Local Notes: Festive countdown is on in Carra Country
Santa Claus relaxing beside the Christmas Tree in Clogher Heritage Centre before beginning his journey around the world.
Simon Casey brings his Christmas Time concert to Ballintubber Abbey on this Thursday, December 18th, at 8pm. Enjoy an evening of festive favourites and inspirational songs, all wrapped in the Abbey’s magical Christmas atmosphere.
Tickets cost €25 and are available from www.ballintubberabbey.ie. All proceeds support the Abbey’s Preservation and Restoration Fund.
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 the Abbey Gift Shop or order online. No excuse not to get one!
Ballintubber GAA Lotto jackpot stood at €5,800 on Sunday night, December 7th, for the draw in the Carra Lodge.
The numbers drawn were 13, 19, 26 and 27, and there was no jackpot winner. Consolation prizes went to Gavin Roache, Cliona Grehan, John Corbett, Grace Hallinan, Anto Lally and Philomena Roper.
The jackpot stood at €5,900 on last Sunday night for the draw in Tuffy’s of Doonamona. You can play online.
There was no winner of the jackpot in the Ballyglass FC Lotto draw held on Monday, December 8th, when the numbers drawn were 7, 10, 28 and 32. Nobody matched three numbers either.
The consolation prize winners were Martin Joe Burke, Declan Morley, Gary Browne, Jo Walsh and Mike Hargreaves.
The weekend draw had a jackpot of €15,400 up for grabs. You can play online or purchase tickets from any committee member or in local outlets.
The winners of the card games in Ballyglass on Monday, December 8th, were: 1st, Gus Sweeney and Mattie Sweeney; Mary Brennan and Breege Jennings; 2nd, Sean Reilly and Seamus Hughes; Chris Turner and Pat Griffith; 3rd, Martin Ford and Seamus Nevin; Mary Morrin and Patricia Jennings.
The Best of Last 10 prizes went to Mary and Richard Carney and the raffle winners were Peter Glynn and Tomas Solan. Thanks to all of the card players for their continued support and well done to all the winners.
As Ballyglass Active Age 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 are 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, and good health and happiness for 2026.
Ballyglass Foróige organised a bake-off last Friday night, Congratulations to Julie Mahon who goes on to the next stage of the Junior National Bake-off Competition. The best of luck is extended to Julie.
On November 30th, the Foróige group went to the Galway Christmas Markets and had a lovely time. Thanks to everyone who organised it and took part. The Ballyglass Foróige group also went to the disco in the TF Castlebar on December 12th. Thanks to all who organised it. The group had a wonderful time!
A wonderful Christmas book, entitled 'Blitzen’s Best Christmas', with Lough Carra at its heart, is now on sale.
Thoughtfully written by local author Claire O'Malley, and with excellent illustrations, it is available online from www.buythebook.ie.
'Blitzen’s Best Christmas' is in its second edition and is also available as Gaeilge.
When visiting Ballintubber Abbey, don’t miss the guided tour. Expert guides will take you through over 800 years of history - from St Patrick’s footsteps to the legacy of the Pirate Queen.
Discover the stories, architecture and spirituality that make the Abbey one of Ireland’s hidden gems. Don’t forget to enjoy the peaceful outdoor grounds, see the Visitor Centre and browse at the Gift Shop.
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.
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.
They will also 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 online on the Teagasc website.
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PARTRY/TOURMAKEADY/KILLAWALLA
The death has taken place of Nora Brady (nee Kerrigan), Kiltharschane, Killawalla, Westport.
In her 92nd year, Nora passed away surrounded by her loving family, after a short illness in Mayo University Hospital.
She was predeceased by her parents, Thomas and Maisie Kerrigan, husband Paddy, and infant son Patrick Francis, brothers John, Michael and Tommie Joe, and sister Mary Treacy.
Nora is deeply regretted by her sons Martin and Tom (Mayo), Kevin (Chicago), Michael and Liz, and Paul, (Luton), daughters Maureen (and Philip Geraghty, Moycullen), Kathleen (and Declan Forde, Ballyglunnin) and Anne (and Brendan Foy, Belcarra); grandchildren Gary and Lauren, brothers Charlie (Teresa) Kerrigan, Ballyheane, Martin (Phil) Kerrigan, Luton; sister Nancy (John) Gibbons, Maulden, sister-in-law Margaret Kerrigan, nephews, nieces and a wide circle of family, friends and kind neighbours to whom sincere condolences are extended.
Her remains reposed in Killawalla Community Centre with removal to St Patrick’s Church, Killawalla. Requiem Mass was celebrated on Saturday week last with burial in the local cemetery.
May she rest in peace.
It is anticipated that the 'Waterfall' magazine will be in local retail outlets this week.
Full of articles of interest and splendid photography, it makes the ideal Christmas gift for Tourmakeady folk in Ireland and overseas.
The organising committee deserve the highest plaudits for their dedication in producing this splendid magazine annually. It retails at a modest €10 and is the ideal Christmas gift.
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.
You can register at www.glornangael.ie/gradaim or if you need support in terms of the Irish language in your business, get in touch with Róisín via text at 087-3970227 or email: opt.cdst@gmail.com.
The last Yoga class before Christmas will take place in the Halla on December 16th.
Sincere sympathy is tendered to Martin Murphy, Gortmore, on the recent passing of his sister, Kathleen O’Brien.
May she rest in peace.
Grateful thanks have been extended to the team who erected the crib at Halla Tuar Mhic Éadaigh - Tom Heneghan, Philip O'Malley, Tommy Maree and Mary Teresa Nee.
Situated at the roadside frontage of the Halla, it looks quite magnificent.
The jackpot in the Tourmakeady CLG Lotto stood at €20,000 for the draw on Saturday, December 13th, when the numbers drawn were 13, 14, 18 and 20. 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. All funds raised support club development and the support of patrons is deeply appreciated. You can play online at www.smartlotto.ie or purchase tickets in local outlets.
Tourmakeady community is 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 Knitting Club is based in the Halla on Monday evenings. The group meet at 7.30pm. New members are most welcome and further details are available from 087-7657191.
Yoga Classes with Carmel on Tuesday evenings at 6.30pm. Details are available from 086-8194215.
Tourmakeady Social Club meets up on Thursdays from 2 to 4pm in the Halla for light exercise, bingo, and refreshments. New members from the over 50s male and female would be very welcome.
Na Finna Martial Arts Mayo takes place every Friday afternoon in Halla Tuar Mhic Éadaigh for children and adults. For further information and booking, please call 085-8060438.
The beautiful south-west Mayo lakeside community of Tourmakeady has celebrated the establishment of its Parkrun on Saturday mornings at 9.30am.
Parkrun is a free, community event where people can walk, jog, run, volunteer or spectate. All are very welcome to participate.
Partry AFC Draw takes place on Wednesday nights weekly. Recent winners were Claire Mitchell and Family and Mark and Caroline Conway with number 9.
The club are deeply grateful for the ongoing support of patrons.
Partry Bingo sessions take place in the comfortable confines of Partry Centre on Monday nights each week. There are lots of generous prizes and a lovely atmosphere to savour by patrons.
All are welcome.
Congrats to Nora Coyne, Kilfaul and Paul Lennon who were recent winners of Partry Residents' weekly numbers draw. The latest draw was on Saturday night last, December 13th.
All proceeds are invested in local developments and village enhancement. Tickets are on sale from Jim O’ Neill at 087-2860565. The support of the community is greatly appreciated.
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BREAFFY/ BALLYHEANE/ BELCARRA
The Belcarra Community Christmas Party 2025 took place on Sunday, December 7th. Christmas magical brilliance shone at its brightest when the community came together.
From decorating the hall to stewarding, serving food and mulled wine, the incredible volunteers poured their hearts into making it a gala celebration and a memorable evening for all the community.
The event commenced with superb tunes provided by David Cunningham and Foróige selling their fabulous decorations. The children’s tractor run was special and what a huge amount of effort the children put into their wheels.
Santa arrived to switch on the lights. Everyone enjoyed refreshments and were treated to some lovely music by Carra Music and Santa even joined in for a tune.
Children got to have their face painted and also watch a Christmas movie. Every child got to bring home some reindeer food that they will leave for out Santa on Christmas Eve.
A huge thank you to everyone who showed up, pitched in, and shared in the joyous community occasion.
The winners in the December card game in Belcarra Centre were: 1st, Michael Costello and Tommy Fahy; 2nd, Padraic Nally, Brendan Costello, Mary McGough and Tom Walsh, Francis Lohan and Conor Heaney; 3rd, Jimmy Collins and John McDonagh, and John McCormack and Cathy O' Toole.
The Last 9 winners were Maura Ruane and Nuala Flannery and Jimmy Connor and Michael Conroy.
The next game will be on Monday, January 5th. The organisers wish all their patrons a peaceful and happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
On the weekend of December 7th, the jackpot stood at €4,200 in the Belcarra Lotto and the numbers drawn were 10, 14, 18 and 26.
There was no winner of the lotto jackpot. Consolation prizes went to Colm Connor, Michael Morrin, Katie Walsh and Ger Cuffe.
The weekend jackpot stood at €4,300 on Sunday last, December 14th. Thanks as always for the support of patrons. Tickets are on sale in Cunningham’s Costcutter, Cuffe Car Sales, Nestor's and Flukies and also online at www.clubforce.com.
Group singing classes take place in the community centre in Belcarra on Mondays for six to eight-year-olds and also for eight to 10-year-olds.
Registration is required and details can be had from 087-6926753 or email carramusicschool@gmail.com.
Parent and Toddler Group meetings are on Wednesdays in the community centre. The group meet from 10.30am to 12pm on Wednesdays and babies, toddlers, and pre-school children are welcome with a parent or minder.
There was no winner of the jackpot in the Breaffy GAA Lotto draw on Tuesday, December 9th, when the numbers drawn were 8, 14, 20 and bonus number 5. There were no Match 3 winners either.
The jackpot stands at €18,400 on this Tuesday, December 16th.
Everyone who plays the Breaffy GAA Lotto from now until December 23rd is automatically entered to win €500. Just enter any draw between now and Christmas – one lucky player will take home the €500.
Thank you for your ongoing support of Breaffy GAA.
Ballyheane FC are recipients of an equipment grant of €37,668, which has been awarded to the club by the National Lottery Good Causes and the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sports and Media.
This equipment grant is for the purchase of a robot mower and will be of tremendous benefit to the club.
The comfortable confines of Ballyheane Centre are the venue for enjoyable Bingo sessions on Wednesday nights each week at 9pm.
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BALLA/MANULLA
A huge thank you has been extended to everyone who helped make the Balla Christmas event such a memorable occasion.
What a day and what an absolutely magical evening! The crowds were incredible, the atmosphere electric, and it was all made possible by remarkable people behind the scenes.
An amazing 92 children took part in the Kids’ Tractor Run. Thanks has been extended to all the little drivers, their families, volunteers, and supporters who made the super occasion so special. The excitement, smiles, and community spirit were absolutely fantastic.
Profound thanks to the phenomenal volunteers, dedicated staff, An Garda Síochána, Order of Malta, and the outstanding pyrotechnic team who delivered the breath-taking fireworks display. Your hard work, support, and commitment made the occasion unforgettable.
Balla CRD is truly grateful to each and every one of you and they wish everyone a Happy Christmas.
The Balla GAA annual St Stephen’s Day 5k is supporting Aoibheann’s Pink Tie, and the club are delighted to offer all proceeds to this worthy cause.
Aoibheann’s Pink Tie, Ireland's national children’s cancer charity, was set up in 2010 by Mick Rochford and Jimmy Norman after the death of Jimmy’s daughter Aoibheann from a rare type of cancer.
They provide practical, emotional and financial fall back to those families who need it. The support varies case by case as almost every situation is different.
This charity is near and dear to the club, which is very grateful and privileged that it can support them in this small way by donating all funds received from its annual St Stephen’s Day 5k to the charity.
Balla GAA Lotto draw was held on the Thursday, December 4th, in The Shebeen for a jackpot of €7,100.
The numbers drawn were 5, 18, 19 and 27 and there was no jackpot winner. The €30 consolation prize winners were Donagh Gilmartin (cash sale), Judy Boyle (online) and Jimmy and Denise Walsh (standing order).
The latest draw was held on Thursday last, December 11th, in the Rendezvous when the jackpot stood at €7,200.
Thanks to all who support the club lotto.
Manulla FC Club Lotto jackpot stood at €3,900 for the draw on December 14th. The club is deeply grateful for the support of patrons.
Congratulations to Natalia Fasciszewska, of Castlebar Boxing Club, who recently won a silver medal in the European Boxing Championships.
Making her debut in the Championships at just 20 years old, Natalia won a silver medal, just losing out in the final to a woman who is ranked as the No 1 elite level boxer in the world at 57kg.
Natalia’s journey to the finals included wins over top European competitors.
Manulla FC has extended their warm congratulations to Natalia on her magnificent achievement.
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 on 087-1850860 or 094-9365846 or email info@balla.ie.
Would you like to join a group of friendly, enthusiastic people who are interested in sewing?
Come along to Balla Community Centre every Monday from 10am to 1pm and have a cuppa and a chat while you sew. All levels are welcome from beginners to seasoned stitchers.
If interested, please get in touch with Josie on 085 1401229 or contact a member of staff in the centre on 087-1850860.
On Tuesday mornings, why not visit Balla Centre and try Line Dancing with Christopher at 11am? Join the group at Balla Community Centre and have fun moving to the music! All levels welcome and beginners are encouraged. It’s a great way to stay active, meet new people, and have fun.
Call 087-1850860 or 094-9365846 or email info@balla.ie to book your spot. No experience needed - just bring your dancing shoes and a smile!
A 25 card drive is held every Saturday night in Balla Community Centre. Call the centre at 094-9365843 for more information.
Manulla 25 card game takes place at 9pm in the local centre on Sunday nights. New players are always welcome.
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ERREW/CLOGHER
Thanks to all who supported the Santa at the Cottage event on Sunday, December 7th.
Santa was his usual happy self and remembered all the boys and girls from last year, as well as the parents and grandparents from long ago. He was transported to the cottage by Anthony Morrin and met all the children and their parents in the cottage grotto.
A group of local people entertained the audience with some festive carols and songs. Santa then turned on the Christmas Tree lights.
There was cookie decorating and art in the Forge and a group provided tea, coffee and hot chocolate as well as some sweet treats.
Thanks to the committee for organising such a lovely Christmas event. Thanks also to the volunteers and the staff from the Community Scheme who helped out on the day.
The results of the card game in Clogher on December 5th were: 1st, Mary Morrin and Pat Griffith; 2nd, Gay Conway and Patrick Barrett and Jimmy Connor and Tommy Lyons.
The Last 10 winners were Bernie Heneghan and Eileen Moran.
The final card game for 2025 is on Friday next, December 19th, and the card games will then resume on Friday, January 9th, 2026.
Errew National School are organising a Monster Christmas Draw. There is a lovely array of prizes, including a signed Connacht Rugby jersey and four tickets for a home Connacht game; a signed Mayo jersey; €150 Homestore and More voucher; a month's membership for The Movement Gym at Lough Lannagh; luxury Christmas hamper; a €25 voucher for Kelly’s Barbers and six 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 15th.
All Re-turn donations to Errew Centre are most welcome over the festive season. It was a really successful venture this year raising much needed funds for the running costs of Errew Community Centre.
Huge thanks have been extended to Marian Deasy for leading this fundraiser.
Congratulations are extended to Niall Hession, Newtown, Clogher and Clodagh Reidy, Castlebar who recently announced their engagement. They are wished great success with their future plans.
The walking group have organised the annual end-of-year walk for Saturday, December 27th, at 11am, starting at the Heritage Cottage (F12 PF99).
This is an opportunity to walk off the excesses of the Christmas days and to enjoy fresh air and good company. Refreshments will be served afterwards in the Heritage Cottage.
