Local Notes: Enjoying the autumnal spendour of Moorehall forest at the launch of the Master Plan for Moorehall and Environs.
A group of Carnacon folk pictured at the autumnal splendour of Moorehall forest during the launch of the recent Master Plan for Moorehall and Environs. Picture by Tom Quinn.
The death has taken place of Sally Ann Shaw-Smith née Exley, Lough Carra, Co. Mayo and formerly of Dublin. Sally passed away on November 25, at Mayo University Hospital surrounded by her family. She was an outgoing friendly person that endeared herself to all she encountered with the warmth of her personality. Predeceased by her husband David (RTÉ and creator of Hands Series), Sally is deeply regretted by her daughters Emma, Melissa and Sophie, son Daniel, sister Corinne, sons-in-law Persis, Jac and Romio, daughter-in-law Lisa, 9 grandchildren Nyssa, Amber Asher, Topaz, Metta, Jaya, Ava, Milo and Louis, brother-in-law Richard, nephew Andrew, niece Annabel, relatives, neighbours and a large circle of friends to whom sincere sympathy is extended. Sincere thanks have been extended by the family to all the wonderful people in the community who cared for Sally in her last years. Her funeral service took place on last on Thursday, December 4, in St Mary’s, Church of Ireland, Cong, at 11 am followed by her burial ceremonies. May she rest eternally in the peace and happiness of heaven.
Ballintubber Tractor Run including vintage cars will take place on next Saturday, December 13, at 4.30pm. There will also be a kiddies tractor run, a Santa grotto, Christmas carols and great prizes in the raffle. Registration is at 2pm in the Abbey car park. The entry fee is €20.
Ballintubber GAA lotto jackpot stood at €5,700 on Sunday night, November 30. The numbers drawn were 7, 10, 14 and 24. There was no jackpot winner. Consolation prizes went to Tom McGreal, Brid Delaney, Conleth Lydon, Breege Blake, Gerry Geraghty and Teresa Horan. The jackpot stood at €5,800 on last Sunday night, December 7 in the Carra Lodge.
Simon Casey brings his Christmas Time concert to Ballintubber Abbey this Thursday, December 18, at 8pm. Enjoy an evening of festive favourites and inspirational songs, all wrapped in the Abbey’s magical Christmas atmosphere. Tickets: €25 Tickets: https://www.ballintubberabbey.ie/christmas-concert-with.../ All proceeds support the Abbey’s Preservation and Restoration Fund.
There was no winner of the jackpot in the Ballyglass Lotto draw held on Monday, December 1. The numbers drawn from the drum were 1, 10, 14 and 18. The consolation prize winners were; TC Connolly, James and Leona Gibbons, Anna Heverin, Catherine Burke and Declan Burke. The weekend draw had a jackpot of €15,300 up for grabs.
The winners of the card games on Monday, December 1, were:1st Sean Reilly and Seamus Hughes, 2nd Martin Sweeney and Gus Sweeney, 3rd Tom Fitzpatrick and Patricia Jennings; Pat Griffith and Chris Turner. The best of last 10 were Martin Ford and Seamus Nevin and Martin and Seamus also won the raffle prizes. The Christmas card game will be on Monday, December 15.
Save the date for the Ballyglass Christmas Market, in the community centre, on next Saturday, December 13, from 11am to 2pm. The usual great mix of great food products and crafts, including Féile Catering, Joe Kelly’s vegetables, Ballinlough jams, Genevieve’s holistic ointments, crepes, puddings and cakes, decorations, Christmas wreaths, books, art, bags, jewellery and Mayo Gaels calendars. There’ll be carol singing, a special Christmas raffle and festive fun for all ages.
The AGM for the Ballyglass Active Age Group will be held on the January 20, 2026 at 12.15pm in the Ballyglass Community Centre. New members are always very welcome. As the group draws down the curtain on 2025 they look back on a busy year with lots of activities and get-togethers enjoyed by all.
Sincere thanks have been extended to Maureen, Mary and Aggie for their hard work and dedication in the organising of the various outings etc. and to all who helped in any way throughout the year. The group are looking forward to the New Year and to planning many more shared occasions. New members are welcome to come along and participate in some of the activities, exercise classes, yoga classes or to join the group for a cuppa and the chat every Tuesday morning. The group wishes everyone the blessings of the Christmas season, good health and happiness for 2026.
A wonderful Christmas book 'Blitzen’s Best Christmas' with Lough Carra at its heart is now on sale. Thoughtfully, written by local author Claire O'Malley with excellent illustrations it is available on-line from www.buythebook.ie Blitzen’s Best Christmas is in its second edition and is also available as Gaeilge. Buy the Book here:
https://www.buythebook.ie/product/blitzens-best-christmas/ #childrensbooks.
Congratulations are extended to Ciara Loftus, daughter of Teresa and Michael Loftus, Rostigue, and Sean McManus, who were married on Friday, December 5, in St Mary’s Church, Carnacon. The couple are wished good health and happiness all the days of their married lives.
A Pastoral Council meeting will be held in the Dorter room of Ballintubber Abbey on Tuesday, December 9, at 8pm. All members are requested to attend.
A huge thank you has been extended to guest speakers, Chris Huxley and Jarek Majkusiak, for sharing their insights and enthusiasm at the recent LCCA November meeting. The contributions brought great energy and inspiration to the room. Thanks have also been extended to everyone attended meetings and took part and supported the LCCA throughout the year. It is fantastic to see such strong community interest and engagement and it is that support that keeps the work moving forward.
Carnacon Baby and Toddler Group meets every Wednesday from 10am in Carnacon Community Centre (F12NY38). All parents, guardians and little ones are welcome. This is a free event and details can be had from Áine Freely, PHN on 094 9378565.
Teagasc Mayo is now taking applications for a new Distance Education course due to start in Teagasc Ballinrobe in January. The course students will complete a full range of hands on practical skills such as calf and animal husbandry tasks, lambing skills and a range of farm machinery skills. Students will learn the latest agricultural information and develop the necessary skills required to run a profitable farm in the future and will be in a position to avail of the various reliefs and grants once qualified subject to meeting the scheme terms and condition. Students who are interested in applying for this course can do so by applying online using the dedicated link on line.
The brand-new 2026 Ballintubber Abbey Calendar is now available. It features stunning images of the abbey, the grounds and the cloister and is a perfect keepsake or gift.
Every calendar sold goes directly to the Preservation and Restoration Fund, helping restore and protect the sacred abbey that has stood strong for over 800 years. Buy yours in-store at their Gift Shop, or order online.
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Congratulations are extended to Michael John Casey, Carheen, who was the recipient of a Papal Honour at a Mass of Thanksgiving on Friday night last in Halla, Tourmakeady. The Bene Merenti Medal and Parchment signed by Pope Leo was conferred on Michael John for all his wonderful work around St Mary’s Church, Tourmakeady. Michael John has been a trojan worker for Tourmakeady Community organisations for numerous years and his many friends across the county rejoice in his well merited recognition and prestigious award.
The death has taken place of Michael (Mikie) McGing, Shanafarahan, Finney. In his 88th year, Michael passed away peacefully in MUH surrounded by his family on November 27. Predeceased by his parents Patrick and Catherine, infant sister Margaret, sisters Betty (USA), Maureen (USA), Kathleen (Ferrybridge) and brother John (USA), Michael is survived by his loving family, sisters Christina Kearns (Derrinkee, Westport) and Sally Hill (California, USA), nephews, nieces, cousins, relatives, neighbours, friends and the wonderful staff and residents in the Ross suite, Sacred Heart Hospital, Castlebar to whom sincere condolences are extended. His remains reposed in Burke’s Funeral Home, Clonbur on Sunday from 1pm with removal at 3pm to The Church of The Immaculate Conception, Finney. The Funeral Mass for Michael was celebrated on the Monday morning at 11am with burial afterwards in Rosshill Cemetery. Go dtuga Dia solas na bhflaitheas dá anam.
Congratulations to the Tuar Mhic Éadaigh CTR Culture, Language and Development Committee. They won second place in the Green Gaeltacht Project category at the 2025 Gaeltacht Awards. They are doing a great job promoting sustainable projects in the Gaeltacht.
This award gives recognition to the renewable energy projects developed in the community. Grateful thanks have been extended to the judges and to all the organising team for organising such an enjoyable evening.
An bhfuil gnó agat i nDúiche Sheoigheach nó Tuar Mhic Éadaigh? Cláraigh do @gradaim_gno scéim náisiúnta aitheantais don Ghaeilge sa ghnó. Are you a business owner in Joyce Country or Tourmakeady? Register for @gradaimgno a national recognition scheme for use of the Irish language in buisness.
Register here: www.glornangael.ie/gradaim. Nó má tá tacaíocht uait ó thaobh na Gaeilge i do ghnó, déan teagmháil le Róisín trí théacs: 0873970227 nó ríomhphost: opt.cdst@gmail.com or if you need support in terms of the Irish language in your business, get in touch with Róisín via text: 087 3970227 or email: opt.cdst@gmail.com.
The winners of the Tourmakeady NS lotto bonus ball school fundraiser on Saturday, November 15, was ball number 46 Michael and Sally Mhic Giobuin, and on Saturday, November 22 ball number 45, Nancy Ni Eanachain. Congratulations and many thanks to all for supporting the fundraiser. 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.
The annual Parish Christmas dinner will be held on next Saturday, December 13, starting at 6.30pm in Máire Luke’s. Confirm your attendance at your earliest convenience by phoning 094 9544295 or 087 9650911 or email:eolas@tourmakeady.com. There will be a dinner, mulled wine, music, raffle and lots of fun. The organising committee look forward to seeing you all at this parish get together. All in community are welcome to attend.
Yoga class in Halla will be back as normal on this Tuesday, December 9, with the last class before Christmas taking place on the 16th of December.
The Makers Market, Tuar Mhic Éadaigh will be commencing on Saturday, February 7, from 11am to 3pm. It will run every 1st Saturday of the month thereafter Halla Tuar Mhic Éadaigh, F12 C6F2. Now open for applications to trade, or for more info email: makersmarket.tme@gmail.com.
The annual Curry night at Máire Luke’s, Bar and Restaurant will take place on Saturday, December 20, from 5pm. Music for the night is by Johnny Moran. Call 094 9544080 or 087 9403430.
The weekend lotto jackpot on last Saturday, December 7, stood at €20,000. 16, 21, 28 and 30 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 also a €40 Cairde prize each week.
Tourmakeady Community are developing a biodiversity plan to document all plants, animals and wildlife habitats that are in the area. It is looking to make improvements and encourage actions to make Tourmakeady a more nature friendly community. As part of the process, it is vital to get an idea of what is important to people, when they think about the natural environment. See the relevant link on Tourmakeady Facebook page.
The beautiful south-west Mayo lakeside community of Tourmakeady has celebrated establishment of its parkrun on Saturday mornings at 9.30. Parkrun is a free, community event where people can walk, jog, run, volunteer or spectate.
Condolences are extended to Ann Conway, Bohaun and Mary Barrett, Kiltharshane on the recent passing of their brother-in-law, Paddy Davis, R.I.P, Clifden.
Congrats to Jimmy Morley, Ballinrobe and Mary Heneghan, Ballinern, who were recent winners of Partry Residents weekly numbers draw with number 45. The latest draw was on Saturday night last, December 6.
A gambling therapist is supporting both the problem gambler and their families. Though based in the Tacu Family Resource Centre in Ballinrobe the service covers all of Mayo. It’s a free support service and is open to anyone in need. Bernie Heneghan, Psychotherapist. Email: gaware nesstacufrc@gmail.com Phone: 087 7005811for further details.
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The death has taken place of Charlie Muldoon, Carrowclogher, Ballyheane, Castlebar. Charlie passed away on December 3, in University Hospital Galway. His passing is an occasion of great sorrow to his grieving family and many friends. Charlie was very popular for his friendly, outgoing and courageous personality. Predeceased by his parents and sister Sheila Muldoon, he is deeply regretted by his partner Anne, son Shane, daughter Lauren, stepsons David and Jonathon, sister Marion (Dundalk), brother Brian (Ballyglass), brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, David’s partner Gillian, Jonathon’s partner Sarah, grandchildren Jack, Dathaí and Oisín, nephews, nieces, relatives, neighbours and friends to whom sincere condolences are tendered.
Charlie’s remains reposed in Ballyheane Community Centre on last Friday, December 5, from 5.30pm with removal at 7pm to St. Patrick’s Church, Ballyheane. Requiem Mass took place on Saturday at 1pm. Dia dean trócaire ar a nAinm.
Breaffy GAA lotto results for Tuesday, December 2, the numbers 2, 12, 23 and bonus number 6 were drawn and there was no jackpot winner. Richard Browne won the €250 prize for matching 3 numbers. The jackpot stands at €18,300 on this Tuesday, December 9.
Congratulations to the Breaffy GAA players involved with the St. Gerald's Juvenile team, who captured the O’Haire Cup on a recent Friday. Gerald’s came out on top after a hard-fought and thrilling final against Rice College.
Breaffy GAA Club and community have extended their deepest condolences to Seán and Mary Grealis on their family bereavements in recent days. Mary’s mother, Eileen Heffernan, Lacken House, Dundrum, Co. Tipperary was laid to rest on a recent Friday and Sean’s mother Maureen Grealis, Dooniver, Achill, Co. Mayo passed peacefully, surrounded by her family on November 29. Sincere sympathies are extended to them and to their extended families. May they rest eternally in the peace and happiness of heaven.
On the weekend of November 30 the jackpot stood at €4,100. The numbers drawn were 1, 14, 24 and 26. Consolation prizes went to the Quinn family, Shane Lawless, Ray Ralph and Ger Prendergast. The weekend jackpot stood at €4,200 on Sunday last, December 7.
Belcarra are proud to unveil their new Community Water Refill Station. This is another step toward sustainability and cleaner living. The community are protecting local waters and reducing plastic waste. Thanks have been extended to the Belcarra Community Group Water Scheme for getting this new addition to the village and thanks also to the National Federation of Group Water Scheme for funding this initiative.
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The death has occurred of Michael Patrick Walsh (Mike), Heathlawn, Balla, Co Mayo. Michael passed away peacefully at the Mayo Hospice. Michael was widely known as a pleasant, caring and humorous and talented person. He prepared the initial development plans for the Mayo Peace Park Garden of Remembrance, a fitting memorial to Mayo’s war dead. Predeceased by his parents Paddy and Mary, brother Patrick and beloved son Ben Michael is deeply regretted by his wife Maureen, daughter Kate, sister Catherine, brothers John and Canon Chris, daughter-in-law Chiara, grandson Silas, and his step sons Adam and Robin, and their families, nieces, nephews, cousins in the UK and Ireland-of the Boyle, Bourke, and Cunniffe families, neighbours and friends to whom sincere sympathies are tendered.
His remains were taken to St Cronan’s Church, Balla at 10.30am on last Thursday morning for Requiem Mass at 11am. Burial ceremonies took place afterwards in the New Cemetery. Ar dheis De go raibh a nAinm.
Balla GAA lotto draw was held on the Thursday, November 27 in The Railway Tavern for a jackpot of €7,000. 13, 20, 25 and 32 were the numbers drawn and there was no jackpot winner. The €30 consolation prize winners were Alan Kenny (standing order), Shona Kilkenny (standing order) and Judy Clarke (cash sale).The latest draw was held on Thursday last, December 4, in The Shebeen when the jackpot stood at €7,100.
Manulla FC Club lotto jackpot stood at €3,800 for last Sunday nights, December 7 draws. The club are deeply grateful for the support of Patrons.
The annual general meeting of Balla Community Resource Development (Balla CRD) will take place on this Tuesday night, December 9 at 8pm in the Remote Working Hub (Courthouse). All members are welcome to attend.
Why not learn to relax in Balla Sensory Room? As the evenings grow darker, colder, and wetter, find comfort and calm in the Sensory Room which is open every day at Balla Community Centre. It is available daytime, evenings, and weekends for people to experience soothing visual, auditory, and tactile relaxation suitable for all ages Enjoy a safe, inclusive space to unwind and recharge. Take time out for yourself and at a time that suits you best. Phone Balla Community Centre 087 1850860 | 094 93 65846 or email info@balla.ie.
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Sincere thanks has been extended to Tom Carolan of Age Friendly Ireland who visited the Active Age Group last week to introduce the work of Age Friendly Ireland and to give an overview of the services they provide for older people. Among the topics they assist with are Housing, Health and Finance. If anyone in the community feels that they may benefit from the services of Age Friendly Ireland contact Mary at 087 2217058 or Breege at 086 3706757.
Errew National School are organising a monster Christmas Draw. There is a lovely array of prizes such as a signed Connacht Rugby Jersey and 4 tickets for a home Connacht game, a signed Mayo jersey, €150 Home Store and More voucher, a months membership for The Movement Gym/Lough Lannagh, Luxury Christmas Hamper, €25 voucher Kelly’s Barbers plus 6 Christmas Hampers. Please support the Christmas raffle to raise funds to buy new interactive whiteboards for the classrooms. The closing date is next Monday, December 15.
Congratulations are extended to Marian and the Deasy family for the ‘Live for Lorcan’ behavioural safety initiative launched recently by Minister Alan Dillon TD and Electric Skyline Ltd in the McWilliam Park hotel, Claremorris. It was an emotional afternoon at the launch of the “Live for Lorcan” safety initiative, in memory of Lorcan Deasy, who tragically lost his life in a workplace accident in 2018.
Workplace safety is not just a box ticking exercise, and as Marian Deasy so authentically expressed it “The job will wait”.
It is the responsibility of everyone to ensure workplace safety is a top priority. Plaudits to the Deasy family for their relentless advocacy in this important field, and to @electric skyline for driving forward with this initiative.
Congratulations to Naomi Cuffe who was the November winner of the Clogher 500 draw. The next draw will take place on December 28. There are Christmas vouchers for the 500 Club draw available for sale at present costing €60 and the recipient will be entered for twelve draws.
Results of the card game played on November 28 were 1st Mary Morrin and Pat Griffith, 2nd Majella Corbett and Gus Sweeney, 3rd Gay Conway and Joe Thomas. The last 10 winners were, Eileen Moran and Martin Moran. The progressive 25 game continues every Friday night at 9pm.
Thanks to all the people who supported the annual table quiz in the Drum Inn on Saturday, November 29. Special thanks to all sponsors of the raffle and spot prizes and to the quizmaster Jimmy Murphy who provided a wide and varied range of questions. Thanks to Joe and Liz Mahon and family for providing the superb venue and as is usual, it was a very enjoyable night out.
The walking group have organised the annual end of year walk for Saturday, December 27, at 11am, starting at the Heritage Cottage (F12 PF99). Refreshments will be served afterwards in the Heritage Cottage.
