Local Notes: Carnacon ladies catch up at Mayo Roscommon Hospice coffee morning.

Halloween 'Scare in the Woods':Ballyglass Community Childcare AGM: The late Irene Bourke nee Cowman.
Local Notes: Carnacon ladies catch up at Mayo Roscommon Hospice coffee morning.

Carnacon ladies and some beautiful babies, enjoying the wonderful fare on offer at the Mayo Roscommon Hospice coffee morning recently held in Carnacon Community Centre. Picture by Tom Quinn.

Carra Country.

Ballintubber GAA lotto

Ballintubber GAA lotto jackpot stood at €8,200 on Sunday night, September 27. 6, 7, 12 and 29 were the numbers drawn and there was no jackpot winner. The consolation prizes went to Ger Brady, Pauline Leonard, Bernie Lydon, Ollie Finnerty, John O’Malley and Gavin Roache. The lotto jackpot stood at €8,300 for last Sunday night’s draw.

Scare in the Woods

Carnacon Ladies GAA Club are organising a Halloween “Scare in the Woods” at Moorehall on Saturday, October 31 from 2 to 3pm sensory hour, 3 to 5pm is child friendly, 5 to 10pm everyone welcome. Admission is €15 and online booking only. The meeting point is Carnacon Centre and a shuttle bus will operate to Moorehall Woods. Book through Tickets.ie.

Carnacon cards

A singles 25 card game commenced in Carnacon Community Centre on last Thursday, October 1, at 8.30pm. All card players novice and experienced are welcome.

Ballyglass FC lotto draw

There was no winner of the jackpot in the Ballyglass lotto draw held on Monday, September 28, in the clubhouse. The numbers drawn were 19, 20, 25 and 35. Nobody matched 3 numbers. The consolation prize winners were Noel Burke, Catherine Burke, Jimmy Hession, Declan Corbet and John Flanagan. The latest weekend draw had a jackpot of a whopping €19,600 up for grabs.

Ballyglass Cards

The results from Monday, September 28; 1st Sean Reilly and Willie Cusack, 2nd Mike Loftus and Liam Davoren and 3rd Peter Glynn and Tomas Solan. The last 9 winners were Judy Clarke and Kitty Rumley, and the raffle prizes went to Mary Morrin and Jimmy Sheridan.

Well done to all the winners and thanks to all who support Ballyglass card games, which continue every Monday night from 9pm in the Community Centre.

Irish Dancing classes

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 5.30. The cost is €8 per lesson, pay as you go.

Hallowe’en Market

Save the date for the next Market in Ballyglass Community Centre on Saturday, October 31. Wear your costumes and join in the fun. More details in the coming weeks.

Community Childcare AGM

The annual general meeting of Ballyglass Community Childcare will take place on next Thursday night, October 15, at 8pm. All members are asked to be in attendance.

Art classes

A new series of art classes take place on Mondays, from 6.30 to 8.30pm in Ballyglass Community Centre. Beginners are very welcome. Contact Nora for further information on 087 9729672.

The Rambling House

The Rambling House is back again in the Scioból, Ballintubber and it commenced on Thursday, October 1. It runs from 8.30 to 10.30pm on Thursdays. Come along and join the group for songs and stories. (F12A8N9). A parish pastoral council meeting takes place this Tuesday, September 29, in the Dorter. All members are requested to attend.

Over 55s Club

Ballintubber Over 55 Club resumed their meetings on Monday’s at 10.30am in Ballintubber Resource Centre. New members are always welcome to join the enjoyable weekly morning sessions.

Bel Canto in concert

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 25. Bel Canto will be joined by ‘Sing On’ Ladies Choir, a String Ensemble featuring members of Headford Music Works, and the Ballintubber Abbey Choir.

The event is on Sunday, October 25, and doors open at 6.30pm with concert at 7pm. Tickets cost €15. Book now at -https://rezgo.me/AkjLDFNvjE. All proceeds will go towards the Ballintubber Abbey Preservation Fund.

Exploring Lough Carra

Lough Carra LIFE, in collaboration with the Lough Carra Catchment Association (LCCA), had the pleasure of welcoming a group of children from Mount Pleasant National School to Lough Carra for an enjoyable day of pond dipping, exploring, and learning about a special lake.

With ecologist Karina Dungerkus and her husband Richard, and Rory from LCCA, the children got stuck into pond dipping and had great fun discovering the small creatures and wildlife living in and around the water. There was lots of excitement, plenty of questions and some great discoveries along the way.

Lough Carra is one of the Great Western Lakes and is a special marl lake, with its clear, limestone-rich waters providing an important home for a wide variety of plants, wildlife, and habitats. It is a really special part of the local landscape and something people should all be proud of.

It is also important to remember that Lough Carra is part of the local water environment, and its waters are important to the community. Keeping the water clean and protecting the lake is something that matters to everyone. What happens around the lake and in the land and streams that feed it can have an impact on its future.

It was fantastic to see the children enjoying the day and learning about the lake right on their doorstep. Hopefully, experiences like this will give them a genuine appreciation for Lough Carra and help create the next generation of people who will care for and protect it. A huge thanks to their teacher Mrs Nevin, (SNA) Philly and secretary Martina, for all their help and support on the day. A brilliant day of learning, fun and getting close to nature.

November concert

Tickets for Ballintubber Abbey Concert Fauré and Stanford Concert which takes place on November 22, at 4.45pm, with Cór Mhaigh Eo and the ConTempo String Quartet are now available to book online. The direct link for booking is: https://rezgo.me/PGm3oKLsRe This concert forms part of the 2026 Cultural Programme in Mayo to mark Ireland's EU Presidency.

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Partry/Tourmakeady/Killawalla.

Tour Mhic Éadaigh GAA lotto

The weekend lotto jackpot on Saturday, September 26, stood at €20,000. 2, 9, 21 and 25 were the numbers drawn and 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.

Waterfall Magazine

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 forwarded waterfalltme@gmail.com. as soon as possible.

Tourmakeady NS draw

Tourmakeady NS lotto ball draws take place on Saturdays. A prize of €100 is awarded each week based on the bonus number from the main lotto on Saturday night, (without lotto plus 1 or lotto plus 2). Recent winners were Evelyn and Stephen Donoghue and Adrian and Amanda Dolan. If you wish to take part in the weekly draw the cost is €100 for six months. Persons who are willing to support, contact the school via phone 094 95 44088 or email - snthuarmhiceadaigh@gmail.com.

Coláiste Muire Oíche Oscailte

Beidh Oíche Oscailte an open evening at Coláiste Muire on Tuesday, October 13. Beidh turas scoile – a tour of the school and cas ar an muinteoiri agus daltaí and an opportunity to meet the teachers and students.

Tourmakeady Social Club

Tuar Mhic Éadaigh Social Club has commenced again on Thursdays each week. Senior folk are invited to come along and enjoy light exercise, bingo, a chat, and a cuppa.

Saturday morning Parkrun

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. Its 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.

Knitting Club

Tourmakeady Knitting Club meet on Monday nights from 7 to 9.30pm in the Halla. New members are always welcome.

Nurse required

A registered nurse is needed for immediate start in Partry/ Tourmakeady area to support a child with medical needs in their home. Up to 16 hours per week available, evenings 4-8pm typical schedule. No weekends. For more information, contact Michelle on 071 9155008.

Killawalla Community Council

Online and annual tickets for Killawalla Community Council lotto are available - one annual ticket is modestly priced at €50 while three entries cost €120. Envelopes are on sale at Pakie McEvilly’s, Corrigan’s in Ballintubber and from Community Council members.

Play Online: https://www.lottoraiser.ie/KillawallaCC The latest Killawalla community lotto 50/50 draw was on last Sunday, October 4.

Notices regarding local community issues and relevant submissions for consideration should be made to Siobhan Jennings on 087 6713940 or Carmel Carter on 087 2879701.

Partry AFC lotto

Partry AFC numbers draw is held on Wednesday nights weekly. Congrats to Maura and Dick Gibbons who were recent winners of the popular draw with number 31. For further details contact any committee member or call 087 9957761. Thanks are extended to all our loyal lotto supporters for their continued support.

Partry Residents draw

Partry Residents draws take place on Saturday nights at 8pm. Congrats to Johnny Horan who was a €100 recent winner with number 2. All draw winners received €100. Memberships of the draw are available from 087 2860565.

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Breaffy/Ballyheane/Belcarra.

The late Irene Bourke

The death has taken place of Irene Bourke (nee Cowman), Cottage, Breaffy, Castlebar and late of No. 1 McHale Road, Castlebar. Irene passed away on September 27, in the Galway Clinic after a short illness, surrounded by her loving family. Predeceased by her parents Pauline and John and her darling daughter Lorna, she is deeply regretted by her heartbroken husband Billy, daughter Erika, son John, sisters Mary (Cusack) and Stasis (Kenny), adored grandchildren Jack and Mischa, son-in-law Michael (Ginnelly), daughter-in-law Sarah (Bourke), brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, relatives, neighbours and dear friends to whom sincere condolences are extended.

Irene’s remains reposed in Coady’s Funeral home, Castlebar on Tuesday, September 29, from 5.30pm with removal at 7pm. Her funeral cortege arrived at Saint Aloysius Church, Breaffy on last Wednesday morning at 11am for Requiem Mass at 11.30am. Irene was the laid to rest afterwards in Breaffy Cemetery. May she rest eternally in the peace and happiness of heaven.

Breaffy GAA lotto

Breaffy GAA lotto for Tuesday, September 29, had the numbers 5, 6, 16 and bonus number 2 drawn. There was no jackpot and no match 3 winners this week. The jackpot stands at £22, 600 on this Tuesday night, October 6.

Belcarra lotto draw

In the Belcarra Community Council lotto draw the numbers drawn on Sunday, September 27, was 1, 3, 16 and 26. There was no winner of the lotto jackpot. The €30 consolation prize-winners were Elaine and Claire, Rowena Ruane, Caroline Heneghan and Claire Cuffe. The weekend jackpot stood at €8,500 on last Sunday night, October 4. Thanks as always for the support of patrons.

Belcarra Centre activities

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 on 087 9973357. Irish dancing runs from 5.45 to 6.45. Call Thelma on 087 954 5305 for details. Belcarra Crafters meet at 8pm.

Every Wednesday from 10.30 to 12 noon the Parent & Toddler Group meet. Information from 087 629972. Pilates is from 7.30 to 8.30 – call Natalie on 087 234695.

On Fridays – Taekwon-do is from 4 to 5pm for 6- to 12-year-olds. Call 087 3596732 for information.

Group singing lessons

Belcarra Centre hosts group singing lessons with Aušra. Join this fun and interactive group singing classes every Monday at 4pm for 6- 9 year olds, and at 4.45pm for 8-12-year olds. Contact Aušra to book your place on 087 6926753.

Baby and Toddler Group

The Belcarra Baby and Toddler group is back on Wednesdays running from10.30-12 noon. It is open to all babies, toddlers and preschool children accompanied by their parent or minder.

Belcarra Yoga

Yoga classes have resumed on Wednesday and will continue October 7, 14, 21 and 28, in Belcarra Community Centre. Contact Breda to book your spot on 087 773 8312.

Leaving Cert English Revision

Leaving Cert English revision this mid-term. Join an experienced teacher and state examiner for a focused revision course to help you understand exam paper requirements, improve your answers, and build confidence in Belcarra Community Centre on Tuesday, October 27, from 10am–2pm. The cost is €50. To book, call or WhatsApp 086 1088612.

Ballyheane Irish dancing

Beginners Irish dancing classes take place in Ballyheane Centre and are now taking bookings for the sessions. All welcome - ages 4+ every Tuesday from 6.30 to 7.30pm with a fee of €10 per class. Classes for competition, grade exams, displays shows, fitness, and fun. Call Molly Hughes TCRG at 087 6562094 for details.

Ballyheane Community Council AGM

There will be a Ballyheane Community Council AGM meeting at 8pm on Tuesday, October 6. All are welcome to attend.

Ballyheane Yoga

Yoga sessions take place in Ballyheane Centre on Thursdays at 7.30. Contact Virginia on 087 2831400 for more details.

Education opportunity

National Learning Network Castlebar can help you gain QQI Certification and assist with finding employment. Your Social Welfare payment will remain protected. Call or message Sharon on 087 290 9064 to discuss.

Alzheimer’s Activity Club

The Alzheimer's Activity Club in Lough Lannagh Holiday Village Main Hall runs monthly on the first Thursday of the month from 10am to 12 noon for activities, games, chat, refreshments and day trips. Contact Marie on 087 170 8706 for further details.

Charlie Keating performs an original song recounting the life of the 18th-century priest hunter Seán na Sagart which formed part of the Abbey’s recent historical program. Picture by Tom Quinn.
Charlie Keating performs an original song recounting the life of the 18th-century priest hunter Seán na Sagart which formed part of the Abbey’s recent historical program. Picture by Tom Quinn.

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Balla / Manulla.

Balla GAA lotto

Balla GAA lotto draw was held on Thursday, September 24, in The Shebeen for a jackpot of €11,200. 19, 22, 27and 36 were the numbers drawn and there was no jackpot winner. The €30 consolation prize winners were Raymond Holian (online), Tom and Jacqui Walsh (standing order), and John Bennett (standing order). The latest draw was held on last Thursday, October 1, in The Railway Tavern when the jackpot stood at €11,300.

Manulla FC celebration dinner

On Saturday, November 28, Manulla FC will host a 50 years celebration dinner in Breaffy House Hotel and 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.

U18s success

Congratulations to the 13 Balla Secondary School students who, captained by Colm Touhy, recently won the Mayo Football League U18 Boys Division 1 title with Ballyglass FC at Umbro Park, Milebush. A special mention goes to Keelan Corrigan, who was named Man of the Match for his outstanding performance.

The panel was Ben Killeen, Ethan Duffy, Keelan Corrigan, Colin Prenty, Donal Keane, David Keane, James Staunton, Bryce Lockyer, Ross Malone, Colm Touhy, Ryan Duggan, Teegan Heneghan, and Matthew Corbett.

Physio-Led Pilates

Regina Durcan will be running Physio-Led Pilates at Balla Community Centre on Wednesdays at 6pm and 7pm. It will be suitable for all levels, with a focus on strength, core stability, flexibility, and balance, and osteoporosis-friendly also. For more information or to book call 089 420 3098 or email durcan.physio.pilates@gmail.com.

WhatsApp Group

Balla Community Centre have established a new WhatsApp Group which will inform members about all events and happenings in the area. Send a message on WhatsApp to 087 1850860 for inclusion.

Máirtín G. Ó Maicín book launch

Balla author, Máirtín G. Ó Maicín, will launch his latest book at this year’s Wild Atlantic Words Festival in Castlebar. His latest publication, Clocha ar mo Phaidrín is published in conjunction with Coiste Dúiche Mhaigh Eo of Conradh na Gaeilge. This is Máirtín’s fourth publication dating back to the beginning of the New Millenium. On This Day in Mayo, was published to wide acclaim in 2023. Clocha ar mo Phaidrín will be launched by ex MEP and TD, Jim Higgins, at this year’s Wild Atlantic Words Festival this evening, Tuesday, October 6, at 7pm and all are welcome to attend. It is being published by Mayo Books Press.

Irish dancing

Irish dancing classes take place in Balla Community Centre on Mondays from 6.30 to 7.30pm. Details are available from Caroline Duggan on 086 919 1340 or Shona Kilkenny on 083 8060708.

Manulla FC lotto

The jackpot is growing again and stood at €1,700 on last Sunday, October 4. Manulla FC are deeply grateful for the continuing support of the community.

Brest Cancer seminar

Balla School were delighted to welcome Lisa Convey from Breast Cancer Ireland to speak with the TY students last week.

Lisa delivered a highly informative and engaging talk, sharing her own personal journey with cancer while also educating the students about breast cancer awareness, the importance of looking after their health, and knowing the signs to look out for. Balla school have thanked Lisa for sharing her story so openly and for taking the time to speak with the girls. Thank you to Breast Cancer Ireland and Cornmarket for supporting this important initiative.

Dance Concepts enrolling

Balla Centre staff are delighted to be welcoming new dancers to the Balla classes. Tots and Tutus for ages 3–6 are on Tuesdays from 4-4.50pm; Jazz and Contemporary also on Tuesdays from 4.50–5.50pm. The classes are all about fun, inclusion, and building confidence in a supportive, non-competitive environment where every child can enjoy dance and make new friends. If you know a little one who would love to dance, they would love to have them join. Book your place here: https://dance-concepts.classforkids.io/?venueName=Balla%20-%20Mayo.

Senior’s Alert Scheme

Those people over 65 wishing to have Seniors Alert Alarms should contact Balla Centre to plan and obtain same.

Bingo volunteers required

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 2 hours once every 6 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 on 094 9365846 or 087 1850860.

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Errew and Clogher.

Heritage Grants 2027

The Community Heritage Grant Scheme 2027 is open for expressions of interest. Community and voluntary groups and non-governmental organisations can apply for funding of €800 to €25,000 for projects that protect, conserve, celebrate, understand, and share Ireland's heritage. New for 2027: a simpler two-stage application process. At the Expression of Interest stage, applicants only need to submit an outline of their project idea, with detailed budgets, quotations and supporting documentation required only from shortlisted projects. Expression of Interest deadline is October 16, 2026 at 5pm. Find out more and apply at https://ow.ly/GH0450ZP3qR.

Errew Ladies Group

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 costing €10pp per class.Suggestions for future activities or talks are always welcome. Contact Eileen Conway for more details on 087 9227567.

Clogher cards

The results of the card game for Friday, September 25, were 1st Mary McDonagh and Breege Blake and 2nd Derek Quinn and Tommy Fahey. The last 10 winners were Martin Moran and Finian Bourke. The game continues every Friday night at 9pm.

Bee Aware

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 Tuesday, October 13.

Clogher 500 Club

Congrats to Mary Ann Heneghan who won €500 on Sunday, September 27, in the Clogher 500 monthly draw. Tickets are available from any member of the committee or at https://pay.sumup.com/b2c/X45TU2GQCI. The next draw will take place on Sunday, October 25. 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.

Thanks from Hospice

Thanks has been extended to all the members of the Clogher Active Age Group who organised a successful fundraiser on behalf of the Mayo Roscommon Hospice last week. Thanks also to the Active Age group members, the community, and the card game group for their support for this very worthy cause.

Mayo Cancer Support

Mayo Cancer Support Assoc at Rock Rose House will be holding their annual church gate collection next weekend on October 10 and 11, in your church area. They would appreciate your continued support for this local charity that offers free emotional support to people affected by cancer and their families. See www.mayocancersupport.ie for more. If anyone can volunteer to assist with the collections, call Rose on 083 489 0754.

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