to Killawalla Cemetery. May she rest eternally in the peace and happiness of heaven.
The weekend lotto jackpot on Saturday, May 31, stood at €17,400. 5, 19, 23 and 28 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 a €40 Cairde prize each week.
The annual 2025 Cúl Camp will be held at Páirc Naoimh Muire running from July 21 to July 25. Places can be booked at kellogsculcamps.gaa.ie.
The winner of the Tourmakeady NS lotto bonus ball school fundraiser on Saturday, May 10, was ball number 34, Connie and Declan O’ Gradaigh. Congratulations and many thanks for the continuing support.
Tuar Mhic Éadaigh Social Club is due to meet again on this Thursday, June 5, from 2-4pm. Why not pop along for a social get together, light exercise, bingo, make new friends and enjoy the company. New members will be made most welcome.
Volunteers are needed to read and do Eucharistic Ministry in both Partry and Tourmakeady Churches. Interested persons are asked to give you name to Fr Jarlath or email, partrytourmakeadynewsletter@yahoo.ie.
It’s that time of the year again to prepare for Killawalla Community Day, on Sunday, June 29. Due to popularity there is a 3rd draw. Killawalla Community Council is selling bonus ball numbers 1-47 for €20 for a 50/50 draw on Saturday, June 7. Contact 087 2879701 or Siobhan on 087 6713940 to secure your numbers.
A new community council has been elected in Killawalla. Thanks have been extended to outgoing members: Micheal Larkin, Peter Jordan, Martin Gibbons and Florence Mc Hale and “Céad Mile Failte” to the new - Jim Twohig, John Carter, Margaret McGing, Barbara Heneghan, Chris Kerrigan, Ciaran Gavin, Anita Molloy, Padraig Hallinan. Chairperson Siobhan Jennings, vice chairperson Carmel Carter, secretary Stephanie Caine, treasurer Karen Hallinan, PROs Marie Cannon/Carmel Carter and existing members Ann Conway, Mary Conway, Phil Higgins, Geraldine Kelly, Claire Conway and Rita Corcoran.
Killawalla Branch of the Pioneer Total Abstinence Association will say the Rosary at the village Grotto after 10am Mass every Sunday for the month of June. Roofing tenders required Re the roofing of Killawalla Church - expressions of interest are sought for a contractor to replace the roof on the church, boiler house and toilets. The closing date is 5pm Friday, June 13. Contact 094 9030934 for details.
Partry AFC weekly draws takes place on Wednesday nights each week. Congrats to Brendan and Laura Prendergast, Gortmore who were recent winners.
A clothing collection to raise funds for Partry National School will be held on Tuesday, June 17. If you wish to contribute used/unwanted clothes, shoes, (pairs only) handbags and belts - drop them off at the school before June 17.
Congrats to Mary Heneghan, Partry and Jimmy Morley, Ballinrobe who were recent winners of the draw. The latest draw was on Saturday, May 31.
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The death has occurred of Jackie Biggins (Jack), Derreen, Belcarra, Castlebar, Co. Mayo. Jackie passed away peacefully on May22, at the home of his son Declan. Widely known across the farming community and as an outstanding farmer, he was highly respected by his peers in the region. His passing is an occasion of great sorrow to his family and many relatives and friends. Down the decades Jackie made a great contribution to Belcarra community. He was a long-time member of the St Vincent De Paul, the Church choir, the PTAA and many other community organisations. He danced with the famous Barney Set of yesteryear, and he was a famed local historian. Predeceased by his beloved son baby Donal, his parents Owen and Agnes, his brothers Jimmy and Owen, and his sister Bridie Jennings, Jackie is deeply regretted by his wife Christina, their family Eileen, Bernie, Michael, Declan, Kieran, Deirdre, Fintan and Sean, his sister Nellie Burke, his adored grandchildren and great-grandchildren, daughters-in-law, sons-in-law, nieces, nephews, extended family, neighbours and a wide circle of friends to whom sincere condolences are tendered.
Jackies remains reposed at the home of his son Declan in Derreen, Belcarra, Castlebar, on the Saturday evening, May 24, from 4pm until 8pm. The funeral cortege took place from Declan’s residence in Derreen on Sunday morning, May 25, at 11.30am to St Anne’s Church, Belcarra for Requiem Mass at 1pm. Burial ceremonies took place afterwards in Elmhall cemetery. Ar dheis De go raibh a nAinm.
Get ready for an unforgettable Summer Country Music Festival in Ballyheane. Get ready, country music fans Ballyheane Goes Country 2025 is back and bigger than ever at The Punch Bowl, Ballyheane, Castlebar. This unmissable weekend of top-tier live music and unbeatable atmosphere runs from next Friday, June 6, to Sunday, June 8. Friday, June 6, kicks off the festival in style with country legends Jimmy Buckley and rising star Gavin Gribben.
Saturday, June 7, keeps the energy high with chart-topper Derek Ryan and fan favourite Stacey Breen.
Sunday, June 8, closes out the weekend with a bang—don’t miss Nathan Carter lighting up the stage, supported by the brilliant Mylo and Vinny. On Friday and Saturday, doors will be open at 8pm and the show starts at 9pm. On Sunday, doors open at 5pm and the show starts at 6pm.
Whether you're a country music fan or just looking for a weekend of great music, dancing, and craic, this is the festival for you. The Punch Bowl is delighted this year to be raising funds for the local Community First Responders through a weekend of bucket collections and festival donation.
Plans are well advanced for a major benefit dance entitled "Bring Breege Home" to be held in Breaffy House Hotel on July 4, at 9pm. Music will be by Concorde and local artists. It is sure to be a great night with some fabulous entertainment, raffle and great spot prizes. Tickets modestly priced at €20 will be on sale soon and everyone is urged to come out and support the worthy cause.
The Belcarra 8k is officially back and better than ever – and this year there is an online registration option, https://member.clubforce.com/memberships_cart_m.asp...
Please note tickets cannot be bought in advance for the kids run at 11am, must register for that on the day or through Belcarra National School. A family entry refers to maximum 2 adults and 3 U16s entries for the 8k run. Join the “Couch to Belcarra 8k” running programme, kindly led by Ann Heaney.
Preparations have commenced and will continue every Sunday until the Belcarra 8k on June 22.
Belcarra Community Council’s lotto jackpot has now reached €12,000. The jackpot stood at €11,900 on Sunday, May 25. The numbers drawn were 11, 18, 23 and 28 and there was no jackpot winner. The Lucky Dip winners of €30 were Kevin Brett, Caroline Cunningham, Caroline Heneghan and Emer Cass.
Breaffy GAA lotto results for May 27 had the numbers 8, 10, 14 and bonus no 3 drawn. The jackpot stood at €15, 600 on Tuesday, June 3.
The Breaffy Wanderers Group recently spent a wonderful day in Leinster House yesterday with a tour of Dáil Éireann. Having dinner in the restaurant and sampling the hospitality it was a great day for all who attended. Thanks’ has been extended to Helen Heneghan for her hard work in arranging the day, to Minister Alan Dillon who facilitated the tour and showed the group around. It was a thoroughly enjoyable day enjoyed by all.
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Balla has been chosen as one of only pilot 5 projects across Europe to receive major EU funding under the Built4People Partnership. Balla is the only town in Ireland to be approved for funding under the programme. This project, titled Blueprint, will run over 42 months and represents a significant investment, putting Balla on the map as a leader in rural regeneration and sustainable development and acting as a blueprint for other small towns in Ireland. Key goals include revitalising public spaces, renovation of vacant buildings, and reactivation of Balla Town square as a vibrant community hub and enhancing walking and cycling routes. Congrats to Balla Community Resources Development (CRD) and Castlebar Municipal District on this positive development.
Balla GAA lotto draw was held on the Thursday, May 22, in The Rendezvous for a jackpot of €4,300. 11, 18, 22 and 34 were the numbers drawn and there was no jackpot winner. The €30 consolation prize winners were Joanne Byrne (online), Mary O'Brien (online) and Danny Roche (annual). The latest draw was held in on last Thursday, May 29, in Flukies when the jackpot stood at €4,400.
Manulla FC U12 girls are in full swing preparing for their trip to Newcastle in July for the Trans World Soccer tournament. In order to assist them with funding, the girls and their management team have added a re-turn bottle bin to the Manulla FC grounds. They will be looking for support in recycling plastic bottles to help their funding. They have entered the 'Small town big difference' campaign showcasing their work on encouraging people to return their bottles to Manulla and how they are helping the community. Peruse their video and assist them with the project.
Manulla FC AGM will take place on Thursday, June 19, at 9pm in the clubhouse. Any nominations or motions should be to be sent to club secretary by Thursday, June 12, on manullafcsec@gmail.com.
Further exciting news for Balla community is that funding of €137,148 has been allocated by the Department of Rural and Community Development for the replacement of the roof of Balla Community Centre.
The final of the Secondary School Chess Tournament, which has been ongoing for a number of weeks, was held recently. Congratulations to 5th year student Liam Glynn, who emerged as the winner, with Callum Tansey as the runner-up. JP Ansbro secured 3rd place, and Dillion Corcoran came in 4th. Well done to all the participants and a special thanks to Sean Kavanagh and his team for organising the event.
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Errew Community Committee has extended best wishes for their retirements to local Garda Tom Fleming and Postman Seán Skeffington. Both popular gentlemen will be sorely missed. Tom and Maura’s children all attended Errew NS and Seán was a welcome daily figure within the Errew community.
Errew community wishes you both, good luck, enjoyment of your well-deserved retirements and profound thanks for your years of loyal dedicated community service.
The results of the card game played on Friday, May 23, were 1st Mary Morrin and Pat Griffith, 2nd Bernie Heneghan and Eileen Moran, 3rd Gay Conway and Joe Thomas. Last 10 Majella Corbett and Tom Fitzpatrick. The game continues every Friday night at 9 pm.
The community of Clogher and the card game group offer sincere condolences to the Moran family of Knockaraha, Ballintubber on the sad passing of their brother Joseph. May he rest in peace.
On Wednesday, July 2, at 7pm past pupils of Errew Monastery Boys’ School are invited to attend the 3rd Errew Prayer Service for the deceased members of the community and for a group photograph in front of the Monastery to mark 50 years since the school closed and the boys joined Errew Girls’ National School.
The prayer service is to remember deceased family, friends and the late Franciscan Brothers and afterwards all will visit the Monastery cemetery at 7.30pm led by Brother Conal Thomas. Park all cars at the community centre and walk up the avenue to the Monastery. Older members can be dropped off at the Monastery but space for cars is extremely limited. All enquires to errewcc@gmail.com.
