Local Notes: Venerated veteran athlete Adrian Burke ahead of the field in the Ballintubber Turkey Trot.
The local venerated veteran athlete Adrian Burke is ahead of the field! The Clogher Marathon specialist is pictured striding out, shedding that extra Christmas poundage at the recent Ballintubber Turkey Trot. Picture by Tom Quinn.
There was no winner of the €15,700 jackpot in the Ballyglass lotto draw which was held on Monday, January 5, in the clubhouse. The numbers drawn from the drum were 1, 20, 25 and 36. Nobody matched 3 numbers. The consolation prize winners were Bridie Morley, Denise Walsh, Kevin Burke, Jimmy Murphy and Conor Malone. The latest draw had a jackpot of €15,800 up for grabs. You can play online by logging into this link https://tinyurl.com/2lt9u6kr, from any committee member or where tickets are on display.
The card game on Monday, January 5 was cancelled due to bad weather. The results from game played on December 29, are as follows: 1st Mary Carney and Breege Jennings, 2nd Jimmy Sheridan and Mary Brennan and Martin Ford and Seamus Nevin.
The best of the last 10 prize went to Tomas Solan and Patricia Jennings and the raffle winners were Noel Costello and Dave Gibbons.
Before the card games commenced on December 29, a minute’s silence was observed in memory of the late Willie Fitzgerald, Cullentragh, a regular card player in Ballyglass for many years. Sympathy is extended to his wife Nancy and all the family at this sad time.
Limited spaces are still available for a chair yoga class in Ballyglass Community Centre. Contact Emma on 087 9973357. This is a gentle class to support mobility, balance and relaxation, all from the comfort of a chair. No experience needed. The relevant dates are Wednesday mornings in January from 11.15 to 12.15. Bring a yoga mat, blanket and cushion, and wear comfortable clothing.
Ballyglass Active Age group has resumed classes for 2026. The exercise class continues every Tuesday morning from 11am to 12 noon. Two yoga classes will be held every Wednesday morning, from 10am to 11am, and from 11.15 to 12.15. There are some spaces available for the second class. No experience is required for these classes. The annual general meeting of the Active Age Group will be on Tuesday, January 20, at 12.15 in the community centre. New members are always very welcome to join. The group wishes everyone good health and happiness for the New Year.
Ballyglass Community Council will hold its annual general meeting on Wednesday, January 21, at 8pm. New members are always very welcome to join this active community group. New volunteers are needed for the next few months to help out with the planned renewal of the Community Futures Plan. Anyone who is interested is welcome to come along on the night and hear about all that is going on in the group. Contact any of the current members for information.
Congratulations to Rory Murphy and Rachel Biggins on their recent engagement. They are wished great success with all their future plans.
Happy birthday best wishes are extended to Nicole Heneghan, Mountpleasant, who celebrated her 21st birthday recently, and also to Michaela Morley who has also turned 21. Both ladies are wished many more enjoyable occasions in the decades ahead.
Congratulations to Emma Prenty, daughter of Michael and Angela Prenty, and Luke Merrick, who were married over the Christmas period. The couple are wished good health and many happy years of wedded bliss.
Ballyglass FC 50th Anniversary Book was launched on December 31, with over 300 pages packed with unforgettable moments, stories, photos, and the rich history of Ballyglass Football Club. The book celebrates a half a century of passion, pride, and community. This is a must-have publication for players, supporters, and friends of the club. Available in local retail and book shops copies of the superb publication are sure to sell out fast.
Congratulations to Stephanie and Niall Brett on the recent birth of their first daughter, Annie May.
Congratulations to Katie Mahon, Parks, and Conor Brennan, Manulla, who got engaged in Australia over the Christmas period. The couple are wished ongoing happiness and great success with all their future plans.
After significant achievements in 2025, Ballintubber club continues to progress and for the first time in nearly two decades, the club will field Division 1 teams at U12, U14, U16, and minor levels. Additionally, they will be entering second teams at U16, U14, and, pending numbers, U12 demonstrating the outstanding progress of the club. With this positive growth comes an increased need for dedicated volunteers to help facilitate the smooth operation of underage games and activities.
The club welcome all individuals whether long-standing members, former coaches, or newcomers to participate in supporting youth programs. By volunteering, you not only contribute to the future of the club but also join a dynamic and supportive community. This is an excellent opportunity to give back, connect with others, and positively impact the next generation at Ballintubber GAA.
If you are interested in getting involved, contact Ronan Mannion on 087 464 6495 or email secretary.ballintubber.mayo@gaa.ie.
Ballintubber GAA lotto jackpot stood at €6,200 on Sunday night, January 4. The numbers drawn were 8, 11, 13 and 33. There was no jackpot winner. Consolation prizes went to Bernadette Healy, Aisling McGreevy, Donna and John Staunton, Dean Loftus, Una Loughran and Martin Moran. The jackpot stood at €6,300 on last Sunday night, January 11. Play Ballintubber lotto at: https://member.clubspot.app/.../ballintubber-gaa/fundraisers.
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 gift shop, or order online and get it posted out.
The dates for First Confession across the parish in 2026 are as follows; March 3 Carnacon, March 4 Ballintubber and March 5 in Killawalla.
The 2026 First Holy Communion ceremonies will be held in the local churches on the following dates; Carnacon on May 2, Killawalla on May 9 and Ballintubber on May 16.
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A fantastic night celebrating an incredibly successful year for Tuar Mhic Éadaigh ladies team was held in Máire Lukes recently.
Huge thanks from the club have been extended to Cora Staunton and Bernadette Kearney for presenting medals and sharing their words of wisdom with the team. Thanks have been extended to Máire Luke’s for the wonderful food and hospitality, and to Gary O’Malley and his Band for keeping the celebrations going all night. A night to remember agus oíche iontach a bhí ann ag ceiliúradh bliain dochreidte dár bhfoireann na mban.
Míle buíochas le Cora Staunton agus Bernadette Kearney as na boinn a bhronnadh agus as a gcuid focail eagna a roinnt leis an bhfoireann. Buíochas le Maire Luke’s as an mbia den scoth agus an fáilteachas iontach, agus le Gary O’Malley agus a bhanna as an gceiliúradh a choinneáil ar bun ar feadh na hoíche.
The weekend lotto jackpot on last Saturday, January 10, stood at €20,000. 3, 12, 19 and 21 were the numbers drawn on Sunday night, January 3, 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. All funds raised support club development and the support of patrons is deeply appreciated.
The winners of the special Tuar Mhic Éadaigh CLG £2,500 give-away Christmas draw on December 28 were as follows, £1,000 went to Anne O’Brien, £500 Sean Molloy, Cappaduff, £500 Martin Mulqueen, Gortnaldirg, £100 Siobhan Quigley, £100 Michael Coyne, Shanvalleycahill, £100 Niamh Seoighe, Shanafarahaun, £100 Junnat Hamdam, and £100 Madelene Dermody, Gortnacullin.
The 38th edition of Waterfall Magazine is in local retail outlets in Tourmakeady, Ballinrobe and Ballintubber and it is selling fast. The magazine features a host of wonderful articles including features on Tourmakeady Ambush Monument, Joyce Country and Western Lakes Geopark green flag, angling, CLG - gaelic football, weddings, births, deaths, anniversaries, graduations and a host of other interesting articles. This is really a very high standard glossy production, chuck full of articles of interest and splendid photography. It makes the ideal New Year 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 great value.
Ballyovey Pastoral Council has extended thanks to Partry Community Council and to the Tuar Mhic Éadaigh Hall committee for their help in organising the recent presentations of the Bene Merenti Medals to Kitty Farragher and Michael John Casey. The parish are blessed to have 2 great facilities to cater for such events. Thanks to all who helped set up the tables, baked, served tea, etc., on both occasions. The continued support and commitment of both communities helped make the two events very enjoyable for all concerned.
An indoor market in the Tuar Mhic Éadaigh Gaeltacht Co Mayo will commence on February 7, and will continue on the 1st Saturday every month thereafter from 11am to 3pm in Halla Pobail Thuar Mhic Éadaigh, Tuar Mhic Éadaigh, Co. Mayo.
The market will feature a diverse mix of handcrafted, homemade, home-grown and locally produced wares. The market reflects the creativity, skills, and traditions of the area, with everything from artisan foods, natural skincare, artworks and crafts, to unique fresh designs and locally made gifts. For further details make contact by Email: makersmarket.tme@gmail.com.
Go raibh maith agaibh uilig as ucht an tacaíocht a thug sibh don bhailiúcháin eadaí. Bailíodh €350.40 don scoil. A sincere thank you is extended to all those who supported the clothes collection. €350.40 was collected for the school.
A sewing class will be starting in Halla Tuar Mhic Éadaigh on Thursday, January 22, if there is enough interest. The course will run for 6 weeks. If interested call 087 7657191.
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: 087 3970227 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 on 087 3970227 or email: opt.cdst@gmail.com.
Old-school photos are required by Coláiste Muire as they get ready for the school reunion in the Castlecourt Hotel, on February 1. Share your photos by email, DM, or drop / post them to the school. Then join the happy throng in the Castlecourt on February 1, for a night of memories, laughs, and catching up with old friends. Remember everyone over-18 is welcome to attend this celebration of the past and future of Coláiste Muire.
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.
Bathroom renovationd is taking place in Partry Community Centre. The ladies’ toilets have been refurbished. Upgrades will commence shortly on the floors in the hallways, gents toilets, and the disabled toilet. The works are funded by the Community Centres Investment Fund (Pobal). Note there is a defibrillator at the back of the community centre.
Bingo takes place every Monday at 8.30pm; guitar classes run every Tuesday at 5pm but are currently fully booked; Irish dancing classes on Thursday evenings and the Women’s Group meet once a month, generally on a Thursday.
Partry Community Park Phase 1 has now been completed, pending sign off and handover. A lot of the park will be allowed to grow wild, with some areas having a lawn and pathways that will be maintained. Wildflower seed has been spread in the area. Raised beds have been offered to and accepted by different groups within the community. Phase 2 is being planned, with the aim of achieving funding for picnic benches. The project is funded by The Town and Village Renewal Scheme.
The Digital Hub is up and running. Feedback has been positive, and its popularity is growing. You can make a booking through Connectedhubs.ie https:// connectedhubs.ie/hubs/profile/5001. There are excellent facilities, with ultra-high speed internet access, plentiful and accessible parking, tea making facilities and a microwave. The facility is funded by The Town and Village Renewal Scheme.
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In the Belcarra Community Council lotto draw the numbers drawn on January 4, were 9, 15, 18 and 20. There was no winner of the lotto jackpot. The consolation prizewinners were Kevin Brett, Caroline Quinn, Caoimhe Brohan and Noel Feeney.The weekend jackpot stood at €4,700 on Sunday last, on January 11. Thanks as always for the support of patrons. Tickets are on sale in Cunningham’s Costcutter, Cuffe Car Sales, Nestors and Flukies and also online.
The Living Well Programme is a free HSE initiative which helps people living with a long term health condition to manage their condition and improve their overall well-being. Anyone with any chronic illness such as diabetes, arthritis, COPD, cardiac illness, anxiety, etc., can benefit from these workshops. The next programme commences on Wednesday, January 21, at 10.30am in Castlebar. For further information contact Liam Gildea on 086 0142675.
A great new class for children is starting in Belcarra Community Centre. Get in touch with Caroline to book your child’s place. Kid’s country line dancing will take place every Friday from 6.30 to 7.30 in Belcarra Centre. The fees are £10 per class and the classes will cater from 7 year olds to 6th class. What’s App 087 1361976 for details.
Would you be interested in sharing your home and supporting a person with a disability for a few hours, per week or month or more regular? Western Care is looking for people, singles/ couples/ families to provide respite breaks for children and adults across Co Mayo, in your own home. If you are interested or would like further information, contact Ruth Kneafsey, Home Share Coordinator on 094 9029148.
Breaffy GAA lotto jackpot stood at a highly attractive €18,700 on January 6. The numbers drawn on December 30 were 4, 11, 23 and bonus number 1. There was no jackpot winner. Laura Ruane was the €250 Match 3 winner. The jackpot stands at £18,800 on this Tuesday night, January 13.
A new and exciting class will start starting in Ballyheane Community Hall on Friday, January 16. Women's box and tone classes will be commencing on Friday, January 16, at 7pm. The fees are £80 for a block of 6 classes. Contact Adrian on 086 0581956 for details. Booking is essential.
A new year with new starts - why not make your new year’s resolution by joining your local CFR group to help your neighbours and friends when they need you most. The group moved training to Ballintubber community hall on January 8, in the hope to gather more volunteers. If you have any queries or questions reach out to 087 9846401.
Irish Dancing Classes in Ballyheane Community Centre returned back last week on January 6, from 6.30-7.30pm catering for ages 4+. Contact Molly Hughes TCRG on 087 6562094. Classes are ideal for competitions, grade exams, displays, shows, fitness and fun.
The comfortable confines of Ballyheane Centre are the venue for enjoyable Bingo sessions on Wednesday nights each week at 9pm.
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The death has occurred of Kathleen Deacy (née Roughneen), Gortgarve, Kiltimagh and formerly Ardboley, Balla. Kathleen passed away peacefully in the loving care of St Joseph’s Ballina District Hospital after a brief illness on January 2, with her family by her side. Predeceased by her loving husband John, her parents Agnes and John Roughneen and her brothers John and James, she is deeply regretted by children Ann and James, her extended family, relatives and wide circle of friends and neighbours in both Kiltimagh and Balla. Kathleen’s remains reposed in O’Hora’s Funeral Home, Kiltimagh, on the Monday evening from 6.30 to 8pm, arriving to the Church of the Holy Family, Kiltimagh at 8.15. Kathleen’s Funeral Mass was celebrated on Tuesday, January 6, at 12 noon followed by burial afterwards in Kilkinure Cemetery, Kiltimagh. May she rest eternally in the peace and happiness of heaven.
Balla GAA lotto draw was held on Thursday, January 1, in Flukies for a jackpot of €7,500. 5, 22, 24 and 31 were the numbers drawn and there was no jackpot winner. The €30 consolation prize winners were Tommy Fahy (cash sale), Derek Dempsey (online) and Geraldine Gormley (cash sale). For the latest draw held on Thursday, January 8, in The Railway Tavern January 8, the jackpot stood at €7,600.
Congrats to Mia Jennings, Aoife Commons and Amelia Duffy who for the first time in 2026 put on the green and red jersey, representing Balla GAA for the Mayo LGFA U16s. Well done girls.
Why not learn to relax in Balla Sensory Room? The Sensory Room 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 | 094 93 65846 or email info@balla.ie.
Manulla FC Club lotto jackpot stood at €4,300 for last Sunday nights, January 11, draws. The club are deeply grateful for the support of patrons. Huge congratulations to Ethan Hosty on his signing with Mayo FC U20s. Manulla FC is delighted to see Ethan moving on to the next level.
The Christian community in Balla has welcomed Iyayi Malachy Osamudiamen and Idia Nellie Osamudiamen who were baptised recently in St Cronan’s Church, Balla. Congratulations to their parents and the family.
Balla Community Centre has an exciting opportunity for a full-time office administrator. If you’re organised, friendly, and enjoy working in a fun, supportive environment, they would love to hear from you. The role involves: general office administration, answering phones and emails, supporting day-to-day operations, working as part of a positive, community-focused team, strong organisational and communication skills, a positive attitude and willingness to get involved and an ability to work independently and as part of a team. Send CVs and application letter to jobs@balla.ie.
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The death has taken place of Liam O’Haire, Knockatemple, Clogher, Claremorris and late of Fahybeg, Newport, Co Mayo. Liam passed away peacefully at Mayo University Hospital, surrounded by his loving family. Predeceased by his parents John Joe and Mary, his sisters Mary and Sheila, Liam is deeply regretted by his wife Maureen, his family Trevor and Kevin, Jackie and Ambrose, Gary and Stephanie, his granddaughters Abi, Sophie and Katie, sister Margaret Keane (Shannon), brothers Sean (Fahybeg) and Vincent (London), sister-in-law Catherine, nephews, nieces, relatives, neighbours and friends to whom sincere sympathy is extended. Liam’s remains reposed at Clogher Community Centre on Thursday evening (January 8) from 5 until 7pm. Requiem Mass was celebrated on Friday morning (January 9) at 11am in The Church of the Holy Family, Fahy, with the funeral proceeding to Fahy Cemetery. Dia dean trócaire a nAinm.
Yoga classes commenced in Clogher Community Hall on last Wednesday, January 7. Contact Fiona on 086 3310012 for further information.
Congratulations to Gary Sice, the most recent December Clogher 500 Club winner The Clogher 500 Club is a local fundraising initiative run by Clogher Environmental Group CLG to support the upkeep and development of community facilities. Membership costs €60 per year (just €5 per month). Each member is entered into a monthly draw for €500. Contact any committee member; call/text 087 272 1574 or message through the Facebook page – Clogher Heritage Centre.https://clogherenvironmentalgroup.clubforce.com/products/membership.
The Clogher Active Age group are resuming activities on January 14. They thank all the people who supported them during the year and who helped to make the weekly meetings and the various trips so interesting and enjoyable.
Chair Yoga with Ann has started on Wednesdays from 7-8pm in Errew Community Centre. The fees are €10 per session. Contact Eileen Conway on 087 9227567 for more information and to book your place.
