Bealtaine 2025 has been a tremendous success so far, with fantastic engagement from participants across the community. The enthusiasm and energy at each event have truly captured the spirit of the festival, making this year’s celebration one of the most memorable to date.
and Putt tournament, and the much-anticipated annual Jack Roche’s Mystery Tour, which always promises surprises and great fun.
A summary of the events held so far is enclosed for your reference. These gatherings have brought people together through shared creativity, laughter, and a strong sense of community. There’s still plenty to look forward to! Upcoming events include Bingo, this Sunday 18th of May at 3pm, Arts and Crafts sessions, a friendly Pitch
We encourage everyone to join in and make the most of the remaining festivities. Whether you’re a regular attendee or thinking of coming along for the first time, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
For further details or to get involved, please don’t hesitate to contact Lenora—she’ll be happy to assist you. Email: Lenora.kelly@irdduhallow. com or phone 029 60633.
Duhallow News
Editors Note
As we find ourselves halfway through Bealtaine, the good weather has been a welcome companion, encouraging us all to step outside and enjoy our surroundings. The Bealtaine Festival continues to offer a variety of exciting events. From guided tours and arts and crafts to concerts and community gatherings there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Additionally, Invasive species week and National Biodiversity Week are upon us, a celebration of the rich variety of life that calls Duhallow home. With so much happening, there’s no better time to explore and participate in the vibrant events around the Duhallow area. Let’s make the most of this wonderful weather! - Brendon
Email: Discoverduhallow@irdduhallow.com
Phone: 029-60633
Facebook: Discover Duhallow Magazine
Instagram: Discoverduhallowmag
Ballyhass NS Celebrates Victory in Munster Final, Sets Sights on All-Ireland Fittest Schools Challenge
Ballyhass National School is celebrating a huge achievement after winning the Munster Final of the Fyffes Fittest Schools Challenge. They now move on to represent Munster in the All-Ireland Final, which will take place in Athlone on May 19th.This national challenge ran for ten weeks and involved over 320 schools from all around Ireland. Each morning, everyone in Ballyhass NS, students and staff,took part in 10 to 15 minutes of exercise together. It became a fun and energetic way to start each day,while promoting fitness and wellbeing.
“Last year, we were proud to make it to the AllIreland Final and finish in second place. This year, with the introduction of Provincial Finals, it was even more exciting to reach and win the Munster Final for the first time. It’s a moment we’ll never forget.The energy and enthusiasm from our pupils has been incredible throughout the challenge, and we’re so proud of all their efforts. We’re now looking forward to representing Munster in Athlone and giving it our very best.”
The 16 pupils who participated in the Munster final
Bob Cott, JJ Mackey, Cormac Cronin, Clodagh Queeney, Luke Murphy and Dean O’Sullivan full of enthusiasm!
Supporters and participants with teachers Tracey Cremin and Michelle Gayer
Duhallow News
Huge congratulations to the Millstreet Red Set on coming first in the 15 -18 ladies set dancing in Dunmanway recently. Congratulations also to the Millstreet Teal Set who placed 2nd in the same competition. What a great start to the dancing in the County Fleadh. Both sets will represent their Branch and County in Munster in July
On Saturday, 3rd May 2025 AllIreland Scór Quiz Winners were accorded a royal Millstreet welcome after Evening Mass when Millstreet Pipe Band led the four Members of the Winning Team – Jerry Doody, John Tarrant, Pat Sheehan and Con Healy – in a celebratory parade to Millstreet GAA Community Hall where a large attendance heard a number of interesting addresses and where the Team were made a number of presentations. Renewed congratulations to the splendid Team on such a magnificent achievement
Holy Family School Charleville are excited to share a photo of their new outdoor play area. They are grateful for all the generous support of their community, their students, many coming from the Duhallow area, can now enjoy playtime outdoors- rain or shine.
Kilcorney N.S.
Congratulations to recent prize winners in the Carriganima Community Development Group Easter Colouring competition. Kilcorney N.S. pupils; Laura, Olivia, Áine and Doireann were delighted with their fabulous prizes! Well done girls!
Kilcorney N.S. is open to enrolling new pupils. You can phone 029 58380 or email kilcorneynationalschool@gmail.com for any queries you may have.
Congratulations to Hollymount N.S. Duhallow Sciath Na Scol 7-a side football winners 2025. A huge thanks to Ian O’ Connor Knocknagree GAA and Pat Collins for football training and to all the school staff and parents for travelling to support our wonderful team.
Rockchapel Shines Bright: Community Unites for Darkness Into Light Fundraising Walk
The people that got up early to do the "Darkness into Light" in the community centre Rockchapel and raised over €900 for Pieta House.
Maura Carmody, Katie Mulcahy, Aoife Carmody and Aisling Lyons
Patricia Murphy and David Nail getting some of their five a day after the walk.
Thadgh, Tim and Katie Mulcahy minding Oscar
What’s On In Duhallow
An Chultúrlann
Weekly
Monday Music Sessions
Time: 9pm
Cost: €5 on the door
Every Monday Night (except Bank Holidays) – An evening of live music, good vibes, and community spirit!
Writers’ Circle
Time: 7:30pm
2nd Wednesday of Every Month
Share your stories, get inspired, and connect with fellow writers.For details, contact 087 640 6705
Ciorcal Gaeilge
Time: 7-8 pm
Every Thursday – Practice your Irish in a relaxed, friendly environment. email theculturlann@gmail.com to be added to the WhatsApp group.
Rambling House
Time: 8pm
2nd Saturday of Every Month
An evening of traditional storytelling, music, and craic!
Newmarket Dementia Café
Time: 11am – 1pm
1st Thursday of each month. A welcoming place for people with dementia, their family and friends.
Social Dancing
Time: 9pm
Last Friday of Every Month –Dance the night away and meet new people!
IRD Duhallow Led Walk
An organised led walk will take place at Mount Hilary, Banteer on Wednesday 21st of May. We will be leaving the trail head car park at 6.45pm. This will involve walking the Fr. Murphy Loop which is 8km and will take about 1hr 45 minutes. Tea and Coffee after the walk as usual. Registration is essential. Please contact Colm O’Connor at 029-60633 or 086-0849955 to register.
Newmarket
Newmarket Knitting And Crochet Group
Venue: CYMS Hall
Time: Fridays 10.30 to 12 New members welcome, come along for craft, chat and cuppa. If you require anymore information please call Rita on 0862059745
Newmarket Thursday Club
Weekly meeting in Castlecourt from 2.00 - 4.30pm. New members welcome.
Athletic Club Training
Sunday mornings 10am Duhallow Athletic Club training takes place in the Island Wood. All fitness levels and new members welcome
Newmarket Bridge Club
Time: 7.30pm
Venue: CYMS Hall, Newmarket All members and newcomers are most welcome.
IRD Duhallow Bingo
Time: Sunday, May 18th at 3:00pm.
Venue: The Marquee, James O’Keeffe Institute, Newmarket. Prize Money: €2000 For more info, phone 029 60633 or email lenora.kelly@ irdduhallow.com
Annual Mass at Tubrid Well
Time: Friday, May 30th
Venue: Tubrid Well, Killarney Road, Millstreet
Annual Mass at Clonfert Cemetery
Time: Thursday, May 29th at 7:30pm
Venue: Clonfert Cemetery, Newmarket
Please inform family members who now live outside the parish who would like to attend
Rockchapel
Over 55s Keep Fit Class with Darragh
Time: Every Wednesday evening @ 7pm.
Venue: Rockchapel Community Centre
Cost: €10 pay as you go
Adult Social Dancing Classes with Norella
Time: Thursdays 8.30-10pm.
Venue: Rockchapel Community Centre
Cost: €10 pay as you go.
A great social evening as well as a great way to stay fit and active. All are welcome.
Edel Quinn Hall
Social Dancing
Tuesday night 8-10pm Everyone welcome! Taekwondo
Thursday evenings 5-8pm Foroige
For children age 12-17
Mondays 7.30pm-9pm
Temperance Hall
Yoga
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday Pilates
Tuesday and Friday
Flower Club
First Wednesday of every month Clothes Donations
Clothes bank located at the rear entrance to the hall. Shoes accepted.
Bookings
Large of small events accepted for Edel Quinn hall and Temperance hall. Contact 087 4423544.
Banteer
The
Glen Theatre Banteer
Time: May 24th, 8pm:
Seamus O’Rourke in ‘The Reverend’ Tickets are €20
Time: Saturday, May 31st, 8pm: Aoife Scott In Concert. Tickets are €20
Glen Theatre
Youth Drama Group
Our award-winning youth drama group is currently welcoming senior cycle secondary students interested in producing and performing in a new one-act play. Our first meeting of the new season will be held in the Glen Theatre, Banteer on Wednesday, May 21st at 7pm. For further details contact GlenYouthDrama@gmail. com
Banteer Tidy Towns Coffee
Morning
Venue: Banteer Sportsfield Café Time: Sat 24th May 10am til 12.30pm
Rathcoole Rovers
Walking Soccer
Every Tuesday night @ 8:30pm
Venue: Banteer Indoor Astro
Starting Sunday 23rd February
KNOCKNAGREE LADIES FOOTBALL CLUB
Our Summer Training Schedule Underage from age 4 to 16 train every Wednesday , the Under 6 and Under 8 train from 6.45 to 7 30 and the U12 to U16 train from 7pm to 8pm, new players are welcome to come along to training .Our Adults train on Fridays from 7pm to 8pm on Fridays and on Sunday mornings if there is no game , new or returning players are welcome to training, if you are new to the area, have returned home from college or want to return to fitness , we would be interested in hearing from you. Please contact our Chairperson Catherine on 083 3498778 or our Club Secretary Maura on 085 1450533
Thursday: Monthly Pop-Up Gaeltacht (see noticeboard/social media) Contact (086 3159744)
Friday: Active Retired 12.30–2pm Yoga 7–8pm & 8.15–9.15pm (Men only)
(Contact Denise: 086 8901234) Tutors welcome – space available for classes, workshops & clubs!
We also have a separate hub, ideal for remote working, small groups or meetings.
Enquiries: 085 8771949 tureencahillcg@gmail.com Instagram: Tureencahillcommunitygroup Facebook: Tureencahill Community Group
Meelin
Meelin Dance Fitness
Time: Wednesday night at 7pm
Venue: Meelin Hall
€10 per night
Contact Deirdre 0879273672
Mallow Adult Learning Centre Tutor Training Course
Time: May 27th
Venue: St. Joseph’s Parish Centre For further details please contact the office in The Adult Learning Centre, Mallow on 022 42642
For Parents
Donoughmore
Parent and Toddler Group
Donoughmore Community Hall
Stuake, Co. Cork, P32 FP49
Monday 9.30 - 11.30
Millstreet
Parent and Toddler Group
GAA Hall, Millstreet, Co. Cork
P51V577 Monday 9.30am-12pm
Rockchapel
Baby and Toddler Group
Rockchapel Community Centre
Thursday 10am-12pm
Newtownshandrum
Parent and Toddler Group
Community Hall, Newtownshandrum, Charleville. Friday 10am-11am
Newmarket Breastfeeding Support Group
Time: 11.00am to 12.00pm.
Venue: Now held in Castlecourt, Newmarket, Co. Cork. Facilitated by PHN. Just drop in or phone 02961500. Breastfeeding mums and expectant mums are welcome.
Knocknagree Community Centre
Friday night
Dancefit classes from 6.30pm to 7.30pm with Deirdre O'Sullivan, 087 9273672
Saturday 10am -11am Yoga le Cheile with Denise 086 890 1234 8.30pm 45 Card Drive
Monday
Irish Classes Fortnightly 7.30pm to 9pm
New classes coming with SOS Fitness starting on Tuesdays in May and throughout the summer.
The hall is available for rent. Please contact any member of Knocknagree Community for updates and further information.
The Events So Far Duhallow
IRD Duhallow Daytime Cinema
ABOVE: There was a lovely luncheon and movie day in the James O’Keeffe Institute. An audience turned up to view the classic Irish comedy:Waking Ned. A wonderful time was had, with laughs ringing throughout the building.
The crowd enjoying the splendid Bealtaine Tea Dance on Sunday, 11th May 2025 held at Millstreet GAA Community Hall.
Members of the Millstreet Branch of the Red Cross providing the wonderfully popular hand therapy service to those attending the Bealtaine Tea Dance at Millstreet GAA Community Hall.
Assisted Decision Making Morning
LEFT: As well as having fun, Bealtaine 2025 has made sure to be informative as well. Áine Flynn, Director of the Decision Support Service, delivered an informative session on the Assisted Decision Making (Capacity) Act 2015. The session focused on what you need to know about the Act and why it may be important now or in the future.
Bealtaine Coffee Morning
ABOVE: IRD Duhallow’s Lenora Kelly, along with her trusty camera, travelled out to the Bealtaine Coffee Morning hosted by Open Door Women’s Group recently.
The wonderful group of ladies raised €950 in aid of Mercy House Kanturk. A fantastic achievement, well done to everyone involved.
Scan the QR code above to check out on our website, the upcoming Bealtaine 2025 events.
Lifelong Comforts
By ALICE O’BRIEN Alice O’Brien Counselling, Newmarket
On an early sunny walk this week, while walking in the park, Bruno and I came upon a bunny, sitting on a bench, reflecting on the passing river. A stuffed bunny of course, with floppy ears, obviously forgotten by his family and patiently waiting to be reunited. I imagined the scene when the reality dawned that Bunny was still in the park, the crying child and the frazzled parent trying to reassure and comfort. I wondered if Bunny’s owner had got any sleep without their comforter, the soothing effects of Bunny sadly missed. So, why do we create attachments to comforters? And,
wouldn’t it be nice to remain in the child-like state of being comforted by a stuffed Bunny and not a glass of wine or a bar of chocolate. The main reason children form attachments to such items it because they become associated with safety, stability and warmth, particularly during times of stress or separation. The comforter, in this case the Bunny, can act as a stand in for the care-giver during times when self-soothing is needed like bedtime or school time.
As adults we often retina these kind of attachment to objects, for emotional regulation, for coping skills or even for nostalgia. Common objects that adults can become attach to include, clothing, like a favourite hoodie, books and journals, especially if they
are gifted. Items like jewellery and photos also create strong attachments due to the comfort they bring.
There are a few obvious differences between adults and children when it comes to forming attachments to objects. Children seek comfort, whereas adults seek nostalgia. Children are not fully aware of why they are attached to the object, they just know it feels good, but adults are aware of the emotions. In short, children use objects top build emotional resilience, adults use objects to preserve emotional meaning.
As for the Bunny, he was not on his bench that evening, so we will hope he was returned safe to his family after his overnight adventure.
Summer Skin: How to Glow
Naturally (and Gently)
By MAIREAD O’KEEFFE New Leaf Health Store
Long, sunny days are one of the best things about summer — but they also call for a little extra care when it comes to your skin.
First things first: SPF. A mineral sunscreen is an absolute must, and we love the one from UpCircle. It’s light, non-greasy, perfect under makeup, and kind to both your skin and the planet. If you want to add a bit of glow, Dr. Hauschka’s Illuminating Fluid is a lovely touch. It uses mineral pigments and nourishing botanicals like apricot and jojoba oils to create a natural, luminous look that catches the light
beautifully — ideal for that fresh summer skin feel.
Exfoliating is especially helpful this time of year, too. Heat, sweat and SPF can build up on the skin and clog pores, so a gentle scrub once or twice a week keeps things clear and smooth. Pure Dead Sea Salt makes a brilliant natural exfoliator, or pop into New Leaf and we’ll help you choose the right one for your skin.
And don’t forget about skincare from the inside out. A high-quality vitamin C, like the liposomal one from Somega, supports collagen and protects against oxidative stress. Beta-carotene is another great summer nutrient — it helps reduce sun sensitivity and supports the skin’s natural defences.
Lastly, go easy on the sugar. A high-sugar diet doesn’t just affect mood and energy — it can also speed up skin ageing and increase inflammation. Reducing sugar can help keep your skin clearer, calmer, and more resilient over time.
Come by and chat with us if you’d like more ideas — we’re always here to help you feel good, naturally.
Duhallow News
Invasive Species Week –12th to the 18th of May 2025
By AIDAN SUART
IRD Farming for Water Agricultural Community Animator
Introduction: Invasive Species Week takes place this year from the 12th of May to the 18th of May 2025, The aim of Invasive Species Week is for organisations across Ireland and the UK come together to and raise awareness on Invasive Species and to highlight actions that can be taken to prevent their spread.
Invasive Species are species that are not native to an area which can cause harm to the Environment, Economy and to Human Health. Invasive Species can often spread quickly and cause competition with native species for resources which can lead to decline of these native species.
Environmental Impact: Invasive Species can have a major impact on the disruption of native species, Invasives species and predators often outcompete with native species for food, water, light, or habitat, Invasives can also introduce disease into an ecosystem, when it comes to invasive plants, they can have an impact on soil chemistry and interrupt water cycles. Invasive
predators can decimate native populations not adapted to their presence.
Some Common Invasive Species
Found in Ireland include:
Giant Hogweed- Giant Hogweed is commonly found on riverbanks, it can grow up to 5-6cm in height and has white/pink flowers, its large surface area shades out sunlight from native species and causes soil erosion along the banks of the river.
Himalayan Balsam- Himalayan Balsam is commonly found on riverbanks and in damp ground, they grow upright, flowers are usually purple in colour with many large oval-shaped pointed leaves. It’s impacts include shading out of sunlight from native species, soil erosion and less pollination from bees in native species.
Grey Squirrel- The grey squirrel is common throughout the country, they have an impact on the red squirrel population due to competing for both food and space, the species also carries the Pox Virus (SQPV) which is known to effect red squirrels within Ireland.
What can we do in the control and prevention in the spread of Invasive Species
• Become familiar with Invasive Species and how to identify them,
• Report sightings of Invasive Species to the National Biodiversity Data Centre.
• Choosing Native Species in our gardens and landscaping projects.
Waters Users should follow three simple steps when leaving the water: Check-Clean-Dry
• Check gear, clothing and footwear when leaving the water for mud, aquatic animals or plants, remove anything you find and leave at the sight,
• Clean everything as thoroughly as you can,
• Dry- Allow gear to dry
Giant Hogweed
Himalayan Balsam
Discover Duhallow: A Day Of The Region 2025
Calling all Community and Voluntary Groups, Chamber of Commerce, Sporting Organisation etc.
IRD Duhallow is currently in the process of co-ordinating a new round of ‘The Discover Duhallow A Day of the Region Initiative’ for 2025. This initiative was previously delivered successfully across communities in Duhallow from since 2012 and supported
a wide variety of events, festivals and activities across the region.
The concept of The Day of the Region is celebrating regional identity and rural life. Communities will be supported to showcase what their region has to offer socially, culturally and economically to both locals and visitors to the area. This initiative aims to strengthen and celebrate community spirit through
the bottom-up approach in local communities through community led activities.
If your community or group is planning to organise a family fun day, festival, guided walk, traditional and cultural events etc this year please contact Helen O’Sullivan on 029-60633 or helen.osullivan@irdduhallow.com to find out more and to obtain an application form.
Duhallow News
Duhallow Choral Society Supports Tidy Towns
Photos by SEÁN RADLEY
Boherbue Tidy Towns hosted the Duhallow Choral Society’s fundraising concert at the Church of the Immaculate Conception on Friday night. The church provided the perfect venue for the concert, and Fr. Jim concluded the evening with a closing reflection.
The Duhallow Choral Society delivered a fantastic night of beautiful music, complemented by Ceoltoiri Chronain from Freemount Comhaltas and the enchanting singing of Donna Moynihan, making it a special evening for all attendees, with a tea reception at the hall afterwards.
Thanks to all the fantastic volunteers who helped sell the tickets and those who organized and contributed to the fundraiser.
Overall, the fundraising concert was a wonderful celebration of community spirit and musical talent, all in support of Boherbue Tidy Towns.
According a royal welcome to the many people who recently attended the superb Duhallow Choral Society presentation in Boherbue Church in aid of Boherbue Tidy Towns Association.
Ceoltoiri Chronain from Freemount Comhaltas performing at the fundraising event
Duhallow Choral Society performing at the fundraising event
Duhallow News
Denis O'Mahony of Inchileigh, Millstreet preparing to undertake the Everest Ireland Challenge at the end of May and start of June in aid of Breakthrough Cancer Research. The project involves climbing Carrauntoohil fifteen times (and a bit) which is equivalent to ascending Mount Everest!
The dedicated organisers of the recent superb First Holy Communion reception held at Millstreet GAA Community
Eamon O’Sullivan
24/11/1948 - 13/5/2022
On the third anniversary of your passing. In loving memory of Eamon, who may no longer be with us, but whose love and legacy continues to shine bright in your family’s hearts.
The Glen Theatre Drama Group made a trip to the Marketplace Theatre and Arts Centre in Armagh recently, continuing their run of performances of their hit comedy play Dying To Meet You. Over their weekend in Armagh, two members of the group were acknowledged for their invaluable contribution to the Glen Theatre’s success; Rory O’Driscoll and Con O’Keeffe. Well done to everyone involved!
Our Lady, Help of Christians
By TOM DENNEHY
We celebrate the feast day of Our Lady, Help of Christians, on May 24th. This invocation goes back to Pope Pius V in 1571. Invading Muslim forces were about to overrun Europe and the outlook for Christianity looked bleak. Pope Pius V spent nights in prayer and commanded all Catholics to pray the Rosary. Churches were filled across Western Europe with Christians praying for unlikely victory. Their prayers were answered in what seemed a miraculous manner when the enemy was defeated in the battle of Lepanto and their fleets were destroyed in a sea battle which was described as one of the most important victories in history. Attributing the naval victory to Our Lady’s intercession, the Holy Father wished to make her power known throughout the world. Pope Pius V11
But that was not to be the last intervention of Mary under that glorious title. Several centuries later, she came to the aid of the Holy Father again, this time Pope Pius V11.
During five years of captivity, Pius V11 appealed continuously to Our Lady under the invocation “Help of Christians.” From 1809 to 1812, the Pontiff remained imprisoned in the Italian city of Savona, then making a vow to crown the image of the Mother of Mercy existing there, should he be granted his freedom. In 1812, The Pope was taken to Paris, remaining a prisoner in Fontainebleau, where he suffered terrible humiliations inflicted by the French tyrant. But in the course of time, Divine Providence intervened, overturning the good fortune of the tyrannical ruler, Napoleon. In 1814, weakened by losses suffered on several fronts and pressured by public opinion, Napoleon permitted his prisoner to return to Rome. The
Supreme Pontiff took advantage of the journey to honour in a special way the Mother of God crowning her image in Ancona under the invocation of Queen of All Saints. He fulfilled the vow while still a prisoner in Savona and adorned the forehead of the image of the Mother of Mercy with a golden decoration as he passed by the city.
The journey continued amid a glorious display of reverence on the part of the common people in all the localities where Pius V11 passed. And on May 24th he made a triumphant entrance into Rome, being received by the population at large. As the carriage that transported the Supreme Pontiff advanced with difficulty amid the crowd along the Flavian way, a group of faithful, earning the applause of all onlookers, unharnessed the horses and went on to pull the vehicle up to the Vatican Basilica themselves.
Pius V11, attributing this great victory of the Church over the Revolution to the powerful intercession of Mary Most Holy, wanted to show his gratitude by means of establishing a feast day of universal scope dedicated to the beautiful Marian invocation. Therefore, May the 24th was chosen as the feast day of Our Lady, Help of Christians ,in thanksgiving for the Holy Father’s happy return to Rome.
Saint John Bosco.
One of the greatest saints of modern times, Saint John Bosco, founded the Society of Saint Francis of Sales and the institute of the daughters of Mary, Help of Christians. In December of 1862, the Saint made a resolution to build a church dedicated to that invocation, and he declared on that occasion,
“To the Virgin Most Holy whom we desire to honour with the title of “Help of Christians” the times we are in are so sad that we truly
need the Most Holy Virgin to help us in preserving and defending the Christian Faith as in Lapanto, as in Vienna, as in Savona and Rome… and it will be the Mother Church of our future Society and the centre from where all our works will radiate on behalf of the youth.”
Six years later, on May 21, 1868, the magnificent Church of Mary, Help of Christians, was solemnly consecrated in Turin by the Archbishop of the city. The dream of Saint John Bosco became a reality. Since then, this special devotion to Our Lady, Help of Christians ,has spread throughout the Catholic world, owning in great measure to the work of the Salesian Congregation.
Never in our history was our world in more need of Our Lady’s intercession and she has given us the most powerful weapon of all , “The Rosary” which has proved successful in the past so let us remain faithful and pray the rosary with all our might and strength especially during this month of May. Pray the rosary daily, it will miraculously change your life.
