Local Notes: Launch of Moorehall Masterplan at Carnacon Centre.
Councillor Patsy O'Brien, Mayo Co Council, Robert Coyne Engineer, Mayo County Council Tourism Dept. and Minister Alan Dillon pictured at Carnacon Centre for the launch of the Moorehall Masterplan. Picture by Tom Quinn.
There was great joy in Ballintubber as the winners in the prestigious Mayo Business Awards for 2025 were announced. The awards were presented by Minister Alan Dillon at a gala ceremony with over 200 attendees in McWilliam Park Hotel, Claremorris on Friday, November 7. Winners were announced in no less than 11 categories and Ballintubber emerged winners in two of those categories “Best Small-Medium Business” (sponsored by CBE), Hayes Mechanical and Engineering and the Mayo Tourism Award (sponsored by Fáilte Ireland) went to Ballintubber Abbey Trust.
It was a proud day for the Ballintubber community as the two local enterprises received top honours. For a small rural community, this double success is a remarkable achievement, especially considering that more than 130 businesses from across the county were in contention. Ballintubber Abbey currently welcomes over 35,000 visitors each year, and with the development of its new Cultural and Heritage Visitor Centre, that number is expected to grow to more than 100,000 annually. This expansion will further enhance Mayo’s tourism offering and strengthen the local economy.
Meanwhile, Hayes Mechanical and Engineering, which employs 60 people, continues to demonstrate excellence and innovation in its field, a testament to the strong entrepreneurial spirit that thrives in rural Mayo. This recognition highlights what local communities can achieve through dedication, vision, and pride of place. A heartfelt ‘thank you’ has been extended to the Mayo Business Awards, Local Enterprise Office, Mayo Chambers, Mayo County Council and the sponsors Fáilte Ireland.
Ballintubber GAA lotto jackpot stood at €5,400 on Sunday night, November 9. The numbers drawn were 14, 28, 30 and 35. Consolation prizes went to David Staunton, Nicholas O’Kelly, Paul McHugh, Michael and Marie Cannon, Lottie Mannion and John Moran Snr. The jackpot stood at €5,500 on last Sunday night, November 16.
Bua Chraobh an Chontae ag CLG Baile an Tobair dár bhfoireann ghrúpa ceoil ag Scór na nÓg 2025. Comhghairdeas le Hannah Pittendrigh, Tiarnán O'Toole, Conor Hoban agus Beth Scully. Bua den scoth. Téann siad ar aghaidh chuig Craobh Chonnacht anois.
Ballintubber GAA won the county Scór final with the club grúpa ceoil at Scór na nÓg 2025. Congratulations to Hannah Pittendrigh, Tiarnán O'Toole, Conor Hoban and Beth Scully. They will now go on to represent the club in the Connacht championship. The winners of the Mayo GAA Gaeltacht summer course scholarships were Beth Ní Scolaí from CLG Baile an Tobair and Brandon Newman from CLG Cill Aodháin.
The LCCA November public meeting and AGM will be held on Tuesday, November 25, at 7.30pm in the Belcarra Community Centre. The guest speakers will be Chris Huxley, "25 Years of Lough Carra" and Jarek Majkusiak “LCCA Podcast Series". Updates on LCCA recent activities and updates on Lough Carra Life Project will be given.
November Harmonies Concert takes place on Saturday, November 22, with free admission. It features Ballintubber Abbey Choir, Mayo Male Voice Choir and Ballinteer Male Voice Choir. Donations will be welcomed to the Abbey Preservation and Restoration Fund. Ballintubber Abbey is the venue on November 25 for “Voices of the Centenaries”, a musical performance with vocal ensemble Resurge Collegium Chambers Choir and Musicians Malcolm Proud and Siobhan Armstrong as part of Mayo County Council’s Commemorative Programme 2025. The event is free but bookings are required via Eventbrite.
Christmas Time by Simon Casey takes place on Thursday, December 19, at 8pm with tickets costing €25 and proceeds to the Abbey Preservation and Restoration Fund. Tickets are available on line only. Info: www.ballintubberabbey.ie.
The results of Ballyglass FC lotto draw held on November 10, in the clubhouse are as follows. The numbers drawn from the drum were: 7, 17, 24 and 25. There was no winner of the €14,900 jackpot. The consolation prize winners were as follows; Sean Connor, Peter and Bridie Killeen, Richard Carney, Patrick Burke and Tom Quinn. The weekend jackpot stood at €15,000.
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The Annual Parish Christmas Dinner will be held on Saturday, December 13, starting at 6.30pm in Máire Luke’s. 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. For bookings contact 094 9544295 or 087 9650911.
Tá áthas ar muintir Tuar Mhic Éadaigh a chur in iúil daoibh go bhfuil Coiste Ceol na Locha agus Coiste SEC Thuar Mhic Éadaigh ainmnithe ar an ngearrliosta do Ghradaim na Gaeltachta 2025. Bhí an moltóireacht ar siúl an tseachtain seo caite agus coicís ó shin. Fógrófar na buaiteoirí ag ocáid a bheas ar siúl in Ostán an Connemara Coast sna Forbacha ar an 27ú Samhain agus súil againn go mbeidh duais ag teacht arais go Tuar Mhic Éadaigh.
It has been announced that Coiste Ceol na Locha and Coiste SEC Thuar Mhic Éadaigh have been shortlisted for the Gradaim na Gaeltachta 2025 Awards. Judging was finalised last week. The winners will be announced on November 27, at the awards ceremony in the Connemara Coast Hotel in Furbo, Galway. Everyone is hopeful to have a prize-winner coming back to Tuar Mhic Éadaigh.
Why not experience the joys of Tai Chi. This ancient movement incorporates gentle movement with mindful attention to activate your energy, body and nourish your whole being. Join on this Tuesday, November 18 for a two hour introduction workshop to Tai Chi at the Mons Horan Centre, Partry at 7.30pm. Admission is just €5 and it is an over 18s event.
Tourmakeady NS lotto ball No. 8 was drawn on November 1. Congrats to Noel and Noreen MhicGhiobuin. 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 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. It is now open for applications to trade, or for more info email: makersmarket.tme@gmail.com.
A biodiversity plan for Tourmakeady is being devised at present. The idea behind the plan is that it will document plants, animals and wildlife habitats in the community. It will also look at areas where improvements can be made and where actions can be taken by the community to make Tourmakeady a more nature friendly community. As part of the process, it is important to get an idea of what is important when you think about the natural environment. Biodiversity refers to all living things. Copy and paste the link below to access the short questionnaire. https://forms.gle/guWrdB1gkgjWzptQA. Email - snthuarmhiceadaigh@gmail.com.
Congratulations are extended to Tommy and Patricia Heneghan, Churchfield who recently celebrated their Golden Wedding Anniversary. They are wished good health and many more such joyous occasions in the years ahead.
The weekend lotto jackpot on Saturday, November 15 stood at €19,800. 2, 3, 7 and 9 were the numbers drawn at the previous draw and there was no jackpot winner.
Beidh Ranganna Consairtín le Ríona chuile tráthnóna Dé Luain 3-6pm. Tuilleadh eolais ó 087 7782640. Concertina classes for children with Riona every Monday afternoon from 3-6pm. Further information is available from 087 7782640.
Sincere thanks has been extended to the Rural Social Scheme participants Padraig Collins, John Casey, Tom Whelan and their supervisor John Gibbons for the excellent job they did building the wall across from the school and for reinstating the stone with Trianláir on it. Míle buíochas le rannphairtí an Scéim Sóisialta Tuaithe-Padraig Collins, John Casey, Tom Whelan agus an Saoiste John Gibbons as an sár obair a rinneadh siad ar an balla a thóg siad trasna ón scoil. Maith sibh.
The annual general meeting of the Mayo Branch of the Irish Farmers Association will take place in Tourmakeady Hall on Friday, November 28 at 8.30pm. Prominent speakers will attend and existing and new members will be most welcome.
The beautiful south-west Mayo lakeside community of Tourmakeady has celebrated the 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. All are very welcome to participate.
The death took place on November 12 of William (Bill) Duffy, Garryduff, Castlebar; Dereendafderg, Killawalla; Granard, Co. Longford and Abbeybreaffy Nursing Home, Castlebar.
William passed away peacefully in the care of the staff in St. John’s Unit, Sacred Heart Hospital, Castlebar, surrounded by his loving family. Predeceased by his wife Kathleen (née Geraghty, Granard, Co Longford), brothers and sister he is deeply regretted by his sister Margaret (Duffy, St. Patrick’s Avenue, Castlebar), nephews, nieces, relatives, neighbours and friends to whom sincere condolences are extended.
William’s remains reposed in Coady’s Funeral Home, Castlebar, on last Thursday, November 13, from 6pm with removal at 7pm to the Church of the Holy Rosary, Castlebar. Requiem Mass was celebrated on Friday morning at 10am. William was laid to rest afterwards in Granardkille Old Cemetery, Granard, Co. Longford.
December 4, is the date set to light up Killawalla village for Christmas and also to remember the deceased members of the community after 7pm Mass. The Killawalla Tree Lighting and Remembrance Service is a cherished annual event. Hot Chocolate Treats and Christmas Carols will feature and a very special guest will also be in attendance.
This Christmas Killawalla Community Council is also doing something special and a little different… all are invited for afternoon tea on Sunday, December 7, at 3pm. There will be soup, sandwiches/ tea and treats followed by music by Conor Duffy in the centre. Tell any older neighbours who may need a lift; it will be arranged for them. Details are available from Siobhan at 087 6713940 or Carmel 087 2 87970.
6, 10, 16 and 19 were the numbers drawn in the recent Killawalla Community Council lotto draw. Consolation prizes went to Maggie McHale, Ray Derrig and Tony Flynn. The latest draw was on Sunday, November 16 in the community centre.
Due to construction works at St Patrick’s Church, Killawalla Masses have moved temporally to the local community centre for a period.
Partry AFC weekly draws takes place on Wednesday nights each week. Congrats to Tom and Eleanor Mannion, Partry, who were recent winners of the popular Partry AFC weekly numbers draw.
Partry Residents Association draws take place on Saturday evenings with generous prizes in the weekly numbers draw. Congrats to Barry Cryan, Cloonee and Maureen Byrne McKeown, Portroyal who were recent €100 winners. The latest draw was on Saturday night last, November 15. All proceeds are invested in local developments and village enhancement. Tickets are on sale from Jim O’Neill at 087 2860565.
All farming folk and interested persons are invited for an informative talk on Anaerobic Digesters - exploring how sustainable and bio-digestible technologies can transform local farming. The talk will take place in Partry Community Centre, on this Thursday, November 20, at 8pm. The guest speaker is Matthew Lang, an expert in sustainable farming and bio-digestible technologies. This is a great opportunity for local farmers and community members to learn, connect, and share ideas for a greener future. Contact Siobhan Ward, Project Agriculture Adviser siobhanward2000@yahoo.co.uk.
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The death has occurred of Joe McHugh, Kinturk, Ballyheane, Castlebar and formerly of Main Street, Louisburgh. Joe passed away peacefully on November 5, surrounded by his loving family, in the Mayo Hospice, Castlebar, after a brief illness. He was the youngest son of the late Dr. Columb McHugh and Frances McHugh (née Bourke), Louisburgh. Joe was well known in the catering industry, having worked as a chef in Ashford Castle and the Castlecourt Hotel and also in Harpoon Louie’s, Florida USA. He was involved in training and he was an auditor with the Food Safety Professionals Association. Joe was the Managing Director of the well-known company Food Flow Advisors. He was chairman of the Chefs of Mayo and was involved in fundraising for many different charities, including the Mayo Roscommon Hospice.
Joe was a great community person. He took part in the restoration of the Old Cemetery in Ballyheane and he participated in the weekly bingo sessions. Joe took great pride in his village but he never lost the love for his native Louisburgh. One of his great interests was photography and he enjoyed travelling with his beloved Judy.
All at Ballyheane FC was deeply saddened to learn of the death of Joe. He was a great supporter of Ballyheane FC and was always on hand to help out.
Joe is deeply regretted by his heartbroken wife Judy (née O’Brien), his brother Dr Pat (Leeds) and his wife Maria, his sister Columba and her partner Phil (UK), his mother-in-law Augusta O’Brien, his brothers-in-law, his sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, cousins, all the family circle, work colleagues, neighbours and many friends to whom sincere sympathy is extended. Joe remains reposed in Ballyheane Community Centre, Ballyheane, Castlebar on Friday, November 7, from 5pm with prayers at 7pm. The removal took place from his home in Kinturk on Saturday, November 8, at 10.45am, arriving at St. Patrick’s Church, Ballyheane, Castlebar for Funeral Mass at 11.30am. Burial ceremonies took place afterwards in Ballyheane Cemetery. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a nAinm.
On the weekend of November 9, the jackpot stood at €3,800. The numbers drawn were 8, 13, 21 and 31. Consolation prizes went to Judy Clarke, Alan Kenny, Thomas and Teresa Walsh and Mary FitzGerald. The weekend jackpot stood at €3,900 on Sunday, November 16.
A wonderful concert is coming to Belcarra. Chloe and David Agnew in concert accompanied by Vocalessence Ladies Choir and Mayo Concert Orchestra will perform on the night. This promises to be a truly memorable evening of beautiful music. Please save the date, Sunday, November 30 at 8pm in St Anne’s Church, Belcarra. Get your tickets on Eventbrite now https://www.eventbrite.com/.../chloe-david-agnew-in...
Grateful appreciation has been extended to Philip and Geraldine Gormley from Flukies Cosy Bar for their generous donation of all their returnable cans and bottles to Belcarra Tidy Towns. Thanks also to Pat Prendergast, who kindly collects and returns the cans every month and to everyone who assists for their ongoing support. €1,000 has been collected so far through this initiative. Your continued generosity helps to keep Belcarra village clean, green, and beautiful.
The Canavan Shield Handball Competition takes place on Sunday, December 7, at 10am in Belcarra Sports Centre. A six week beginner’s course for Mothers and Others has commenced in Belcarra Handball Alley. Click the link below to join the WhatsApp group for all the info.
https://chat.whatsapp.com/FI86YvYyTrpJmCyGuwII7D.
Pilates classes have commenced in Belcarra Community Centre on Wednesdays at 7.30pm. Pilates can help with core strength, improved posture, flexibility and mobility, injury prevention and rehab and much more. Contact Natalie to book your place on 087 2340695.
Congrats to Breaffy House Resort for having won the Green Game-Changer Award (sponsored by AIB) at the Mayo Business Awards, 2025. Congratulations also to Claire and Larry Staunton and family of The Punch Bowl, Ballyheane, who were finalists in the prestigious awards.
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The death has occurred of Bridie McGough nee Browne, Tullymore, Balla, and formerly of Kilboyne, Castlebar. Bridie passed away on the November 6, in her 81st year. Predeceased by her beloved husband Mark, her loving parents Maria and Jim, her adored grandsons David and Mark and her brothers Joe, Tom, Martin, Seamus, Mikey and Dennis she is deeply regretted and by her loving children Tom, Mary, Nonie, Fergal, Marcus, Anne, and John Paul; her sister Mary and brothers Frank and Paul; brother-in-law, sisters-in-law, daughters-in-law Cathy, Mary, Olivia and Christy; sons-in-law John and Adrian; her treasured grandchildren Robert, Olga, Seán, Patrick, Joseph, Paul, Maria, Grace, Shane, Sarah, Michaela, Anna, Lilian, Mike, Jim, Mark, Darragh, Ciarán, Tom, and Ella; extended family, neighbours, and a wide circle of friends to whom sincere sympathies are tendered.
Bridie’s remains reposed at Balla Funeral Home on Saturday, November 8, from 5pm with prayers at 7pm. Her Funeral Mass took place on Sunday, November 9, at 1pm in St Cronan’s Church, Balla followed by burial ceremonies in the adjoining cemetery. May she rest eternally in the peace and happiness of heaven.
Balla Christmas Market will take place in Balla Community Centre on Saturday, December 6 from 11am onwards. Folks are urged to get ready for Christmas magic in Balla. Come along and experience the wonder of the season with local crafts and gift stalls, festive food and sweet treats, children’s entertainment and plenty more Christmas cheer.
Balla GAA lotto draw was held on the Thursday, November 6 in The Rendezvous for a jackpot of €6,700. 5, 17, 22 and 26 were the numbers drawn. The €30 consolation prize winners were Finn Lyons (online), Derek Duffy (online) and Norita Dunne (online). The latest draw was held on Thursday, November 13, in The Shebeen when the jackpot stood at €6,800.
Living well, a HSE programme has started in Balla on Thursdays. The course helps people living with a long term health condition to manage their condition such as diabetes, arthritis, COPD, etc. and improve their overall wellbeing. There are weekly workshops in progress and advance registration is required. Call Liam at 086 0142675 for details.
Sincere sympathy is accorded to Patricia Conway, Rathduff, Balla on the passing of her sister Martina Mitchell, Dereen, Louisburgh. May she rest in peace.
Sunday Mass time for St Cronan's Church, Balla will be at 11.30am having commenced at the new time from Sunday, November 16.
Manulla FC Club lotto jackpot stood at €3,600 for last Sunday nights, November 16 draws. The Manulla FC Christmas Shop is open. Get kitted out this festive season with all your favourite Manulla FC gear from jerseys and jackets to hats, socks, and more. Order before November 30 to make sure your items arrive in time for Christmas.
Congratulations to Manulla FC's Max Lydon and Dylan Broderick on being selected for Mayo Schoolboys/Girls and Youths AFL U14 Interleague squad to face Roscommon Longford in the second round of Schoolboys/girls Football Association of Ireland Interleague. Manulla FC U21 team beat Castlebar Celtic FC 3-1in the semi- final of the cup.
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 09493 65846 or email info@balla.ie to book your spot.
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Errew and Clogher
The death has taken place of (Christy) Christopher Concannon, Carramore, Clogher, Claremorris, Co. Mayo. In his 91st year, Christy passed away on November 6, surrounded by his loving family, in the Ross Suite, Sacred Heart Hospital, Castlebar. Predeceased by his wife Nancy, his parents Thomas and Ellen (née Prendergast) Concannon, his brothers John, Martin, Jim and Tony and his sisters Peggy, Bridie and Kate he is deeply regretted by his sons Michael (Keelogues, Ballyvary), Johnny (Cummer, Rehins, Castlebar), Tommy (Carramore, Clogher), Bernard (Turlough Road, Castlebar), Noel (Carramore, Clogher), Gerard (Horsepark, Westport Road, Castlebar), Fintan (Currabawn, Belcarra), his beloved grandchildren Darren, Kevin, Ronan, Gary, Conor, Jonathan, Lorna, Shane, Amy, Áine, Lauren, Tara, Josh, Ethan and Lily, his cherished great-grandchildren Cian, Casey, Alfie, Nancy Marie, Zach, Amelia, Ryan and Sophia, his daughters-in-law Mary, Pauline, Geraldine, Dolores, Colette, Laura and Clodagh, his sisters-in-law Vera, Sheila and Bridie, his nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives, neighbours and friends to whom sincere condolences are tendered.
Christy’s remains reposed at Belcarra Community Centre on Sunday, November 9, from 5pm with prayers at 7pm. His funeral arrived at St. Anne’s Church, Belcarra on Monday, November 10, at 11am for Funeral Mass at 11.30am. Burial ceremonies for Christy took place in Drum Cemetery. Dia dean trócaire ar a nAinm.
Clogher Environmental Group in conjunction with Mayo Co Council are organising an Anti-Litter Poster Competition for children under 13 years. All submissions must be in Landscape Style and the closing date is November 21. The entries can be sent to clogherenvirgroup@gmail.com or dropped into the Clogher Community Centre.
Clogher Card results from Friday, November 7, are as follows - 1st Derek Quinn and Tommy Fahey, 2nd Eileen Moran and Gus Sweeney 3rd Gay Conway and Joe Thomas. The last 10 winners were, Majella Corbett and Margaret Mannion and Breege Blake and Martin Moran.
