Local Notes: Ballyglass FC gained promotion to Super League
Ballyglass AFC team who recently gained promotion to the Super League with a 2-1 win over Crossmolina with one game to play. Picture by Tom Quinn.
Massive congratulations to Ballyglass FC 1st team on a hard-fought 2-1 recent away win over Crossmolina A.F.C. With that victory, Ballyglass FC have officially secured promotion to the Super League.
Huge credit is due to the players and management for all the effort, commitment, and passion throughout the season. Congrats also to the U18 boys on their 5-2 win over Ballyvary Blue Bombers last week in Michael Keaveney Park. It was a memorable week for Ballyglass FC.
There was no winner of the lotto jackpot when the draw was held on Monday, July 21. The numbers drawn from the drum were, 6, 12, 14 and 24. Colm Burke and Kevin Brett both had 3 numbers. The consolation prize winners were Jo Walsh, MT Loftus, Patricia and Paddy Quinn. The latest draw had a jackpot of €13,400 up for grabs.
Join Emma in Ballyglass Community Centre for her next event, which will be “a Mom and Me Wellness morning”. This will take place on Bank Holiday Monday, August 4, from 10am to 12 noon (€50 per pair). This event is for mothers/guardians and their 7 to 12 year old daughters, and will incorporate gentle yoga, breathwork and meditation, mindful activities and creative journaling. Mats provided - bring a blanket and a bottle of water. Spaces are limited so contact Emma on 087 9973357 to book your place now.
Ballyglass Community Childcare Centre is recruiting staff - a full time manager and full time/part time Early Years Educators. If you are interested in applying for any of those roles email ballyglasschildcarevacancies@gmail.com for further information.
The following were the winners of the weekly card game held on Monday, July 21: 1st Willie Davoren and Michael Loftus; Chris Turner and Pat Griffith, 2nd Jimmy Sheridan and Mary Morrin and 3rd Tom Fitzpatrick and Sean Reilly; Seamus Nevin and Martin Ford. The best of last 10 were Mary Brennan and Noel Costello and the raffle prizes went to Patricia Jennings and Margaret Mannion.
Ballyglass Community Council host a presentation on the meaning of Ballyglass Townlands and historical features in the area, together with the unveiling of a wall hanging showing all those townlands and physical features, in Ballyglass Community Centre on August 21 at 7pm. This event takes place during National Heritage week. No admission charge and all are welcome.
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. There is nothing too strenuous, just some sweeping, weeding, gardening and litter picking one evening per week. Many hands make light work, please turn out and help.
The next Ballyglass Market will be held on Saturday, August 23, in Ballyglass Community Centre. Save the date and net a bargain.
Growing Minds Preschool is based in Carnacon village, Co Mayo (F12 NY38). They are now taking enrolments for ECCE September 2025 and the session times are: Monday to Friday, 9.15am-12.15pm.
This is a play-based learning curriculum, highly qualified and experienced staff, bright and engaging indoor and outdoor play areas, with a safe and nurturing environment. To enrol, or to arrange a visit, contact Claire Chapman on 085 705 2271 or email growingmindspreschool0@gmail.com.
Sincere sympathy is extended to Seamus O’Malley, late of Clooneen, Ballyglass and now resident in Castlebar on the death last week of his wife, Eileen O’Malley née Kinsella, Cherrington Place, Springfield, Castlebar, Co. Mayo and formerly of McHale Road, Castlebar. May she rest eternally in the peace and happiness of heaven.
On the Feast of Assumption and to mark the Jubilee Year of Pilgrimage of Hope, it is planned to celebrate Mass on Church Island for the whole parish and visitors on Friday, August 15, at 7.30pm. All cars should park at Ger Barnicles Field, where a shuttle bus will take people from 6.40pm onwards onto the Island. (weather permitting).
Ballintubber GAA lotto jackpot stood at €11,100 on Sunday night, July 20. The numbers drawn were 5, 6, 34 and 36. There was no jackpot winner. Consolation prizes went to Ian Doherty, Vinnie Duffy, Pat Barrett, Ciaran Heneghan, Joni Hayes and Donnacha and Cillian Burns. The jackpot stood at €11,200 on last Sunday night, July 27.
Ballintubber GAA Club in association with the local community council had a social night in Corley’s to mark the recent retirement of local Garda, Tom Fleming. Tom has always been very helpful to the club especially in relation to safety measures at local events. Presentations were made by Ballintubber GAA, Ballintubber Community Council and Ballintubber Cycling Club. A great night was had by the huge attendance present. Tom is wished many further years of good health and happiness in his retirement.
Lough Carra LIFE Project enjoyed a great day at the Connemara National Park - Páirc Náisiúnta Chonamara Heritage Day recently. They shared their work with the public, and connected with other local environmental groups. There is an amazing new biodiversity record for Lough Carra. The three-lined Soldier Fly has been discovered on the shores of Lough Carra by Ger Nee. Ger's photo of the beautiful insect is viewable on the Carra Life Facebook page and shows what a splendid insect this specimen is. This is only the second record for Ireland - see national biodiversity data centre map and link to their website. https://maps.biodiversityireland.ie/Species/87591.
The Christian Community welcomes its newest member Tobias Steinsrud Carey, Gearóid Feeney and Niall Cormac McGreal, baptised in the Holy Trinity Abbey, Ballintubber, on Saturday, July 26. Congratulations to their parents and families.
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The annual Ceol na Locha festival in Tuar Mhic Eadaigh will run this year from Monday, August 11 until Friday, August 15. Traditional music classes will run each day from 10am to 2pm with top tutors. Night time will see a vast array of entertainment, with traditional sessions and Ceile’s in local venues around Tuar Mhic Eadaigh. Details and bookings for all classes are available from 094 9544295.
The community website www.tourmakeady.com is currently being updated to better serve and connect with the community. As part of this update, all community members are invited to contribute to its content. News and submissions from local businesses, groups, clubs and individuals informing us of anything that reflects and celebrates life in the community are welcome. Thanks to all for helping to keep the community informed and connected. Send email and information you want included on the website to: padraig.tus@gmail.com.
The annual Cemetery Mass at Churchfield will be on next Friday, August 1, at 7.30pm and Tourmakeady will take place on Sunday, August 3, at 11.30am with Kilkeeran (Partry) on Monday, August 4, at 6pm. Grateful thanks have been extended to the Rural Social Scheme Participants for the upkeep and maintenance of both graveyards and for having them always looking so pristine. Míle buíochas do na rannphairtí ar an Scéím Sóisialta Tuaithe a choinníonn an féar gearrtha sa dhá reilig.
Volunteers are needed to read and do Eucharistic Ministry in both Partry and Tourmakeady churches. Interested persons are asked to please give you name to Fr Jarlath or email, partrytourmakeadynewsletter@yahoo.ie.
The winner of the Tourmakeady NS was bonus ball was Danny and Jenny Lydon. Congratulations and many thanks for the continued support.
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 5 in 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.
The annual Partry AFC Summer Camp will run from August 4 to August 8. The event will take place daily from 10am to 1pm. Book now at https://BookingsFAifootballcamps.ie. The fees are €75 for the 1st child and €65 for all remaining siblings. For further details call Brendan Garry on 087 9957761 or Austin O’ Neill on 086 3095543.
Partry AFC weekly draws takes place on Wednesday nights each week. Congrats to Karen and Sean Grimes, Partry and Mark and Siobhan Gibbons, Ballyheane, who were recent winners of the weekly flutter.
Partry Residents Association draws take place on Saturday evenings with generous prizes in the weekly numbers draw. Congrats to Paul and Condence Tootall, Partry who were recent winners. The latest draw was on Saturday night last, July 26.
The Dementia cafe continues on the 1st Tuesday of every month, at the Tacu Resource Centre, Ballinrobe from 11am to 12.30. The guest speaker on August 5, is from Family Carers Ireland and who provide essential supports and services including information and advocacy on rights and entitlements for family carers. All welcome and refreshments supplied. Contact Marie on 087 170 8706 for further details.
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Belcarra Community are calling all athletes and sports enthusiasts - young and old to a fun sports day at Belcarra Recreational Park. The date for the Gala Sports Day is on Sunday, August 10. Save the date and come along to a fulfilled day for all the family. A wide range of activities will be happening including tug-of-war, handball, welly throwing, poc fada, ping-pong, sack race, basketball shoot out, egg and spoon, skipping, penalty shoot-out and an autism friendly fun zone. The rescheduled 8k Fun Run will also take place on Sunday, August 10, at 11am, before the sports day commences that afternoon.
Belcarra Community Council’s lotto jackpot has now reached €12, 800. The Jackpot stood at €12,700 on Sunday, June 20. The numbers drawn were 7, 12, 14 and 26 and there was no jackpot winner. The lucky dip winners of €30 were Rita Quinn, Máire and Geraldine, Jimmy and Patricia Walsh and Bridie Thomas.
Cemetery Masses are being celebrated in local villages at the following dates and times: Monday, August 11, Balla; Tuesday, August 12, Drum; Wednesday, August 13, Elmhall and Thursday, August 14, Guesdian. Large attendances are anticipated to remember those from the parish who have passed away. May they rest in peace.
The annual Townland v Townland tug of war competition will take place at the Belcarra Sports Day on August 10. Townlands are urged to get your teams ready for the big battle in August: Men’s and Ladies competition -Teams of 8 - 6 pullers + 1 sub + 1 coach. The pride of your townland is at stake - no pressure. Let the training commence.
The annual Nestor Cup handball day was a great success and thanks have been extended to Margaret and Ollie for organising, the players and ref, the supporters and also to Padraig and Aisling Tuffy for the enjoyable get-together afterwards. Congrats to Darragh Ó Ruadháin and Oliver Surdival on your victories and gratitude to the Nestor family, Sean, Pat and Sarah for the presentation of the Nestor Cup. The Roache Cup competition is on the Bank Holiday weekend, Sunday, August 3. Handball for boys and girls aged 12 to 14 takes place in Belcarra Alley on Sundays from 5 to 6pm.
Huge thanks has been extended to local Belcarra young people, Liam, Jack, Lucy, Sarah, Oisin and Ciarán for putting down a new surface on the riverside walk pedestrian bridge. This is community spirit at its best and it’s thanks to volunteers like this that make community spaces so attractive.
Breaffy GAA Lotto results for July 22 - the numbers 22, 25, 28 and Bonus number 2 were drawn and there was no jackpot winner and no Match 3 winners this week. The jackpot stands at €16,400 on this Tuesday, July 29.
Congrats to Breaffy GAA team on their senior league win over Crossmolina Deel Rovers on Saturday week last. The 2-23 to 2-22 victory was fully merited and reflective of the strength in depth of Breaffy club. Perhaps after years of disappointment - this will be Breaffy’s year in the senior club championship which commences the 2nd week in August. Breaffy, who are many pundits fancy, have the panel and management to make 2025 a special historic year in the annals of the club.
Commiserations to the Breaffy U12 Community Games boys soccer team who represented Mayo in the Connacht final against Sligo last week. The gallant team lost out on a final score of the final score 4-2. They had made a great start to the day with the 2-1 Aet win over Roscommon in the semi-final, where they showed great composure and resilience to win it with a goal in the final minutes. It was a great achievement to make a Connacht final and the memories made are very special.
The death has taken place of Fr Michael Mc Fadden, retired parish priest of St Mary’s Church, Vacaville, Sacramento, California and late of Hollyhill, Castlebar, Co. Mayo. Fr Michael passed away peacefully on July 9. Predeceased by his parents John and Mary McFadden, brothers Danny and Liam (Hollyhill, Castlebar) brother Jack (Ballyconnell, Co. Cavan) and sister Bridie (Kilcullen, Enniscrone) he is deeply regretted by his loving family, sister Maureen (Hoban, Moneen, Castlebar), brother Patsy (Westport Road, Castlebar), Eddie (Newport) and Tom (Hollyhill), brother-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, cousins and many relatives to whom sincere condolences are extended.
Fr. Michael’s remains reposed in St. Mary’s Parish, 350 Stinson Avenue, Vacaville, CA 95867 on Thursday, July 24, from 5-8pm, with Funeral Mass on Friday morning at 10.30am followed by burial ceremonies. Ar dheis De go raibh a nAinm.
The Annual General Meeting of Ballyheane Foróige will be held on Friday, September 5, at 8.30pm in Ballyheane Community Centre. Membership is open to young people in secondary schools. The club is supervised and parents and guardians of club members are encouraged to volunteer as club leaders. For further information call Serena on 087 6692462.
The comfortable confines of Ballyheane Community Centre will be the venue for a ceile on Saturday night, August 9. Music for the occasion will be by Michael Sexton and his band. Admission is €12.
Mayo Stoma Support Group will be having their next meeting on the July 31, in the Ellison Hotel Castlebar at 7pm. It is open to all who either have a stoma or care for them. 087 6275766.
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Balla Community are packing the festival weekend with laughter, colour, and community craic. Whether you’re 5 or 95, there’s something for everyone. Good vibes, big smiles, and summer magic. Grab your sunnies, round up the crew, and join us for a feel-good weekend you won’t forget. Don't forget to book your tickets on Eventbrite.
Balla Teenage Disco Link: https://shorturl.at/k9BG2 Colour Run Link: https://shorturl.at/2QVZJ Robotics Link: https://shorturl.at/K1VTI The Balla Colour Fun Run will take place on August 17, at 12 noon. Event is by Balla Community Centre , the Square Balla, Castlebar, Co Mayo.
A summer market will be held on Saturday, August 16, from 10am - 3pm in Balla. There will be a fantastic selection of handmade arts and crafts, home baked goods, knitted gifts, costume jewellery, flower wreaths, candles and much more on the day. There will be bouncy castles on the square.
There will also be a robotics workshop - build and learn and play, August 16, every hour from 10am to 5pm.
Balla GAA lotto draw was held on the Thursday, July 17, in The Shebeen for a jackpot of €5,100. 14, 20, 26 and 33 were the numbers drawn and there was no jackpot winner. The €30 consolation prize winners were Ann Keane (online), Patrick Brampton (online) and Amanda Watson-Cronin (online). The latest draw was held on last Thursday, July 24, in The Rendezvous when the jackpot stood at €5,200.
Connor Kilker Coaching is back again this year from August 18-22 from 10.30am – 2.30pm each day for his second year in Manulla FC. The fees are €60 per child and with a €10 discount per sibling. Last year’s event was a huge success. Contact Connor on 083 1753142 to book your space.
The Christian Community in Balla have welcomed Henry James O' Boyle and Abbey Kelly Durkan who were baptised recently in St. Cronan’s Church, Balla. Congratulations to their parents and families.
The Rural Social Scheme are now recruiting in South and West Mayo. There are currently a range of placement opportunities available for those who qualify under the scheme guidelines. If you’re interested in environmental work, heritage projects, or supporting local voluntary groups, there’s a role for you where you can make a real difference. If you are interested or know someone who might be – make contact to: 094 936 6692 Email: info@southmayo.com. Visit: www.southmayo.com.
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Errew and Clogher.
Thanks to all who attended the launch of the Clogher Community Futures Plan which took place on Sunday, July 20, in the community centre. The plan which covers the period 2025-2030 is the culmination of six months of planning by the members of the Clogher Community Futures Steering Group in conjunction with the Mayo Community Futures Programme and supported by Katerina Dorofejeva, Community Support Worker.
The steering group engaged with the whole community through a household survey of all the houses in the Clogher area, stakeholder interviews representing different groups in the area, a youth workshop and business survey. The plan was launched by the Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment Alan Dillon TD. Also in attendance were members of the Mayo Community Futures Team and Management Committee, Mayo County Council Councillors and staff, staff and volunteers of South West Mayo Leader Company, The Clogher Environmental Group as well as a wide representation of members of the community.
Finian Bourke as chairman of the Steering Group welcomed everybody and thanked all who took part in the plan and helped out on the day and invited people to study the plan and consider how they might get involved in future projects over the next five years. A copy of the plan will be delivered to each house in the coming week. Huge credit is due to the Clogher Community Futures Steering Group, its chairperson Finian Bourke, and everyone who contributed to the impressive plan.
On this Day in Errew… The 21st of July 1840 (184 years ago) features in the book ‘On This Day in Mayo’ by Máirtín G O Maicín as the day the foundation stone of Errew Monastery was laid by Irish historian, James Hardiman.
The local people of Errew helped with the construction and Errew Monastery Boys’ School which opened within 2 years in 1842. The Franciscan Brothers educated hundreds of children from the area for nearly 140 years. The following was reported - ‘It is a pleasing duty to record the unstinting support of the local people. Down the years it has been manifested, in many ways, the same spirit of support which is gratefully remembered and appreciated.’ The inscription engraved on a stone plaque over the front door of the monastery reads:
‘Under the special patronage of His Grace, the most Illustrious Lord John McHale, Archbishop of Tuam, the first stone of the Monastery was laid by James Hardiman Esq. on the 21st day of July, 1840, AD’.
The Boys’ school closed in 1975 and Errew Monastery was sold privately in 1981 when the Brothers departed. The boys joined the girls in Errew NS. The local community recently commemorated the 50th anniversary of the school’s closure welcoming many past pupils, their families and neighbours back to the monastery.
Results of the 25 card game played in Clogher on Friday, July 18, were 1st Gay Conway and Joe Thomas, 2nd Derek Quinn and Gus Sweeney, 3rd Sean Hopkins and Peter O Malley. The last 10 winners were, Martin Moran and Thomas Fitzpatrick.
Clogher Summers Walks continue every Tuesday evening at Clogher Heritage Complex at 7pm and every Thursday morning at 10am at Clogher Community Centre. There is a choice of distances at both venues and refreshments and a chat afterwards.These walks are along country roads so please wear hi-vis jackets for safety.
