Local Notes: Cathaoirleach of Ballintubber GAA history committee celebrates milestone birthday.
Tony O'Connor, Cathaoirleach of Ballintubber GAA history committee pictured recently at Towerhill House to mark Mayo Day. It was on the Towerhill Estate that the Mayo colours Green above Red originated. Picture by Tom Quinn.
Tony O'Connor, Cathaoirleach of Ballintubber GAA history committee celebrated a major milestone birthday during the recent May Bank Holiday weekend. Tony was in fine fettle as members of his family and his many friends gathered in the Carra Lodge, Carnacon to mark the auspicious occasion. Tony is undoubtedly the spiritual Shaman of Ballintubber Club having served it as man and boy in excess of six decades. Married to Mary the couple have four illustrious sons who served club and county with distinction, Padraic, Ruaíri, Cillian and Diarmuid. Tony who lectured as a Mathematics tutor in Davit College, Castlebar, retired some years ago to concentrate on his extensive farming and business interests. He is wished continued good health and many further decades of valiant support for Ballintubber and Mayo GAA.
Ballintubber GAA lotto jackpot stood at €10,000 on Sunday night May 4. The numbers drawn were 4, 13, 19 and 35. There was no jackpot winner. Consolation prizes went to Ray Lucey, Liz Hogan, Chloe Lally, Claire Larkin, Mary Lally and John King. The jackpot stood at €10,100 on last Sunday night, May 11.
Ballintubber Bord na nÓg enjoyed a successful week. In the U14 Division 1 league Ballintubber beat Castlebar Mitchells 6-11 to 6-08. The U14 development team also had a 3-7 to 1-7 win over Burrishoole. Ballintubber U16s drew with Castlebar Mitchells 1-10 to 0-13 and remain unbeaten in Division 1 of the league. Westport in an away game will provide tough opposition on this coming Thursday evening. In the Cusack Cup quarter final, Ballintubber enjoyed a narrow 1-09 to 1-08 victory over Parke/Keelogues/ Crimlin.
The numbers drawn in the Ballyglass FC lotto draw held on May 5 in Byrnes, Mayo Abbey, were: 3, 18, 29 and 31. There was no winner of the €12,200 jackpot. The consolation prize winners were Mary Burke, Carrowhall; Kevin Feerick, Clogher; Paul Moran, Stonepark; Noel Burke, Galway and Niall, Niamh, and Stephanie Gilligan, Ballyglass.
Ballyglass FC recently announced a raffle as part of its year of celebrations to mark the 50th anniversary of the founding of the club. The prizes, all generously sponsored by Riain Group, include a €1,200 Center Parcs voucher, €500 cash and a €250 Blue Book Hotel voucher. The draw will take place on June 2, and tickets are available on idonate.ie/raffle/BallyglassFootballClub50thAnniversaryRaffle. Your support is very much appreciated.
If you would like to be part of the group of volunteers who keep Ballyglass village looking its best, Breege on 087 6292164 to get your name added to the group. There will be nothing too strenuous, just some sweeping, weeding, gardening and litter picking one evening per week. Many hands make light work.
Yoga classes take place in Ballyglass Community Centre on Wednesday mornings from 11.15am to 12.15pm. For further information contact Maureen Murphy on 087 2990357.
Congrats to all the Ballintubber lads Conor Fahey, James Staunton, Ross Malone, Noah Murphy, Teegan Heneghan, David Keane and their Balla Secondary School teammates on their victory over Coláiste Eoin of Finglas in the FAI Schools Minor ‘B’ Boys National Cup Final recently in Athlone.
The Lough Carra Catchment Associations next public meeting will be held on May 20.
The new pre school in Carnacon are currently taking enquires for September 2025. If you would like more information contact the provider, growingmindspreschool0@gmail.com with any questions or enrolment information. Cemetery Masses 2025. The summer cemetery Mass programme is as follows, Burriscarra Saturday, July 5, at 7.30pm, Killawalla Sunday, July 6, at 10am and Ballintubber Abbey on Sunday, July 6 at 11am.
A training day will take place on Saturday, May 31, in the Dorter, Ballintubber Abbey from 9.30am to 11am with Maureen Walsh, Diocesan Safe Guarding office. It is mandatory that all adults working with children in sacristy's, choirs, retreats and passion play to attend this important training.
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The death has taken place of Fr Tommy Lyons, Ballyburke, Ayle, Westport; Galway City and Cork City. Fr Tommy died peacefully at his residence in Oranmore, Galway. He was a former Dean of studies at St. Mary’s College, Galway, and former chaplain at Cork University Hospital. Predeceased by his parents William and Dilly, he is deeply mourned by his family, brother Michael (Ballyburke), sister Anne O'Reilly (Westport), Sr Bridget ( Newcastle-Under-Lyme), sister-in-law Ann, nieces and nephews, Bishop Michael Duignan, Bishop Emeritus Brendan Kelly, the priests of the diocese, parishioners, former students and colleagues and many friends.
Fr Tommy’s remains reposed at Killawalla Community Centre on the Friday evening from 5 until 7pm with removal to St. Patrick’s Church, Killawalla. Requiem Mass was celebrated on Saturday, May 3, at 12 noon with the funeral ceremonies taking place in Killawalla Cemetery. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílís.
The weekend lotto jackpot on Saturday, May 10, stood at €17,100. 9, 12, 27 and 31 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. All funds raised support club development, and the support of patrons is deeply appreciated.
The annual 2025 Cúl Camp will be held at Páirc Naoimh Muire running from July 21 to July 25 running from Monday to Friday. Places can be booked at kellogsculcamps.gaa.ie.
Lough Mask is located mostly in Co. Mayo with a small section stretching into Co. Galway. Lough Mask is the only one of the 'Great Western Lakes' that is a Blue Dot. Blue Dots are awarded for our best quality waters. They have the highest ecological quality of all our 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.
In the lotto bonus number fundraiser for the school which will be commencing on May 17, a prize of €100 euros will be awarded each week based on the bonus number from the main lotto on Saturday night, without lotto plus 1 or lotto plus 2. For those who wish to take part the cost is €100 for six months. Anyone who is willing to support the school, contact via phone 094 95 44088 or email snthuarmhiceadaigh@gmail.com before tomorrow Wednesday May 12.
Tuar Mhic Éadaigh Social Club is due to meet again on this Thursday, May 15, 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 your name to Fr Jarlath or email partrytourmakeadynewsletter@yahoo.ie. Please return your Trocaire collection to both churches.
Ciorcal Cniotáil/Knitting Circle: Tegan a Grúpa Cniotáil le chéile gach Oiche Luan i Halla Thuar Mhic Éadaigh ón 7.30-9.30 in. Fáilte roimh bail nua. The Knitting Circle comes together on Monday nights in Halla Tuar Mhic Éadaigh from 7.30- 9.30pm. Further details are available from 087 7657191.
Partry FC bonus number draws take place mid-week on Wednesday nights. Congrats to Sinead and Michael Lally and Donal and Gemma O’Mahony who were recent winners of the popular flutter.
Partry Residents Association draws take place on Saturday evenings with generous prizes in the weekly numbers draw. Congrats to Caroline Carney and Vincent Hession, Partry who were recent winners of the draw. The latest draw was on Saturday night last, May 10. Tickets are on sale from Jim O’Neill at 087 2860565. The support of the community is greatly appreciated.
Airbnb recently announced the Rural Tourism Fund, committing €100,000 in grants to support innovative tourism projects in the rural communities of Ireland where local families and businesses rely heavily on tourism.
Data from Airbnb has uncovered an unexpected trend: while Irish people are more likely to book holidays abroad, many have yet to explore the beautiful landscapes just a few hours from home.
Airbnb has launched the Rural Tourism Fund to give a vital injection to rural areas across Ireland that relies on the benefits of tourism to support local families, businesses and culture. Airbnb is committing €100,000 in grants to preserve and enhance innovative tourism projects across the country. With 71% of Airbnb bookings in Ireland made in predominantly rural areas – and the majority of listings outside of Dublin – Airbnb are already playing a pivotal role in bringing visitors to the heart of the countryside. Now, through the Rural Tourism Fund, grants ranging from €1,000 to €10,000 will be available to local organisations and community groups to help bring their local projects to life and boost rural tourism – from launching or expanding a local festival, to upgrading community facilities.
The Rural Tourism Fund is designed to help local organisations and communities bring their ideas to life. If you have a project that promotes or supports rural tourism in your community, apply by 11.59pm on June 16.
A number of places will become available on a training course at the South Mayo Family Research Centre in Ballinrobe at the start of January. Subjects will include word processing, spreadsheets, database, graphic and web design. The course, which is free, is open to adults of all ages and leads to QQI and ICDL certification. A training allowance may be payable to those in receipt of social welfare. For further details phone 094 9541214 or drop in to the South Mayo Family Research Centre, Main Street, Ballinrobe.0949541214.
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The death has occurred of Joan Moran, Watford, England and formerly of Belcarra Co. Mayo. Predeceased by her husband Seamus Moran, Belcarra, who died in 1999, she is deeply regretted by her loving sons John and James, grandchildren Alisha, Charlotte and Abbey, daughters-in-law Patricia and Sarah, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, cousins, relatives, neighbours and friends to whom sincere sympathy is tendered.
Joan’s remains arrived to St. Anne’s Church, Belcarra on the Sunday evening at 7.30. Requiem Mass was celebrated on last Monday morning at 11am with funeral ceremonies afterwards to Guesdian Cemetery. May she rest eternally in the peace and happiness of heaven.
Plans are well advanced for a major benefit dance in aid of a great cause. The benefit dance entitled "Bring Breege Home" will 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.
Looking to get into running in a relaxed, social and enjoyable environment? Look no further. Join the “Couch to Belcarra 8k” running programme, kindly led by Ann Heaney. Preparations began on Sunday, 4, May and will continue every Sunday until the Belcarra 8k on 22 June. The Belcarra 8k Fun Run will take place on Sunday, June 22. More details will follow, regarding registration etc. It’s sure to be another great weekend in the village.
Belcarra Community Council’s lotto jackpot has now reached €11,700. The jackpot stood at €11,600 on Sunday, May 4. The numbers drawn were 20, 21, 23 and 32 and there was no jackpot winner. The lucky dip winners of €30 were Mary Tuffy, Geraldine and Marie, Martin McNicholas and Roger Clarke.
The Christian Community in Belcarra have welcomed Noah Thomas Prendergast, Cloonduane, Belcarra who was baptised in St Anne's Church. Congratulations to his parents and family.
Sincere condolences are extended to the family, relatives and friends of Joe Davinport, London and Deerpark Upper, Belcarra who has passed away. May he rest in peace.
At Belcarra Handball Club, are driving forward with a strong commitment to child safety and welfare. All coaches and volunteers working with children have completed their Safeguarding Training and everyone involved has also undergone full Garda vetting. The club ethos is that every young player deserves to train and play in a safe, supportive, and secure environment. Thanks have been extended to all the coaches, parents, and volunteers who completed the safeguarding course recently.
Kiddie’s handball classes are commencing in Belcarra Sports Centre. The fun event is being held on Sundays. The classes are open to all and no experience is needed. The Sunday morning handball sessions are set as follows: 10 to 11am for 7 to 10 years and 11am to 12 noon for 10 to 12 years.
Handball practise for 4th, 5th and 6th class girls takes place in Belcarra Handball Alley every Wednesday after school from 2.45 to 3.45pm. Mothers & Others Social Handball sessions will be kicking off soon. Whether they’ve played before or are complete beginners — everyone is welcome.
SafeTALK training organised by the GAA will take place in order to help reduce and prevent suicides. Please note this training will take place in the Dr Michael Loftus Room in McHale Park on this Thursday, May 15, from 6.30pm to 10.30pm. As places are limited, complete your booking through this booking link https://bookwhen.com/srotraininggmr. When booking, the relevant event is entitled….. safeTALK Mayo GAA May 15.
Breaffy GAA lotto results for May 6, when the numbers 1, 12, 29 and bonus number 8 were drawn and there was no jackpot winner. Congrats to the weekly lucky dip winner. The jackpot stood at €15,300 on May 13. Thank you for your ongoing support of Breaffy GAA. In the Kelly Cup final played in Breaffy last week the home side enjoyed a comprehensive win over Achill.
Adult mentors are required for Foróige's Youth Mentoring Programme. Would you have an hour to spare in the week? If you are interested in supporting a young person, this is an enjoyable way to spend your time and have a positive impact in a young person’s life. For more information telephone – 086 3835859 / 086 0471420.
The comfortable confines of Ballyheane Centre are the venue for enjoyable Bingo sessions on Wednesday nights each week at 9pm. There are generous prizes and refreshments are served.
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FIRST Choice Credit Union has launched its 2025 Community Fund of €150,000, an increase of €50,000 on 2024. The fund is an initiative designed to support projects within the Credit Union's common bond of Achill, Balla, Ballyhaunis, Castlebar, Kiltimagh, Swinford and surrounding areas, for social, cultural or charitable purposes (including community development). Applications will be assessed on a case by case basis. The community fund is for larger scale projects and initiatives that will benefit the wider community and is separate to the sponsorship and financial supports that First Choice Credit Union has long been associated with. These smaller sponsorships and financial supports will continue to be issued by the Credit Union. Applications are welcomed from a wide range of groups involved in social, cultural, sporting, environmental, educational and charitable activities operating in First Choice Credit Union’s ‘common bond’ and who are engaged in activities that benefit the community.
The closing date for applications is June 30, 2025. To apply for a share of the community fund, complete and submit the online form which is available on the First Choice Credit Union website.
Balla GAA recently ran a very successful Easter kids camp for both boys and girls. Now that the dust has settled it’s fair to say that it was thoroughly enjoyed by all who participated. Sincere thanks have been extended to all the coaches - Ryan Fadden, Sonny Boswell, Ava Walshe, Ellie Dunleavy, Ciara Cronin, Lorna Gaynard, Lauren Kavanagh, Caoimhe Cunnane, Sophie O O'Donnell, Patrick McHale, Liam Glynn, Rueben Basquille, Ryan O O'Donnell, Sean McCann and Ethan Duffy. In all over 40 children participated - thanks to all.
Balla Community Resource Development (Balla CRD) would like to inform the community that a “Meals on Wheels” service is available through Castlebar Social Services. For more information contact: info@balla.ie or phone 094 9365846 / 087 1850860.
Balla GAA lotto draw was held on the Thursday, May 1, in The Railway Tavern for a jackpot of €4,000. 5, 8, 13 and 19 were the numbers drawn and there was no jackpot winner. The €30 consolation prize winners were John McNicholas (annual), Niall Barrett (cash sale) and Alan McDonnell (online). The latest draw was held in the Shebeen on Thursday, May 8, when the jackpot stood at €4,100. Thanks to all who support Balla GAA lotto draws.
The latest Manulla FC jackpot stood at a massive €19,500 on last Sunday night, May 11. The club are deeply grateful for the weekly support of their patrons. Manulla FC online registration is now available for all members. Please follow the link below: 🤍, Picture https://reg.sportlomo.com/club/fai/mayo/manulla.
First Holy Communion for the children of Balla and Manulla National Schools will be held in St Cronan's Church, Balla, on next Saturday, May 17, at 11am. We trust the children and their families have a most memorable and special day.
Balla Parish Church Choir is looking for people of all ages to join the Choir and attend practise sessions. Email marieflanagan2004@gmail.com for further details.
Monday, sewing classes at 10am, Yoga at 7pm; Tuesday, Sheer Fitness Class at 6.30pm; Wednesday, Bridge Club and physio led Pilates at 7pm and 6pm respectively; Thursday, Knit Wits at 7pm; Friday, Yoga with Ann at 9.30am; Balla Active Age Group will meet every Friday at 3pm in the community centre. New members will be made most welcome; Saturday, 25 card drive at 9pm. Contact Balla CRD info@balla.ie or 087 1850860 for details. Balla Community Resource Centre official opening of the brand-new Inclusive Hub in The Square, Balla took place on Saturday, May 3, at 12 noon. Contact info@balla.ie or 087 1850860 for further details.
A full-time office administrator is required for Balla CRD. Email applications to jobs@balla.ie.
Balla Bingo takes place on Sundays at Balla Community Centre or online at 8pm. There is a generous €12,000 prize fund at the weekend Sunday session. Don't forget to buy your books before 12 noon on Sundays. Balla Bingo would welcome volunteers to assist on Sunday nights. Contact Balla CRD at info@balla.ie or phone 097 1850860 for information.
Balla Centre hosts a 25-card drive every Saturday night in Balla Community Centre. Call the Centre on 094 9365843 for more information. Manulla 25 card game takes place at 9pm in the local Centre on Sunday nights. All are welcome. New 25 card players are always welcome.
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Errew and Clogher
To mark Biodiversity Week there will be an introduction to the Merlin Bird App on Tuesday, May 20 followed by a walk around the Clogher Bog Loop to compile a record of calling/singing male birds in the area. The Merlin App can be downloaded to a mobile phone in advance of the walk as well as the European bird catalogue. This is a free event from. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Meet at the Clogher Heritage Complex F12 PF99 at 7pm. Alzheimer’s fundraiser.
Catherine Hoban and Bernie Thomas have extended thanks to everyone who supported their recent Alzheimer’s fundraiser coffee morning in Errew Community Centre. An impressive €1,100 was raised for the worthy cause. Well done to all involved.
Clogher Card results for Friday, May 2, were 1st Margaret Mannion and Majella Corbett and Derek Quinn and Tommy Fahy, 2nd Gay Conway and Joe Thomas and Sean Hopkins and Peter O’Malley, 3rd Tommy Lyons and Jimmy Connor, Last Ten winners were Judy Clarke and Kitty Rumley. The progressive 25 game continues every Friday night.
There are free tomato and strawberry plants currently available at the Heritage Complex in Newtown F12 PF99 as well as a variety of garden shrubs. These are all free to take away.
The tradition of reciting the rosary at Newtown Grotto for the month of May is being revived on Tuesday evenings. Everyone is welcome to come along for 15 minutes.
Errew Re-turn bin is empty and ready for more donations. Thanks to everyone who brings their bottles and cans to the community centre and a special thanks to Marian Deasy for leading this community initiative. ‘Every little helps!’
