‘The Sound of Music’ held in the Town Hall Theatre was the first production to be staged by the local Musical Society since 2019, it was a resounding success with all five performances sold out members of the Society were briefed at their recent AGM.
Secretary Greg Blackwell told the meeting it was a busy year for the society with members taking part in the annual Zombie walk along with providing refreshments at the turning on of the Christmas lights event in November. Auditions were held in October for The Sound of Music and Chairperson Frances Leahy spoke of the great turn out of both children and adults on the day. She thanked the members of the cast who worked so hard to bring this much awaited show to stage. After a forced break of nearly 4 years it was great to see the society back in the Town Hall Theatre and entertaining audiences. Thanks were extended to Ballinasloe Credit Union, the society’s main sponsor along with all the patrons & sponsors whose continued support is vital to the running of the society. Committee Member Gerard Sweeney presented the accounts on behalf of Treasurer Ellen Egan who was unable to attend and he advised the meeting that the cost of staging ‘The Sound of Music’ was close to €47,000 highlighting the importance of audience support/ticket sales, the continued support of our patrons & sponsors, along with some fundraising to cover extensive costs. Thanks also were extended to the Gullane family for their continued support in providing space for Meetings & rehearsals in the run up to the show. A huge team of people work together in a voluntarily capacity to stage any show – Stage crew, Costumes, make up and hair & front of house teams along with the committee give of their time to insure all runs smoothly. Thanks were extended to everyone that helped in any way over the months preceding the show and during the week itself. Formal congratulations were extended to Gerard Sweeney on his recent election to Vice President of AIMS (Association of Irish Musical Societies) and Gerard was also made an honorary life member of the society at the launch of the show in February. As this year is the centenary of the Society, founded in 1923, the committee are planning a celebratory concert on Saturday October 21st. Details of this concert will be announced over the coming months. The incoming committee elected for the coming year. Were President, Maureen Donohue, Joint Chairpersons, Frances Leahy & Lisa Whyte; Secretary, Greg Blackwell; Treasurer, Ellen Egan, Committee members, Eithne Blackwell, Gerard Sweeney & Jacinta Keane. The new committee will start meetings shortly to decide on the 2024 show and the fun starts all over again!
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The Ballinasloe Town Band travelled to the Dean Crowe Theatre in Athlone to compete in the 55th National Band Championships hosted by the Irish Association of Brass and Concert Bands (IABCB), their first time ever competing in the contest. The community band is a voluntary organisation comprising of musicians ranging from youngsters to folks in their eighties. Originally formed in 2014, the group take on children and adults providing access to music education in the locality. Our young musicians ventured to the Dean Crowe Theatre, by coach. Although nervous on the day, the band were well prepared with their three pieces on the day ‘Cyclone’ by Michael Oare, ‘Gold Medal March’ by Paul Murtha and ‘Ancient Flower’ by Japanese composer Yukiko Nishimura. Twelve bands joined them on the occasion, demonstrating some fierce competition among the players. In the teeth of more established performing bands the Ballinasloe Town Musicians provided a fantastic performance on the day, with adjudicator Michael Ball elaborating high praise for the band’s efforts. The IABCB results ceremony saw the Dublin Concert Band and Drogheda Brass Bands receive the Top Prizes in the Section one winning titles, the Percussion Section were singled out and came away with the ‘Best Supporting Section’ Cup across all the bands. This was a fantastic achievement for the players and to celebrate, the band spent their time at the following practice session to watch back videos of their performance combined with a pizza party, to the delight of the young members. During Eastertime the band held a Craft Fair in the Band Hall ( the old Parochial Hall on Dunlo Hill ) Many came along to support, as well as the youngsters who entered some fantastic hats into the Easter Bonnet competition. Creative skills are not in short supply – as was evident in the variety and quality of the arts and crafts items for sale with the Brothers of Charity contributing some fantastic bonnets. Business was brisk as stall holders sold their items, while the Town Band entertained all Fair goers. Plans for a new upcoming Summer concert are underway for the Town Band. Rehearsals are ongoing, but dates and times are yet to be confirmed which will be published in the local press, Parish Newsletter and on their Facebook page. Those hoping to get in contact with the Town Band can do so via Martina Doherty at 087 9710496 or by email at ballinasloetownband@gmail.com.
Ballinasloe Cancer Support Centre have launched a new Reiki therapy service, with Tuam native Louise O Furey offering the practise with her rigorous experience in the field.
Louise always had a passion to help and support others on their journey through their struggles in day-to-day life. It was through her own life experience and conflict over many years that led her down the path as both a psychotherapist and a Reiki practitioner. Louise trained as a practitioner in 2014 and has also received a BA degree as a Holistic counsellor and psychotherapist in February 2020. She found a calling to Reiki during the early stages of the Covid lockdown when her sister was diagnosed with severe breast cancer affecting her brain. Throughout lockdown, she began practising the therapy on her sister who found it relaxing, helping her sleep and relaxing her mind. When the lockdown lifted, she realized her path in Reiki and took the leap, establishing her business in January 2023 in Tuam. Reiki is a healing technique which uses gentle hand techniques to flow healthy energy from the therapist through the client's body to alleviate any blockages which may cause illness. According to practitioners, some benefits of the therapy include reduction of stress and anxiety in the body, helping with insomnia, treating depression, boosting morale and clearing negative thoughts, easing physical pain and helping relax a person suffering from illness or disease. The Ballinasloe Cancer Support Centre, affiliated with the Irish Cancer Society, have begun this therapy at their hub on Cullens Yard just off Main Street, running from 10.00 until 14:00 every second week. Information on Reiki can be obtained from their office which is open at these hours every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Louise will also be participating in the Sligo Camino on July 1, a challenging 36km hike from Dromahair Co. Leitrim to Cooloney Co. Sligo, to raise funds for the centre. Chairperson Liam Connaire states: “I would like to thank the people who fund us and the local businesses who have supported us. This has led to an increase in our services in the past couple of months and for which we are for every grateful”. The centre is run entirely by volunteers and supported by CE Schemes, ensuring all money received is invested into providing services for those who most need it. A second counsellor has been engaged to allow more members and families in the community to avail of counselling which is in high demand. The centre has established a donation page for those who would like to contribute to their ongoing services at https://www.idonate.ie/cause/ballinasloecancersupport. Bookings are essential for their services including counselling, massage therapy and reiki, and clients are recommended to book early to their office at 090 9649767 The Ballinasloe Basketball Club OAKS are approaching their 10 year anniversary and are hoping to return to regular training sessions after a drop in attendance resulting from Covid.
Founded in 2014, the Mens club has welcomed many members from Ballinasloe, Athlone and surrounds over the years. The club tends to prefer competing in friendlies and meet occasionally to play and share their enthusiasm for the sport. The club is supported by two coaches presently - including Rytis Markauskas, a medical manufacturer working in Galway currently living in Ballinasloe. Rytis is well qualified in playing and coaching the sport, having practiced with many Irish national teams. He is joined by Thomas, a loyal coach to the club who similarly has plenty of experience in teaching the game. The team supports 5-6 people who are currently relied upon as if they lose a player, they are forced to cancel their events. Rytis expressed his ambition for the club, hoping to return to regular meetings on a weekly basis. The last time the team met was for a play-off session in mid-January but have not gathered since. The group aims to have 10 male players before they can return to regular practice sessions. They currently do not have a membership fee but are hoping to find sponsorship to help increasing operational costs . The Club OAKS currently practice in the Drum Community Centre in Athlone, roughly 20km from the outskirts of Ballinasloe but are hoping to establish a more practical base for people in the town, scouting a number of venues which would be ideal to play in. For this year, the club aims to build the skillset and experience of their players before competing in League games. The squad offers some great training by their qualified coaches, along with a fantastic outlet for exercise. Discussing the interest in Basketball in the region, Rytis surmised: “Irish people are much into their own sports and we respect that, but this is another opportunity for a new experience and a prospect to meet people”. Currently the club are only supporting seniors over 18, but they do hope to have the liberty to teach the sport to underage and girls/ ladies in future. If you would like to join the club, you can contact Rytis at 089 4735566. Or checkout their fbook page BasketballClubOAKS. The Indian Community in Ballinasloe kicked off with their first event of the year BICC EVE-23 acting as a combination of three festivals Easter, Vishu and Eid-ul-Fitr. The event showcased the unity in diversity of the Indian Community in Ballinasloe and surrounds.
The Ballinasloe Indian Cultural Community started small in 2015 with just four families,but has since grown to encompass over 120 families and over 200 members locally. The aim of the group is to cherish social connections and enhance art and culture in the community. Following a two-year break over COVID , the community returned small in 2022 with their Easter-Vishu-Eid festival. The event unites people of all cultures and religion through Christian, Hindu, and Muslim holidays for a fun night of music, dance and storytelling. The BICC only recently elected a new committee for this year with Aju Abraham as President, Dotty Matthew as Vice President, Akshai Kurian and Ajin Alex Antony as Secretaries, Devu Sabu and Don Bosco as Joint Secretaries, Ajith Mathew as Treasurer, Shiju Philipose and Priya Susan as Program Co-ordinators, along with the Executive Committee Members of Ajeesh Joseph, Salu Sabu, Robin Daniel and Jithin John. The group hopes to completely reform their committee every year with new representatives for the community for each period. The EVE-23 was the first event of the current committee hosted in Moore Community Hall on April 22 and was a resounding success, becoming the largest Indian program in Ballinasloe post pandemic. Senator Aisling Dolan inaugurated the event who, along with the BICC committee and Fr. Bernie Costello and Fr. Michael Malloy, lit the ceremonial candle inaugurating the ceremony and the new board. The highlights of the night included electrifying dance performances by both children and adults representing the rich culture of India. Couple dances, Fusion dances, Songs and Instrumental sessions additionally contributed to the vibrant night along with feature act DJ Darshan. Committee President Aju Abraham was grateful for this community gathering expressing: “We don’t get many opportunities to get together, so this event is great in that regard, especially for the kids”. Aju thanked M6 Motors for acting as their major sponsor for the event and for playing a significant role in making the event possible. In summary of their EVE celebration, Aju shared: “This event exemplified how diversity can bring people together and strengthen community bonds.” Although the annual EVE occasion is their largest annual gathering, the BICC will host events in August/September, late in December, and are also hosting online platforms with kids learning activities. The BICC Committee have also created a Facebook page under “Ballinasloe Indian Cultural Community” where you can find regular updates about upcoming and ongoing activities with the group.
Ballinasloe, the hidden gem of Ireland, recently hosted a remarkable Tourism Weekend “Something For Everyone “ that left participants in awe.
With over 200 enthusiastic attendees, the event showcased the town's vast potential as a future tourism destination. From invigorating guided bog walks to captivating historic tours, the itinerary catered to diverse interests. A scenic boat cruise allowed visitors to soak in the breath-taking landscapes of the meandering Suck, while a delightful whiskey in Ahascragh tasting added a touch of indulgence. Most keynotes of the towns and unique hinterland offering were proffered – the rich tradition of music and dance was on display in The Pillar House Rambling House, and again at the Lismany Boardwalk, the magnificent stetches of the Ui Maine Way along the Canal bank to the Monastic and Romanesque epicentre of Clonfert and of course the Battlefield experience of Aughrim were all folded into a smorgasbord mix.
With the Greenway / Cycleway being eagerly anticipated and River Suck new bathing and activity features gone to feasibility the River anchored the off grid and the adventurous for many – with a specially chartered cruise from Shannonbridge to the Moycarn Lodge Marina and some introductory Kayaking Trips for novices offered by new local Adventure / Activity Company Lets Enjoy Outside. A Biodiversity walk in Beechlawn Organic Farm saw folks tromping about learning about the birds, bees and ecology on the Saturday and the Tennis Club also held their Open Day during the pilot weekend. A pilot Heritage Treasure Trail based on some of the town’s history was offered on Sunday to winddown operations.
Co Ordinator for the Project Lyn Donnelly explained how the fledgling tourism group emerged from the Leader supported Feasibility Study in Spring of last year and had gotten some wonderful support from Hidden Heartlands by way of mentoring and business support to work up some early deliverable projects. The Group then focused on a Familiarisation Showcase event to platform some of the main attractions the town and hinterland have on offer. As one of the first Tourism networks – community led but with significant private sector and hospitality sector engagement in the Hidden Heartlands , we have been on a steep learning curve to pull this together and to remind locals, operators of the Hospitality trade and the wider tourism stakeholder community that these activities can be enjoyed year round by individuals, families, groups and that for slow off grid tourism with amazing good value – our Town can be a good destination point for adventure , culture or just leisure”, explained Lyn.
The plan going forward to is redevelop the Maps, information bulletin boards, on line visual presence with the new imagery and to use the valuable feedback gained and the marketing metrics to bundle packages with accommodation and tour providers in the coming months.
This well-rounded experience left participants yearning for more, while simultaneously solidifying Ballinasloe's reputation as a must-visit location. As the town continues to leverage its rich offerings, the future of Ballinasloe as a flourishing tourism destination looks brighter than ever.
Project Chair Brian King commended and thanked the Weekend Project partners - Galway County Council Tourism Officer, Paddy Mathews and team at Hidden Heartlands for their co - operation and support partnership . “ I have to acknowledge and thank Ballinasloe Credit Union and Galway County Councill for their welcome sponsorship of the weekend , all our trade partners, our activity groups and the wonderful members of the Project Working Group who have beavered away at this since last Autumn”. Stated Brian.
Committee members are :
Ballinasloe Showcase Day 2023
When: Thursday April 27th at 1pm – 2pm Where: Ballinasloe Enterprise Centre, H53E9R2 Come and hear why Ballinasloe is a fantastic location for investment, business, remote workers & entrepreneurs. Are you:
If your answer to any of these questions is - Yes - then our 'Why choose Ballinasloe 2023' lunch briefing is for you. As a part of the national Connected Hubs Showcase Day, Ballinasloe Enterprise Centre in conjunction with The Pulse Club & Grow Remote are hosting a briefing session to launch its Why Choose Ballinasloe campaign, a campaign which highlights what makes our town a great location for business and remote work. The meetup will be opened by Sen Aisling Dolan and closing remarks by Cllr Evelyn Parsons and MC'd by Renate Kohlmann. Our panel of speakers are drawn from the different sectors of what makes our town a great location for collaboration, remote work, and a great environment for business. Our panel of experts for the meetup will include:
Light lunch, tea and coffee provided. All attendees must pre-register @ Connected Hubs The Golf Club confirmed Frankie Kenny, a 36 year old Kiltormer native as the new Franchisee for the Bar and Food Operation this month.
From a Garbally Leaving Cert his hospitality career began with Tomas and Caroline Gullane as your typical lounge staff and he progressed there before moving to Haydens under the Creaven and Downey years as Bar Manager. He returned to Gullanes in the Bar and Restaurant section before taking up a position with the previous contractees to the Gold Club as Bar Manager in March of last year. “Tee19@BallinasloeGolfClub” is what the outfit will be branded; bringing no nonsense dining and catering to hungry golfers and visitors alike. Open for the members from 11.00 am with a lite brunch offering and then from noon till close of kitchen a solid tasty and refreshing limited menu will be provided at modest fare – seven days a week. Commencing service from mid April onwards Tee19 will aim to provide Club users and guests a distinctive West of Ireland slant to their kitchen with changing evening specials and of course an A La Carte Sunday lunch offering. “We are still going to chase the private party and function market and will be able to cater for groups with special finger food up to 100 guests and for smaller intimate family gatherings – like birthdays or anniversaries“, explains Frankie who is really looking forward to the new opportunity. Full and Part time positions are still available and you can contact the facility by calling the Golf Club main number at 0909642126 or if you wish to offer a CV by emailing frankietee19@gmail.com All the exciting Offers and Specials will be posted regularly on the new Fbook page; TEE 19, Ballinasloe Golf Club. A number of activities for locals and visitors to experience:
These events are being coordinated by the Ballinasloe Tourism Group set up under the umbrella of Ballinasloe Area Community Development Clg. All general enquiries can be made to Lyn or Martina at info@bacd.ie or 09096 46516. Accommodation Details: Gullanes hotel €139 per night per room Shearwater Hotel €200 per night per room Moycarn Lodge & Marina €140 per night per room Gibbons B&B €70 per night per room To book any event - click into the image or click on this LINK Rambling HouseVenue: Gibbons Bar Time: 9pm to 11pm Friday 26th May An evening’s entertainment of Song, Music, Storytelling and Dance to recapture the spirit of the rambling houses which were a big feature in Irish Rural Life. Complimentary light bites of Traditional Irish Food Cost: €15 Enquiries: Claire: 0879574582 Guided Bog Walk from Ballinasloe to ClonfertLocation: Starting Point at Gun Club & Lismanny Board walk Time: 9am & 11.15 am Saturday 27th May 2 options
Walkers will meet at Gullanes car park at 8.45 am and bus transferred to the Gun Club for 9.00 am walk start. The group will stop at Lismany board walk for lunch (approx. 11.15am) where tea/coffee will be provided. Walk Details: Commence at Ballinasloe Gun Club, along the Grand canal towpath ( following the Hymany way route) past the aqueduct where the Grand Canal and Ballinure river meet, and on to the Lismanny Boardwalk where there is a break for lunch. After the break continue past Kylemore School house and church, along a track, through a forest path alongside Kylemore bog, then bog tracks and finish at Clonfert Cathedral where a bus will be waiting to drop all walkers back to start of walk at Ballinasloe Gun club/Gullanes Hotel Option 2: Meet bus in Lawrencetown village at 11 am and brought by bus to Lismanny boardwalk (53.2628805, -8.1564162, 7R7V+5C4) at 11.15 am. Walk Details: Join the group for the second half of the walk along tracks, forest and bog to Clonfert Cathedral. where a bus will be waiting to drop all walkers back to start of walk at Laurencetown/Ballinasloe Gun Club/Gullanes Hotel Tour Guides: The walk will be guided by Claire Kelly & Fiona Maguire. Claire is an ecologist and will explain the expansive biodiversity and eco systems along the route. Fiona Maguire is a local archaeologist who will talk about the rich cultural heritage along the route. The terrain is a mix of road and grassy trails so please be mindful of footwear. We advise walkers to have good walking boots/shoes, appropriate clothing for the weather to ensure your greatest comfort and safety. Please remember to have water to keep you hydrated, and snacks for along the way if you so wish. We will provide Tea/ Coffee for the stop scheduled at Lismany boardwalk. Cost: €5 Enquiries: Brid Lyons on 0874136769 NB: THIS WALK IS FOR MODERATE LEVELS OF FITNESS & AT PARTICIPANTS OWN RISK All persons participating in this event being organized by Ballinasloe Area Community Development (BACD Clg) do so at their OWN RISK. By purchasing ticket for the event you herby agree to accept all Responsibility. BACD Clg nor its Directors, Volunteers or Employees accept any Responsibility whatsoever caused by any injury or damage suffered by any person participating in this event. Guided Tour Ahascragh DistilleryVenue: The Old Mill Shop & Café Time: 11am & 12pm Saturday 27th May Duration: 45 mins Details: Be one of the first cohorts to tour the newest Irish distillery transformed from a nineteenth century mill into an eco-distillery and visitor centre exploring Irish whiskey making and the future of the Ahascragh spirit. The tour will start in the café with an insight into some history of Ahascragh and the old Mill then the tour will be taken over to the distillery for a guided tour and will return to the café for a sample tasting of some of our products. Cost: €15 per person Enquiries: info@ahascraghdistillery.com or 090 9688935 Boat Cruise on River SuckVenue: Shannon Bridge to Ballinasloe along the River Suck Time: Boat departs Shannonbridge 4pm ( bus pick up in Ballinasloe @ 3pm) Saturday 27th May Duration: 2 Hours Details: Cruise along the majestic River Suck to Ballinasloe onboard the luxurious, all-weather River Queen. Snap photos and enjoy unsurpassed views of this spectacular waterway with live on board entertainment and full bar facilities. 2 Drop of points on way back 1) Moycarn Marina and 2) Ballinasloe Marina On arrival at Moycarn Lodge, A complimentary glass of Bubbly and Chef's Canapes will be served on the Marina to welcome you. Cost: €20 per person Enquiries: Lyn on 0863070579 Tour of Battle of Aughrim Venue: Aughrim Interpretive Centre Time: Sunday 28th @ 10 am Details: Meet Michael and Abbie at the Battle of Aughrim Visitor Centre (H53 KH51) on Sunday 28th May at 10am for a journey through the fields surrounding Aughrim village. These seemingly ordinary-looking fields were the site of the last pitched battle fought in Ireland- and the bloodiest, with approximately 7,000 men losing their lives in the most significant battle of the Williamite War in Ireland. You'll learn all about the events leading up the battle, the key characters involved, and its impact on Ireland's history. You'll also have the opportunity to handle replica weapons, uniforms, and props of the era. The tour will take approximately 2.5hrs on foot over sometimes rough terrain, taking in Kilcommadan Hill, St. Ruth's Bush and Fort, and the ruins of Aughrim Castle - all key locations on that fateful July day in 1691. Suitable clothing and footwear are advised. Cost: €20 per person Enquiries: Mike 0878160971 Kayaking on River SuckVenue: Moycarn Marina Time: 1pm & 2pm Sunday 28th. Details: Kayak along the river Suck with an experienced guide who will take you along the banks of the River Suck to give you a unique view of the countryside. Small Groups, No kayaking experience required. We will supply kayaks, buoyancy aids, helmets and paddles. Meet at Moycarn Marina 15 minutes before start time. Wear old runners, tracksuit bottom or shorts, a t shirt and a wind breaker, or under-armour type top. If you have your own wetsuit, feel free to wear it but not a necessity. Duration of activity: 1 hour Queries: Leo : Lets Enjoy Outside: 086 8406726 A small group of passionate and dedicated volunteers have been meeting since the new year to attempt to establish a new grouping focused on heritage and history in all it’s guises in the locality.
The ad hoc group ran a small pop up Heritage Hub in Greene’s Store , Society St during St. Patrick’s day featuring a lot of lovely dated and mounted black and white photos of times past from the Gerry Devlin Archive. The Group are keen to stress that the elements they wish this new project to embrace are our people, traditions, architecture, archaeology, fairs, Music, Sports, Industry and Art. On the night in question – Mon 17th of April in Gullanes Hotel at 8.30 pm, they are encouraging as many as possible to come but also for those who may have some unseen black and white photos, artefacts , old books, souvenir programmes, equipmen, uniforms or household items associated with East Galway or South Roscommon - to bring them along for an Antiques Roadshow display. Items will be recorded on the night with the owner and a small video clip made for broadcasting later. It is hoped that the project will get as wide as possible support from the upsurge in local amenities, heritage, attractions and publications that all emerged during COVID. |
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March 2024
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