Local Notes: Burriscarra Cemetery bore the brunt of storm Eowyn with a dozen headstones damaged.
Burriscarra Cemetery bore the brunt of storm Éowyn with a dozen headstones damaged, some of which have been standing over 120 years. Picture by Tom Quinn
Ballintubber Abbey staff were absolutely delighted to receive a merit honour again this year in the CIE Tours Awards for visitor attractions in Connaught. This is the third consecutive year that Ballintubber Abbey has obtained this award. To be ranked along with amazing attractions such as Kylemore Abbey, Killary Fjord Boat Tours and Corrib Princess is a testament to the hard work, knowledge and passion that the tour-guides give to visitors at Ballintubber Abbey.
A heartfelt “thank you” has been extended to Muriel, Pauline, Lucai and Hannah for the amazing dedicated work. A massive congratulations also to Westport Walking Tours for receiving the gold award for Best Walking Tour and also well done to all at Knockranny House Hotel, Westport as they received a merit award of excellence for Connacht hotels.
Ballintubber GAA lotto jackpot stood at €8,800 on Sunday night, February 9. The numbers drawn were 1, 6, 9 and 24. There was no jackpot winner. Consolation prizes went to Kevin Curley, Keith Derrig, Sheila Glynn, Damien Flatley, Aoibhe Coleman and Vincent Mahon. The jackpot stood at €8,900 on last Sunday night, February 16.
Ballintubber Bord na nÓg are urgently seeking additional volunteers for a variety of roles. Whether you are new to the club area or have some limited experience everyone is made welcome to get involved. By volunteering, you’ll not only play a vital role in the club but also become part of a vibrant and supportive community. This is a wonderful chance to give back, meet new people, and positively shape the future of Ballintubber GAA. If you’re interested in getting involved, phone Ronan Mannion at 087 464 6495 or email the secretary - ballintubber.mayo@gaa.ie.
Ballintubber GAA are looking to establish a Healthy Club committee, that will be responsible for the delivery of the Healthy Clubs initiatives and establishing a healthier community in Ballintubber. Contact Deirdre Donnelly at ballintubberinjuriesofficer@gmail.com.
Ballintubber GAA Club will hold an EGM on next Friday, February 21, at 8pm in Ballintubber Resource Centre with the sole purpose of filling the vacant position of County Board Delegate. All members are requested to attend.
The Drum Inn, Clogher, was the venue for Monday, February 10, Ballyglass FC lotto draw. The numbers drawn were 18, 26, 30 and 31. There was no winner of the €11,000 jackpot. There was no Match 3 winner. Consolation prizes went to Noreen and Danny Killeen, Pat Naughton, Ivan Carroll, Gary Browne and PJ Gibbons. The weekend jackpot stood at a highly attractive total of €11,100. Go to smartlotto.ie to play.
The winners from Monday, February 10 were 1st Seamus Nevin and Dave Gibbons, 2nd Pat Griffith and Chris Turner and 3rd Mary Brennan and Philip White; Kitty Rumley and Judy Clarke. The last 10 winners were Mary Boyle and Noel Costello and the raffle prizes went to Pat Griffith and Chris Turner. The progressive 25 games continue every Monday night at 9pm.
Coillte staff is working hard to clear many storm damaged trees across forestry estates at Moorehall and Towerhill as a priority and to resolve any issues as quickly as possible. Hazards arising from storm damage may not be visible and it will take time to assess and treat damaged areas.
As a result, Coillte asks members of the public to not enter forests in many counties including Mayo until further notice. Where operations are ongoing in forests to clear storm damage, visitors are asked not to approach any operations during this time.
The death has taken place in England of Michael Hughes, Surrey. The deceased was the son of Des Hughes, Surrey and a nephew of Emma Hughes, Towerhill. Sincere sympathy is extended to all the Hughes families in Ireland and England and all who mourn his passing. Ar dheis De go raibh a nAinm.
J & G jiving classes take place in Carnacon Centre on Wednesdays from 8 to 9.15pm. No partners required. Details are available from Jessica Connolly on 085 8188727 to register for the class.
Racquetball classes for ladies and men commenced on February 11, from 8 to 9pm. No racquets or goggles required. Contact Thomas at 087 2041967 for details. Eircode for Carnacon Centre F12 NY 38.
Mayo County Council is currently setting up a panel for the following position: Community Administrator (Lough Carra Life Project), The closing date for applications is Thursday, February 20. Full particulars and application form can be found at: https://mayo.ie/careers/current-vacancies.
Do you use a septic tank or packaged treatment system? Share your experiences in the REMARC anonymous survey. Your insights may help shape future policies and most importantly help protect the GWS water sources.Please participate now: https://bit.ly/4e584se.
Don't forget to look out for a copy of the annual Carra Life newsletter at community centres, churches, and other public facilities throughout the catchment area this week.
The Christian Community welcomes its newest member Séamus John Heraty, baptised in the Holy Trinity Abbey, Ballintubber, on Saturday, February 15. Congratulations to his parents and family.
“A pilgrim’s journey is not just about the steps taken, but the reflections along the way. Join Ballintubber Abbey participants next Easter Monday for a spiritual walk that connects past, present, and faith.” The Abbey team are busy getting the Tóchar Phádraig Walk - St Patrick's Pilgrim Path. Thanks to funding received through the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS) by the South West Mayo Development Company CLG they were able to replace 15 stiles, upgrade some of the walkways and replace a bridge. Special thanks have been extended to Hayes Mechanical and Engineering who manufactured the bridge. It’s also laudable to be able to support local businesses while doing these works.
Listed are the Tóchar Phádraig Group walks in 2025 organised by Ballintubber Abbey, Co Mayo. Easter Monday, April 21, (as part of Pilgrim Paths Week) half Tóchar – Ballintubber Abbey – Aughagower – distance 15km; Saturday, June 21, full Tóchar (as part of Irish Pilgrim Journey Week) distance 30km; Saturday, July 26, (Reek Saturday) full Tóchar - distance 30km and Saturday, August 30, full Tóchar - distance 30km. Booking is now open at ballintubberabbey.ie. Payment is required at the time of booking. If you wish to cancel your booking refunds are available for up to 7 days prior to the event.
The cost of this year's group walks are €30pp for half Tóchar’s and €35pp for the full Tóchar, booking fees may apply.
Individual walks are €25pp (self-guided). Volunteers, leaders and back up drivers are needed for the 4 group Tochar Walks yearly. If you can help out on any of the above dates, call the office at 094 9030934 to put you name down. A donation will be given to the Leader and back-up driver to cover the costs.
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Thuar Mhic Éadaigh GAA lotto stood at €15,800 on February 8. 1, 10, 16 and 23 were the numbers drawn and there was no jackpot winner. The weekend jackpot on Saturday, February 15, stood at €15,900. The draws take place on Saturday nights weekly and there are two online prizes of €40 and also a €40 Cairde prize each week. All funds raised support club development and the support of patrons is deeply appreciated. You can play on line / Ticéadaí le fáil ar líne Ag: https://smartlotto.ie/clg-thuar-mhic-eadaigh/. Ticéadaí ar díol freisin sa siopa O’Tooles/Oifig an Phoist/ Maire Luke’s/ Lough Mask Inn.
Minister Dara Calleary has confirmed that the Humanitarian Assistance Scheme is available to support households directly affected by Storm Éowyn. The scheme provides income-tested financial assistance to alleviate hardship, following a three-stage approach:
Emergency payments for immediate needs (food, clothing) are not income-tested. Replacement of essential items like white goods and furniture /assistance with primary residence repairs and losses covered by insurance are excluded. Income limits for the scheme are: €50,000 (single), €90,000 (couple) +€15,000 per dependent (with reduced support above limits).
For support, contact emergency Community Welfare Services by email - DNCWS@welfare.ie. There are forms available in the Halla for government assistance due to damage caused by storm Eowyn. Forms can also be downloaded at www.gov.ie/HAS. Further information is available from 0818607080 Completed form can be submitted to the local Intreo office. https://assets.gov.ie/.../92faa7b2989d442c9359b57771888d4.
A Bee Dress’ by Alice Maher is currently on display as part of “The Murmur of Bees” exhibition at the Museum of Country Life in Turlough Park. Alice who resides in Tourmakeady is one of Irelands leading contemporary artists. The intricate small dress is constructed from honeybees, wax, cotton and wire and it reflects on themes associated with feminism, mythology and childhood. The ‘Bee Dress’ is on loan from the National Museums and can be viewed presently at opening times at Turlough Park.
Tuar Mhic Éadaigh Social Club is due to meet again on this Thursday, February 13, from 2-4pm. Come along for social get together, light exercise, bingo, make new friends and enjoy the company. New members will be made most welcome.
The death took place recently in Chicago, USA of Julie Corduff. The deceased was the daughter of Kate and Peter Sheridan RIP, Shanvallyard, Tourmakeady. Sincere sympathy is extended to all who mourn her passing on both sides of the Atlantic. Funeral ceremonies took place in Chicago. May she rest eternally in the peace and happiness of heaven.
With all the events of past few weeks the Killawalla Community Council decided to push back the AGM date to Friday, February 28, at 8.30pm. The council have extended thanks to the people for nominating new members. At the AGM, a new committee will be elected and they will review all the achievements of the past term and look forward to laying out new plans. All residence are invited to the meeting to see how important the council is to the area - from the playschool to running events and linking with TUS and RSS and applying for necessary funding. Without a community council none of these services or events would be possible. If anyone still has forms that you may not have returned, pop it in an envelope and leave it into the church porch or give it to a community council officer.
The death took place recently of Micheal Conway, Drumminroe West, Partry, Claremorris, Co Mayo. Sincere condolences are extended to his family, relatives and friends. His remains reposed in Killawalla Community Centre on Monday evening, last week from 5 to 7pm, with removal then taking place to St. Patrick's Church, Killawalla. Requiem Mass for Michael was held on Tuesday morning at 11am, with burial ceremonies taking place afterwards in the local cemetery. Dia dean trócaire ar a nAinm.
Ballintubber / Killawalla Badminton Club are open to new members and beginners are most welcome. The sessions take place at Ballintubber Community Centre on Tuesdays from 8 to10pm. Contact Laura on 089 4011720.
Sincere sympathy is extended to Mary McGing, Croaghrim and Padraic Heraty, Moate on the recent passing of their mother, Kathleen Heraty, R.I.P. Riogh. May she rest in peace.
Killawalla annual lotto tickets are now due for renewal. You can renew them by contacting any member of the Killawalla Community Council. The support of the community is appreciated.
Partry FC numbers draw takes place weekly on Wednesdays. Congrats to Vincent Hennelly, Tooreen, who was a recent winner of the popular numbers draw. The funds raised go towards running the club during the year and the support of Club patrons is deeply appreciated. https://partryafc.weebly.com/lotto.html.
Partry Residents Association draws take place on Saturday evenings with generous prizes in the weekly numbers draw. Congrats to Mary O’Malley, Kilfaul and Kathleen Wickham, Tooreen, who were recent €100 winners in the popular numbers draw. The latest draw was on Saturday night last, February 15.
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Congrats to the pupils and teachers of Breaffy National School who were among the winners at the inaugural VEX Robotics North West Regional Finals, held recently at the AIM Centre at Atlantic Technological University (ATU) Sligo in partnership with AbbVie.
Breaffy National School, from Castlebar, and Holy Family National School from Ballyshannon in Co Donegal both qualified for the VEX Robotics National Finals, which are set to take place in MTU Cork on February 27. The winning teams will compete for a chance to advance to the prestigious VEX Global finals in Texas, representing Ireland on the international stage. Best wishes to the Breaffy students and staff for continued success in the high-status event.
Breaffy Rounders club are currently holding open days. If you are looking to rekindle your love of rounders or just willing to try something new, the club are inviting you to join up over the next few weeks. These open days will continue to take place in Castlebar Celtic 7 a side AstroTurf pitch from 3 to 4pm on February 23, and March 2. You’ll learn about the game, meet the team, get active and most importantly, have real fun. All are welcome and please spread the word.
Breaffy GAA lotto stood at a massive €28,600 for the February 11 draw. The numbers drawn were 19, 21, 29 and bonus number 4. There was no jackpot winner. Congratulations to the weekly prize winners – there was no match 3 winner. The jackpot stands at €28,800 for tonight’s February 18 draw.
Breaffy GAA registration portal is now open for the coming 2025 membership year. Members should go to www.foireann.ie to register. Remember to read through the membership options carefully before making your selection. All players involved in county team training (underage and adult) must renew their playing membership for 2025 immediately. Breaffy Club will be hosting a membership evening in the coming weeks at the clubhouse for both new and existing members. Stay tuned for details.
Membership payments are crucial for the day-to-day running of the club. For any issues, contact Martina at 087 272029.
The Gold Circle membership package is as follows: Breaffy GAA Membership for 2025, 1 weekly entry into the club's lotto and 1 Mayo County Board Draw ticket (six draws with prizes ranging from €10,000 to €200).
Support your club and stand a chance to win amazing prizes, including €50,000 cash, exciting weekend packages to the All-Ireland finals, a holiday voucher worth €2,500, and many more. The draw date is March 26.
The Christian Community in Belcarra have welcomed Olivia Ann O' Kelly, Cloonlynch, Belcarra, who was baptised recently in St Anne's Church. Congratulations to her parents and family.
A candlelit hour of music, song and the spoken word rooted in Ireland's history was scheduled to take place on last Saturday, February 15, from 9-10pm at Belcarra Eviction Cottage. Most beautifully themed, a welcome was extended to all to sing, speak, play or simply listen. What a splendid idea that is and the success of the venture is assured.
The next card game in Belcarra Centre will be on Monday night, March 3. Proceeds from the game will go towards the Breege Canavan GoFundMe campaign. The support of all card players would be greatly appreciated.
Belcarra Community Council’s lotto jackpot has now reached €10,500. The jackpot stood at €10,400 on Sunday, February 9. The numbers drawn were 6, 13, 16 and 28. There was no jackpot winner. The lucky dip winners of €30 were Fran and JP Reilly, Emer Cass, Carmel Quinn and Lucy McNamara.
Ballyheane Council committee are in their final term and will be looking for a new community council in September. If you or anyone you know is interested in joining put your name forward. The hard working group are always striving to make improvements to the village and surrounding areas and if you feel you can help make contact.
Ballyheane Goes Country Music Festival will take place once again in 2025. This year’s summer festival will run from June 6 to 13, with 3 amazing nights of music and dancing. Some of Ireland's top country music bands will be on stage, Friday, June 6 - Jimmy Buckley and Band and Gavin Gribben; Saturday, June 7, Derek Ryan and Band and Stacey Breen and Sunday evening, June 8, Nathan Carter and Band and Mylo and Vinny. Tickets are on sale from at www.ballyheanegoescountry.com.
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Balla GAA/LGFA Clubs are hosting a club social in Breaffy House Hotel on Saturday night, March 1. Tickets are a modest €20 and doors are open from 7.30pm. The club are eager to celebrate what was a very successful 2024 across all the senior and junior teams. Saturday, March 1, is the date and a bumper attendance is anticipated. The wonderful musically talented Concord Entertainment is lined up for the social night. Pre order the tickets from club executive members, team managers or DM on Instagram.
Balla GAA Club gathered recently in the community centre for the yearly awards ceremony for the club’s underage members, the tremendous ladies and of course, the prodigious lads. The club were very fortunate to have the ladies joined by Mayo LGFA chairperson Sinead Stagg, while the lads were presented with their awards by none other than Mayo GAA star Diarmuid O’Connor. Congrats to all involved throughout the year for making special evenings like this possible.
Balla GAA lotto draw was held on the Thursday, February 6, in The Shebeen for a jackpot of €10,200. 3, 7, 8 and 33 were the numbers drawn and there was no winner of the jackpot. The €30 consolation winners were Fiona McHugh (online), Lisa Boyle (standing order) and Mick Keane (cash sale). The latest draw was held on Thursday, February 13, in Flukies when the jackpot stood at €10,300.
A massive thank you has been extended to the truly talented ladies of Balla Knitwits Group who came together in using their immense talents to make fabulous knitted pieces to sell at their Christmas fair in December in Balla Community Centre. They very kindly donated all of their earnings to Mayo Autism Camp and afforded a coffee machine for the premises amongst other much needed resources for the MAC families, this was such a fantastic gesture and everyone at MAC is truly grateful. Through their love of knitting, friendship, and giving back, they came together to raise funds and awareness for this wonderful cause. The Knitwits are so grateful for the opportunity to contribute and support the fantastic initiatives that Mayo Autism Camp provides.
A heartfelt thank you has been extended to everyone who helped make the donation possible—your support means the world.
The latest jackpot stood at a massive €18,300 on last Sunday night, February 16. The club are deeply grateful for the weekly support of their patrons.
A table quiz will take place in the Railway Tavern, Manulla, on February 28. Tables of four are required and 1st prize is €160. Funds raised are in aid of Manulla Centre and all quiz enthusiasts are welcome.
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Clogher Environmental Group supported by Mayo Community Futures is embarking on a Community Action Plan. The purpose of the Community Action Plan is to give the community a chance to identify priorities and ideas for the development of the area over the next five years. A key component of the process is to give everyone in the community an opportunity to engage with the plan and to put ideas forward. Representatives from all the groups in the community and interested individuals are encouraged to attend the next meeting on this Thursday, February 20, at 8pm in the community centre.
Clogher Card results for Friday, February 7, are 1st Bernie Heneghan and Majella Corbett, 2nd Derek Quinn and Tommy Fahey, 3rd Mary Morrin and Pat Griffith, Last 10 Jimmy Connor and Tommy Lyons and Mary McDonagh and Eileen Moran. The 25 progressive games continue every Friday night at 9pm. Everyone is welcome, experience or novice.
Sincere sympathy is tendered to James Kilboyle, his wife Bernie and family of Newtown on the recent passing of his mother Mrs Mary Kilboyle (nee McGuinness) of Farmhill, Claremorris. May she rest in peace.
Clogher Active Age will hold their AGM later in February and they are currently looking at an interesting schedule of events for the coming year. New members are always welcome to come and join in the exercise, games and lunch.
