Local Notes: Midfield Pipe Band at Swinford Heritage Day.
Senator Mark Duffy with Joanne Greham and the Midfield Pipe Band at Heritage day in Swinford. The band led a poignant visit to the Famine Grave for a service to commemorate those from Swinford who were lost during the Famine.
Items for inclusion in the notes can be submitted to Julie Ryan as follows: email ryankneafsey@gmail.com or call leaving a voicemail if not answered/text/WhatsApp 087 7694781 (after 6pm). Deadline for receipt of items is 6.30pm Wednesday.
Results from Swinford Golf Club open weekend held over the August Bank Holiday weekend: Friday: Men 1st Tiernan Burke, 2nd Matt Duggan. Ladies’ 1st Fidelma Snee. Saturday: Men 1st Michael Carroll, 2nd Liam Healy. Ladies: 1st Catherine Loftus, 2nd Helen McNicholas. Sunday: Men 1st Barry Durkan, 2nd Jim O Donnell. Ladies, no competition.
Unfortunately, the Gents Cecil Ewing Golf team lost out to Westport 3-1. The deciding game was lost on the 18th at home which would have forced a play-off. Well done lads and thanks for representing the club.
Congratulations to Alyssa Kavanagh (baby daughter of Henry), Killasser, winner of €1,000 in the Swinford GAA 50/50 draw, to Sean Doyle, Killasser winner of the second prize of €200, 3rd and 4th place spot prizes of a Mayo jersey sponsored by Feericks in Rathowen went to Midfield to Jimmy McDonagh and Fionn McDonagh.
The numbers drawn in the Swinford Community Lotto which was held on August 4 were; 4, 10, 26 and 27. There was no jackpot winner. €70 vouchers were won by Jimmie Muldowney, Carnacull and Declan Brennan, Lismirrane; €35 was won by Áine Conlon, Druids Court, Swinford. The jackpot is now €7,400.
Blessing of Mosaics by Bishop Doran, will take place at 10am on August 15 at Mass in Callow and 12 noon on the same day in Killasser Church (Mass will not be celebrated in Killasser).
Swinford AC will once again host the annual Ireland West ¾ Marathon, 10k and 5k on Saturday, September 5. Registration is open on Eventmaster. ¾ Marathon starting time 10am, 10k starting time 10.15am and 5k starting time 10.30am.
Congratulations to the Urquart Family Band Charlestown on winning first prize, 2nd James Quinn Castlebar, 3rd Kayla Brodrick Cloontubrid Swinford in the annual U18 Siamsa Sraide Busking Competition which was held on Wednesday, August 5. The special adjudicator award went to Maya and Jude Bullard, Castlebar. Well done to everyone, the vast array of buskers on Market Street and Main Street is always a highlight of the annual festival.
The annual Time to Shine competition was held on Friday, July 31, in Julians of Midfield. A fantastic night of talent was enjoyed by all in attendance. Congratulations are extended to the Time to Shine 2026 prizewinners; U16 champion Ceola Quinn, 2nd place The Urquhart Family, 3rd place Adam Hanahoe. The Over 16 champion was Joe Gallagher, 2nd place went to Laura Byrne, and 3rd place Max Donoghue.
The organisers of Swinford Agricultural Show are delighted to announce that the 2026 Agricultural Show will take place on Sunday, August 23 at Tony Gleeson’s Farm in Cullane, Swinford. Show schedule is available now in local businesses and at www.swinfordagrishow.net.
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Moy Davitts GAA are extremely proud of club member Cian McHale who was on the victorious Mayo team which won the All-Ireland Football final. A special welcome party will be organised by the club as soon as Mayo GAA confirms the schedule. Full details will be communicated in due course.
Congratulations to Anne Davey who won a jackpot of €577 in the Moy Davitts 50/50 draw on Saturday, August 1. A huge thank you to everyone who supported the draw, it is greatly appreciated.
Cemetery Masses were celebrated last weekend in Bohola and Straide. A sincere word of thanks is extended to all who got everything set up in both cemeteries and who tidied up everything afterwards. Special thanks also to the car park attendants, choirs, readers, Ministers of Communion, offertory collectors and servers who made both occasions fitting celebrations for all our departed loved ones. Thanks to all who attended in such large numbers, especially those who travelled from other parishes, near and far. Your generous contributions to the collections are much appreciated and will go towards the upkeep of the cemeteries.
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The death occurred last week of Seán Burke, Prizon Road, Balla, Castlebar, Co Mayo. Sean passed away peacefully at home in the wonderful care of his family. Seán was highly regarded and a highly popular personality in the region. He had a warm personality embellished by good humour and he was a kind and caring neighbour. His passing is an occasion of great sorrow to his loving family and many friends in the community.
Predeceased by his beloved mother Marie (née Duggan) and his devoted father John Burke. Seán is deeply regretted by his adored wife and best friend, Maureen (née Tonra); his heartbroken children Elaine (Enda McKeon), Karen (Paul McGuinness) and Shaun (Marie O’Grady) and his treasured grandchildren – James, David, Cillian, Kate, Darragh, Emma and Seanie, also by his brothers Patsy (Mary, Balla), Greg (Lena, Crossmolina) and Jarlath (Mary, Caherlistrane); his beloved sister Bonnie (David McMonagle, Castlebar); his wonderful sister-in-law Rosaleen (Tom Basquille, Drumganagh); his nephews, nieces, godchildren, extended family and magnificent neighbours and lifelong work colleagues to whom sincere condolences are extended.
His remains reposed at Balla Funeral Home on last Tuesday, August 4, from 5-7pm. Requiem Mass was celebrated on Wednesday, August 5, at 12 noon in St Cronan’s Church Balla, followed by burial ceremonies in the adjoining cemetery. May Seán rest eternally in the peace and happiness of heaven.
Calling all local makers, growers, bakers, creators and small businesses! Balla Summer Market is back on next Saturday, August 15, running from 11am–3pm. Whether you create handmade crafts, grow seasonal produce, bake delicious treats, make pantry favourites, grow flowers and plants, or create goodies for our furry friends, the organisers would love to welcome you.
Last year's market was a wonderful celebration of community and supporting local crafts and business. Stall spaces are disappearing fast and if you've been thinking about joining the Summer Markets on Saturday, August 15, now's the time to book. To book a stall, contact Balla Community Resources Development on 087 185 0860.
All at Balla Community Centre are thrilled to welcome Mayo Performance Academy back this September with a brand-new term of Speech and Drama classes for children. Speech and Drama is a fantastic way for young people to build confidence, develop communication skills, make new friends, and most importantly, have fun in a creative and supportive environment. Free taster classes take place on Wednesday, 9th September, giving children the chance to experience the classes before committing to the 10-week term beginning on 16th September. If your child loves to perform, tell stories, or simply wants to grow in confidence, this is a wonderful opportunity. To register for a free taster session or to find out more, email june@mayoperformance.ie.
Balla GAA lotto draw was held on Thursday, July 30, in Shebeen for a jackpot of €10,400. 1, 4, 17 and 20 were the numbers drawn and there was no jackpot winner. The €30 consolation prize winners were Mark Killeen (Cash Sale), Joe Gilmartin (Cash Sale) and Kathy Lyons (Online). The latest draw was held on last Thursday, August 6, in Flukies when the jackpot stood at €10,500.
Balla GAA and LGFA Fundraising Bingo has officially launched. This exciting fundraiser is on tomorrow night, Wednesday, August 12, and funds raised will help kit out all the underage football teams, ensuring Balla young players have the equipment and support they need to enjoy their football journey. Every book purchased makes a huge difference and helps to continue to develop and support the next generation of Balla players. Get your Bingo Book today and be part of something special in the community. Books are available now at: https://willwego.com/tickets/balla-bingo/378.
On Saturday, August 14, Balla GAA will be celebrating their 140th birthday. It promises to be a gala occasion with quality entertainment guaranteed.
Women's Circle – Balla why not join a welcoming circle of women of all ages for an evening of connection, reflection, and support in a safe and nurturing space featuring Guided meditation, Journal prompts, Herbal tea, Oracle cards, Optional sharing.
Whether you're looking to relax, meet like-minded women, or simply enjoy a peaceful evening, you'll be made very welcome. The Women's Circle meets every two weeks, and new members are always welcome. Whether you're looking to meet new people, enjoy meaningful conversations, or simply take some time for yourself, we'd love to see you there. To book or find out more, contact Linda on 086 393 6174.
The Parish Cemetery Masses schedule is as follows: Guesdian, this Tuesday, August 11, Elm Hall, Wednesday, August 12 and Balla, Thursday, August 13. Masses will be at 7.30 on each evening weather permitting.
Get ready for a fun-filled day of tennis, games, and community spirit at Balla Tennis Court on next Thursday, August 13. Whether you are a beginner, a club player, or just looking for family fun — everyone is welcome - Kids: 11am–1pm (€5) and Adults: 3pm–5pm (€10) Book your tickets now: https://willwego.com/organiser/balla-community-centre.
Balla Community Centre committee are looking into the possibility of creating a Community Walking Group – a friendly and welcoming group where people can get active, enjoy the outdoors, meet new people and support their health and wellbeing. Before the next step the group want to hear from you! Would you be interested in joining?
Whether you're an experienced walker or just looking to get out for some fresh air and good company Balla Centre personnel would love to hear your thoughts. Please see the Facebook page or send a private message. Your feedback will help decide if there's enough interest to get this initiative off the ground.
