Local Notes: Launch of Pipers Cross new album 'Queens of Mayo' in Hughes Pub, Carnacon.
“Many young men of Twenty” - some of the large group that attended the launch of Pipers Cross new album “Queen of Mayo” in Hughes Pub, Carnacon, recently. Picture by Tom Quinn
It is with deep and palpable sadness we record the passing of Joe Nestor, Carrowreaghmony, Ballyglass, Claremorris, Co. Mayo. In his early eighties, Joe passed away peacefully at home after a long illness bravely borne on January 15, in the loving care of his wife Rita and their family. With the passing of Joe Nestor, Ballyglass and the broader community of the parish has lost a tremendous community worker and an unselfish heroic volunteer. Down the decades since he was a young man, Joe Nestor was actively involved in every worthwhile community activity and initiative in the broader region. Together with his dear friend the late PJ Murphy, R.I.P, they were a dynamic duo that made an immense contribution to community life and many worthwhile causes.
As a former Cathaoirleach and Trustee of Baile an Tobair CLG Joe brought his own unique energy, decency and prestige to the role. His personal warmth, genuine concern, wisdom and storytelling ability will be sorely missed by his many friends. The log of community, educational, cultural and sporting organisations he assisted was truly astounding and will be outlined in a future obituary.
Joe was predeceased by his parents Michael and Mary and his brothers Leo and Malachy and is deeply regretted by his wife Rita, his loving family Sinead, Niamh, Ioseph, Grainne, Michael and Killian, his grandchildren, Josh, Iosold, Cathal, Katelyn, Lauren, Arthur, Margot and Finn, his siblings John, Oliver, Anne, Nora and Ita, his sons and daughter in-laws, Gavan, Orla, Mary, Nick, Pauline and Tracy, his brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, his extended family and his wide circle of friends and neighbours to whom profound condolences are tendered. There was a huge attendance present as his remains reposed at Ballyglass Community Centre on last Friday evening from 5 until 7.30pm. The removal of his remains from his home took place on Saturday morning to St. Mary’s Church Carnacon for Funeral Mass at 11am with burial afterwards in Ballintubber Abbey Cemetery. Ar dheis De go raibh an nAinm dilis.
Ballintubber GAA lotto jackpot stood at €8,400 on Sunday night, January 12. The numbers drawn were 10, 22, 27 and 31. There was no jackpot winner. Consolation prizes went to Ian Doherty, Jeane Egan, Evan Prendergast, Eddie Walsh, Fiona Mulroe and Jennifer and Claire Costello.
The jackpot stood at €8,500 on last Sunday night, January 19. Play Ballintubber lotto at: https://member.clubspot.app/.../ballintubber-gaa/fundraisers. The club extends New Year best wishes to its many patrons and is eagerly looking forward to 2025.
The numbers drawn in the Ballyglass FC lotto on Monday, January 13, were 9, 10, 23 and 24. There was no winner of the €10,600 jackpot. Richard Carney was the Match 3 winner. Consolation prizes went to Kevin McDonnell, Lisa Noonan, Francis Quinn, Peter Quinn and Padraic Burke. The weekend jackpot stood at €10,700. Go to smartlotto.ie to play.
The winners from January 13, were 1st Peter Glynn and Tomas Solan, 2nd Kevin Burke and John E Burke and 3rd Sean Reilly and John Reilly. The last 10 winners were Patricia Jennings and Margaret Mannion and the raffle prizes went to Mary Brennan and Philip White. The progressive 25 games continue every Monday night at 9pm.
The annual general meeting of Ballyglass Community Council will be on this Wednesday, January 22, at 8pm in the community centre. New members are always very welcome.
The AGM of Ballyglass Active Age group will be held on Tuesday, January 28 at 12 noon in the community centre, following the weekly exercise class. New members are very welcome to attend.
Ballyglass Community Centre will be the venue for a Spring Renewal Retreat on February 1 from 10am to 3pm. The day will include yoga and Cacao, candle making and guided meditation. Lunch and refreshments will be provided and the fee is €95 per person. Booking is essential for this event so contact habitstoreevents@gmail.com.
There was another excellent turnout at LCCA's January public meeting at Partry Community Centre. Last week, Chris Huxley provided an update on the association’s latest news and developments, while Kieran Flynn, Project Manager of the Lough Carra LIFE Project, gave a presentation on the Project’s ongoing work.
Guest speaker on the night was Siobhan Ward, Farm Advisor for the LIFE Project's agri-environment scheme, which focuses on measures to reduce nutrient run-off into the lake and encourage habitat protection.
The first phase of the constructed wetland system at Moorehall public carpark and toilets is now complete. All are looking forward to planting this in the spring, and running some workshops around how these systems function. Watch the video online: https://t.co/GcrpdifVF4.
The final episode of the LCCA's Podcast Series is now available on Spotify and on the LCCA website under the podcast tab. In this episode Jarek Majkusiak interviews Michael Hegarty and Benjamin Thebaudeau about the Joyce County and Western Lakes Geopark Project. The LCCA podcast series is funded by LawPro. Link below to this episode. https://open.spotify.com/episode/34pPAAi4xIXsAeslcYmnDI...
Three new information booklets are available from the LCCA with funding support from NPWS Small Recorder Grant Scheme. Interested persons can find pdf copies of all LCCA booklets on the website www.loughcarra.org.
Booking is now open for Tóchar Phádraig Group Walks 2025. Check the website for more information.
The Christian Community welcomes its newest members, Tadgh John Ruane, Seamus Vincent Neary and Winnie Patricia Sherice McDonagh, who were baptised in the Holy Trinity Abbey, Ballintubber, on Saturday last, January 18. Congratulations to their parents and families.
The Bethlehem Fundraiser raised €6,605 of which €1,485 was raised by those who attended and donated at the Ballintubber for Bethlehem evening in the Scioból on December 21. Thank you to all who supported this fundraiser to help needy families in Bethlehem.
Ballintubber National School is now accepting enrolment applications for the 2025/26 school year. Please contact Ballintubber NS on 094 9030969 or email ballintubber07374g@gmail.com for more details.
Ballintubber Abbey retail outlet are fully stocked with beautiful Hawthorn Handmade Skincare Giftsets and they also stock a fantastic range of products, gits, candles, books and toys from local suppliers. The Gift Shop is open daily. Guided tours are available 7 days a week including Sundays after Mass. Monday - Friday at 12 noon and 3pm. Contact 093 9030934 or info@ballintubberabbey.ie. A selection of wedding and baptism gifts and cards are now available in the gift shop. Support is greatly appreciated.
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A general knowledge table quiz in aid of Tourmakeady ladies team will be held in O’Tooles Bar on Saturday night, January 25, at 9pm. The entry fee is - tables of 4, €40 per table and there will be a raffle on the night. Tickets can be purchased via revolut @seanu77zf or Sean Kelly 085 7212214 or via any player.
To celebrate the 60th year of Tuar Mhic Éadaigh GAA Club (1965 to 2025) a dinner dance will be held on February 15, in The Castlecourt Hotel Westport. It promises to be a historic and memorable night in the annals of the club. A huge response is anticipated and tickets should be promptly purchased as they will be in huge demand.
Thuar Mhic Éadaigh GAA lotto stood at €15,400 on January 11. 3, 5, 15 and 18 were the numbers drawn and there was no jackpot winner. The weekend jackpot on Saturday, January 18 stood at €15,500. 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.
A new session of Yoga classes commenced in Halla Tuar Mhic Éadaigh on last Tuesday, January 14, at 6.30pm. The classes will run for 6 weeks up until February 25. The cost is €60. If interested email Nora at eolas@tourmakeady.com or call 094 9544295 with your name and contact details.
Tuar Mhic Éadaigh Social Club will meet again on Thursday, January 30, from 2-4pm. Come along for social get together, light exercise, bingo, make new friends and enjoy the company. New members will be made most welcome.
Does getting paid to survey Commonages in some of the most scenic areas in West Connacht interest you? Check out the habitat surveyor roles below. Follow the link to see job details and how to apply: https://www.acreswestconnacht.ie/careers - Current job vacancies - Folúntais reatha; Acres West Connacht is currently recruiting for the following staff posts. Project Officer (agri-environmental); Closing date for applications: 5pm, Monday, February 3; Habitat Surveyors (4 positions); Closing date for applications: 5pm, Monday, February 3; Summer Bursary Scholarship Scheme 2025; Closing date for applications: 5pm, Friday, February 28.
Irish classes take place in Halla Tuar Mhic Éadaigh every Wednesday morning. Beginner’s class is from 10-11am. The Intermediate class runs from 11 to 12pm. Phone 087 397 0227 or Rphost: opt.cdst@gmail.com.
Some copies of the 37th annual edition of “Waterfall” the community magazine are still available in local retail outlets. This is a high quality production and is tremendous value at only €10. There is a superb spread of community news embellished by multiple colour photographs. This is the ideal “letter from home” for Tourmakeady Folk around the country and across the globe.
Ciorcail Cniotáil/Knitting Circle: Tagann an Grúpa Cniotáil le chéile gach oíche Luan i Halla Thuar Mhic Éadaigh ón 7.30-9.30 i.n. Fáilte roimh baill 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.
National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) Peatlands and Natura Community Engagement Scheme - Applications are being invited across a diverse range of initiatives with a community benefit including: events, education programmes, promotions, publications, exhibitions, development of conservation management plans, public amenity and recreational measures, maintenance measures that support conservation measures, monitoring or surveying work to inform of restoration/conservation projects, invasive species and fire control measures, anti-littering initiatives to local environmental improvements in the area of the designated sites and other peatland areas.
Successful applicants for this year’s assistance will be awarded funding to support a maximum of 80% of the project's eligible costs, with a maximum grant of €40,000 for Natura 2000 designated sites and up to €20,000 for Non-Natura 2000 peatland sites. Further details of the scheme are available on the NPWS Website: https://www.npws.ie/.../peatlands-and-natura-community... The closing date for submission of applications is next Friday, January 24, 2025.
Killawalla annual lotto tickets are now due for renewal. You can renew them by contacting any member of the Killawalla Community Council. The support of the community is appreciated.
The annual general meeting of Killawalla Community Council will be held on February 11, as the 3 year term of the current council is up. A community council is vital for the area to address any issues, make improvements and bring the community together for different events.
Partry Community Park is part of the blue Tesco token initiative. Please support this worthy cause with purchases and blue tokens at Tesco, Ballinrobe.
Partry FC numbers draw takes place weekly on Wednesdays. The funds raised go towards running the club during the year and the support of club patrons is deeply appreciated. Partry Residents Association draws take place on Saturday evenings with generous prizes in the weekly numbers draw. The latest draw was on Saturday night last, January 18 All proceeds are invested in local developments and village enhancement.
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Breaffy GAA lotto stood at a massive €27,800 for the January 14 draw. The numbers drawn were 5, 8, 16 and Bonus number 8.
There was no jackpot winner – congratulations to the weekly prize winners – there was no match 3 winner. The jackpot stood at €28,000 for tonight’s January 21 draw. The club have extended sincere thanks to all who support the weekly draws. Play online at: https://www.lottoraiser.ie/BreaffyGAA/.
Breaffy GAA registration portal is now open for the coming 2025 membership year. Members should go to www.foireann.ie to register. Remember to read through the membership options carefully before making your selection. The Gold Circle Membership Package is as follows: Breaffy GAA Membership for 2025, 1 weekly entry into the club's lotto and 1 Mayo County Board Draw ticket (six draws with prizes ranging from €10,000 to €200).
All players involved in county team training (underage and adult) must renew their playing membership for 2025 immediately. Breaffy Club will be hosting a membership evening in the coming weeks at the clubhouse for both new and existing members. Stay tuned for details.
Membership payments are crucial for the day-to-day running of the club. For any issues, contact Martina at 087 272029. Thank you for your ongoing support.
Support your club and stand a chance to win amazing prizes, including €50,000 cash, exciting weekend packages to the All-Ireland finals, a holiday voucher worth €2,500, and many more. The draw date is March 26.
Belcarra Community Council’s lotto jackpot has now reached €10,100. The jackpot stood at €10,000 on Sunday, January 12. The numbers drawn were 8, 9, 12 and 27. There was no jackpot winner. The lucky dip winners of €30 were Michelle Cunningham, Rebecca McNeela, James Cunningham and Helen Ralph. On January 19, the jackpot stood at €10,100. Thanks as always for the support of patrons. Tickets are on sale in Cunningham’s Costcutter, Cuffe Car Sales, Nestors and Flukies.
Ballyheane Goes Country Music Festival will take place once again in 2025. This year’s summer festival will run from June 6 to 8, with 3 amazing nights of music and dancing. Some of Ireland's top Country Music bands will be on stage, Friday 6th June - Jimmy Buckley and Band and Gavin Gribben; Saturday 7th June; Derek Ryan and Band and Stacey Breen and Sunday evening, June 8, Nathan Carter and Band and Mylo and Vinny. Tickets are on sale from www.ballyheanegoescountry.com.
Mayo FC is delighted to announce that they are hosting a 24 hour Soccerthon in Umbro Park in conjunction with Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation.
The Soccerthon will be held on March 14 and 15 from 6pm-6pm.
The games will be one hour long and the score will be kept for the full 24hrs. Players participating must be 16 or older. Why not get your club, business, friends, family, work colleagues or even an all-star team together and support Mayo FC and Mayo Roscommon Hospice. Contact mayofcsoccerthon@gmail.com for more information.
Mayo Stoma Support Group will be holding a meeting on January 23, at 7pm in the Ellison Hotel Castlebar All are welcome. If you are attending message to 087 6275766 with your name and number of people attending.
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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The club jackpot on Thursday, January 9, stood at €9,800 in The Shebeen. The numbers drawn were 11, 15, 16 and 24.There was no winner of the jackpot. The €30 consolation winners were Declan Giblin (online), Carmel Souness (online) and Margaret Connolly (cash sale). The latest draw was held on Thursday, January 16, in The Railway Tavern when the jackpot stood at €9,900. Thanks to all who support Balla GAA lotto draws. Congratulations to Balla Secondary School Junior Boys team who had a great win in the Connacht final on Monday week against Coláiste Chiaráin in the Centre of Excellence, Bekan.
The latest jackpot stood at a massive €17,900 on last Sunday night, January 19. The club are deeply grateful for the weekly support of their patrons. Tickets are available at the link below: https://www.lottoraiser.ie/ManullaFC/. The super League team kicked off the 2025 with the second round of the Connaught Cup (Connacht Football Association) vs Arrow Harps FC on Sunday week with a 3-1 win. Congrats to the new management team in their first game of 2025. We wish them all the best of luck for the season ahead.
Monday, sewing classes at 10am, Yoga at 6pm; Tuesday, Sheer fitness class at 6.30pm, Balla Healthy Club Walk at 7pm; Wednesday, Bridge Club at 7pm; Thursday, Knit Wits at 7pm; Friday, Yoga with Ann 9.30am; Saturday, 25 card Drive at 9pm.
Contact Balla CRD info@balla.ie or 087 1850860 for details. Balla Active Age Group will meet every Friday at 3pm in the community centre. New members will be made most welcome.
Also hot desk spaces are available in the new courthouse and meeting rooms in Balla Community Centre. Contact info@balla.ie or 087 1850860 for further details.
The Christian Community welcomes Isla Mairéad Dempsey, Ardboley, Balla, who was baptised recently in St Cronan's, Balla. Congratulations to her parents and family.
Ann Marie Hughes Makeup classes will be held on the Monday, January 27, and Thursday, January 30, at 7pm in Balla CRD. Contact 087 9512634 for details.
Balla bingo takes place on Sundays at Balla Community Centre or online, 8pm. There is a €12,000 generous prize fund. Don't forget to buy your books before 12 noon on Sundays.
Balla Active Age is holding their AGM on Friday, January 24 at 3pm in Balla Community Centre. All are very welcome to attend.
Balla Centre hosts a 25 card drive 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 25 card players are always welcome.
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Thanks have been extended to everyone who supported the end of year walk on Friday, December 27. The group enjoyed a refreshing walk through the quiet bog roads and then availed of refreshments at the Heritage Cottage afterwards. The Tuesday evening walks will commence again in June but for the enthusiastic walkers the walks are available and free to all every day of the week.
Sincere condolences are extended to Christy Concannon and his family of Carramore, Clogher on the sad passing of his brother Tony in New York. Tony, who was aged 84, was the youngest of his family, siblings Peggy, Bridie and Kate, John, Martin and Jim have all predeceased him. He emigrated to the United States in 1959 and he settled in the New York area where he worked as a carpenter. He met his wife Vera Coughlin soon after arriving in the States and the couple were married in 1964. He is survived by Vera, his daughter Caroline and sons Vincent and Brendan, five grandchildren and two great grandchildren.
Welcome back to the members of Clogher Active Age Group who have returned after the Christmas break. New members are always welcome to come and join in the exercise, games and lunch. The group will hold their AGM in February and are currently planning an interesting schedule of events for the year.
Congratulations to Cloonboora sisters Ciara and Ruth Hallinan who are dedicated members of Belcarra Handball Club. They recently reached the final of the U16 girls tournament hosted by Newport Handball Club. On this occasion, Ciara was victorious following a hard fought game. We wish both girls well in all their future endeavours.
Participants are looking forward to the breathwork classes starting this Tuesday from 7 to 8pm in Errew Centre. (Postponing Course by 1 week due to weather). Contact Carmel for more details: 087 6972726.
Errew Community Centre has been chosen for the current round of the blue token Castlebar Tesco Ireland Community Fund. All local folks and supporters of the new Errew Centre project are requested to use the store to vote for the centre with their tokens. The slot will be available to Errew until the end of January.
A Re-turn Bin is now located at Errew Community Centre for all cans and plastic bottles with the Re-turn Logo only. Please support the community centre by using this recycling facility.
