KILLARNEY ADVERTISER WK42 16.10.2026 by Killarney Advertiser

Houses, houses everywhere But are we planning for the people?

NO. 1 PUBLICATION IN KILLARNEY

Week 42 • 16th October 2026

Killarney joins 300k in strike

• TOYS • CARDS AND GIFTS • STATIONERY • BOOKS Opening Hours: 8am - 6pm • 7 Days

vol 53 • 42nd Edition • Issue 24796 • Established March 1973 • www.Killarneyadvertiser.ie • 064 6632215 • info@killarneyadvertiser.ie

16 High Street, Killarney | (064) 663 4900

MONDAYS

BUY 2 DONNER KEBAB

GET 1 KEBAB FREE

TUESDAYS

BUY 1 PIZZA MEDIUM

GET 1 FREE

VALID F

LARGE &

064 6639399 • 089 436 9194 ad-print.pdf 1 24/09/2025 10:14:47

SERVICE YOUR TOYOTA WITH US AND RECEIVE A NEW 12 MONTH WARRANTY Regardless of where you bought your vehicle, you can avail of this warranty Vehicles up to 10 years of age or 185,000kms*

To book your service: 066-7120000 or email: service@kellihers.ie

ADVERTISING

16.10.2026

Building a Real European Health Union “The EU now understands the importance of working together to improve health outcomes and to lower costs. I’m fighting on the Public Health Committee to:” Develop a new Rare Diseases Action Plan

Increase access to innovative new medicines

Improve access to better Cross-Border Healthcare

Secure agreement on pan-European strategies:

End Gender Inequalities in Healthcare

Beating Cancer Brain Health Mental Health Cardiovascular Healthcare

SCAN THE QR CODE TO KEEP UP TO DATE

billykelleher.ie

constituency@billykelleher.ie

@billykelleherEU

This is a political advertisement on behalf of Billy Kelleher MEP. Published by Billy Kelleher MEP, European Parliament, Rue Wiertz 60, Brussels 1047. Visit fiannafail.ie/transparency

MICHAEL

HEALY-RAE td Weekly clinic at

SCOTTS HOTEL

Every Saturday at 3pm Contact numbers: 01 618 3363 | 064 66 85782

Email: michael.healy-rae@oireachtas.ie cllr JACKIE

HEALY-RAE

Contact numbers: 087 946 4425 Email: Cllr.Jackie.Healy-Rae@kerrycoco.ie

lly

Your Independent Kerry team working both loca and nationally for you

© All images, design and content in the Killarney Advertiser is protected by copyright © for the benefit of the Killarney Advertiser or third parties. No part, image or design may be reproduced in any other publication without the prior appropriate written consent of the copyright holder.

ADVERTISING 3

16.10.2026

NEW CUSTOMERS OFFER

SIMPLY CHOOSE YOUR MONTHLY PACKAGE SMALL STANDARD HOUSEHOLD HOUSEHOLD PACKAGE PACKAGE• Receive your bins

€

29.50 PER MONTH

• 240 Ltr Waste Bin • 2x25 Ltr Food Waste Caddy within 7 days € .5H0 • 7 Ltr Food Waste Kitchen •Caddy Top Up monthly PER MONT • 360 Ltr Recycling Bin

(or €340 for 12 months)

online after that...

• 140 Ltr Waste Bin • 2x25 Ltr Food Waste Caddy • 7 Ltr Food Waste Kitchen Caddy • 360 Ltr Recycling Bin

(or €290 for 12 months)

SCAN THE QR CODE TO ORDER ONLINE

or call our office on 0818 37 37 37 Terms & conditions apply. Offer is for initial 12 months, after that price is based on weights collected.

Using our three bin service and incentivised charging structure will keep future bills reduced

KEEPING WASTE COLLECTION SIMPLE & BUDGET FRIENDLY

www.kwd.ie

Waste Collection Permit No. NWCPO-10-05637

ADVERTISING

16.10.2026

ADVERTISING 5

NEWS

PAGESIX Schools closed, hospital services disrupted and council facilities shut as thousands of Kerry workers joined nationwide industrial action over pay and the rising cost of living. Picket lines appeared across Killarney and throughout Kerry on Wednesday, October 14, as more than 300,000 public sector workers nationwide took part in a 24-hour strike, one of Ireland's largest coordinated stoppages in almost two decades. Teachers, nurses, healthcare workers, civil servants, council employees and Special Needs Assistants joined the action following a breakdown in negotiations over a new public sector pay agreement. Despite difficult weather conditions, workers turned out in numbers across Killarney, with many reporting strong public support. Passing motorists regularly sounded their horns in solidarity with those on the picket lines.

SCHOOLS AND HOSPITALS AFFECTED

Schools across Killarney and surrounding districts closed as teachers and education staff joined the strike. At Glenflesk National School, Margaret O'Donoghue and Fiona Brick were among those on the picket line, where Kerry TD Danny Healy-Rae joined workers in a show of support. Meanwhile, at Lissivigeen National School, Kerry TD Michael Healy-Rae and his son, Councillor Jackie Healy-Rae, joined teachers and Special Needs Assistants protesting outside the school. Across Kerry, the Irish National Teachers' Organisation (INTO) represents approximately 1,800 members, while the Association of Secondary Teachers Ireland

16.10.2026

FOR ALL THE LATEST UP TO DATE NEWS

Find us on Facebook and Instagram @killarneyadvertiser

Killarney joins 300,000 in strike

Every cloud has a silver lining!

Margaret O'Donoghue and Fiona Brick pictured with Danny Healy-Rae TD at Glenflesk National School.

(ASTI) has around 700. Healthcare services also experienced significant disruption. SIPTU members picketed Killarney Community Hospital, with further demonstrations at University Hospital Kerry, St John of God Services in Tralee and West Kerry Community Hospital. Local Labour Councillor Marie Moloney was among those supporting striking HSE workers, returning to her trade union roots to stand alongside SIPTU members. "Happy to stand and support these workers. Back to my roots with SIPTU as well. Government, please listen to the workers!!!" she wrote on social media. The HSE cancelled routine appointments

Pictured at Lissivigeen National School are SNA Sinéad Higgins, Cllr Jackie HealyRae, teachers Olivia Coleman, Orla Kelliher and Kristine Sheahan, Principal Ellen Cagney, TD Michael Healy-Rae, teacher Denis O'Sullivan and retired teacher Pat Brosnan. In front is SNA Marie Carroll O'Sullivan.

and elective procedures, while emergency and critical healthcare services continued operating. Council offices, libraries and other public facilities also closed, apart from essential services.

PAY DISPUTE AND COST OF LIVING

The dispute follows the expiry of the previous public sector pay agreement in June, with unions arguing that rising living costs have significantly eroded workers' purchasing power. An outstanding local bargaining provision, equivalent to 1% of basic pay costs, has also contributed to tensions. The Government allocated €1.2 billion in Budget 2027 towards a new pay agree-

Meanwhile, Kerry's third-level students showed remarkable foresight and solidarity with their striking lecturers, with absolutely no intention of crossing a picket line. Knowing Wednesday's lectures were unlikely to proceed, many reportedly headed into Killarney town on Tuesday night in considerable numbers. A principled show of support, naturally, with the added advantage of Wednesday being conveniently available for recovery. Every cloud has a silver lining! ment, although unions maintain that stronger commitments are needed.

HEALY-RAE CALLS FOR TALKS

Speaking to the Killarney Advertiser at Glenflesk National School, Deputy Danny Healy-Rae highlighted the outstanding 1% commitment and urged both sides to return to negotiations. "The dispute should not be about determining who was right or wrong, but about getting Government and union representatives around the table to reach an agreement," he said. Further strike action is scheduled for Wednesday, October 21, unless progress is made.

Cllr Marie Moloney joins SIPTU members supporting striking HSE workers in Killarney.

ADVERTISING 7

16.10.2026

Upcoming 2026 October Bank Holiday Weekend FRI BINGO LOCO 23 ABBAESQUE OCT MIKE WOZNIAK

SAT ROBERT MIZZELL AND HUM 24 RATTLE THE SEEGER OCT SESSIONS REVIVAL

SUN THE 30+ CLUB 25 DAVID JAMES OCT HOTHOUSE FLOWERS

RORY O’HANLON MORNING GUYS!!!

DECLAN O’ROURKE

MACK FLEETWOOD

FRI 16 OCT 2026 FROM €31.90

SAT 07 NOV 2026 FROM €42.20

FRI 27 NOV 2026 FROM €30.00

COLDPLACE

THE MURPHYS

CLIONA HAGAN

SUN 18 OCT 2026 FROM €33.65

SAT 14 NOV 2026 FROM €25.00

FRI 27 NOV 2026 FROM €30.00

SORCHA RICHARDSON

MUIREANN NIC AMHLAOIBH

BERNARD O’SHEA

THUR 05 NOV 2026 FROM €25.50

FRI 20 NOV 2026 FROM €28.00

FRI 27 NOV 2026 FROM €28.00

GEAROID MCCARTHY

SEAN RONAYNE

DAVID O’DOHERTY

FRI 06 NOV 2026 FROM €39.20

SAT 21 NOV 2026 FROM €25.00

SAT 28 NOV 2026 FROM €31.00

DOMINIC KIRWAN

ONÓIR

THE STUNNING

SAT 07 NOV 2026 FROM €30.00

SAT 21 NOV 2026 FROM €35.00

SAT 28 NOV 2026 FROM €39.20

A COLDPLAY TRIBUTE

IN CONCERT

OCEANIC

UNTOLD SOUNDS

For full line-up check out gleneaglearena.ie All ticket prices exclude service charge plus facility fee.

Telephone and Internet bookings subject to service charge.

IN CONCERT

PICK UP DROP OFF

HIGHWAY TO THE DAVID ZONE

Box Office 064 6671555 gleneaglearena.ie | ticketmaster.ie

NEWS

16.10.2026

Deer watch walks return this weekend Killarney National Park is set for a spectacular weekend of wildlife, autumn colours and nature walks as the annual Samhain Autumn Gathering takes place on Saturday, October 17 and Sunday, October 18.

Fire safety starts at home National Fire Safety Week highlights everyday dangers and encourages people across Killarney to look out for vulnerable neighbours. Kerry Fire and Rescue Service is urging households across Killarney and the wider county to take simple precautions during National Fire Safety Week, which runs from October 12 to 18. This year’s campaign, “Know the Room, Know the Risk, Know the Person,” encourages people to identify potential fire hazards in their homes, workplaces and everyday surroundings. The campaign draws particular attention to older people, those living alone, and vulnerable members of the community who may need additional support. Common household risks include unattended cooking, portable heaters, open fires, overloaded electrical sockets and electrical devices left charging overnight. The campaign also stresses the importance of working smoke alarms, clear escape routes and knowing how to leave a building safely in an emergency. Minister James Browne said fire safety begins with awareness, adding that iden-

tifying hazards, checking smoke alarms and knowing emergency exits can help save lives. Kerry Fire and Rescue Service is encouraging residents to check in on elderly relatives, friends and neighbours, particularly as the colder winter months approach. Householders are advised to test smoke alarms regularly, ensure chimneys and flues are properly maintained, and keep exits clear. The National Directorate for Fire and Emergency Management also runs a Community Smoke Alarm Scheme, which provides free smoke alarms to vulnerable households. For further information about the scheme in Kerry, contact communityfiresafety@kerrycoco.ie. A few minutes spent checking fire safety at home could make a lifesaving difference.

Multiple arts grants available for Killarney projects in 2027 Killarney artists, schools and community groups are encouraged to apply for Kerry County Council arts funding for 2027. Grants include the Arts Act Grant, Individual Artist Grant, Artists in Schools Grant and Youth Theatre Grant. Of particular local interest is the Eamon Kelly Grant, supporting emerging and established artists from or living in the Killarney Municipal District.

Funding also supports individual artistic development, education, festivals and community projects. An online information webinar takes place on Monday, November 2, at 1.30pm, offering guidance on applications. Register by emailing arts@kerrycoco.ie. Applications close at 4pm on Friday, November 20, 2026. Full details, eligibility criteria and application forms are available at arts.kerrycoco.ie.

With the red deer rutting season in full swing, visitors will have the opportunity to experience one of Killarney's most impressive natural spectacles, as native Irish red stags bellow across the park and Sika deer make their distinctive whistling calls. The annual gathering celebrates the changing seasons, with the park's woodland colours, early morning mist and spectacular wildlife attracting visitors from across Ireland. Among the highlights are two free Autumn Deer Watch guided walks, taking place at 7.30am on Saturday and Sunday, departing from Knockreer Gates, opposite St Mary's Cathedral. Led by National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) conservation rangers Tricia Beecher and Conor Rowlands, the walks

offer an opportunity to observe the park's native red deer while learning about local wildlife, flora and the surrounding natural environment. All events are free, with no advance booking required. Visitors are encouraged to dress warmly, wear suitable walking footwear and maintain a safe distance from deer during the rutting season.

Killarney sports hall back in action after flooding damages Killarney Sports & Leisure Centre's sports hall will reopen on Monday, October 19, following a seven-week closure caused by severe flooding on August 27. The flooding struck at a particularly difficult time, just days before the facility's busiest season, when local sports clubs, schools, and regular users were preparing to return. The closure caused significant disruption, particularly for St Paul's Basketball Club and Killarney Pickleball, both of which rely heavily on the facility. Management thanked all users for their patience and understanding throughout the closure, with particular appreciation for both clubs' cooperation. Kerry County Council was also praised

for helping ensure the necessary repair works were completed as quickly as possible. With the sports hall now ready to welcome back clubs, schools, and individual users, the centre looks forward to a busy winter season and a return to normal activities.

16.10.2026

ADVERTISING 9

NEWS

16.10.2026

TOWN TALK Houses, houses everywhere YOUR COMMUNITY NEWS • GOT A STORY?

Call 064 6632215 or email: newsdesk@killarneyadvertiser.ie

But are we planning for the people?

More than 1,300 homes feature in major housing schemes across Killarney and Rathmore, but questions remain over affordability, traffic and the infrastructure needed to support growing communities. Killarney has no shortage of housing announcements. From Park Road to Port Road, Countess Road to Rathmore, hundreds of new homes are progressing through the planning system, while others are already under construction or completed. For families struggling to find somewhere to live, this is welcome news. Yet every new estate brings more than houses. More cars, children needing school places, and greater demand for childcare, healthcare, water services and public transport. The question is whether infrastructure will keep pace.

ANOTHER 188 HOMES PROPOSED FOR PARK ROAD

The latest proposal comes from RossPark Residential HS Limited, which lodged an application on Friday, October 2, seeking permission for 188 homes at Ardshanavooley, adjoining Deerpark Retail Park. The 3.8-hectare development includes 120 houses, 68 apartments, a crèche and 225 parking spaces, with access arrangements linked to Killarney's proposed strategic road network. Developers describe the location as highly sustainable, offering opportunities to reduce reliance on private cars. Whether residents will enjoy realistic alternatives to driving depends on the delivery of supporting infrastructure. The proposal joins an expanding list of developments. Permission for 259 homes at Countess Road was granted in August but is under appeal. Another 224 homes were approved for Port Road and St Margaret's Road, while 134 homes on Ross Road received approval following an appeal. At Ardshanavooley, near Burr Ridge, permission was granted for another 123 homes, including a proposed affordable housing element, although that decision has also been appealed. Construction is progressing rapidly on 70 homes opposite Lidl on Hans Liebherr Road, while the 249-home social hous-

ment Plan, elected members help determine where future housing growth should occur. Yet identifying settlements for expansion raises important questions about the appropriate scale of development and whether roads, schools and services are sufficient. Although classified as a District Town, Kilcummin retains the character of a rural village. Development appropriate for one settlement may be unsuitable for another. Individual planning applications must still be assessed on their own merits, but the wider policy decisions establish the framework for future growth.

WHO PLANS FOR THE BIGGER PICTURE?

ing development at Cronin's Wood on Upper Park Road has been completed. Kerry County Council is separately advancing proposals for approximately 70 social homes at Ballydribbeen and five apartments at Fleming's Lane.

RATHMORE'S 57 HOMES GET GREEN LIGHT

Beyond Killarney, permission was granted earlier this month for 57 homes south of Main Street in Rathmore. The applicant, Old Road Limited Partnership, includes Fianna Fáil councillor Niall Kelleher among its general partners. The site has a lengthy planning history. In 2021, councillors unanimously supported an earlier 60-home proposal, with Cllr Kelleher withdrawing from proceedings because of a conflict of interest. That permission was subsequently overturned by An Bord Pleanála following an appeal. The latest approval marks another step towards development on the site.

KILCUMMIN RESIDENTS OPPOSE DEVELOPMENT

Not every proposal has progressed. In Kilcummin, Xdev Real Estate Ltd withdrew plans for 16 homes, two commercial units and an office building on September 11, following more than 80

submissions. Residents raised concerns about the development's height, scale and compatibility with the village's character. The withdrawal raises wider questions about development in rural communities. Under Kerry's County Development Plan 2022–2028, Kilcummin, Rathmore and Barraduff are all designated as District Towns, despite their differences in physical size, character and existing services. Rathmore, with its established Main Street and range of services, has secured approval for 57 homes. Kilcummin, a smaller rural village, saw its 16-home proposal withdrawn. Meanwhile, housing expansion is underway at Shronedarragh in Barraduff, where three additional phases comprising 50 homes received council approval during 2025. Local councillor Marie Moloney previously welcomed village infrastructure improvements in Kilcummin, while more recently raising concerns about problems associated with its €9 million sewerage scheme. These contrasting developments illustrate the difficult decisions facing councillors. When adopting the County Develop-

Councillors regularly highlight the same infrastructure concerns. In February, Cllr Niall Kelleher questioned the absence of an operational footpath serving social housing in Barraduff. More recently, Cllr Martin Grady sought progress on pedestrian and cycling infrastructure near Gaelscoil Faithleann, only to be told funding was unavailable. The challenge extends beyond councillors' powers. While elected members shape development policy, individual planning decisions generally rest with planning authorities. Roads, schools, healthcare and other services involve separate agencies and funding decisions. Housing demand remains substantial. In March, 1,537 approved social housing applicants had selected Killarney Municipal District among their three preferred locations, including 981 awaiting their first social home. There is progress. CSO figures recorded 245 new homes completed in the Killarney Local Electoral Area during 2025, followed by another 139 in the first six months of 2026. Affordability remains a challenge. This week, Kerry County Council confirmed that three affordable housing proposals for Killarney were still at pre-planning stage. More homes are essential, and delivering them represents genuine progress. But counting planning permissions tells only part of the story. The true measure of successful development is whether families are able to afford these homes, reach schools safely, access essential services and live in communities where infrastructure grows alongside the population.

ADVERTISING 11

16.10.2026

Supper Menu A = Adaptable to Gluten Free

To Begin

GOOD FOOD | GREAT DRINKS | WARM WELCOME

OCTOBER Culinary Special

Kayne’s Supper Menu 2 Courses €32 / 3 Courses €40

Homemade Soup of the Day (A) Finished with Crisp Croutons. Served with a Selection of freshly Baked Breads Chicken Wings Crisp Fried Irish Chicken Wings coated in a Sticky BBQ Sauce, with Ranch Dressing, Toasted Sesame Seeds & Crisp Celery. Seafood Chowder (A) Ocean Fresh Fish, Root Vegetables brought together in a White Wine Velouté. Served with a Selection of freshly Baked Breads. Kayne’s Seasonal House Salad Honey Roasted Butternut Squash, Pomegranate, Cranberries, Tenderstem Broccolli, Feta & Carmelised Fig finished with an Orange, Maple & Dijon Vinaigrette. Chilli Beef Nachos (A) Crunchy Tortilla Chips, Traditional Minced Beef Chilli, Scallions Chipotle Mayo, Cheddar Cheese, Crispy Onions.

Chef’s Selections

Pan Seared Irish Steak 6oz Beef Sirloin Steak, Caramelised Onions, Dressed Rocket Leaves, Served with Crispy Fries, & Pepper Sauce. The Bacon & Cheese Burger 5oz Irish Beef Patties, Irish Cheddar, Crisp Lettuce, Vine Tomato, Smoked Bacon Mayo, Brioche Bun, & Crispy Fries.

GREAT SEASONAL FLAVOURS, SERVED WITH STYLE

Pan Seared Fillet of Hake Selection of Charred Mediterranean Style Vegetable Safron Aoili, Rocket Leaves, Balsamic, Basil & Almond Pesto.

Relaxed & Stylish

Kayne’s Mild Yellow Vegetable Organic Lentil & Chickpea Curry (A) Spiced Curry with Coconut Milk, Blend of House Spices, Fresh Lime, Stir-fried Vegetables, Braised Rice, Naan Bread, Mango Chutney.

Fresh, Seasonal Ingredients

Great Food & Drinks

Book Your Table Today

Pan Seared Supreme of Irish Chicken Creamed Potato, Leek, Smoked Bacon, with a Wild Mushroom, Pearl Onion & Tarragon Velouté.

Something Sweet

Homemade Old-Fashioned Apple Pie Vanilla Ice Cream, Vanilla Custard & Fresh Cream.

Now taking bookings for your

Christmas Night Out

Kayne's Bar & Brasserie | Muckross Road | 064 6639300 www.kayneskillarney.com

Mango Crème Brûlée (A) Watermelon & Pineapple Salsa, Homemade Coconut Shortbread. Creamy Italian Style Tiramisu Layers of Espresso-soaked Sponge, Rich Mascarpone Cream & Chocolate Shavings, with Almond Biscotti.. Freshly Brewed Tea or Blue Butterfly Coffee

NEWS

16.10.2026

PROJECT COMMENCEMENT: Pictured at the commencement of the Mahony's Point Upgrade Project are, from left, Nicola O'Sullivan, Head of Business Development; Harry O'Neill, Course Convenor; Michael O'Donoghue, President of Killarney Golf & Fishing Club; Colin Finlay, Director of Golf; and Peter McVicar, KGFC Team Lead on Mahony's Point.

Historic Killarney course begins a multi-year enhancement programme focused on bunkers, tees and long-term course improvement. Killarney Golf & Fishing Club has announced a significant multi-year upgrade project for its renowned Mahony's Point course, with work now underway to enhance one of Ireland's most scenic and historic golf venues. Established in 1893, Killarney Golf & Fishing Club is home to Mahony's Point, a course celebrated for its spectacular lakeside setting and golfing heritage. A former host of the Women's Irish Open, the course features the iconic par-three 18th hole overlooking Lough Leane, recently recognised by Golf Monthly among the greatest finishing holes in golf. The Mahony's Point Upgrade Project will involve the comprehensive redesign and reconstruction of bunker complexes and teeing areas throughout the course. The improvements aim to enhance presentation, playability and the over-

COURSE DEVELOPMENT: Existing and proposed designs for Hole 5 at Mahony's Point, illustrating planned improvements to the course's bunker complexes and playing areas.

Mahony's Point set for major upgrade all golfing experience while preserving the natural beauty and character that make Mahony's Point so distinctive. Approved by club members earlier this year, the project is being delivered by a specialist team led by course architect Jeff Lynch of ReGolf, working alongside Synergy Golf and the Mahony's Point Steering Group, chaired by Harry O'Neill. Kerry-based Atlantic Golf Construction has been appointed as the preferred

construction partner. The company has worked on some of Ireland's leading golf venues, including Adare Manor, Ballybunion, Tralee and Lahinch. Phase One commenced on October 5, 2026, and is scheduled for completion in April 2027, allowing the upgraded holes to reopen for the 2027 golfing season. Phase Two is scheduled to begin in October 2027, with the full 18-hole course expected to reopen by April 2028.

Mahony's Point is one of Ireland's truly iconic golf courses, and this project represents an important investment in its future

Hary O'Neill, Chair of the Mahony's Point Steering Group, said the project represented an important investment in the future of the club. From the outset, our focus has been on enhancing the course while respecting the qualities that make it so unique. Lead architect Jeff Lynch said the redesigned tees and bunkers would improve the golfing experience while remaining faithful to the course's heritage and exceptional natural setting. The investment is expected to strengthen Mahony's Point's reputation as one of Ireland's leading golf courses, ensuring its distinctive character and stunning surroundings continue to be enjoyed by members and visitors for generations to come.

MAHONY'S POINT: at Killarney Golf & Fishing Club, overlooking Lough Leane, where a major two-phase course enhancement programme is now underway. Photo: Ian Cronin.

16.10.2026

ADVERTISING 13

NEWS

16.10.2026

Spooky Halloween fun at Ross Castle

Ghost hunts, haunted tours and Halloween traditions are among the free activities planned for Killarney this October.

Ross Castle in Killarney is preparing for a Halloween transformation as the Office of Public Works (OPW) announces a programme of family-friendly events during the midterm break. The historic lakeside castle will host a series of spooky activities, offering visitors an opportunity to explore its darker history while enjoying some Halloween fun. The free Ghostbusters Halloween Hunt runs from October 24 to November 1, daily from 10.30am to 5pm. Children are invited to find nine escaped castle ghosts, with stickers and a prize draw awaiting successful ghost hunters. Families can also enjoy Tours for Trainee Ghouls and Goblins on October 28, 30

and 31, exploring traditional Halloween customs and games. The free 30-minute tours are suitable for children aged five and older. For those seeking something more frightening, a special tour entitled If These Walls Could Scream takes place on Halloween, October 31, from 4.50pm to 5.30pm, recounting tales of hauntings and murders from the castle's 600-year history. This tour is unsuitable for young children. Admission is free, but advance booking is essential for the guided tours. For further details and booking information, visit heritageireland.ie/whats-on/if-thesewalls-could-scream/.

Kilcummin Tractor Run returns for fourth year Tractors, trucks and vintage cars will take to the roads on Sunday, October 25, raising vital funds for Kerry Cancer Support Group.

L-R Volodymyr Konovalenko, Tim Kelly, Cúan Kelly, Roman Konovalenko, Ryan Tomlinson, Adam Tomlinson and Ronan Daly

Killarney Judo Club impresses at Leinster Open last Sunday

Young Killarney judoka delivered an impressive medal haul at the Leinster Open in Dublin last Sunday, facing some of Ireland's top emerging talent. Fourteen athletes from Killarney Judo Club travelled to the sold-out competition, which attracted competitors from all four provinces. Ryan, Ronan, Clíona and Caoimhe battled tough opposition to finish fifth in their respective categories, while Adam and Volodymyr secured bronze medals in highly competitive groups of 15. Carolena, Zarah, Emily and Patrick deliv-

ered strong performances to claim silver medals, while Rian and Roman won all their contests to take gold. For 12 of the 14 athletes, this was their first Leinster Open, making their achievements particularly impressive. The club praised the determination and sportsmanship shown by all competitors and thanked the families who made the journey to Dublin. Attention now turns to the Munster Mini Mon in Limerick, where the club's younger athletes will continue gaining valuable competition experience. For information about the club's waiting list, contact Tim on 086 260 1591.

The annual Kilcummin Tractor Run returns on Sunday, October 25, with organisers encouraging the public to come along and support a worthy local cause. Now in its fourth year, the event welcomes tractors, trucks and vintage cars, with registration starting at 11am, followed by departure from The Village Inn, Kilcummin, at 1pm. All proceeds will go to Kerry Cancer Support Group, which provides essential services to cancer patients and their families throughout the county. Services include Healthlink Transport, which operates four full-time vehicles to transport patients to hospital appointments for cancer treatment. The organisation also provides counselling

and additional support services. A fundraising raffle will take place, with a €1,000 holiday voucher among the top prizes, alongside hampers and vouchers generously donated by businesses in Kilcummin and Killarney. Raffle tickets cost €10 and are available from The Village Inn, Kilcummin Post Office, The Cozy Cow Café, The Klub Bar, Paddy O’Keeffe’s Shop and Kelliher’s Electrical. Organisers have thanked the many volunteers who help organise and steward the event, sell raffle tickets, and assist with fundraising, as well as the local businesses whose sponsorship makes the event possible. The Kilcummin Tractor Run committee is encouraging participants and spectators alike to support the event and help raise much-needed funds for Kerry Cancer Support Group.

Kerry Cancer Support Group’s Healthlink Transport bus, which provides transport for patients travelling to hospital appointments for cancer treatment.

16.10.2026

ADVERTISING 15

NEWS

Marie Meets

16.10.2026

locals er Marie Carroll-O’Sullivan chats to Well-known and much loved photograph ts’. ents in her monthly column ‘Marie Mee about their news, views and accomplishm

"So, Pat, what's the retirement plan?" "I'm looking forward to doing nothing, Marie. Just easing into it and enjoying life," Pat replied. For a man who has spent decades answering customers' calls day and night, doing nothing sounds like a perfectly respectable occupation. Whether everyone will let him get on with it is another matter. "Was it always oil, Pat?" "I started with C&R Frozen Foods. I spent my first year there before Pat Buckley transferred me to CRL Oil," Pat explained. That first year is included in his 47 years of service. Neil Randles, Pat Buckley, Tadhg Crowley and Mike Lucey ran C&R, while CRL takes its name from Crowley, Randles and Lucey. "The place in Lissivigeen was a green field, Marie, with a caravan for an office. I started out driving and doing deliveries." A caravan, a truck and plenty to learn. Pat remembers managing director Pat Buckley showing him how to load the truck and open its compartments in sequence. "I thought I'd never get the hang of it. He said, 'You'll get the hang of it alright.' The compartments had to be opened in sequence, Marie. I think it was my second day when I opened number two before number one and was covered head to toe in oil," Pat recalled. "It goes without saying that never happened again. I learned hard and fast." Some lessons require a refresher course. That one required a change of clothes. "What kept you at CRL for 47 years, Pat?" "No two days were the same. There were hotels, churches, factories, all sorts of customers. It was the people I'd meet and the friends I made through the work that made every day so varied," he replied. From deliveries, Pat moved into office work, sales and dealing with orders. As home heating oil became more common in the 1980s, customers had questions beyond how many litres they needed. "People wanted advice on what tank to get, how best to install it, plumbers, electricians and servicing boilers. I worked closely with O'Callaghan's on College Street to give customers the best advice I could," Pat explained. Years of experience gave him a practical understanding of heating systems and who to contact when problems arose. "Was it always the oil's fault?" "Sometimes people thought they were out of oil, but it was a boiler issue. We'd

Pat Tangney's 47 years of memories

start filling and realise the tank still had oil in it. On occasion, it would come spluttering out the top. We'd be back onto O'Callaghan's again then," Pat recalled. The oil man could bring the delivery, but even he couldn't talk a stubborn boiler into cooperating. "What changed the job most?" "The mobile phone made life a lot easier. Before that, we had two-way radios, and before that again we had nothing. Now the office could ring if I was in Castlemaine and another order came in. If I had oil left, I could go while I was already in the area," Pat replied. "Eircodes. The best invention ever!" "Before that, the postmen were a world of knowledge. I made great friends around Kenmare, Killorglin and the surrounding areas. They knew every corner and who lived where. They still do," Pat added. Before Eircodes, a postman knew exactly

where to go. "Was everyone welcoming, Pat?" One delivery in Killorglin came to mind. The customer was particular about time. Two o'clock meant two o'clock. "He came out and said, 'The tank is over there in the briars. If you can't find it, then go away,' and closed the door," Pat recalled. Well, there was no danger of being held up discussing the weather. "How has the driver's day changed?" "We used to get a list of deliveries on paper, with a huge amount of paperwork. Now there's ePOD. It gives the driver all the details, complete with the Eircode," Pat explained with a laugh. Bank transfers and cards have changed things too, replacing much of the travelling to collect cash and cheques. Vehicles and roads improved, and plastic tanks became familiar where steel tanks once stood.

"East Cork Oil took over in 1999. They knew the business, and having more depots made things much easier," he added. "And the difficult days?" "We went through shortages, price fluctuations, the Gulf War, Covid and the war in Ukraine," Pat recalled. The severe cold of 2010–2011 also left its mark. "I remember a truck getting the whole way to the depot in Lissivigeen. When it got there, the ice meant it couldn't reverse up to the tank." Our conversation also took us back to Danny Casey, founder of the Killarney Advertiser. Pat remembers visiting his portacabin in Woodlawn to book an advertisement on page three, a position CRL has retained. Between that portacabin and CRL's caravan, there was plenty of local business getting on with things without waiting for fancy offices. "What will you miss most, Pat?" "The customer banter and the craic in the office," he replied. "Killarney is a great town. I've loved working with all the hotels, businesses and locals. Retirement means stepping away from the orders and deliveries; the friendships need no such notice". As he prepares for retirement, Pat is looking forward to easing into a new chapter, with time to enjoy life at his own pace. He also wishes to express his sincere thanks to his employers and colleagues down through the years, to his customers for their continued support of both himself and CRL, and to his family and friends, both new and old, for their friendship and support. As we wound down, I asked what had stood to him over all those years. His answer was simple: be sociable, work hard, be straight with people, show respect and keep your word. Enjoy doing nothing, Pat. After 47 years, you've put in more than enough practice at doing everything else.

ADVERTISING 17

16.10.2026

MAKE A DIFFERENCE EVERY DAY. BUILD A CAREER THAT CARES.

HEALTHCARE SUPPORT 39 Weeks Killarney 02/11/2026

It’s no secret that Healthcare professionals are needed now more than ever! This QQI Level 5 programme will give you the practical skills, industry-recognised qualifications and realworld experience to confidently and professionally support those who need it most. With an integrated work practice module and strong employment opportunities in this growing sector, you'll be ready to make a meaningful impact from day one.

SCAN HERE AND APPLY TODAY!

#EUInMyRegion

kerrycollege.ie This operation is co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union.

NEWS

16.10.2026

30 years of The Grand A landmark on Main Street, a family business with deep East Kerry roots and three decades of music, memories and hospitality. The Grand is celebrating 30 years under the ownership of the Sheehan family.

of his late father, has become synonymous with live Irish music in Killarney, while the upstairs piano bar and nightclub attract customers across generations. The renewed popularity of Irish folk and traditional-influenced music among younger audiences has strengthened the appeal of live entertainment. At a time when pubs and nightclubs across Ireland face considerable challenges, The Grand continues to play an important role in Killarney's nightlife and tourism offering.

Few entertainment venues in Killarney have enjoyed the enduring popularity of The Grand. For generations of locals, the Main Street premises has been a familiar meeting place, whether for traditional music, a weekend celebration or a late-night dance. This year marks three decades since the Sheehan family took over the establishment, developing one of Kerry's bestknown music and entertainment venues. Today, the business is run by Patsy Sheehan, continuing the legacy of his late parents, Paddy and Eileen, whose entrepreneurial spirit established successful hospitality businesses in Ireland and Britain.

A LANDMARK WITH A HISTORY

Long before the Sheehan name became associated with The Grand, the premises was already part of Killarney's commercial and social landscape. The O'Riordan family, previous owners of The Grand, were associated with an earlier chapter in the Main Street establishment's history before Paddy and Eileen Sheehan took over in the mid-1990s. Under the Sheehans, the premises underwent considerable investment and refurbishment, developing into a major entertainment venue with live music bars, a nightclub and guest accommodation. The Grand became a popular destination for locals and visitors alike, with traditional Irish music central to its reputation.

REMEMBERING PADDY AND EILEEN

FROM GNEEVEGUILLA TO KILLARNEY

The family's success has its roots in Gneeveguilla, where Paddy Sheehan was born in 1930, one of nine children raised in a farming household. In 1956, Paddy and his future wife, Eileen Fleming, emigrated to London, joining countless young Kerry people seeking employment and opportunity in Britain. Paddy initially worked in road construction before establishing himself in business. The couple married and raised four children, Chris, Timmy, John and Patsy, while building business interests on both sides of the Irish Sea. Their first major Irish hospitality venture was the Atlantic Hotel in Ballybunion, acquired in 1977. The hotel became a popular

FAMILY MEMORIES: The late Paddy Sheehan with grandsons Edward, Daniel and Patrick, and son-in-law Dan Dowling.

entertainment destination, hosting leading performers including The Wolfe Tones, The Chieftains and Thin Lizzy. The couple also developed The Swan in Stockwell, London, a well-known gathering place for the Irish community. The family connection continues through their daughter Chris and her husband, Dan Dowling, who purchased the premises in 2010. Despite their success abroad, Paddy and Eileen retained strong Kerry connections, eventually acquiring The Grand in Killarney and beginning another chapter in the family's hospitality story.

MUSIC AT THE HEART OF THE GRAND

For Patsy, live music has always been part of family life. Growing up around the Atlantic Hotel, he witnessed performances by some of Ireland's bestknown entertainers, experiences which helped shape his enthusiasm for music. At The Grand, the tradition continues. Paddy Sheehan's Bar, named in honour

The anniversary also provides an opportunity to remember the couple whose determination and hard work established the family business. Paddy passed away in December 2005, leaving a lasting legacy in hospitality in Kerry and London. His wife Eileen, who died in January 2025, was equally instrumental in their success. Originally from Gneeveguilla, she was a respected figure in the London Irish business community, remembered for her warmth, generosity and work ethic. Their son John, who passed away in December 2022, is also fondly remembered. Together, Paddy and Eileen established businesses which provided employment, hospitality and entertainment to generations of customers. Looking to the future The Grand underwent a major refurbishment during the Covid-19 pandemic, reopening in April 2022 following more than two years of closure. The improvements included the development of Paddy Sheehan's Bar as a tribute to the venue's founder. Further plans include expanding live entertainment, developing new food offerings and increasing guest accommodation. For Patsy and the Sheehan family, the anniversary celebrates three decades of business on Main Street while recognising a family legacy stretching back to the farming community of Gneeveguilla. Thirty years on, The Grand continues to welcome new generations through its doors, remaining a familiar part of Killarney's social and entertainment scene.

A FAMILY LEGACY: Patsy, Chris, their late mother Eileen, Timmy and the late John Sheehan.

16.10.2026

ADVERTISING 19

KILLARNEY COMMUNITY COLLEGE

NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR 1ST YEAR 2027/2028

Application form and additional details available on our school website www.killarneycc.ie or ring 064 6632164 for further information

NEWS

16.10.2026

Afternoon tea, fashion and fun at the Southern

Killarney Rotary Club hosted its annual Afternoon Tea at the Great Southern Hotel on Saturday, October 10. The popular fundraising event brought guests together for an afternoon of

fashion, live entertainment and afternoon tea, while supporting the club's charitable activities and community initiatives. The occasion offered plenty of style, smiles, and photo opportunities as guests enjoyed one of the club's annual social events. Elaine Kirby, Mairead Lynch, Adrian Lynch, Vanessa McCarthy and Bryan Allen

Margaret Stack, Sheena Rope and Anne Hannan

Siofra Foley, Abigail O'Shea and Lillie Foley

Maria Madden and Caroline Killeen

Rayla Tadjimatova, Noleen Lumby, Anne Alcock, Ven Simon Lumby, Aneta Solarczyk, Marta Golebicz, Sherry O'Callaghan and Monica Navidad Noreen McGillicuddy, Pauline Lyne and Margaret O'Sullivan

Colette Courtney, Kathleen Rice, Grace O'Neill and Margaret O'Carroll

Emir O'Shea and Finola Long

and M 16.10.2026

YO U R T R E AT M 21 BI NA YOU R COM

ADVERTISING

Hypnosis is the answer

the Louis Eyres analytical therapy...

AT A G H A D O E

Anxiety, Stress Fears, Phobias, Worry and Tension, Depression, Insomnia, Panic Attacks, Blushing, Stop Smoking, Lose Weight etc. Analytical therapy TOTALLY RESOLVES the CAUSE of unconscious anxieties leaving the sufferer free of their symptoms for life! Louis Eyres, one of Ireland’s longest practicing hypnotherapists.

WITH OVER 40 YEARS IN PRIVATE PRACTICE Louis will be holding a special private clinic:

Parkavon Hotel, Killarney Thursday 22nd October | Friday 23rd October. Limited appointments, book early! All sessions will be on an individual basis

For appointments Tel: 087 2937155 Hypnosis explained: www.louiseyres.ie

NEWS

16.10.2026

Vintage tractors steal the show in Farranfore Over 60 tractors, family entertainment and generous public support made the Killarney Valley Classic & Vintage Club’s annual show a great success.

Mothú, a West Kerry-based community arts collective, performing in College Square. Photo: Pauline Dennigan

Samhain Chiarraí returns to Killarney with fire and folklore

Street parades, fire rituals and Halloween celebrations will bring folklore and family entertainment to Killarney this October. Killarney will be at the heart of Samhain Chiarraí: A Kerry Halloween, as the county-wide festival returns from October 15 to November 1 to celebrate Ireland's ancient Halloween traditions through music, folklore, storytelling, and family events. The town will host one of the festival's two main weekends, October 23 to 25, with street performances, fire spectacles, and cultural activities planned. A major highlight will be Idir Dhá Shaol – Between Two Worlds, a new street parade created by MÓTHU Street & Spectacle Arts Group from Corca Dhuibhne. Taking place on Saturday, October 24, from 7pm to 8pm, the parade will feature the newly created Cailleach Chiarraí

More than 60 tractors were on display at the Killarney Valley Classic and Vintage Club Tractor Show, held at 4 Park Business Centre, Farranfore, on Sunday, October 11. The event drew enthusiasts, families and local community members for a celebration of vintage machinery, agricultural heritage and family entertainment. Among the day’s biggest attractions was the popular dyno testing, where tractor owners put their machines through their paces. The Digger Challenge also drew plenty of attention, with operators demonstrating their skill and precision. Younger visitors enjoyed a range of amusements provided by Tim Carey, while the impressive collection of beautifully maintained vintage and classic tractors proved the main attraction. The club was delighted with the turnout and visitors' generosity, whose donations will benefit three local causes: Firies National School, Recovery Haven Kerry Cancer Support House, and Killarney Valley AC. The organisers thanked the show’s main

sponsors: Tricel, Reens Rathmore Jeep and Fiat, SAMCO Agri Sales, C. Wharton Tool Hire Ltd, The Warehouse Café and Noel C. Duggan Structural Steel Ltd. The club also thanked participating tractor owners, the dyno testing team, Digger Challenge operators, Tim Carey and his team, and the many club members and volunteers who worked behind the scenes. The club thanked everyone who attended and supported the event, helping preserve an important part of Ireland’s agricultural heritage while raising funds for worthwhile local causes. Following this year’s show's success, the club looks forward to welcoming everyone back next year.

puppet, representing Kerry's Goddess of Winter, accompanied by live musicians, fire performers and stilt walkers. Killarney will also host a traditional Samhain Fire Ritual on Friday, October 23, led by the Dingle Druid, marking the ancient festival's connection with the changing seasons. The wider programme includes storytelling, music, community celebrations and family-friendly activities across Kerry, with Tralee hosting the second signature weekend from October 30 to November 1. Curated by Kerry County Council, Samhain Chiarraí forms part of Fáilte Ireland's Home of Halloween initiative, celebrating Kerry's traditions and cultural heritage.

Tesco Whoosh arrives in Killarney Tesco Launches 45-Minute Grocery Delivery in Killarney. Killarney households now have a new option for last-minute shopping, with Tesco introducing a rapid home delivery service from its New Street store that brings groceries and everyday essentials directly to customers' doors in as little as 45 minutes. The service, known as Whoosh, has also launched at Tesco Tralee Square, covering households within approximately 4km to 5km of each store.

Customers can choose from thousands of products, including fresh food, groceries, household essentials, and forgotten items, without visiting the supermarket. Orders are placed through the Tesco Ireland app or at tesco.ie/whoosh, with no minimum spend required. Delivery costs €3.99, with an additional €2 charge for orders under €15. Clubcard Prices and points also apply to qualifying purchases. The Kerry launch brings Whoosh to 60 Tesco stores nationwide, with further expansion planned.

ADVERTISING 23

16.10.2026

THE

PANTRY Celebrate Life’s Special Moments… From First Communions and family gatherings to milestone birthdays, celebrate life’s special

moments at The Pantry. Enjoy an intimate setting, thoughtfully curated seasonal menus and a warm welcome for every occasion. COMMUNION BOOKINGS NOW WELCOME

To Book Call 064 6631853 or Email reception@killarneyroyal.ie

NEWS

16.10.2026

Six reasons to go to the Kerry International Film Festival The Kerry International Film Festival got underway last night (Thursday) and runs until Sunday.

Here are five reasons to make time to visit some or all the event across the whole weekend. 1. Go for the laughs If you’re looking for something that will make you laugh, the Comedy Shorts are a very good place to start. Showing at Cinema Killarney at 1pm on Saturday, this collection of eight short films is packed with sharp, chaotic and seriously funny stories about friendship, rivalry, awkward encounters, bad decisions and the sheer absurdity of everyday life. There are bitter farmer feuds, disastrous dinner parties, botched hit jobs and some very unusual approaches to grief. It’s a brilliant mix of Irish comedy, eccentric characters and stories that take a turn just when you think you know where they’re going. HIGHLIGHT: The coming-of-age drama Summer School, 2001, directed by Dužan Duong, receives its Irish premiere at KIFF

2. See a film from a filmmaker that you might be hearing a lot more about One of the great things about a film festival is getting to discover filmmakers early in their careers, before everyone else starts talking about them. This year, keep an eye out for Peter Young, director of Our House, screening at Cinema Killarney at 6.45pm on Saturday, The film was recently awarded the Bingham Ray New Talent Award at the Galway Film Fleadh 2026, making this a great opportunity to see the work of an exciting new voice on the big screen. 3. Something spooky for the season With Halloween just around the corner, it would hardly be the Kerry Film Festival without something a little darker. As part of their collaboration with Samhain Chiarraí, they’re heading into St Mary’s Church of the Sloes at 9pm on Saturday, for a special programme of spooky shorts. It’s a suitably atmospheric setting for a night of unsettling stories, strange goings-on and films designed to get you in the mood for the season. If you like your

cinema with a little bit of a chill, this one is definitely worth staying out for. 4. Take a trip to the Czech Republic without leaving Killarney You don’t have to know anything about Czech cinema to enjoy KIFFs Czech Film in Focus. They've brought together three very different films, from the wonderfully chaotic comedy of The Fireman’s Ball, to the thought-provoking documentary Limits of Europe, and the coming-of-age story Summer School, 2001. Sometimes the best festival experience is choosing a film you know very little about and discovering something completely unexpected. 5. Something that could only happen at Kerry International Film Festival From 100 Years of Kerry on Film to a relaxed family screening of Song of the Sea, storytelling with Ray O’Sullivan, DJ sets with Aidan O’Leary and the presentation of this year’s Maureen O’Hara Award to Teresa McGrane, there’s plenty happening beyond the cinema screen. So, with one week to go, pick something

that catches the eye, bring a friend and head along. There’s a chance to discover a new filmmaker, see something completely unexpected, or simply enjoy a great night out. 6. Killarney animator’s award-winning film to screen at ANAM Lawlor’s Cross native Muireann Mulvihill will screen her award-winning animated short film Anam, at ANAM Cultural Centre on Saturday, October 17 at 1pm, as part of the Animated Shorts Programme. Created with collaborator Ailbhe Fearon at IADT Dún Laoghaire, the beautifully animated four-minute film tells the story of an old man awaiting his end on a lonely island. The film enjoyed remarkable success at the 2026 Animation Dingle Festival, winning seven awards from nine nominations, including Best Irish Student, Best Art Direction, Best Original Score and Best Irish Language Award. The screening offers local audiences an opportunity to experience the work of one of Kerry’s rising animation talents. For more information and to book tickets, visit kerryfilmfestival.com

ANAM: Scenes from Muireann Mulvihill's Animated Short Film.

ADVERTISING 25

16.10.2026

Autumn Delight Begin by Unwinding in our Tranquil Vitality Suite Enjoy a Indian Head Massage, Back Massage & Mini Facial (90 minute treatment) Unwind in the Relaxation Room with Light Refreshments Main course in The Brehon Bar followed by Tea/Coffee and Mini Dessert

Special Offer | €170 |

BOOK NOW

€170

thespa@thebrehon.com 064 662 3980 *T&C’s Apply. Subject to Availability.*

• Painting & Decorating • Renovations & Interior Finishing • Bathroom Renovation • Powerwashing • Home Extensions We deliver high-end building and renovation services for homes and apartments, with a strong focus on quality, precision and reliability. Our work is to the highest standards, using quality materials and providing a tailored approach to every project. EXPERIENCED TEAM

HIGH-QUALITY WORKMANSHIP

ON-TIME DELIVERY & TRANSPARENT PRICING

089 2520600

NEWS

16.10.2026

Work experience at Killarney Advertiser

Randles Bros Tralee have been named as Nissan Aftersales Dealer of the Year. Pictured at the presentation of the award were (l-r) David Randles, Dealer Principal, Randles Bros Tralee; Seamus Morgan, Managing Director Nissan Ireland; and Niamh Randles, Commercial Development Manager, Randles Bros Tralee. Photo: Nissan Ireland.

Randles goes the extra mile for customers

Randles Bros Tralee named as Nissan Aftersales Dealer of the Year

Randles Bros in Tralee had great cause for celebration this week when it was named as the ‘Nissan Aftersales Dealer of the Year’. The dealership won the coveted award after scoring top marks in a series of audits that assessed aftersales performance and how it has implemented best practices to improve overall performance and to enhance the customer experience. It saw off tough competition from 28 other Nissan dealers around the country to claim the award for the first time, scoring highly for the efforts that it makes to provide customers with quick turnaround times for routine service, maintenance and warranty repairs. “The entire team at Randles Bros Tralee has set an exceptionally high standard for customer care and the service that it provides to customers after helping them to find the Nissan that makes every day driving better,’ said Seamus Morgan, Managing Director of Nissan Ireland. “They excelled across all disciplines and scored heavily for their commitment to developing a customer centric culture across all aspect of the dealership, and for its consistent approach to putting

customers first,” he added. “We are thrilled to be named as the ‘Nissan Aftersales Dealer of the Year. Customers trust us because we take the hassle out of finding the right car and looking after it over the months and years to come, whether that’s electric, hybrid, hybrid e-POWER, petrol or diesel,” said David Randles, Dealer Principal, Randles Bros Tralee. “We are especially proud to be part of the local community in Tralee and across county Kerry. Our success would not be possible without the customers who put their trust in us. Many customers have been coming to us for decades and we work hard to build lasting relationships that work for everyone,” he added. Randles Bros Tralee stock all the latest Nissan models including the sleek all-new Nissan LEAF which starts at €36,095 and has top range of up to 622 kilometres, and the all-new Nissan Micra which has returned as an EV, starting at €25,995, with a top range of up to 416 kilometres. Customers can also test drive the hybrid Nissan Juke, the Nissan Qashqai and Nissan X-Trail hybrid e-POWER, and an award-winning range of Nissan LCVs.

My name is Clodagh O'Sullivan. I am a 16-year-old TY student at Killarney Community College and currently on work experience at the Killarney Advertiser.

This is my very first work experience, and honestly, I think I lucked out, since my 'job' is simply to do what I love most: write freely, with no rules holding me back. I find myself happily perched at this desk, watching people weave through the bright, open office, each too busy to notice the quiet TY student nestled in her chair. I enjoy eavesdropping on their lively chats and even their little disagreements, all while I hide behind my computer screen, careful not to stir up any trouble. I never realised just how shy I become when I step outside my comfort zone, or how every question I want to ask suddenly feels silly the moment I try to say it aloud. Trying to figure out what I want to do with my whole life is honestly terrifying, but this work experience makes it a little less daunting. I get a glimpse into these totally different worlds and wonder if I could ever belong in one. At sixteen, I

feel invisible here, like a fly on the wall, and with my nerves, I actually prefer it that way. Watching everyone’s daily rituals and quirks is fascinating; it feels like I’ve wandered onto a TV show set, and I’ve already chosen my favourite characters. Oddly enough, when I stop convincing myself that I am bothering everyone just by doing what I was asked, I can actually picture myself working here someday. I love the calm and the sense of independence this place has. There is no shouting or loud laughter; everyone is focused, united by the simple goal of getting things done. This office has taught me things school never did, beyond where to find the teaspoons or whether it is okay to snack on a granola bar during tea break. School never showed me the comfort that waits beyond its gates, or that life after school might not be so frightening after all. Comfort is in saying hello to Jess at reception, in the way everyone gathers to listen to her stories about Italy as if they are travelling with her. Comfort is in the collection of personal coffee cups lined up above the sink. Even with all the looming deadlines, comfort settles in every corner. People always say work experience will help you decide your future, but what I am really learning is that, no matter what, things will turn out alright. None of these people could tell me their junior cert results, their worst grade, or the latest teenage gossip from their own school days. What I am taking away from this is the reassurance that I will be okay, that one day I will feel as at home in my life as they do, and that someday I will have the confidence to ask where the tea bags are without a second thought.

BASKETBALL: The Killarney Cougars Academy Girls who lined out against St Colman's in Milltown.

ADVERTISING 27

16.10.2026

BRASSERIE

CASUAL DINING

WHISKEY TASTING

Book Your Table: arbour@greatsouthernkillarney.com 064 6638000

CUSTOMERS

KILLARNEY DID YOU KNOW

16.10.2026

KILLARNEY DID YOU KNOW?

A dollar amongst friends The $1 gift from Killarney's John McShain to President Franklin D. Roosevelt | By Damien Switzer Most people in Killarney know something of John McShain. We know him as the wealthy Irish-American builder who made Killarney his second home. We know Killarney House and Gardens, Innisfallen Island, Ross Castle and great tracts of what we now enjoy as Killarney National Park are part of an extraordinary legacy left by John and Mary McShain. But there is a lovely, much less familiar story from America which says a great deal about the character of the man Killarney came to know so well. It involves one of the most famous American presidents of the 20th century, Franklin D. Roosevelt, and a bill for precisely one dollar. John McShain was already becoming one of America's most important building contractors when, on September 5, 1939, he was awarded the contract to construct Franklin D. Roosevelt's new

presidential library at Hyde Park, New York. McShain was no ordinary contractor. He had a reputation for taking on prestigious buildings even when the financial return was far less attractive than the importance of the project. Four days later, Roosevelt and McShain were together at the site, examining the plans and travelling through the surrounding countryside looking at buildings constructed from the native fieldstone Roosevelt wanted used in his library. Later that month, another presidential inspection included not only McShain, but his wife Mary and their daughter Pauline. It was the beginning of a warm association between two men from quite different political backgrounds. Roosevelt was the great Democratic president of the New Deal era. McShain was a lifelong Republican. He also knew and completed projects for Presidents Truman and Eisenhower. Politics did not prevent a close working relationship from developing.

Years later he summed up his philosophy perfectly:

I'd rather break even on a monumental building than make a million on an uninspired warehouse

GATEHOUSE: The Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum Gate Lodge, Hyde Park, New York.

And this was no ordinary building. Roosevelt's project became the first presidential library in the United States, creating a model followed by succeeding American presidents. The building was privately funded before being handed over to the American people and operated by the National Archives. At its formal dedication on June 30, 1941, John McShain performed an important symbolic role. He announced that construction was complete and handed over a large brass key. The key subsequently passed to the Archivist of the United States as the building was formally accepted on behalf of the American people. But McShain wasn't quite finished.

THE ONE-DOLLAR GATEHOUSE

Just eight days later, on July 8, 1941, McShain made Roosevelt another offer. The new library needed a gatehouse, but it had not been included in the origi-

nal project or its budget. McShain offered to build it for the sum of $1. Roosevelt accepted. The official FDR Library architectural chronology still records the extraordinary arrangement today. Here was one of America's leading builders personally ensuring a small stone gatehouse was built because Roosevelt wanted one. There is even contemporary confirmation from Roosevelt himself. Speaking in Hyde Park on August 30, 1941, FDR recalled stopping with McShain to inspect what he described as a "very delightful stone gatehouse". Roosevelt then told his audience that John McShain "is giving it to the Library." So the dollar appears to have been little more than the formal consideration required for the arrangement. In Roosevelt's own mind, this was a gift. The gatehouse was no temporary lodge either. Built in the same local fieldstone

KILLARNEY DID YOU KNOW 29

16.10.2026

L/R: McShain and FDR laying the cornerstone of the Presidential Library 1939 and for The National Airport, Washington 1941. Driving together in Hyde Park 1940.

associated with the library, it provided facilities for visitors and a place from which admission tickets could be sold. Historical studies of the Roosevelt estate specifically identify the building as a gift from John McShain. For those of us in Killarney, there is something particularly familiar about the story.

FROM HYDE PARK TO KILLARNEY

Almost four decades later, McShain would make an incomparably greater gesture in the town he had grown to love. John and Mary McShain had acquired Killarney House and a vast portion of the former Kenmare Estate. Their affection for Killarney eventually resulted in an extraordinary transfer of property back to the Irish people. Innisfallen Island was donated to the State in the early 1970s. In 1979, Killarney House and the greater part of the McShain estate were transferred to the

Irish State for a nominal sum, with the understanding that the lands would form part of Killarney National Park. John and Mary retained the house and surrounding 52 acres for their lifetimes. John died in Killarney in 1989. Mary remained at Killarney House until her death in 1998, when the house and remaining lands passed to the State. That makes the little stone gatehouse at Hyde Park more than an obscure footnote in John McShain's remarkable career. Many other quiet acts of charity, scholarships and endowments were made to individuals, religious orders and academic institutions. Decades before the McShains effectively handed a priceless part of Killarney back to its people, John McShain had already demonstrated the same instinct thousands of miles away. He built something of lasting value. And when the work meant something to him, sometimes the profit didn't seem to matter.

The price of his gatehouse for President Franklin D. Roosevelt? One dollar. The scale of the two gifts is, of course, completely different. But there is a lovely similarity. Almost four decades later, Killarney would become the beneficiary of John and Mary McShain's generosity on a scale which transformed the future of the National Park we know today. A small story from America, perhaps. But for those of us in Killarney who know the McShain name, a rather familiar one.

THERE IS STILL MUCH OF THIS STORY TO TELL.

Over the coming months I will be sharing articles on John McShain, exploring the many stories, photographs, connections and lesser-known details of his extraordinary life and his relationship with Killarney. I will also continue to provide updates on the proposal for a substantial and fitting memorial to the McShain family.

The people of Killarney opened their doors to my parents and they found a home and friends thousands of miles from America Pauline McShain

LIBRARY: The Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum

THE MAN WHO BUILT WASHINGTON John McShain's association with Roosevelt was only one chapter in an extraordinary American career. His company became prime contractor on many of Washington's great public buildings, including the Jefferson Memorial, the Pentagon, Washington National Airport and the Kennedy Center. He also oversaw the major reconstruction of the White House during President Harry S. Truman's administration. So extensive was his work in the American capital that a major exhibition at Washington's National Building Museum later celebrated him as "The Man Who Built Washington." McShain was known for accepting prestigious projects even where the financial return was uncertain. Contemporary reports state that he lost $43,000 on the Jefferson Memorial, while historian Carl M. Brauer recorded McShain telling an associate that he lost $100,000 on Roosevelt's Library. For McShain, some buildings were worth more than the profit attached to them.

NEWS

16.10.2026

Emer Corridan General Manager Cahernane House Hotel (fourth from left) presenting first prize to winner Christine Carroll with (left) Carol Shanahan and Carmel Fitzgerald 2nd and Annette Captain Annette McNeice at KIllarney Golf & Fishing Club on Sunday.

Siobhan O'Shea Aghadoe Heights Hotel presenting first prize in the Aghadoe Heights Hotel Club Championship Singles to winner Josephine O'Sullivan (Hi 18.0 and under) with (left) Anita O'Sullivan (HI 18.1 and over) and Captain Annette McNeice (back left) Jane O'Dwyer runner up (Hi 18.0 and under) and Lorna O'Leary runner up (18.1 and over).

Killarney Golf & Fishing Club ladies celebrate successful prizegiving The Ladies Branch of Killarney Golf & Fishing Club recently celebrated another successful golfing season at its annual prizegiving evening, recognising members' achievements and the valuable support of local sponsors. Among the highlights was the Club Championship Singles, sponsored by Aghadoe Heights Hotel & Spa, with Siobhán O'Shea presenting the prestigious Aghadoe Cup. The Club Championship Foursomes, sponsored by The Skin Lab, saw Claire Scannell present the historic Peg Mulcahy Trophy. The popular Mixed Foursomes, sponsored by The Brehon Hotel & Spa, attracted more than 65 pairings, making the competition one of the club's best-supported events. The Ballybunion Exchange, sponsored by Cahernane House Hotel, was also recognised, with General Manager Emer Corridan attending the presentations. Meanwhile, Paul and Elaine O'Sullivan claimed

the Pat and Claire Courtney Memorial trophies, sponsored by Killarney Oaks Hotel. Other winners included Lorna O'Leary, who took honours in the Murphys of Killarney Stableford Competition. New sponsors this season included O'Sullivan Lawlor Accountants, supporters of the inaugural Ceann Sibéal Golf Exchange, and Energywise Ireland, sponsors of the Ladies Open Day, which attracted golfers from across Ireland, with the overall winners travelling from Nenagh. Stephen Darmody, Financial Controller with GMIB, attended the presentation of the GMIB Strokeplay Competition prizes, while Adams Jewellers sponsored another popular Stableford competition, offering an impressive selection of prizes. The Ladies Branch extended its sincere appreciation to all sponsors for their generosity and continued support, encouraging members to show their appreciation by supporting local businesses throughout the year. Photos: Michelle Cooper Galvin

Captain Annette McNeice presenting first prize in the Murphy's Bar and Restaurant Stableford competition to winner Lorna O'Leary (left) Emma Vinarick 2nd (back from left) Eimear O'Sullivan 3rd, Geraldine Rosney 4th and Sinead Galvin 5th.

Captain Annette McNeice presenting first prize in the Adams Jewellers Stableford competition to winner Joanne Creedon with (left) Christine Carroll 2nd.

Stephen Darmody GMIB presenting first prize in the GMIB Strokeplay ladies competition to overall winner Geraldine Rosney with (left) Ann Moynihan Division 1 winner, Annette McNeice Captain (second row) Noreen Coffey Division 2 winner, Carmel Fitzgerald division 2 runner up, Kathleen Rice Division 3 winner and Nancy Fleming Division 3 runner up.

Aoife O'Sullivan Captain Killarney Golf Club Junior Girls team (third. from left) presenting the Kerry Junior League Plaque which the team won defeating Ballybunion in the final to Captain Annette McNeice with (front from left) Julie Kelly Junior Officer, team member Elise Roberts, Eileen Whelan and Marguerita Mulcahy Junior Offices (seond row from left) team members Isabelle Roberts, Eimear O'Sullivan, Cora O'Sullivan, Grace O'Connell, Kate Culloty (back left) Lilly O'Sullivan and Vida Broderick.

ADVERTISING 31

16.10.2026

Christmas

Parties

Planning a Christmas Party? The Heights Hotel Killarney offers festive dining for groups of all sizes, with seasonal menus, a warm Christmas atmosphere and live music every Friday and Saturday throughout the festive season. Enquire with us today for our 2026 Christmas Party Brochure events@killarneyheights.ie | 064-6631158 www.killarneyheights.ie

HALLOWEEN CAMP at Killarney Sport & Leisure

TUESDAY 27TH OCTOBER TO FRIDAY 30TH OCTOBER Four day camp | Cost is €90 Drop in rates available for €27.50 daily Time of Camp is 09.30am to 3pm daily Daily swimming at the end of the day 1.45pm -2.45pm Call today for details on any of the above on: 064 66 36554 Email: info@killarneyleisure.com Killarney Sports & Lesiure Centre, Park, Killarney, Co. Kerry

www.coralleisure.ie

NEWS

16.10.2026

Halloween in The Sem returns for a sixth spine-chilling year St Brendan's College, Killarney is set to open its doors once again for Halloween in the Sem, the school's hugely popular Halloween show. What began as a school project has grown into one of the most anticipated events of the Halloween season in Kerry, with more than 1,000 guests making their way through the school each year. Visitors find their way through the corridors, classrooms and grounds of 'The Sem', where actors and scarers bring the old building to life in the most unsettling way possible. This year's show is bigger than ever. More than 170 students are involved, taking on roles as actors, scarers and backstage crew.

Guests will have four mazes to explore this year, each with its own brand-new spooky play. Every maze tells a different story, so even those who have visited before can expect plenty of surprises. The show gives students the chance to act, design, build and organise a large live event, while giving families and friends a night of fun and frights. Halloween in the Sem runs on the 21 to 23 of October from 6-9pm. There is an Autism Friendly Slot on Thursday 22 from 5.15pm to 6pm, during which there will be no jump-scares or loud music. Tickets are €8 and are available from the school website, www.StBrendansCollege.ie. Guests are advised that the show is not for the faint-hearted!

St Brigid's School receive JC results!

Students at St Brigid’s Secondary School were delighted as they received their Junior Cycle results, celebrating the culmination of their hard work and dedication over the past three years. There was a great sense of excitement throughout the school as students opened their results and shared the moment with friends and

classmates. Teachers and staff also joined in the celebrations, congratulating the students on their achievements and wishing them continued success in their studies. The results mark an important milestone in the students’ educational journey as they look forward to the next stage of their secondary school experience.

On Tuesday students from the Killarney Community College completed the Livestock Handling and Farm Safety course organised by SKDP in conjunction with Towra Farm Safety. It was all hands on at the farm of Daniel and Elaine O'Sullivan outside Cahersiveen, where students learnt about injecting, dosing, handling, instruments and tagging.

16.10.2026

ADVERTISING 33

Wishing continued success to all involved in this year’s Kerry

International Film Festival Proud Sponsors of

www.randleshotel.com

Extra dates added due to demand

Join us for festive creative workshops for families, followed by a visit to Santa Claus, in the stunning surrounds of Killarney’s National Park. Together with our friends at Muckross, we pride ourselves in creating a truly magical, intimate and traditional Christmas for families.

Learn more and book your place Tickets: www.eventbrite.ie

in partnership with

www.meandthemoon.ie

NEWS

16.10.2026

Geraldine and Molly O'Mahony and Tim Buckley present the John O'Mahony Perpetual Trophy to Deirdre Cremin, Woodlawn Park Residents Association.

The Late John O’Mahony honoured with local award The late John O’Mahony was remembered on Sunday night at the Killarney Looking Good awards ceremony in the Great Southern Hotel. John was remembered for his dedication to, and promotion of, the Killarney Looking Good initiative. John was involved in the very first Killarney Looking Good awards in 1991 and, over three decades later, was at the forefront of reviving the competition in 2023, described as the rising tide that boosted it when it began to struggle. He was passionate about his hometown and understood that a community is built on the everyday contributions of ordinary people, whose extraordinary work was on display at Sunday night's awards. Woodlawn Park won the John O’Mahony perpetual trophy for overall winners of this year’s Killarney Looking Good

Tina Tynan, Anam Cara Healthcare, winner of the Most Improved Premises Award, with Tim Buckley and Cllr John O'Donoghue.

Susan and Bernadette Randles, Dromhall Hotel, winners of the Best Hotel Award, with Michael Gleeson, Tim Buckley, Cllr John O'Donoghue and Juliette Kelly.

awards and was also named best large estate. John's wife, Geraldine, and daughter, Molly, presented the award to Deirdre Cremin and other members of the Woodlawn Park residents’ association, recognising their dedicated work and commitment to maintaining and improving their homes and

Barbara Lenhard and Tim Sayles, recipients of the Yvonne Quill Memorial Volunteer of the Year Award, with Tim Buckley, Sandra Quill Dunlea, Paul O'Shea, Kathleen Foley, Cllr John O'Donoghue, Anna Dunlea, John Quill and Juliette Kelly.

communal areas over the past year. The special guest, who presented all the awards, was local poet Tim Buckley, who scribed a fitting poem, The Quiet Heroes, which was a big hit with the packed attendance. Tim spoke about “amazing people doing amazing jobs who are not looking for awards like these but are taking internal pride in the town that they were brought up in”. The other big winners on the night were Tim and Barbara Sayles, who were awarded the Yvonne Quill Memorial Volunteer of the Year Award – presented by the late Yvonne’s husband John,

daughter Sandra and granddaughter Anna and Holy Cross Gardens, Oakwood and Coill na Darach, which won the Fr Michael Murphy Memorial Pride of Place Award presented by Fr Michael’s brother, Bishop Emeritus Bill Murphy. The keynote speaker was Killarney Mayor Cllr John O’Donoghue, and the master of ceremonies was Killarney Looking Good Committee Chairman Michael Gleeson. Both spoke about remembering John O’Mahony as “our very dear friend, publicity manager and lover of all that was best about Killarney”. Cllr O’Donoghue highlighted the “huge

Sgt Dermot O'Connell, Killarney Garda Station, winner of the Best Public Building Award, with Kathleen Foley, Cllr John O'Donoghue, Tim Buckley, Juliette Kelly and Paul O'Shea.

NEWS 35

16.10.2026

KILLARNEY LOOKING GOOD COMPETITION WINNERS 2026

St. Brigid's Presentation Secondary School, winners of the Best Secondary School Award, with Tim Buckley, Cllr John O'Donoghue and Juliette Kelly.

Holy Cross Mercy, winners of the Best Primary School Award, with Paul O'Shea, Cllr John O'Donoghue, Tim Buckley, Triona Sheehy and Juliette Kelly.

void left in the community by the passing of John O’Mahony”. He described him as “a proud Killarney man who understood the importance of telling the stories of his town and its people through KillarneyToday.com” and said he encouraged locals to take pride in their surroundings. He said John understood that a community is built on the everyday contributions of ordinary people, and the awards on Sunday night highlighted their extraordinary work. Cllr O’Donoghue highlighted that, “despite how involved John was in reporting in our town, he always succeeded in keeping himself out of the news story. If he’s looking down, I’m sure he’ll have a very ironic smile at the new trophy being honoured in his name”.

Mr Gleeson thanked the Killarney Men’s Shed for bringing their talents and gifts to designing and creating the John O’Mahony perpetual trophy. The trophy was crafted from materials sourced from Killarney National Park and represented the wonderful natural resources surrounding the town. Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce and Killarney Municipal District Council organises the Killarney Looking Good Competition. MD O’Shea & Sons are the competition's overall sponsors, and O’Mahony Media Ltd is the media sponsor. The competition runs throughout the tourist season, and businesses and residential areas are monitored on an ongoing basis.

Deirdre Cremin, Woodlawn Park Residents Association, receives the John O'Mahony Perpetual Trophy from Molly and Geraldine O'Mahony, Tim Buckley and Paul O'Shea. Also pictured are Cllr John O'Donoghue, Juliette Kelly and Mossie Cremin.

• Best Large Commercial Premises – 40 Main and The Laurels, Market Cross • Best Small Commercial Premises – O’Sullivan’s Cycles, High Street • Best Newly Painted Premises - MacBee’s, New Street • Best Public House – Hussey’s, High Street • Best Hotel – Dromhall Hotel, Muckross Road • Best Restaurant – Cronin’s Restaurant, College Street • Best Café – Ross Castle Garden Café • Best Retail – Caragh Jewellers, Plunkett Street • Green Hospitality Award – Great Southern Hotel • Corporate Social Responsibility Award – M.D. O’Shea and Sons • Restoration Award – Deenagh Lodge, Knockreer • Best Signage – Marcy’s Bar, High Street • Best Guesthouse – Killarney Lodge Guesthouse, Countess Road • Best Private Residence – Three Oaks, Ballycasheen • Best Large Estate – Woodlawn Park • Best Small Estate – Torc Terrace • Best Roadside Garden – Mar Lodge, St Anne’s Road • Best Floral Display – Charlie Foley’s, New Street • Best Landscaping – Killarney Municipal District Outdoor Staff • Best Primary School – Holy Cross Mercy School • Best Secondary School – St Brigid’s Presentation Secondary School • Most Improved Premises – Anam Cara Healthstore, Old Market Lane • Biodiversity Award – KASI Garden, Ballycasheen • Best Public Building – Killarney Garda Station • Bee-Friendly Planting – 11 Park Drive •F r Michael Murphy Memorial Pride of Place Award – Holy Cross Gardens, Oakwood and Coill na Darach, Rock Road • Yvonne Quill Memorial Volunteer of the Year Award – Tim and Barbara Sayles •H ighly Commended Awards – * 2 Belleville Grove, * 3 & 4 Fair Hill, * 3 Oakhill, * 10 Rock Road, * Dealz, High Street, * West End House School of Arts, New Street • John O’Mahony Perpetual Trophy (overall winner) – Woodlawn Park

Josephine and Alan Coleman, Rock Road, receive a Highly Commended Award, with Tim Buckley and Cllr John O'Donoghue.

James Cahill, Three Oaks, Ballycasheen, winner of the Best Private Residence Award, with Michael Gleeson, Tim Buckley and Cllr John O'Donoghue.

NEWS

Home away 36

16.10.2026

A WEEKLY ROUND-UP OF NEWS • VIEWS FROM KERRY AND AROUND THE WORLD

INSPIRED BY DANNY CASEY

'The Phantom of the Opera' celebrates 40th anniversary Andrew Lloyd Webber's The Phantom of the Opera celebrated its 40th anniversary on Friday, October 9, with a special gala performance at His Majesty's Theatre in London's West End. First staged in 1986, the musical has become one of the world's most successful theatrical productions, captivating audiences with its dramatic love story, spectacular staging and unforgettable music. Based on Gaston Leroux's 1910 novel, the story follows Christine Daaé, a young soprano caught between a mysterious musical genius living beneath the Paris

Opera House and her childhood sweetheart, Raoul. The celebrated score includes The Music of the Night, Think of Me and All I Ask of You, while the anniversary celebrations featured a special appearance by Sarah Brightman, who originated the role of Christine in London. Following its West End success, the musical opened on Broadway in 1988, becoming the longest-running production in Broadway history before closing in 2023 after more than 13,000 performances. The anniversary also provides an interesting connection with Killarney, where Killarney Musical Society is celebrating its own 40-year milestone.

Revived in 1985, the society has spent four decades entertaining local audiences with ambitious musical productions and showcasing generations of local talent. Its impressive repertoire includes Jesus Christ Superstar, Ghost, Evita and, most recently, All Shook Up. Preparations are now underway for its 2027 production of Sister Act. Interestingly, despite its longstanding musical tradition, Killarney Musical Society has never staged The Phantom of the Opera, and there is no known record of a full production being performed in the town. While London's West End celebrates four decades of one of theatre's greatest successes, Killarney has its own musical achievements worth recognising. Perhaps one day the Phantom will finally make his long-awaited appearance on a Killarney stage.

Martin Grady welcomes second ambulance Cllr Martin Grady has welcomed the return of a second ambulance to Killarney from Monday, operating from 10 am to 10 pm on a 12hour day shift. Cllr Grady said the restoration of the service was a significant boost for Killarney and surrounding communities, following the loss of the town’s second ambulance more than 10 years ago. With Killarney’s population growing and demand on emergency services increasing, he said the additional resource would provide vital support for urban and rural communities and had the potential to improve emergency response times. He also praised local ambulance crews and the wider ambulance service for their work in challenging circumstances. While acknowledging that further improvements are needed, Cllr Grady said the return of the ambulance was a welcome and important step towards meeting the needs of Killarney and the wider area.

Pope Leo recovering following cancer surgery Prayers and messages of support are being offered for Pope Leo XIV following his lung cancer diagnosis, as hopes remain for a future papal visit to Ireland. Pope Leo XIV, 71, is recovering in Rome's Gemelli Hospital after undergoing surgery on Tuesday, October 13, to remove a cancerous tumour from his right lung. The Vatican confirmed the pontiff was diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma, a common form of lung cancer, following the removal of the lower lobe of his right lung. The 90-minute operation was successful, with no complications reported. Doctors

believe the cancer was detected early, although further tests will establish whether the disease has spread and whether additional treatment is necessary. The Pope spent a comfortable first night in hospital and is expected to remain there for approximately one week. All public audiences have been cancelled until October 20. His diagnosis has attracted particular attention in Ireland, where hopes of a papal visit have grown since his election in May 2025. Born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago, Pope Leo previously visited Ireland while serving with the Augustinian Order, including a visit to Fethard, County Tipper-

ary, in 2005. During a private Vatican audience on May 22 this year, Taoiseach Micheál Martin formally invited the pontiff to Ireland. Although no visit has been confirmed, the invitation raised hopes of a third papal visit to Ireland, following Pope John Paul II in 1979 and Pope Francis in 2018. Any future visit will depend on the Pope's recovery and international commitments. For now, attention remains firmly on his health, with Catholics across Ireland joining the worldwide Church in hoping for a successful recovery and, in time, the opportunity to welcome Pope Leo XIV to Irish shores.

NEWS 37

16.10.2026

Extra bus service for MTU students living in Kerry Students and commuters across Kerry are set to benefit from revised Bus Éireann timetables, including a new evening stop at Munster Technological University (MTU) Kerry North Campus in Tralee.

Housing crisis threatens West Kerry's future The housing crisis is threatening the future of Irish as a community language in the West Kerry Gaeltacht, according to new research published by Trinity College Dublin. The policy paper, Ó Bhéal an Phobail: Tithíocht i nGaeltacht Chiarraí Thiar, examines the housing challenges facing local residents and their implications for the sustainability of Irish-speaking communities. The research draws on six focus-group discussions involving 44 participants, alongside census figures and an examination of academic literature and housing policies. Lead author Dr Ann Nolan said a significant gap between local incomes and house prices, combined with the loss of permanent homes to holiday accommodation and short-term rentals, was put-

ting the future of the Gaeltacht at risk. The study found that holiday homes and short-term rentals were a major concern for participants, with some areas having more tourist accommodation than primary residences. The researchers are calling for increased affordable and social housing, stronger regulation of short-term lets and closer integration of housing and language-planning policies. They also believe the Government’s proposed National Planning Statement on Sustainable Rural and Gaeltacht Housing provides an opportunity to better protect Irish-speaking communities. Dr Nolan said protecting the Irish language requires protecting the communities in which it is spoken. The paper will be presented at a community event in Baile an Fheirtéaraigh.

The changes, effective from Sunday, October 25, affect Expressway Routes 13 and 14, connecting Tralee and Killarney with Limerick. A key improvement is the introduction of a weekday stop at MTU Kerry North Campus on the 6pm Route 13 service from Tralee to Limerick, providing improved connections for students and staff travelling towards Listowel, Abbeyfeale, Newcastle West and Limerick. The additional stop follows concerns about overcrowding and difficulties experienced by students attempting to secure transport home after lectures. The revised timetable also introduces a

new 8am Sunday service from Tralee to Limerick, while additional journey time has been allocated to several existing services to improve punctuality and reliability. However, some services are being withdrawn, including the weekday 11.40am Abbeyfeale to Tralee and 6pm Killarney to Abbeyfeale departures. Sunday withdrawals include the 7pm Tralee to Limerick, 8.35pm Limerick to Tralee and 9.40pm Tralee to Killarney services. Bus Éireann says the changes are designed to better reflect traffic conditions and improve service reliability for passengers. The new MTU stop has been welcomed as a positive development for students who depend on public transport, particularly amid increasing pressure on student accommodation. Passengers are advised to check the revised timetables before travelling.

Castlerosse investment to boost Killarney's tourism Construction is underway on a major new spa and wellness development at Castlerosse Park Resort, and improvements to its golf course are also part of the resort's ongoing investment in visitor facilities. The Killarney Advertiser has learned that work is progressing on a new Spa and Wellness Centre and upgraded gym facilities at the well-known resort, with completion expected in early 2027. The development follows planning permission approval in June 2026 and represents a significant investment in the resort's leisure and wellness offering. Plans include converting the existing first-floor gymnasium into a dedicated spa and wellness centre, constructing a new ground-floor gym and creating an outdoor relaxation area overlooking the surrounding landscape. The resort has also improved its scenic nine-hole golf course, including changes to the fifth hole, further enhancing its

golfing offering. Situated within Killarney National Park, with spectacular views across Lough Leane and the McGillycuddy Reeks, Castlerosse already offers accommodation, golf and extensive leisure facilities, including a swimming pool, sauna, steam room and gym. The latest developments will strengthen the resort's appeal to both domestic and international visitors, adding to Killarney's reputation as one of Ireland's leading tourism and leisure destinations. In a recent social media update, the resort confirmed that construction was officially underway and thanked guests for their patience during the works, warning of some additional noise, dust and disruption. With the new spa and wellness facilities scheduled to open early next year, the investment represents another welcome boost for Killarney's hospitality sector and its growing wellness tourism offering.

NEWS

A Splash of Pink at Dundag Beach

16.10.2026

A sea of pink brightened the shores of Dundag Beach on Sunday morning as a huge turnout of enthusiastic swimmers braved the chilly October weather for a very worthy cause.

The Dundag Dippers brought colour, courage and plenty of smiles to Killarney National Park on October 11, taking the plunge as part of the nationwide Swim in Pink 2026 fundraiser. The annual event, held during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, raises vital funds for the National Breast Cancer Research Institute (NBCRI), support-

ing research into better diagnosis and treatment at the University of Galway. Despite the autumn chill, spirits were high as participants donned their pink swimwear and took to the waters of Muckross Lake, showing once again the generosity and community spirit of Killarney. A fantastic turnout for an equally fantastic cause!

Sheena B, Trish O’Brien, Sandra McMahon, Maureen McAdam and Brenda Brennan at the annual ‘Swim in Pink’ charity fundraiser.

Photos: Tatyana McGough.

Adie and Sophie Lucey with Sarah Garnettin.

Abbie Harney, Isla Curran, Fiadh O’Sullivan, Caoimhe O’Sullivan, Faye McMahon, Kitty O’Neill, Sarah O’Sullivan, Laura Glynn, Sadie Lucey and Sophie Lucey.

Mary Turner O’Brien and Sheena B. Eileen Kelleher and Orla Healy. Pauleen Quill, Maureen O’Riordan, Betty Garrett, local organiser Sandra McMahon and Sarah Garnett.

ADVERTISING 39

16.10.2026

FERNHILL MEDICAL NEW GP PRACTICE OPEN IN KILLARNEY TOWN CENTRE

Fernhill MEDICAL

• New patients welcome • • Same day appointments •

Walk-in clinic Tuesday and Thursday 9am - 12pm Monday/Wednesday/Friday by appointment Tel: 064 7757105 ––––– 83 New Street, Killarney ––––– Visit our website Fernhillmedical.ie

DR LOUISE O'CONNOR

NEWS

Where it all began 1000 years ago

16.10.2026

Reconnecting to the Scholarly Island of Inisfallen Killarney’s place as an ecclesiastical centre of importance in Medieval Ireland and indeed Europe, was prominently endorsed at the inaugural Annals of Inisfallen Symposium ‘Recording the Past’ at Killarney House, at the weekend. It was a chance to reconnect, celebrate and honour our scholarly monastic past, and the return visit and exhibition of the Annals of Inisfallen, currently on display in the Glucksmann Gallery, University College Cork. Guest Speakers included Dr. Martin Kauffmann – Oxford Medievalist & Bodleian Library Head; and Mike Webb, Curator of Early Modern Archives & Manuscripts at Bodleian Libraries with his wife Chrissie Webb, felt the enthusiasm, warmth and welcome from the Killarney people and visiting scholars. The highlight for them was the trip to the Island of Inisfallen, sitting in the silence and calmness of the ruins of the scriptorium and reimagining the Monks recording the diary-like entries of daily matters in Ireland and across the globe.

Mike Fleming of Ross Castle Boat Tours, Killarney National Park, left, with Dr. Martin Kauffmann – Oxford Medievalist & Bodleian Library Head and Finbarr Kennelly, Organiser, Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce, On a historic visit to Inisfallen Island.

Notable speakers included, Professor Dáibhí Ó Cróinín, Professor Emeritus NUIG, Keynote Speaker, Moderator for the Symposium was Pádraig Ó Macháin Professor of Modern Irish UCC, Dr Paul MacCotter, medieval history UCC, Dr

Nessa O'Connor, Killarney native, Irish Antiquities Division of the National Museum of Ireland, Dr. Nollaig Ó Muraíle, Gaelic Manuscript, NUIG, Máire Ní Mhaonaigh, Professor of Celtic and Medieval Studies at the University of Cambridge;

Pat Dawson, Regional Manager National Parks and Wildlife Service.

Dr Martin Kauffmann – Oxford Medievalist & Bodleian Library Head, left and Mike Webb, Curator of Early Modern Archives & Manuscripts at Bodleian Libraries.

Patrick O'Sullivan-Greene delivers a 'Killarney centred story' at the Plaza Hotel, at the inaugural Annals of Inisfallen Symposium ‘Recording the Past’.

NEWS 41

16.10.2026

Mike Webb, (from left) Curator of Early Modern Archives & Manuscripts at Bodleian Libraries, John Fitzgerald, Librarian University College Cork, Kevin Tarrant, Historian, Finbarr Kennelly, organiser, Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce, James Knoblauch, organiser, Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce, Catherine Evans, Senior Management Fexco, Torsten Meissner, Máire Ní Mhaonaigh, Professor of Celtic and Medieval Studies at the University of Cambridge, Chrissie Webb, Oxford University, Dr. Martin Kauffmann – Oxford Medievalist & Bodleian Library Head.

Edel Breathnach; John Gillis, Trinity College Dublin; Ken Ó Donnchú, UCC; Timothy O’Neill. Weekend Addresses were also presented by Niall Ó Donnchú, Director General, National Parks and Wildlife Service; Cathaoirleach Killarney Municipal District, Cllr. John O’Donoghue; Pat Dawson, Regional Manager, National Parks and Wildlife Service; Carol Dempsey, Vice-President Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce; Patrick O’Sullivan- Green, Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce, Sandra Dunlea, incoming Chairperson, Muckross House Trustees; Former Councillor, Michael Gleeson. Enormous gratitude was afforded for the work, generous sponsorship, ‘behind the scenes’ organisation and collaboration between all the stakeholders: Niall O’Donnchú, General Director, National Parks and Wildlife Service; Fexco - Brian McCarthy;

Kerry County Council, Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce – James Knoblauch and Finbarr Kennelly. Thank you to St Mary's Cathedral Killarney, Fr Pat O'Donnell, Adm, and Bishop of Kerry Dr Ray Browne for lending the Inisfallen Crozier for display, The Symposium will now become an annual celebration of our scholarly past, exploring - the importance of monastic chant, learning chant, heritage workshops, scholarly presentations, visits to ecclesiastical sites in Killarney and Kerry. The Annals of Inisfallen – one of the most important surviving records of medieval Ireland, written on Inisfallen Island, Killarney National Park, are a chronicle of medieval history of Ireland, diary-like entries written in Latin and Irish of important events in Ireland. Written on vellum, scribed by 39 Monks over seven centuries.

Catherine Evans, right, Fexco, receives gift from Muckross Weavers on behalf of Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce, from left, Sandra Dunlea, incoming Chairperson Muckross House Trustees, Marcus Treacy and Finbarr Kennelly, Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce.

Michelle McCarthy, left, Denis McCarthy, Chairperson, Fexco, Dr. Martin Kauffmann – Oxford Medievalist & Bodleian Library Head, Chrissie Webb and Mike Webb, Curator of Early Modern Archives & Manuscripts at Bodleian Libraries, Catherine Evans, Senior Managment, Fexco, attending the inaugural Annals of Inisfallen Symposium ‘Recording the Past’, at Killarney House.

Photos: Valerie O'Sullivan

Maeve Higgins, Cathy Harpur, ecologist, Tralee Wetlands, and Jackie Harvey.

John Fitzgerald, left Librarian University College Cork; Canon Tom Looney, Author and Retired Diocese of Kerry; Brian McCarthy, Founder of Fexco.

Bernie McMahon, Killarney House, Liam Ó Cleirigh, Majella Starrett, Ross Castle, Edward Starrett.

NEWS

16.10.2026

Paralympian Jason Smyth with staff from AIB Bank Killarney. Front, from left, are Branka Vladic Stankovic, Jason Smyth, Tomás Griffin (Manager) and Claire Allen. In the second row are Karena Buckley, Casey O’Connor, Karen O’Dwyer, Mairead Sheehan, Zelie O’Donoghue, and Alice O’Sullivan. Back from left are Maria Gorman, Ciara O’Donovan, Kristijan Krizan, Mark Donnellan and Stephen Roche.

Paralympian Jason Smyth with members of the O’Sullivan family/Pedal for Grace. From left are Maisy, Mary and Grace O’Sullivan, Mary O’Donoghue and Siobhan O’Connor.

Paralympic champion Jason Smyth inspires Killarney audience

Six-time Paralympic gold medallist Jason Smyth shared his experiences of overcoming challenges and recognising opportunities at a Killarney Chamber of Tourism & Commerce event on Wednesday, October 7.

Paralympian Jason Smyth with Mary and Ben Cussen at ‘An Evening with Jason Smyth’, hosted by Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce and sponsored by AIB in The Killarney Plaza Hotel.

The fireside chat, held at the Killarney Plaza Hotel & Spa and sponsored by AIB, attracted a local audience keen to hear from one of Ireland's most successful Paralympic athletes. Smyth, who lives with Stargardt disease, a genetic condition affecting central vision, spoke about his journey from playing soccer in Derry to achieving international sporting success. He recalled how encouragement from a PE teacher at 15 led him into athletics, while his coach, Stephen Maguire, later encouraged him to train in Florida alongside some of the world's fastest sprinters. Smyth spoke openly about overcoming self-doubt, the importance of hard work and surrounding yourself with supportive people.

Among those attending was Killarney Paralympic high jumper Jordan Lee, whose own sporting career was influenced by meeting Smyth at a Paralympic Ireland event. Also present was Kerry Irish dancer Grace O'Sullivan, who shares Smyth's Stargardt diagnosis. Through her Pedal for Grace fundraising initiative, she has raised almost €90,000 for Vision Ireland over four years. The evening concluded with an audience question-and-answer session covering leadership, resilience and personal development. Killarney Chamber thanked Smyth for sharing his experiences, AIB for sponsoring the event and the local community for attending.

Paralympian Jason Smyth with Mary, Liam, Jack, Paddy and Kate Buckley and Jordan Lee.

Paralympian Jason Smyth with members of Killarney Valley AC. From the front left are Jerry Griffin, Jer O’Donoghue, Eileen Switzer, Jason Smyth and Tomás Griffin. In the second row are Con Lynch, Kellie O’Connor, Brid Stack, Conor Kissane, and Jason O’Reilly. The back row includes Jordan Lee, Jack O’Leary, and Alan Delaney.

Paralympian Jason Smyth with Marie and Mike Leahy at ‘An Evening with Jason Smyth’, hosted by Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce and sponsored by AIB in the Killarney Plaza Hotel.

16.10.2026

ADVERTISING 43

NEWS

The Dr Crokes U-21 team of 1986 that clinched the first-ever County U-21 title for the club enjoyed a special 40th anniversary reunion in The Dugout Bar of The Tatler Jack on Friday night. On October 5th, 1986, this young Dr Crokes side defeated Castleisland Rangers 1-11 to 2-4 in Austin Stack Park, Tralee. The team also won the East Kerry crown that year and is remembered by many in Dr Crokes as a group that played a significant role in the club’s history and helped pave the way for the senior successes of the 1990s. Connie Murphy captained the team and went on to play senior football for Kerry, earning an All-Star in 1989. Goalkeeper Colm O’Shea, who played alongside his brothers Padraig and John, was the main driving force behind planning the reunion and bringing everyone together. He even managed to source a video recording of the match that nobody in Dr Crokes ever knew about, and it was relayed on the big screen for everybody to enjoy and relive the golden moments. Eamonn Fitzgerald trained the team, and other mentors included the late Donie Sheahan (RIP), Eddie Tatler O’Sullivan, Mike O’Grady, Jackie Looney, and Der Brosnan (Chairman). Almost all the players from 1986 attended the reunion, except Boston-based Donal Mangan and Chris O’Connor, who had a family wedding.

16.10.2026

Remembering Crokes' historic 1986 victory

The Dr Crokes U-21 team that won the 1986 Kerry County Championship at a 40th anniversary reunion in The Dugout Bar at The Tatler Jack Killarney on Friday night. Front from left are Cathal O’Callaghan, John Foley, Niall Hickey, Tim Keogh, Ger O’Shea and Patrick Tatler O’Sullivan, Second row from left are Pat O’Shea, Declan O’Callaghan, Seamus O’Doherty, Connie Murphy (Captain), Paul Sheahan, Eddie Tatler O’Sullivan, Jackie Looney and Eamonn Fitzgerald (Manager). Back from left are Noel O’Leary, Sean Clarke, John Galvin, Peter Fleming, Vincent Casey, John O’Shea, Colm O’Shea, Justin Bennett, Padraig O’Shea, Der Brosnan (Chairman) and Tim O’Donoghue. Picture: Eamonn Keogh

DR CROKES: Colm O’Shea, Donal Mangan, Padraig O’Shea, John O’Shea, John Foley, Sean Clarke, Declan O’Callaghan, Noel O’Leary (0-1), John Galvin, Peter Fleming (0-5), Connie Murphy (Capt.),

Tim Keogh (0-2), Pat O’Shea (1-2), Cathal O’Callaghan (0-1), Vincent Casey. Subs: Paul Sheahan for C O’Callaghan. Castleisland Rangers: Brendan Lane, Mike Cronin, Tommy Roche, Tim

Galway, Moss Connor, Mike Brosnan, Jimmy Keane, Denis Browne, JJ Canty, Tony Leen (0-2), Tommy Horan, Adrian Browne, Sean McElligott, Martin Downey (2-2), Tommy O’Sullivan.

The Dr Crokes U-21 team that won the Kerry County Championship on October 5th 1986. Front from left are Pat O’Shea, Justin Bennett, Chris O’Connor and Tim O’Donoghue. Middle row from left are Niall Hickey, Declan O’Callaghan, John Foley, Connie Murphy (Captain), Donal Mangan, Paul Sheahan, Ger O’Shea, Donie Sheahan and Jackie Looney. Back row from left are Eamonn Fitzgerald (Manager), Cathal O’Callaghan, John Galvin, Peter Fleming, Vincent Casey, John O’Shea, Colm O’Shea, Padraig O’Shea, Tim Keogh, Patrick Tatler O’Sullivan, Sean Clarke, Noel O’Leary, Eddie Tatler O’Sullivan and Der Brosnan (Chairman).

ADVERTISING 45

16.10.2026

Exhibitions | Education | Events

K I L L A R N E Y · T H I S S ATU R DAY 2 4T H O CT O B E R

IRELAND’S FIRST QUILT EXPO Vendors & crafts Demos & table talks Follow us

Quilt exhibitions Show & Share

SPEND SATURDAY WITH US Shop Ireland’s best quilting and craft vendors, see the quilt exhibitions, catch live demos and make a start on your Christmas shopping. Pop in for an hour or stay all day. Bring a friend – everyone is welcome. SATURDAY

€10*

Speakers Giveaways

Day ticket

VIP

€99*

VIP experience

OPEN

10am

Until 4.30pm

*Plus booking fee

@quiltireland

SATURDAY 24TH OCTOBER

Killarney Heights Hotel quiltireland.ie/tickets

TICKETS FROM €10* Book on

Corr Memories

🎃 HALLOWEEN Episode👻 Wednesday 28th October

14:00

Falconry Experience With Falconry Kerry •€10 per person •Booking required

14:00–17:00 Face Painting 15:00

Halloween Muffin Decorations €5 entry • Booking required Halloween Fun & Games Throughout The Day

FANCY DRESS COMPETITION

5:00pm

Show off your Halloween spirit and be in with a chance to WIN some fantastic prizes! 3 exciting categories Best Adult Costume Best Junior Costume Best Duo Costume

GLOW IN THE DARK PUTTING COMPETITION 6:00pm - 5€ ENTRY FEE Grab your friends, bring your Halloween spirit and take on the spooky putting challenge! THE RULES 1. Everyone plays the same number of holes. 2. One glowing ball per player. 3. The player with the lowest total score wins! 4. In the event of a tie, there will be a sudden-death putt-off. 5. Keep your glowing ball on the course and play safely.

Halloween costumes are encouraged the spookier, the better! PRIZES TO BE WON! Who will become our Halloween Putting Champion

Our Bistro From The Crypt Spookacular Menu Will Be Available From The 27th to The 31st

NEWS

16.10.2026

FINANCE SECTION Festive line up announced for Great Southern and Royal | FINANCIAL ADVISOR DIRECTORY FOR KILLARNEY McGuire Liston Lewis Road, Killarney, Co. Kerry liam@mcguireliston.ie 064 6632255

The Scally Hotel Collection has revealed its Christmas and New Year offerings for its two Killarney properties, with seasonal dining, festive afternoon teas, and private party options available throughout December. At The Great Southern Killarney, festive dining takes place in Arbour restaurant, where guests can enjoy a three-course festive dinner followed by tea, coffee, and mince pies for €75 per person. The hotel is also serving a celebratory festive afternoon tea priced from €58 per person. Overnight rates at the venue start from €375 per night. Meanwhile, the boutique Killarney Royal Townhouse is catering for corporate and family gatherings with a range of private dining packages. Group options include

a finger food reception in The Pantry from €24 per person, a festive buffet featuring two hot dishes alongside seasonal salads and artisan breads from €35 per person, and a three-course lunch for €45 per person. A four-course festive dinner including a seasonal drink is also available from €52 per person, with nightly room rates starting from €285. Both town centre venues are now taking bookings for Christmas gatherings and end-of-year celebrations.

Dermot Cronin Old Market Ln, Killarney, Co. Kerry kerrymortgagecentre@eircom.net. 064 662 2775

New RSA research highlights risks for young drivers New research from the Road Safety Authority (RSA) shows that late night and early morning are particularly high-risk periods for young drivers involved in fatal collisions. The RSA report shows that between 2021 and 2025, 189 young drivers aged 17 to 25 were involved in 178 fatal collisions in Ireland. These young drivers accounted for 19% of all drivers involved in fatal collisions during the period. Time of day was a significant factor. Of the fatal collisions involving a young driver: • Nearly one third occurred between 8 pm and midnight. • A further 21% occurred between midnight and 4 am. The report also highlights a strong gender and age profile among young drivers involved in fatal collisions. Of the 189 young drivers, 156 (83%) were male. The most represented age group was 22- and 23-year-olds, who together accounted for 55 drivers, or 29% of the total. Sam Waide, Chief Executive of the RSA, said the research demonstrates the need for a holistic approach to addressing young driver risk. “The research shows that while young drivers account for a relatively small pro-

John Healy of Healy Insurances.

portion of the driving population, they are overrepresented in fatal collisions. The concentration of fatal collisions during late-night and early-morning hours, alongside the strong representation of young men, highlights particular areas for continued focus in road safety policy, education, enforcement and intervention.” “The evidence points us towards a combination of measures, including education and training, enforcement, and the use of technology and other interventions.”

'Sister Act' takes the stage Killarney author's new book takes flight Killarney-born children's author Olivia Hope is celebrating the release of her latest picture book, The Song of the Sun, a beautifully illustrated story about bravery, self-belief and the remarkable migration of barn swallows. Featuring artwork by Huỳnh Kim Liên, the book has received glowing reviews, drawing comparisons with Charlie Mackesy's The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse. Raised in Killarney, Olivia previously enjoyed critical acclaim for her debut Be Wild, Little One, while its Irish trans-

lation, Bí Fiáin, a Chroí, received international recognition from the International Board on Books for Young People. Signed copies of The Song of the Sun are available at Eason, Killarney.

Killarney Musical Society Opens Rehearsals to All! Get ready to dust off your habits and your dancing shoes! Killarney Musical Society is delighted to announce the first rehearsal for its upcoming production of Sister Act, and everyone is welcome. The rehearsal takes place on Saturday, 17 October at 12 noon in KCYS. Whether you love singing in a chorus, enjoy dancing, or simply want to be part of the fun, this is the perfect time to join. No experience is necessary; just bring your enthusiasm. Come along, meet the cast and crew, and discover what it takes to bring this much-loved, feel-good musical to life. The show will run from 2 to 4 March 2027, so mark your calendars!

Have questions? Get in touch on +353 85 730 0715 or email info@killarneymusicalsociety.ie. Don't miss your chance to be part of the magic. See you on the 17th!

16.10.2026

FINANCE 47

MOTORING

O'Donoghue secures top-five finish on Tour of Mull debut Killarney rally driver Colin O'Donoghue delivered a stand-out performance over the weekend, securing an impressive fifth-place overall finish on the iconic Tour of Mull Rally in Scotland. Recognised as one of the most challenging tarmac events in world motorsport, the closed-road rally on the Scottish island takes place predominantly in the dark. Having missed most of the 2026 season due to injury, O'Donoghue entered the event with minimal seat time, making his

debut appearance all the more remarkable. Driving his Ford Escort Mk2 alongside Donegal co-driver Evan MacBride, O'Donoghue ended Friday night's opening 70-kilometre leg sitting in a brilliant third overall. An axle prop issue on stage 10 during Saturday afternoon cost the pair valuable time, dropping them down the order. However, during Saturday night’s final leg into the early hours of Sunday morning in Tobermory, O'Donoghue mounted a fierce fightback to claim fifth overall against a field of local island experts.

16.10.2026

MOTORING 49

16.10.2026

SAVE €€€€€€€€€ CHOICE OF COLOURS - EXCELLENT FINANCE PACKAGES AVAILABLE PCP AND HIRE PURCHASE YEAR MODEL

PRICE

261 Captur Techno TCE 115 Grey/Black manual 261 Captur Evolution TCE 115 Shadow Grey manual 261 Austral Iconic esprit Alpine 200 Full hybrid Grey 9km

€33,400 €30,900 €45,900

2026 FULL HYBRID & ELECTRIC WITH DELIVERY MILEAGE HUGE SAVINGS!!!

ELECTRIC/HYBRID

261 Scenic E-TECH EV87 Techno esprit Alpine Grey 12km 231 Megane E-TECH EV60 Equilibre Grey 53km

€44,750 €22,900

SALOON, HATCHBACK, COUPE, SUV, ESTATE

252 Stepway Expression TCE 90 Auto Cedar Green 19km 242 Toyota Rav4 Sport Plug-in-hybrid AWD White/Black 32km 242 Arkana E-TECH 145 Techno Black 30km 241 Duster TCE 90 Petrol Expression Orange 22km 232 Audi A5 2.0 TDI S-Line Black Edition Coupe Black 49km 232 Arkana Techno E-Tech 145 Full Hybrid Grey 58km 232 Captur Techno E-Tech 145 Full hybrid Iron Blue 44km 232 Captur Techno TCE 90 Smoky Blue/Black Roof 39km 232 Arkana E-Tech 145 Full hybrid Engineered Black 39km 232 Duster Journey dci 115 Black 142km 231 Jogger Expression TCE 110 7 Seats Black 85km 231 Duster Expression dci 115 Urban Grey 106km 212 Arkana RS-Line 145 E-Tech Full hybrid Grey 121km 212 Captur Iconic dci 95 Black /Ivory 106km 212 Audi A6 S-Line 40 TDI Black 158km 212 Kia Stonic 1.0 K3 Red 47km

€23,900 €45,900 €30,900 €22,750 €45,900 €24,900 €26,900 €21,900 €27,500 €19,900 €17,900 €19,900 €22,900 €17,450 €34,900 €18,900

YEAR PETROL SELECTION

PRICE

261 251 241 261 231 232 212 221 222 201 181

€37,995 €32,995 €30,995 €29,995 €28,495 €23,995 €23,995 €20,995 €20,995 €17,995 €12,995

Nissan Qashqai 1.3 SV + Warm Pack Silver 8.5k Kms Nissan Qashqai 1.3 SV White 17.5k Kms Nissan Qashqai 1.3 SV Ceramic Grey 35k Kms Nissan Juke 1.0 SV Premium Silver 1,500 Kms Nissan Qashqai 1.3 SV Premium Burgundy 80k Kms Nissan Juke SV Premium 1.0 Blue 48k Kms Nissan Qashqai 1.3 SV Fuji Red 43K Kms Nissan Juke 1.0 SV Premium Black 49k Kms Nissan Juke 1.0 SV Premium Silver 58k Kms Hyundai Kona Comfort 1.0 Grey 53k Kms Citroen Cactus Feel 1.2 Petrol Silver 109k Kms

YEAR PETROL/DIESEL AUTO SELECTION

PRICE

231 241 242 192 211 201 192 191 181

€28,995 €27,995 €25,995 €24,995 €20,995 €18,995 €18,995 €15,995 €12,995

Nissan Qashqai 1.3 Petrol SV Auto Blue 21k Kms Citroen C4 Max 1.5 Diesel Auto White 61k Kms Nissan Juke 1.0 SV Premium Auto Silver 31k Kms Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0 Diesel Auto Red 159k Kms Nissan Juke SV Premium 1.0 Petrol DCT Auto Silver 35k Kms Nissan Juke SV Premium 1.0 Petrol Auto Burgundy 54k Kms Renault Scenic 1.8 Diesel AUTO Silver 78.5k Kms Renault Megane Sport Tourer 1.5 Dsl Auto Black 125k Kms Nissan Pulsar 1.2 Petrol SV Executive Auto Silver 98k Kms

YEAR MODEL

211 Audi A6 50 TSI Plug in hybrid Black 133km 211 Mondeo 2.0 TDI 150 Auto Titanium Red 107km 211 Duster Essential dci 115 Pearl Black 88km 202 Koleos Iconic dci 150 Auto 2wd Silver 188km 201 Duster Comfort dci 115 Pearl Black 185km 192 Audi Q7 3.0 TDI S-Line Quattro 7 Seats Grey 96km 192 Stepway Signature dci 90 Black 161 km 191 Captur GT-Line TCE 90 Grey/Black 105km 191 Koleos dci 130 Signature Mulberry Red 155km 171 Kadjar Signature Nav dci 115 Flame Red 185km 162 Kia Sportage 1.7 LX Diesel Black 185km 161 Suzuki Vitara GL+ 1.6 Diesel white 204km 161 Kadjar Dynamique S Nav dci 115 Grey 199km 152 Kuga 2.0TDCI Titanium Black 114km COMMERCIALS

PRICE

€27,900 €24,900 €15,900 €18,900 €14,750 €49,950 €8,500 €13,900 €16,900 €11,900 €11,490 €7,900 €9,900 €12,750

261 Trafic LL30 170 Auto Extra Sport Urban Grey 251 VW Crafter LWB Highline Automatic Van Black 31km 241 Kangoo Start dci 95 Van White 68km 232 TraficLL30 170 Auto Sport + Van 93km Black 222 Master LM35 135 Business Van White 94km 221 Caddy Cargo Business 2.0 TDI 122BHP Auto Red 150km 202 Fiat Talento LWB 120 LX Van white 183km 201 Kangoo dci 90 Van White 133km 181 Trafic LL30 125 Sport LWB Van Black 238km

€36,500 + Vat €40,500 + Vat €15,900 + Vat €24,900 + Vat €18,495 + Vat €18,750+ Vat €13,900 + Vat €9,900 + Vat €10,500 + Vat

202 202 191 191 171 162 151

€20,995 €18,995 €18,495 €17,995 €17,995 €9,995 €8,995

Nissan Qashqai 1.5 Dsl SE Magnetic Red 100k Kms Citroen C5 Aircross Feel Black 122k Kms Hyundai Tucson IX35 Executive 1.7 DSL Silver 130K Kms Nissan Qashqai 1.5 DCI Tekna Blue 177k Kms Nissan X-Trail 1.6 Tekna 7 Seats Silver 93k Kms Nissan X-Trail 1.6 Diesel SV 7 Seats Black 213k Kms Nissan Qashqai 1.5 Acenta Silver 225k Kms

YEAR HYBRID/ AUTOMATIC SELECTION

PRICE

261 261 241 251 241 241 232 231 232 231 242 241 241

€52,995 €43,995 €38,995 €35,995 €33,995 €32,995 €30,995 €30,995 €30,995 €27,995 €27,995 €27,995 €27,995

Nissan X-Trail ePower SVE Tinted Red 3.5k Kms Nissan Qashqai ePower SV Premium Magnetic Blue 24k Kms Nissan Qashqai ePower SVE 2Tone Blue / Black 35k Kms Nissan Qashqai ePower SV Grey Metallic 31k Kms Nissan Qashqai ePower SV Black 31k Kms Nissan Qashqai ePower SV Fuji Sunset Red M 34k Kms Nissan Qashqai ePower SV Premium Burgundy 69k Kms Nissan Qashqai ePower SV Prem 2tone Fuji Red/Black 50k Kms Nissan Qashqai ePower SV Prem Burgundy 82k Kms Nissan Qashqai EPOWER SV Red 103k Kms Nissan Juke 1.6 HYB N-Design Fuji Red 2T 29k Kms Nissan Juke 1.6 HYB SV Premium White 21k Kms Nissan Juke 1.6 HYB SV Premium White 27k Kms

YEAR DIESEL SELECTION

PRICE

YEAR ELECTRIC/ AUTOMATIC SELECTION

PRICE

202 202

€20,995 €21,995

261 211

€29,995 €14,995

Kia Sportage K2 1.6 MHEV Navy 106k Kms Nissan Qashqai 1.5 Dsl N-Connecta Black 78k kms

Nissan Micra 52 KW Advance 2 Tone Grey 5k Kms Nissan Leaf 40 KW SV Premium Blue 56k Kms

SALE ON NOW AT RANDLES BROS

THE PERFECT TIME FOR AN UPGRADE

www.randlesbros.com

MOTORING

2xA4-2026-PRINT.pdf 1 13/10/2026 15:37:20

16.10.2026

SEE YOU SUNDAY! AT THE GLENEAGLE SUNDAY OCT 18TH 11AM - 4PM

OVER 25 CARS ON SHOW!

CMY

Talk 271 with Our Sales Team:

Niall

Jack

Tommy

Oisin

With Kellihers Toyota - You Can Be A

MOTORING 51

16.10.2026

271 KELLIHERS TOYOTA ROADSHOW KILLARNEY

JOIN US AT GLENEAGLE & DISCOVER WHAT TOYOTA AND KELLIHERS HAVE TO OFFER YOU

PLUG-IN HYBRID ELECTRIC

2021 | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | 2025 | 2026

S BEST S D’

LING EL

IRELAND’S BEST-SELLING CAR BRAND

IRELA N

WE HAVE SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE! THAT’S WHY WE ARE IRELAND’S BEST SELLING CAR BRAND.

BRAN

HYBRID

COME AND VIEW OUR NEW MODELS View these and more in Killarney Oct 18th

ALL ELECTRIC TOYOTA C-HR+

TOYOTA YARIS CROSS

TOYOTA RAV4 PHEV

NEW MODEL TOYOTA HILUX

e As Electric As You Want To Be

sales@kellihers.ie | 066 71 20000 Rathass, Tralee, Co. Kerry

MOTORING

16.10.2026

MASSIVE USED

CAR SALE

NO GIMMICKS - JUST VALUE Finance €72p/wk

Finance €86p/wk

12 MONTHS ROAD TAX

€19,895

One million km roadshow at The Gleneagle Kellihers Toyota are bringing the 271 Roadshow to Killarney this Sunday, showcasing an exciting line-up of new and used cars, including Toyota’s electrified range with its incredible 1,000,000 km battery warranty*. All roads lead to The Gleneagle Hotel in Killarney this Sunday, October 18, as Kellihers Toyota, the county’s main Toyota dealer, hosts its highly anticipated 271 Toyota Roadshow from 11am to 4pm. With an exciting line-up of new and used cars, the event gives motorists across Kerry the perfect opportunity to explore the latest Toyota models, discover outstanding offers, and find the car that best suits their lifestyle and budget. A major highlight of this year’s roadshow will be the new Toyota C-HR+, which comes with a world-beating, incredible 1,000,000km battery warranty* as well as a 58kw/h battery at a price reduced by €4,256, bringing fresh style and innovation to Toyota’s growing electric line-up. Visitors can also explore Toyota’s extensive range of hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and fully electric vehicles, giving customers more choice than ever when deciding how electric they want to be. The all-new Toyota Hilux will be there, along with the Toyota Yaris Cross, which has recently had a facelift, and the new Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid. Alongside the exciting new 271 mod-

MOTORING

els, there will be a fantastic selection of quality used cars available as part of their ongoing Buy & Fly used car sale - with 90 used cars slashed in price, making the roadshow an ideal destination for anyone considering changing their car, whether they are looking for a brand-new Toyota or a quality pre-owned vehicle. Have a no-obligation chat with Kieran, our finance expert, about all available options to get you into the driving seat of that new car! With Toyota continuing to lead the Irish motoring market, the event offers motorists a great opportunity to experience the range, speak directly with the team at Kellihers, and explore the latest offers. Whether you are planning to change your car now or looking ahead to the new 271 registration, Kellihers Toyota encourages motorists not to make any decisions without first visiting the roadshow at The Gleneagle Hotel this Sunday. The Kellihers Toyota 271 Roadshow takes place at The Gleneagle Hotel, Killarney, from 11 am to 4pm on Sunday, October 18.

DRIVE YOUR BUSINESS FORWARD

WITH KILLARNEY ADVERTISER 1ST FOR MOTORING NEWS

191 AUDI A3 1.4 TFSI SPORT

€22,895 231 KIA SPORTAGE 1.6 CRDI K2

FINANCE AVAILABLE ONLINE Finance €62p/wk

Finance €169p/wk

12 MONTHS ROAD TAX

€17,895 212 RENAULT CAPTUR 1.6 PHEV E-TECH S-EDITION

€36,951 (ex vat) 261 VW CRAFTER 2.0 TDI MWB HIGHLINE

UP TO €5000 SCRAPPAGE AVAILABLE Finance €89p/wk

Finance €86p/wk

12 MONTHS ROAD TAX

€23,950 231 VW ID3 DX LIFE 58KWH (204BHP)

€22,895 222 VW T-ROC 1.0 TSI STYLE

12 MONTHS WARRANTY ON ALL VEHICLES

OPENING HOURS

Mon - Fri 9-6pm | Sat: 10-3pm Sun: By Appointment

T&C APPLY

ADVERTISING 53

16.10.2026

use your use your free free travel travel pass pass on our hop hop on on hop hop off off red red on our bus tour bus tour and and enjoy enjoy €5 €5 off* off* at at J.M.Reidy’s Cafe between between J.M.Reidy’s Cafe oct 19th -- Oct Oct 23 23rd oct get free get free entrance entrance for for 11 free free travel travel pass pass holder holder & & child to child to Muckross Muckross Traditional Traditional Farms Oct Farms Oct 24 24th -- Oct Oct 26 26th a great a great family family day day out out to to kick kick off mid-term! off mid-term!

Be entered into a prize draw for an O’Callaghan Coach Holidays luxury Christmas shoppping trip to Kilkenny!

offers available: offers available: Oct Oct 19 19th -- Oct Oct 26 26th

*one voucher per Free Travel Card per day within the specified time period EXPIRED FREE TRAVEL PASSES CANNOT BE ACCEPTED

get in get in touch touch for for more more details details 06466 31095 | killarneytour.com

Make This Christmas ONE TO REMEMBER CHRISTMAS PARTY NIGHTS Sat 5th, Fri 11th, Sat 12th, Fri 18th & Sat 19th December 2026 Prosecco on arrival • 4 Course Festive Dinner in The Atrium Brasserie • Live dinner entertainment with interactive musical performances • Late-night DJ and dancing • 360 Photo Booth • Festive novelties on every table

PARTY ONLY FROM €60 PER PERSON

Scotts Hotel Killarney Scotts Street Town Centre Killarney Co. Kerry V93 FY7A 064 663 1060 info@scottshotelkillarney.com scottshotelkillarney.com

APPOINTMENTS

WANT TO ADVERTISE IN KILLARNEY’S BEST RECRUITMENT SECTION? CONTACT US ON: T: 064-6632215 or E: info@killarneyadvertiser.ie

Social Action Group Rathmore CLG WISH TO RECRUIT A

SOCIAL ENTERPRISE MANAGER

LOCATION: Teach Iosagain, Rathmore, Co. Kerry CONTRACT: Initial 2-Year Fixed Term HOURS: 37.5 hours per week SALARY: Circa €41,000 dependent on qualifications and experience BENEFITS: Company Pension Scheme available ABOUT SAG

Social Action Group Rathmore CLG (SAG) is a community-based registered social enterprise CLG with charitable status dedicated to promoting social inclusion, community development and wellbeing in Rathmore and the surrounding areas. SAG delivers a range of community services, programmes and social enterprise initiatives designed to respond to local needs and support a vibrant, sustainable community.

THE ROLE

SAG is seeking an enthusiastic, motivated and commercially aware individual to join our senior management team and manage the day-to-day operations and development of Teach Íosagáin community centre. The community centre provides a range of services and facilities and support the development and sustainability of social enterprise activities across the organisation.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE

• Oversee Teach Íosagáin’s services and facilities, including the canteen, gym, events, children’s activities and facility rentals. • Manage and support staff, ensuring efficient operations and high-quality service delivery. • Manage budgets, income targets, expenditure and financial performance. • dentify and develop new social enterprise opportunities across SAG. • Support SAG’s Youth Action Group Committee in planning, delivering and monitoring youth activities. • Build positive relationships with community groups, service users, partners and stakeholders.

THE SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE WILL HAVE

• Qualifications - Holding a recognised qualification at Level 7 or above on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ). • Strong management, leadership and organisational skills. • Experience in financial management, budgeting or business operations. • Experience in social enterprise, community development or the not-for-profit sector is desirable. • Full valid Irish/EU driving license.

HOW TO APPLY

Please submit your CV along with a detailed cover letter detailing your suitability for the role by email submit for the attention of the CEO to info@sag.ie

Closing Date: COB 9 November 2026 A full job description is available on request.

Social Action Group Rathmore CLG is an equal opportunities employer. Social Action Group Rathmore CLG is committed to safeguarding people within our programmes from exploitation and abuse and has specific policies on this commitment. All offers of employment will be subject to pre-employment checks including satisfactory references and appropriate screening (e.g. garda vetting).

APPOINTMENTS 55

16.10.2026

Rathmore, County Kerry

Electrician SHIFT MANAGER Electrician Mondelez Ireland Production Limited, Rathmore, Co. Kerry

Position Type: 6-month Contract Salary: Competitive salary offered

Rathmore Factory

Requirements of applicants:

As the ShiftMondelez Manager you Ireland will suportProduction the Plant Lead Limited, and be the Operations leadership representative Rathmore, Co. Kerry • You must be a qualified Electrician during yourMondelez shift. Supported by yourProduction leadership andLimited, desire for everyday great delivery and execution. Ireland Rathmore, Co. Kerry

Position (Level 6 Type: QQI or6-month equivalentContract in electrical senior trade).

Position Type: 6-month Contract RESPONSIBILITIES: Salary: Competitive salary offered • Accountable for people, plant & performance on designated shift • Preferred experience in Allen Bradley PLC Salary: Competitive salary offered

• Shift management through daily management systems (DMS 1) on shift, controls andthelogic. Requirements of applicants:

of applicants: • Drive IL6SRequirements on shift through loss reduction and engagement, being accountable • You must be a qualified Electrician & problem-solving. Preferred maintenance for AM step delivery for designated area experience • You must be a qualified Electrician

(Level 6Shift QQI 24/7 or equivalent inshifts electrical senior trade). • Supporting other & Plant Lead, shift reports & handovers • the We operate on 8hour Monday – Friday, (Level 6 QQIManagers or equivalent in completing electrical senior trade). for designated area, setting next shift up for success • Preferred experience in Allen Bradley PLC 12hour shifts Saturday – Sunday. controls and logic. controls and logic. by active leadership of a safety standard including • Act as a Safety leader for the section ensuring work instructions, risk assessmentsexperience & training are appropriate to the tasks • Preferred maintenance & problem-solving. • Preferred maintenance experience & problem-solving. Please email your CV to WHAT YOU’LL BRING: • We operate 24/7 on 8hour shifts Monday – Friday, We now, operate 24/7leader on 8hour shifts Monday – Friday, • Must be a•ready with process knowledge 12hour competent shifts Saturday – detailed Sunday. Saturday – Sunday. • Role model 12hour for conductshifts and behaviour - GMP, safety, professional conduct, integrity Mondelez Production Limited is an equal • Effective communicator both verbal and written opportunities employer • Confident decision maker • Preferred experience inshift Allen Bradley PLC • Support internal & external audits while on

iehrsolutions@mdlz.com Please email your CV to Please email your CV to

• Ability to think on their feet • Presence to confidently take control of situations requiring decisions impacting production

iehrsolutions@mdlz.com iehrsolutions@mdlz.com Mondelez Production Limited is an equal

Interested applicantsMondelez should apply direct, in writing detailing Production Limited is an equal their reasons for suitability for opportunities the role, including their employer opportunities employer CV to Jo Murnane, joanne.murnane@mdlz.com CLOSING DATE: 23RD OCTOBER 2026 • Mondelez Ireland is an equal opportunity employer.

APPOINTMENTS

WANT TO ADVERTISE IN KILLARNEY’S BEST RECRUITMENT SECTION? CONTACT US ON: T: 064-6632215 or E: info@killarneyadvertiser.ie

Holbein Carpentry & Joinery Ltd Sneem Road, Kenmare, Co. Kerry V93YH21 T: +353 (64) 664 0752 www.holbein.ie

Due to our expanding workshop in Kenmare we are hiring for a:

WOOD FINISHER & GENERAL OPERATIVE For further information, visit our Careers page www.holbein.ie/contact/careers/ Email: office@holbein.ie or Call 064 66 40752 | Sneem Road, Kenmare, Co Kerry V93 YH21

DENTAL NURSE WANTED Experience Essential

To apply for this position please email your CV to

reception@kingdomclinic.ie.

Kingdom Clinic

STORY 57

16.10.2026 Felicity and Jack delivered the branches from Muckross back to Jack’s mother, Mary. “Brilliant!” She said, “you can help decorate them.” She had Felicity standing up on a kitchen chair holding the branches up by newly attached string, and Jack draped fake cobwebs on them. Mary stood nearby supervising and making more paper garlands. “No, no not like that Jack, they need more volume,” she would occasionally titter. Felicity could see that Jack was out of patience by the time they had completed all of the branches. She had to admit, Mary could be quite difficult to deal with. They tidied up the decorating supplies and headed out to the Curious Cat for lunch.

A weekly series from Killarney Advertiser's Jess Jukes

LUNCH

Much to Jack’s frustration, they were stuck in traffic for almost ten minutes trying to get into town. “We’ll park in the Lewis Road carpark,” Jack said. “I don’t want to circle the Glebe two or three times and still have no parking space.” After paying for their parking ticket, the duo walked toward town, down College Road and past Adam’s Jewellers. Felicity slowed as they walked past. A pretty necklace had caught her eye. It had a delicate silver chain with a small dark blue stone set into a little silver design. She took note of it and decided to come back later to have another look. Apparently she hadn’t had a good enough look at all of the local shops with Auntie Sheila. It was almost Christmas, she could excuse treating herself. They made their way to the Curious Cat and took a table outside. Felicity was set on making the most of the good weather. The sun was at its midday height, beaming down onto the town. The sky was clear apart from sparse, fluffy clouds. The light caught the top of the clouds in a gorgeous way. Even though the weather down here was wonderful, it looked even better above the clouds. “I’d like to take up photography again,” Felicity said. “I got some good photos when we went up Carrauntoohil, but I’d like to develop my skills more, maybe join a club.” She gazed up at the clouds, wishing that her phone camera would do the sight justice. She knew it wouldn’t, and so the camera staying in her pocket and she just enjoyed the moment herself. “There’s a few different photographers around. Who knows, maybe if you get some good shots you could send them into the Advertiser and get them published. Anything’s possible.” “I love nature photography, but I’d love to take photos of the street art we have around town. The artists are incredible and I’d love to make a collage for my room of all the different artworks.” Felicity was settling very well into Auntie Sheila’s, but was always looking for new ways to customise it. Her room at her parent’s house had never been particularly personalised. She wanted to make

her room at Auntie Sheila’s truly her own space. From there, the conversation went everywhere and anywhere, as it was wont to do. They had finished their lunch long ago, and the coffee they had gotten afterwards went down a dream as Felicity and Jack both leaned back, metaphorically put their feet up, and people-watched together. In Felicity’s mind, it didn’t get much better than this. Good food, a warm drink, and good company. She looked at Jack and smiled. “Why are you looking at me like that?” “No reason, I just realised how much I appreciate you, and life down here is all.” He raised his eyebrow. “And so you should appreciate me,” he said jokingly, “I’m fabulous.” She laughed. Of course you are Jack, of course you are.” More time passed, and before they knew it, it had hit midafternoon. Jack turned to Felicity. “What do you say, are you in the mood for a drive? We can go see the Gap in the sun.” “Yeah, I’d be happy to. I don’t know if I’m quite ready to go home and tell Auntie Sheila about my apprenticeship yet. It feels like as soon as I get home I’ll have to start making steps towards the next chapter of life. I’d like to hold off for another half hour.” Only earlier today Felicity couldn’t wait to share the news, but the closer the opportunity got the more reluctant she was. It wasn’t that she was nervous or disappointed by her acceptance to the Garda apprenticeship, but more so that she wanted to keep the peace she was currently drifting in for a little while longer before facing real life.

GAP OF DUNLOE

Jack drove them out towards the Gap of Dunloe, chatting as they went. They drove until they reached a bridge in the road. Jack parked up and they got out of the car. Felicity looked up at the mountains around them and marvelled. She had never felt this tiny before, dwarfed by the surrounding landscape. “This feels like the end of the Earth,” she said quietly. “Yeah,” Jack replied, “there’s something really special about this part of the world.” “You’re really lucky to have it,” Felicity said. “I don’t know how my mom left it, to be honest.” Before long they resumed their drive, continuing down the road. They came across an old building poking out of the top of the landscape. To their surprise, they saw a bunch of kids running out of the house, hollering at the top of their lungs. Jack pulled the car over and peered towards the hill they were running down. “Hold on a minute, I know him. Isn’t that Andy?” Whoever it was, they were headed straight for them. Tune in next week to see what happens ...

SERVICES

BE SEEN TO BE HEARD – WANT TO ADVERTISE YOUR SERVICE FOR EVERYONE TO SEE? CONTACT US ON: T: 064-6632215 or E: info@killarneyadvertiser.ie

PROPERTY REPAIRS & MAINTENANCE • Painting & Decorating (interior/Exterior) • Spray Painting • Extensions • Door and Window Repairs • Powerwashing (driveways, decking, etc) • General Maintenance

Contact Martin 089 2006623 Email: complexcare47@gmail.com

TAKING CARE OF ALL YOUR TREE AND GARDEN NEEDS • • •

Pruning and Reducing Trees Hazardous Tree Felling Hedge and Shrub Maintenance 20 years experience and fully licensed Tree Surgeon

Free quotations NPTC Certified Comprehensive Insurance

Ryan 086-0880833

IN MEMORIAM 59

16.10.2026

THE HAPPY HANDYMAN

it's your birthday

21ST ANNIVERSARY GUERIN

13TH & 12TH ANNIVERSARIES COURTNEY

BATHROOM RENOVATIONS • Plumbing • Tiling • Carpentry • Plastering • Painting

DAVID McCARTHY Formerly Just Bathrooms

T: 086 0776940 ––––––

Fondest memories, every day of the dearest mother Cathy Guerin wife of the late Cornelius Guerin “Irish Cottage”, Muckross Road, Killarney who sadly left us on 21st October 2005.

Taking Bookings Now ––––––

40 And Fabulous Love from all your family xxx

Would You Like To Include A Birthday/Occasions Photo For Someone?

Please Submit Your Photo By Wednesday At 5.30pm, €40 Per Photo

TO LET: Newly built 3-bedroom A-rated house. Spacious open-plan, peaceful location, 5 minutes from Dalys Supervalu. To let for 9 months. Professionals only, references required. Call/text 089 4528664. TO LET: Insulated Storage Unit in Glenflesk,

off the Cork road. Also, Retail unit in New Street. Call 086 8136888. TO LET: 3-Bedroom house in Pairc Chuimin, Kilcummin. Contact 086 8136888. WANTED: Houses and apartments to rent in the Killarney area. Contact 086 8136888.

CLASSIFIEDS FOR SALE FOR SALE: Tired of high oil prices? Newly Harvested Irish Coal. Also Seasoned Firewood. Tel: 087 4350736.

AVAILABLE AVAILABLE: MUSIC LESSONS - piano, fiddle, and guitar. Garda vetted. Leaving Cert Music grinds and Online Option also available. Tel John: 087 6801392 or Maggie: 087 6961681. AVAILABLE: Garden maintenance available. Lawnmowing, hedge trimming, strimming, weeding etc. Call 083 8810152 for free quote. AVAILABLE: Childminder available in own home. Full-time/Part-time. Garda vetted, Paediatric First Aid Certified. Contact 087 7171432. AVAILABLE: Stress Management. Learn to relax through breathing and relaxation techniques to find your calm within. Every Friday morning in the Church of Resurrection. 10am -11am. Drop in Class €10. Contact Anne on 087 9590635. AVAILABLE: Plasterer available for work. Boundary walls, garden sheds, skiming interall etc. Contact 086 8468590. AVAILABLE: Reliable, friendly, hard-working male seeking employment. Has full clean licence for car, truck and bus with experience CPC completed. All construction

works, brick-block, maintenance, handyman etc. Safe pass manual handling up-to-date. Contact 087 7560897.

ANIMALS ANIMALS: HUG: Homes for Unwanted Greyhounds. For further details please contact us on 087 6932090 or email info@homesforunwantedgreyhounds.ie ANIMALS: Adopt, Don't Shop - Rescue pups and kitties are looking for loving homes at KLAWS. Visit our website: www.klaws.ie or contact us by phone: 087 9704480, or email: klawskenmare@gmail.com

MOTORING FOR SALE: 2010 Renault Clio 1.1 Dynamique 5dr Petrol €2,000. 162,000kms. Serviced annually. No issues. NCT until February 2027. Taxed until Sept 2027. Timing Belt done. Contact Tom on 087 2902147.

WANTED WANTED: Person with good knowledge of Art, to help a leaving cert student. Contact by email at Leavingcertart2026@gmail.com WANTED: Working family looking for reliable childminder for baby. Commencing in Jan 2027. Days flexible if required. References required. Contact 086 2466597.

“For Mam” “Surprised By Joy” Surprised by Joy, impatient as the wind, I turned to share the transport Oh, with whom but thee Deep buried in the silent tomb That spot, which no vicissitude can find Love, faithful love Recalled thee to my mind But how can I forget thee Through what power, Even for the least division of an hour Have I been so beguiled As to be blind to my most grievious loss That thoughts return, Was the worst pang, That sorrow ever bore Save One, One only When I stood forlorn Knowing my hearts best treasure was no more That neither present time, Nor years unborn, Could to my sight That heavenly face restore. William Wordsworth (1770-1850) Always thinking of you Mam. Also, remembering, most especially, their beloved sons Cornelius and Denis who left us on 22nd September 2014 and 20th February 2025. From your children Mary, Patrick, Margaret, Timothy, and their families.

21ST, 37TH, 12TH & 1ST ANNIVERSARIES GUERIN

PROPERTY REPAIRS & MAINTENANCE • Painting & decorating Interior & exterior (Fencing, Walls) • Spray Painting • Fixing of doors and windows • Power washing (Driveways, Decking Patios, Paths, Gutters & Fascias) • Carpentry (Timber floors, Paneling, Skirting Boards) In loving memory of • Garage Clearouts • GardeningGuerin & • General maintenance Kathleen who died on 21st October 2005 and Tele: 0892006623 her husband Cornelius Guerin Email: complexcare47@gmail.com who died on 26th July 1989 and their sons Con Guerin who died on 22nd September 2014 and Denis Guerin who died on 20th February 2025 late of Muckross Road, Killarney. We hold you close within our hearts And there you shall remain To walk with us throughout our lives Until we meet again. So rest in peace dear Mum, Dad and brothers Con and Denis And thank you for all you’ve done We pray that God has given you The crown you’ve truly won. Fondly remembered always by Margaret and Peter, and all the Guerin family and friends.

IN MEMORIAM MEMORIAM IN

Treasured memories of a loving husband, father, grandfather and father-in-law (Patrick) Pat Courtney Muckross Road, Killarney, who passed away on 18th October 2013 and his son Shane Courtney who died on 31st Jan 2014. Ye always had a smile to share A laugh, a joke, a time to care Each of us in our own way Have special memories of ye today. Sad but loving memories, Ursula and Eamonn, Eamon, Valerie, Patrick and Shauna, Padraic, Orlagh, Réiltín, Féilim and Eanna, Feargal, Nicola, Luke and David, Cian, Heidy, Emily, Evelyn and Elaine.

27TH ANNIVERSARY O’DONOGHUE

In loving memory of our dear daughter Anne O’Donoghue Holy Cross, Firies, Killarney who died on 18th October 1999. A day that is filled with sorrow Returns to us today To mark the day you left us In such a tragic way. If tears could build a stairway And memories build a lane We would walk right up to heaven And bring you home again. To us you were someone special So good, so kind and true You will never be forgotten Anne And we thought the world of you. Sadly missed by Mom, Dad, brothers, sisters, nieces and nephews.

27TH ANNIVERSARY O’DONOGHUE

In loving memory of my sister Annie O’Donoghue Firies Cross, who died on 18th October 1999. Memories are special They don’t fade away We think of you always Not just today. Those special days will not return When we were all together But the love and memories in our hearts Will stay with us forever. Always remembered by your loving sister Deborah, brother-in-law Liam, Christopher and Alicia.

May the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

Anniversaries, Acknowledgements, Anniversaries, Acknowledgeme Remembrances and Novenas can be placed can be placed online at ww online at www.killarneyadvertiser.ie

TO PLACE AN ANNIVERSARY NOTICE CONTACT US ON: T: 064-6632215 or E: info@killarneyadvertiser.ie

IN MEMORIAM

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT & MONTH’S MIND

2ND ANNIVERSARY

3RD ANNIVERSARY

4TH ANNIVERSARY

LACKE

CAROLAN (NEE O’SHEA)

BUCKLEY

In loving memory of Vincent J. Lacke Ill Dennehy’s Bohereen, Killarney, Co. Kerry who died on 20th October 2024.

In loving memory of Sheila (Julia) Carolan late of Inchicullane, Killarney who died on 21st October 2023.

In loving memory of Timothy Buckley Gortaree, Aghadoe, Killarney who died on 15th October 2022.

Some people just can’t help Making a difference in our lives By simply being who they are They make the world A little brighter, warmer, gentler.

Softly the leaves of memories fall, Gently we gather and treasure them all.

Brother A quiet October morning You heard a gentle call You raised your hands to heaven And quietly left us all. Today, tomorrow Our whole lives through We always love and remember you.

O’HALLORAN

In loving memory of Michael O’Halloran late of Aghadoe, formerly of Ballyheigue who passed on the 26th August 2026. Rest in Peace. We, the family of the late Michael O’Halloran, wish to express our deep gratitude to all those who supported and sympathised with us on our recent sad loss. We are most grateful to those who travelled from near and far for the Requiem and Funeral Mass. Also to those who telephoned, posted online condolences, messaged, sent Mass cards and joined us online. Our sincere thanks to our friends, relatives and neighbours who supported and comforted us, and to those who thoughtfully dropped in with food. We would also like to express our heartfelt gratitude to Dr Coffey, Dr Noirín Ní Scanlan and all the Palliative Care Team in Tralee for the exceptional care, compassion and kindness shown to Dad. We will always be grateful for the care provided.

And when they’re gone We realise how lucky we are To have known them. Always rememered by the Lyne and Lacke families.

There’s a gift in life you cannot buy A gift so rare and true It is a gift of a wonderful Mom Like the one we had in you.

Anniversary Mass for Vinnie will be held on Monday 19th October at 6.15pm in St Mary’s Cathedral.

We hold you close within our hearts And there you shall remain To walk with us throughout our lives Until we meet again. We love you Mom!

9TH ANNIVERSARY HARTNETT

Sincere thanks to the O’Shea family, Funeral Directors, for their professionalism, guidance and kindness in arranging Dad’s funeral. We would like to thank Sr Joan O’Sullivan for leading the rosary. As it is not possible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our heartfelt gratitude. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.

In loving memory of our beloved Dad Con Hartnett 26 Mangerton View, Killarney who passed away on 18th October 2017. October comes with sad regret It brings a day we never forget. The gates of Heaven opened wide The angels stood side by side Our lovely Dad was on his way The day Lord Jesus took you away.

MOYNIHAN

Month’s Mind Mass for Michael takes place on Friday 16th October at 7.30pm in the Prince of Peace Church, Fossa.

6TH ANNIVERSARY O’MEARA

In loving memory of Donal O’Meara Gortdromakerrie, Muckross who died on 21st October 2020. Those we love don’t go away They walk beside us every day Unseen, unhear, but always near Still loved, still missed, still very dear. Sadly missed by your niece Karen, Jimmy, Beth, Kate and Danny. Anniversary Mass on Sunday 18th October at 9.30am in the Church of the Holy Spirit, Muckross.

IN MEMORIAM

In loving memory of Sheila and Michael Moynihan late of Minish, Killarney Sheila who died on 2nd September 2014 and Michael who died on 21st October 2004. You gave us all you had to give Gifts both big and small But most of all you gave us love The greatest gift of all. So may the winds of love blow softly And whisper for you to hear That we still love and miss you As it dawns another year. Loved and remembered by your son Patrick, daughter-in-law Shelia, and grandchildren Marie, Gary and Colin.

Merciful Lord, please lay Your healing hands upon me. Restore my body, mind and spirit and give me strength to hope. Amen. CO

Uncle Your presence we miss Your memories we treasure Missing you always Forgetting you never. Love always, your loving nieces Mary, Margaret and Eileen. xxx

14TH ANNIVERSARY BROSNAN (NEE LOONEY)

3rd Anniversary Mass will be celebrated on Sunday 18th October at 11.30am in Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Kilcummin.

12TH & 22ND ANNIVERSARIES MOYNIHAN

Loved always and missed every day, Liam, Catherine, Mary, Pat, Niamh, Ashling, Robert and Ben.

12TH & 22ND ANNIVERSARIES

Always loved and remembered by your sister Nora and brother-in-law Pat. xx

I THANK MY GOD EACH TIME I THINK OF YOU. xoxo Always remembered and cherished by your loving daughters, Mary Ann and Kathleen, sons-in-law Mick and Brian, dearly loved grandson Brian and his wife Shannon, and treasured grand-daughter Claire.

Our thanks to Sheahan’s Pharmacy for their assistance and care at all times. We wish to express our sincere thanks to Fr Tom Looney for celebrating Michael’s Funeral Mass in such a meaningful and comforting way. We also thank Paud O’Donoghue and Morgan Pierce for the beautiful music which added so much to the ceremony, and to Michael’s grandson Cathal for the touching music at the graveside.

Quietly on that morning, You heard a gentle call, You took the hand God offered you And peacefully left us all.

In loving memory of Lorna Brosnan (nee Looney) Gallowsfield, Tralee who died on 7th October 2012. We did not see you close your eyes We did not see you die All we knew was that you were gone Without a last goodbye. It was a sudden parting Too bitter to forget Only those who loved you Are the ones who will never forget.

Cherished memories of Sheila and Michael Moynihan late of Minish, Killarney Sheila who passed away on 2nd September 2014 and Michael who passed away on 21st October 2004. We never part from those we love No distance can divide us With memories dear and love sincere You will always be beside us. You are just a step ahead of us A place we all will be And there we’ll laugh and joke again Just like it used to be. Lovingly remembered by your daughter Mary, Pádraig, Gillian, Carolyn, Neil, Katelyn, Amy and Clara. xxxx Sheila and Michael’s Anniversary Mass on Wednesday 21st October at 6.15pm in St. Mary’s Cathedral.

NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART You have said, O Divine Jesus, who said, ”Ask and you will receive, Seek and you will find, knock and it will be opened to you.” Relying on these promises, I come with confidence during this Novena to beg of you the favours that I need. Amen. CD

The happy hours we once enjoyed How sweet their memories still But death has left a vacant place This world can never fill. Your life was one of kindly deeds A helping hand for others’ needs Sincere and true in heart and mind Beautiful memories left behind. Sadly missed, Nan, Dad, Margaret, Joanne, Tony, Timmy, Sharon, Maura, grandchildren and great-grandchild. Mass has been offered.

PRAYER FOR THE EXPECTANT MOTHER O Holy Mother Mary, obtain for me a share in the holy dispositions which filled your beautiful soul during the nine months you bore your divine son. Make me a mother after God’s own heart, forming my children to serve him here on earth, and to be a means of spreading his Kingdom and leading other souls to him. St Joseph head of the holy family pray for the father of this child, that he and I may rear our family so that our home may be like the holy home in Nazareth. May the children and we be reunited in the eternal home to rejoice for all eternity at the feet of God. Amen.

Anniversaries, Acknowledgements, Remembrances and Novenas can be placed online at www.killarneyadvertiser.ie

IN MEMORIAM 61

16.10.2026 8TH ANNIVERSARY

8TH ANNIVERSARY

10TH ANNIVERSARY

MOYNIHAN

O’GRADY

MCCARTHY

In loving memory of my dear husband Dermot Moynihan Tullig Cottage, Spa who died on 25th October 2018. Rest in Peace.

In loving memory of the greatest Mom Bridie O’Grady late of Park Road, Killarney whose anniversary occurs on 16th October.

In loving memory of Bridie O’Grady Park Road, Killarney who passed away on 16th October 2018.

Cherished memories of a loving Wife, Mom and Nana Carmel McCarthy 9 Bishop Moynihan Crescent, Killarney who passed away on 21st October 2016.

As time goes on without you Der And the days turn into years They hold a million memories And a million silent tears. Although I cannot see you Your love has kept me strong The memories you have left me Have helped me carry on. Der always stay beside me It helps to know you’re there And thank you for everything Your love and all your care. There is a place in my heart Nobody can ever fill I miss you Der and always will. Sadly missed, always loved and never forgotten, your loving wife Bridget. xx

I really don’t know Where to start The day you left You broke my heart. Not just a crack It broke in two Filled with love Just for you. I miss you so much And more, every day And love you much more Than words could ever say. Loved and missed by your heartbroken daughter Budge.

8TH ANNIVERSARY O’GRADY

A golden heart stopped beating Hard working hands at rest It broke our hearts to see you go God only takes the best. They say that memories are golden Well maybe that is true But we never wanted memories We only wanted you. Your life was love and labour Your love for your family true You did your best for all of us We will always remember you. Our lips cannot speak how we loved you Our hearts cannot tell what to say But God only knows how we miss you In our home that is lonely today. Love you always, forever, Patsy, Dan, Geraldine, Emma and Daniel.

Anniversary Mass on Thursday 22nd October at 9.30am in the Church of The Resurrection.

8TH ANNIVERSARY MOYNIHAN

31ST BIRTHDAY REMEMBRANCE In loving memory of a beautiful Mom Bridie O’Grady late of Park Road, Killarney whose anniversary occurs on 16th October. Death leaves heartache No one can heal Memories are treasures No one can steal.

In loving memory of our dad Dermot Moynihan Tullig Cottage, Spa, Killarney who died on 25th October 2018. Rest in Peace. You rest in the arms of the Angels In a place of peace and love Watching over us always From Heaven up above. You guide us through our worries And help us through each day Always by our side You never went away. You rest in the arms of Angels Free from illness and pain Waiting for the day We are together again. So sadly missed and fondly remembered by your loving sons Pat, Sean, Aidan and Noel, by Emma, Marian, Marie and Ka, your grandchildren, and your brothers Michael and Pat. Anniversary Mass on Thursday 22nd October at 9.30am in the Church of The Resurrection.

NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked for many favours. This time I ask you this special one, (mention favour). Take it dear heart of Jesus and place it within your heart where your Father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your favour not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted. Never known to fail. Must promise publication of prayer. RF

IN MEMORIAM

Some may forget you Now that you are gone But we will remember you No matter how long. You will always stay loved And remembered in every way No tears, no verses, can ever Say how much we miss you every day. Missed and loved every day by your daughter Mary, Ted, Stephen and Jackie.

8TH ANNIVERSARY O’GRADY

In loving memory of Bridie O’Grady Park Road, Killarney whose anniversary occurs on 16th October. Mom Not a day goes by that We don’t miss you Losing you has been the Toughest challenge ever But knowing that you’re at peace has been the only comfort that we have. Love you always, Helen. Nana Words cannot express How much we miss you Life will never be the same You’re forever in our hearts. Love Jenny, Laura, TJ, and Ryan.

LOONEY

Birthday Remembrance for Kevin Looney Clash, Tralee and Killarney whose 31st Birthday is today 16th October. Happy 31st birthday, Kevin.

Dear Wife….. I miss your words of wisdom I miss your laughter too Nothing will ever compare again To my years in loving you. I’ll hold onto you forever Deep within my heart And though you are not here, Carmel I know we’ll never part. I wish I had one more chance To see that tender smile To laugh again with you, Carmel Just for a little while. No man could wish for better To share In love and life I count myself lucky everyday, To have called you my Wife. Dear Mom….. Of all the special gifts in life However great or small To have you as our Mom Was the greatest gift of all. May the winds of love blow softly And whisper in your ear “We love and miss you Mom And wish that you were here”. Deep within our hearts, your life is kept To love and cherish, not Forget No more tomorrows we can share But yesterdays are always there. A silent thought, a secret tear Keeps your memory ever near In our hearts, we Miss You Mom. Dear Nana….. Time slips by and life goes on But from our hearts you’re never gone We think about you always We talk about you too We have so many memories But we wish we still had you.

We wish you were here beside us To celebrate today, To hear your laugh, to hold you close, With so much left to say.

Love you forever, miss you always, your husband Dan, daughters Sheila, Katherina, Carmel, Marina, Diana and Helena, sons Patrick, Joe, Daniel and James, daughters-in-law, sons-in-law, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

You filled our lives with colour, With laughter and with song. We thought we’d have you here with us For birthdays all along.

Anniversary Mass for Carmel and her mother Sheila O’Connor, Woodlawn on Saturday 17th October at 6.15pm in St Mary’s Cathedral.

May heaven celebrate you With the joy you always gave. Today and every day, Kevin, you’re loved Beyond what words can say. Always loved and forever missed.

29TH & 10TH ANNIVERSARIES SHEAHAN

All our Love, Mom, your wife Katie, siblings Selina, Darren, Carmel Ann, Frankie and Tommy Dan, nephews Sean, Noah and Theo, and brothers and sister-in-laws Niall, Kyle and Lucy. xxx

MAY YOU ALWAYS HAVE AN ANGEL BY YOUR SIDE May you always have an angel by your side, watching out for you in all the things you do. Reminding you to keep believing in brighter days. Finding ways for your wishes and dreams to take you to beautiful places. Giving you hope that is as certain as the sun. Giving you the strength of serenity as your guide. May you always have love and comfort and courage. And may you always have an angel by your side. CD

Emilia Larson.

In loving memory of Con and Mary Sheahan Rathanane, Kilcummin, Killarney Con who died on 20th October 1997 and Mary who died on 1st October 2016. Just a prayer from the family who loved you, Just a memory fond and true, In our hearts you will live forever, Because we thought the world of you. From their loving daughters Maria, Tom and family, Joan, Mike and family, Sheila, John and family, and their sons Denis and Pat, and Marguerite, and Mollie and Zoey.

Anniversaries, Acknowledgements, Remembrances and Novenas can be placed online at www.killarneyadvertiser.ie

SPORT

16.10.2026

ADAM MOYNIHAN E: sport@killarneyadvertiser.ie SEE OUR COLUMNISTS’ COVERAGE OF THE WEEK IN SPORT EAMONN FITZGERALD & SEAN MORIARTY

| By Adam Moynihan

Follow Adam on X @AdamMoynihan

DARING TO DREAM

Underdogs on cusp of glory as East Kerry get Spa treatment When East Kerry were drawn to face Spa in the Kerry SFC quarter-final, the star-studded four-time winners were expected to prevail – and to do so in style. It was widely held that Spa defeating their parent district was a fanciful idea. How could a club that up until recently made up roughly a third of a divisional team turn around and beat the remaining two-thirds, plus their own able replacements, in a do-or-die championship quarter-final? An energised and determined Spa side showed us exactly how in the Park last Sunday afternoon as they dramatically KO’ed their illustrious district counterparts in an enthralling encounter that HISTORIC: Spa forward David Spillane and manager William Harmon celebrate thieir side's unexpected victory over East Kerry. Photo: Spa GAA.

finished Spa 3-15 East Kerry 2-17. An icy cool two-point free by Evan Cronin with the last kick of the game clinched a famous win for the Tullig club, and confirmed one of the greatest shocks the competition has seen in years. The result sent shockwaves through the county, shockwaves that were felt as far north as Tarbert and as far south as Kenmare Bay. For this turn of events hasn’t just opened the door for Spa, it has given supporters of North Kerry and Kenmare Shamrocks added cause for titillation. Incredibly, three of this Sunday’s

semi-finalists have never won the Kerry County Championship before (at least not on their own). Two of them – Spa and Kenmare – have never reached the final, and the other – North Kerry – haven’t done so since the 1930s. And then there’s Dr Crokes. The Kerry kingpins survived an epic battle with Austin Stacks in their quarter-final at Stack Park as substitute and Man of the Match Charlie Keating fired over seven

points from play in a remarkable 3-26 to 3-21 win. That performance and their standing in the game makes them obvious favourites to quash all this fairytale nonsense and go all the way for the 15th time. But who knows? Their semi-final opponents, dear neighbours Spa, have already accounted for two giants in Dingle (the holders) and East Kerry. Who says they can’t see off a third?

KERRY SFC SEMI-FINALS North Kerry v Kenmare Shamrocks Sunday 1.30pm Dr Crokes v Spa Sunday 3.30pm

Fitzgerald Stadium Fitzgerald Stadium

16.10.2026

St Paul’s make it two wins from two | By Enda Walshe

Utility Trust St Pauls made it two wins from two in the Dominos Women’s Super League with a hardfought win over Trinity Meteors.

DUEL: Angelina Robles of St Paul's in action against Aisling Moran of Flomax Liffey Celtics. Photo: Photography and Design By Molly.

The opening minutes were close with Finn very influential for the visitors and Rheanne Kelly and Paula Reus netting for the hosts. A Maisie Burnham three helped to halt the Meteors gallop but their towering centre Zayn Dornstauder made sure it was level with 3.07 to go at 10-10. The remainder of the quarter though belonged to the hosts, as Angelina Robles and Louise Scannell both netted and with the final act McMahon made it 16-10. Annie Brosnan made her season debut as well as Emma Buckley also featured for the first time at home. Burnham gave her side the best possible start to the second quarter but slowly Meteors got a grip on proceedings with Kara McCleane, Aisling Moran and Finn prominent. A three from the former gave them the lead at 21-19 which led to a St Paul’s timeout. It had the required effect as Burnham, Síofra O’Shea and Leah McMahon did enough to warrant a Meteors timeout. Robles and Burnham kept their foot on the gas and despite a Martina Destro three it was the home side that led 31-29 at half time.

Kerry FC one step from playoffs Kerry FC could be set to challenge for promotion to the League of Ireland Premier Division in just their fourth year in existence with Colin Healy’s side needing one more point to qualify for the end of season playoffs. The First Division outfit find themselves fourth in the table ahead of their final game of the regular season, which takes place tonight at fortress Mounthawk Park. Their opponents are runaway league champions Cork City, who secured promotion back to the top flight several weeks ago. Second to fifth place will advance to the

playoff semi-finals after tonight’s round of fixtures. Bray (who are currently second) and UCD (third) are already assured of their semi-final berths. The Kingdom could potentially overtake the Students with a win, but more importantly they are two points ahead of Longford in fifth and Cobh Ramblers in sixth. Athlone Town are also in contention – they’re a point further back in seventh. Longford and Athlone play one another on the final night, with Cobh away to Treaty in Limerick. The equation for Kerry is simple enough: win or draw and the dream of promotion to the Premier Division will be very much alive and kicking.

The third quarter fell into two categories; the first part was all about St Paul’s but a strong finish to it from Meteors meant there was little in it by its conclusion. Robles started it like a house on fire and that rubbed off Burnham as the duo put their side into a 39-29 lead, the last score of the purple patch being a Robles three. The only negative was Burnham was creeping into foul trouble, and Meteors started to make hay as Dornstauder made inroads into that advantage. Paula Reus stepped up the pace again as her side led 48-45, turning for home. Louise Scannell hit a three on the resumption but that was answered by Morgan Lenehan and one of the features of the game was the quick breaks from Robles, her side profiting again. Burnham, visibly inspired, made a great three-point play and despite walking a disciplinary tight rope her contributions were integral to the fourth quarter. Morgan Lenehan started to play a leading role for Meteors at this stage, closing the gap to three, 62-59, with 3.29 to go but just as they felt their breaths on their neck, Burnham, Robles and Reus hit the game defining points and saw their side home on a 70-66 scoreline. Flomax Liffey Celtics will be the next visitors to Killarney. That game takes place on Saturday October 24th with a 4pm tip off.

BIG GAME: Kerry captain Seánie McGrath. Photo: Tyler Miller/ Sportsfile.

16.10.2026

Questions over money and power delaying integration Eamonn Fitzgerald speaks to former GAA President Seán Kelly about the slow-moving amalgamation of the GAA, LGFA and Camogie Association I was surprised that Johnny Logan wasn’t mentioned on September 5 last, when Mary McAleese pulled the pin on the grenade, lobbing it onto Jones’ Road, or was it meant for the centre of the Hogan Stand, where those emotive phrases ring out on big match day finals. “Is mór an onóir dom an…” Hold it there, not the Sam Maguire or the Liam MacCarthy, Tommy Martin or O’Duffy Cup. McAleese resigned as chair of the Steering Group on Integration (SGI). What’s Another Year made Johnny Logan a superstar, winning the Eurovision song contest. In 1980. So, what’s another year if the deadline of 2027 will not be met for the integration of the GAA, LGFA and Camogie associations into one body? In 1987, Logan wrote and sang his other Eurovision winner, Hold Me Now. He

came to mind when McAleese ignited the debate. That generated plenty of heat but little light with those predictable knee-jerk reactions. Five weeks later seems a good time to return to the burning issue of the slow progress towards integration. When former Uachtarán na hÉireann Mary was appointed in 2022, tasked with doing all the preparatory work to ensure that the three Gaelic games bodies would be integrated by 2027, I wrote in this sports column that I welcomed her appointment. After all, she was well schooled firsthand in growing up in the hurly-burly of Northern Ireland bigotry and sectarianism, an able person who was not afraid to call out authority and sacred cows. Is she hot-headed? Remember, Mary

McAleese was appointed to a Vatican commission studying the role of women in the Church, especially the question of women deacons. This involved contributing to Church discussions on whether women could be formally ordained as deacons – a long running and sensitive issue inside the Catholic hierarchy. McAleese was due to speak at a Vatican conference on women in 2018. The Vatican refused to approve her participation, and she publicly accused them of “misogyny”, silencing women’s voices, and controlling debate on women’s ordination. It’s clear that she was frustrated by both the Vatican and now the GAA dragging its feet, reluctant to change. At best, there was tacit support for change. I wrote in 2022 that I couldn’t see the integration by 2027. Why not, you may ask? Two

reasons: assets/money and power. It may be simplistic, but I contend that is the nub of the delay: the hurdles that are in place, so it’s not a sprint, and it won’t happen quickly. The finishing line still out of sight. One could well have foreseen the reactions from interested parties: the GAA, politicians, feminist organisations, misogynists, and all that. Let’s start with the real stumbling blocks: power and the lack of it. The GAA mandarins in Croke Park are mainly men holding the key positions, even if women are in the GAA management, while at grassroots nationwide women are far more involved as officers in GAA clubs. What a welcome change for the good. All clubs that I know of have female officers. In Kilcummin GAA club, all the top officer positions are held by women. There are very good reasons why the three associations should integrate into one governing body. As it still stands, a family may have a son playing football or

LGFA: Team captains, including Kerry's Síofra O'Shea, with Deirdre Ní Choistín (CEO TG4) and Trina Murray (LGFA President) ahead of the 2026 TG4 All-Ireland Ladies' Football finals. Photo: Piaras Ó Mídheach/Sportsfile.

16.10.2026 hurling with his local club, and there is a cost for registration each year. His sibling sister may be playing football with the club’s LGFA, and another sister may be playing camogie with the same club. So, parents have to fork out three registration fees to the one club. Some clubs opt for the One Club model. That makes no difference to the parents in reality. They still pay the equivalent of the three separate payments. It really is just an administrative shortcut: one payment to the club but still no concession or reduction. Many wonder why this is so. The GAA, LGFA and Camogie may have the same raison d’etre to promote Gaelic games, but the GAA controls the assets, for the most part. It owns the fields, clubhouses etc. Only in very few cases do the LGFA or Camogie Association own their own fields or ancillary facilities. Assets and power equate with money, and money is power. The GAA was founded in 1884, the Camogie Association in 1904 and the LGFA in 1974, even though there was unofficial ladies’ football for some years prior to that. Some clubs are magnanimous in providing equality and even equity to camogie and ladies football within their clubs. We’re all on the same road. However, there are still clubs where football and hurling for the male members get prominence. The senior team gets first choice of use of the main pitch for training and matches. Too often, the female players have to go cap in hand to the club officers to use the main pitch. It becomes availa-

ble only if the male players are not using it at that time for training and matches. So, the crusade from grassroots for equality of access forced the hand of the GAA to commit to integration. I spoke with Seán Kelly, a Kilcummin native and former player who occupied the hot seat as President of the GAA, maybe even hotter than his current MEP seat in the European Parliament. Here is how that interview evolved. Straight-talking, Seán, and none of the obfuscation or the escape route of politicians when the heat is on. In fairness, he answered my queries very honestly with clarity. Why has it taken so long to see the three bodies under the one umbrella? After all, you threw in the ball in this game during your presidency (2003-2006)? That’s over 20 years ago. Yes, that was an exploratory committee to start the discussion on the issue. You have to explore issues such as shared facilities, coordination of fixtures and the different administrations, with a view to the long-term possibility of integration. Is it the modern version of the Blessed Trinity and the mystery of how it becomes the one God? You vacated office in 2006, succeeded by Nicky Brennan, Christy Cooney. Liam O’Neill, Aogán Ó Fearghaíl, John Horan, Larry McCarthy and the incumbent, Jarlath Burns. It still hasn't happened. Why not? It didn’t always get the priority it needed for some years, but Liam Ó 'Neill (RIP, nach maireann anois) made a huge effort during his term of office. He actively pursued integration and said at Congress that he had set “an irreversible course towards total integration". Yes, I recall that great effort by Liam O’Neill (2012-2015). Still no progress; stuck in traffic like being on the Killarney bypass from 4pm to 6pm. Great work has been done at county board level in some counties, but not all give it the priority it needs. To get a project like this through, a lot of issues must be sorted out at local levels. Such as? Who will present Cups to winners of various competitions? Matters like fixtures are huge, and this has to be spelt out with great clarity. Who produces the programme for the game, and is the coverage fair to GAA, LGFA and Camogie? Every effort should be made where it is possible to have double headers. Why don’t they do that on the big stage in Croke Park? I still think it is a shame the minor final isn't played as a double header on All-Ireland hurling and football final days, even though I know the real reasons are money and tickets. I am in favour of looking at playing, say, a camogie final before the hurling final and the LGFA before that for the football final. Final word, Seán, on this logjam on integration of the three bodies. Women’s games are improving all the time, and that is so welcome. This pres-

OPINION: Iar-Uachtarán Chumann Lúthchleas Gael Seán Kelly during the GAA Congress in 2024. Photo: Piaras Ó Mídheach/Sportsfile.

ent hiccup is stalling the integration momentarily, but it can still happen. More work has to be done at the local level throughout the country before it gets to Congress. That groundwork must be done; otherwise, when it gets to the floor of Congress, it will be a mismatch and will not be passed.

MY OBSERVATIONS.

I contend that there are some real burning issues at local level. While most people publicly at least agree with the concept of overcoming the real cost for parents of registering their children in the local GAA club, registration of the boys will go to the club, which in turn goes to higher bodies to be officially registered for football/hurling. Then parents have to fork out more money to register their daughter(s) to play for the same club as her brother. More expense. The One Club system, adopted by some but not all GAA clubs, is a partial solution, but not the complete answer. While all GAA clubs now cater for all genders, in too many cases the LGFA or camogie groups have to go with cap in hand to secure the field for training or matches. However, if the camogie or LGFA have a game to play at the same time as the senior men do their training on the ‘main pitch’, how often do the hurlers or footballers agree or agree under protest, to switch their training to the ‘second field’, which is of inferior quality? Many clubs I know are magnanimous. The ladies are treated fairly, but not all have that independence. So, the War of Independence is won, but the Civil War might rear its head when the LGFA and Camogie are looking for the same cohort of players, e.g. U16s civil

war is the worst of all wars. Most clubs do not have the full gamut of hurling, LGFA and men’s teams all playing for the same club. However, in big urban clubs with huge numbers playing hurling, camogie, and Peil na mBan, equality and equity are blurred into one image. Clubs must provide both equity and equality. Still civil war in a small minority of clubs where the manager of the LGFA team and the camogie team are less than friendly. What happens when the minor LGFA club team have a 3.30pm championship match to fulfil as a home fixture? Will they get the main pitch if it clashes with a challenge game for the senior men's team? It is basically the same group of players who play football and camogie for the one club, so it is possible that players have to decide infrequently between camogie and football. Intransigence. Drumcree, how are you, Newbridge of Nowhere? Fortunately, most managers are very reasonable and realise that the club is greater than any individual, and they don’t put the players in the awful position to decide. God knows we had enough of that absurd position in soccer. Will the three bodies eventually come under the one umbrella? Officially, former GAA Uachtarán John Horan has been appointed by the GAA to fill the void after Mary McAleese's sudden departure, but I still see one more big stalling point. We will tease out that in Part 2 of the topic of integrating the GAA, LGFA, and Camogie Association, held over until next week. What the GAA can learn from a similar process for Golf Ireland and integrating GUI catering for male golfers and ILGUI catering for lady golfers, and the key role of an Olympic medallist played in those negotiations. Also, Micheál Ó Muircheartaigh’s wish. That and more.

16.10.2026

Cross country success for Killarney Valley athletes Killarney Valley AC enjoyed a very successful County Kerry Cross Country Championships, claiming the overall juvenile club title for the fourth consecutive year while also securing the Senior Men’s team championship. The club’s achievements were the result of outstanding performances across three weekends of competition, with approximately 200 athletes representing the green and purple colours with pride, determination and teamwork. Captain Sadie Sugrue accepted the Perpetual Shield on behalf of the club, marking another memorable milestone for Killarney Valley AC and highlighting the strength and depth of its juvenile ranks. A major contribution to the overall juvenile title came from the club’s relay teams, which completed a remarkable clean sweep by winning all four county titles in the U10 and U12 girls’ and boys’

4×500m relay competitions. In the U10 girls’ relay, Bella Brosnan, Alice Pyne, Natalie Murphy and Cara McElroy combined to secure the county title. The U10 boys’ team of Cillian Culloty, Teddy O’Brien, Dylan Aherne and Mateusz Poslada also delivered a winning performance. The success continued in the U12 competitions, where the girls’ squad featured Lauren O’Sullivan, Siún O’Callaghan, Sadie Sugrue, Béibhinn O’Donnell, Saoirse O’Sullivan and Scarlett O’Sullivan. The U12 boys’ squad included Charlie J Kelliher, James Doody, Dylan O’Connor, Noah Brosnan and Luke Sheehan. These relay victories earned valuable points towards the overall juvenile shield and underlined the club’s impressive team spirit and developing talent across the age groups. There was further cause for celebration in the senior ranks, as Killarney Valley AC claimed the Senior Men’s County

Team Championship. Risteard Clifford led the way by taking the Senior Individual Championship, with Jack O’Leary finishing an excellent second and Conor Kissane claiming fourth place in the 7,500m race. They were supported by Brendan Joy, Naoise Daly, Jehven Kurbanov, Brendan Kissane and Derek Pyne, whose contributions helped secure the team title and complete a superb championship performance for the club. The Senior Women also produced a strong showing, finishing second in the team competition. Fiona Doody, Margaret O’Connor, Mary Clare Healy and Grace O’Meara combined their points to earn a well-deserved podium finish. From the youngest juvenile runners to the senior competitors, Killarney Valley AC demonstrated the commitment and collective effort that have become hallmarks of the club. Winning the overall juvenile shield for the fourth year in suc-

WINNERS: Captain Sadie Sugrue accepts the Kerry Cross Country Perpetual Shield on behalf of Killarney Valley AC.

cession is a significant achievement and a testament to the work of the athletes, coaches and wider club community. Thanks also to sponsors Lee Strand and Kerry Athletics for their hard work throughout the three weekends of racing, as well as host club St Brendan’s AC for hosting the final day’s competition and all those who helped with running the races and facilitating the events. With four juvenile relay titles, the overall juvenile club shield, the Senior Men’s team championship and a second-place finish for the Senior Women, Killarney Valley AC have plenty to celebrate at the conclusion of the Kerry cross country season. The club would like to thank all the athletes who attended, the parents and families that helped out, and the coaches and supporters who made it a great season. Please email killarneyvalleyac@gmail. com if you would like to join the club.

16.10.2026

THE WEEK IN PICTURES

GAA: The U16 Kilcummin boys who won the East Kerry final.

GEEHA: The Mastergeeha U13B team that competed in the National Cup. BLUES: The Killarney Athletic U10 girls who played QPR.

ATHLETIC: The Killarney Athletic U10 boys who played against Tralee Dynamos.

SOCCER: The Killarney Celtic U13A squad who defeated Killarney Athletic in the SFAI National Cup.

MEK: Participants and coaches at the first MEK Football for All session which took place in Miltown Community Hall on Monday.

BASKETBALL: Madison Angland and Jessica Leane of the Killarney Cougars U16 girls wearing their new kit kindly sponsored by Gino's Gelato.

16.10.2026

SPORT NOTES

Killarney Athletic SENIOR A: Killarney Athletic Senior A advanced to the next round of the Munster Junior Cup with an emphatic 7-1 victory over Classic FC at Ferndale. Matthew Horgan and Evan Doona scored twice each, with Josh Bowler and Leo Allen also on target, along with an own goal. The match was the team’s first outing in their new away kit, sponsored by O’Mahony Electrical Services and Tatler Jack Bar. YOUTHS PROGRESS IN CUP: Killarney Athletic’s youths defeated neighbours Mastergeeha 3-2 in the first round of the Munster Youths Cup. Leo Allen scored twice, with Ryan Kissane also finding the net. Athletic led 2-0 at half-time and, despite a late fightback from the visitors, held on for a deserved victory. Thanks were extended to the U16 players who helped out the squad. U15 BOYS: Athletic’s U15 boys progressed in the National Trophy with a convincing victory away to Tralee Dynamos. Darragh O’Toole, Miron Svryppia and Sota Matsui scored in the first half, before further goals from O’Toole, Matsui, Svryppia and Brayane Outtara completed the scoring. U15B: Killarney Athletic B defeated Killarney Celtic B 2-1 in a dramatic U15 Division 1 derby. After Celtic took the lead late in the game, Ruairi O’Brien equalised with a determined run and finish. Alex Kissane then struck a superb free kick in the final minute, before goalkeeper Ewan Marshall produced a crucial last-second save to secure the win. U13 BOYS: Athletic U13 C recorded an impressive 6-1 victory over Killarney Celtic D in the KSBGL league. Diego scored a hat-trick, while Luca, James and Ciro also found the net. Athletic U13 B also enjoyed a fine away win, defeating Castleisland B 5-1 in Division 2. Anthony Troci scored twice, with Marc Moynihan, Liam Kiely and Filip Niedzialek adding one each. Niedzialek was named Man of the Match. In the U13 National Cup, Athletic bowed out following a 3-0 defeat to Killarney Celtic. After a difficult first half, Athletic improved after the break but were unable to find a way back into the contest. U15C HIT EIGHT: Athletic U15 C produced an excellent attacking display to defeat Fenit 8-1 in Division 3. Jakub Slowakiewiz led the scoring with a hat-trick, Luke O’Sullivan added two, while Daniel Cremin, Daithi Coughlan and Wojciech Zglinski also scored. U14 GIRLS DIVISION 1: Killarney Athletic A defeated Athletic B 6-0 in an all-club fixture. Fleur Walsh scored four goals, with Abbey O’Leary and Kaitlin also on target. Sinead Coleman was singled out for her performance in defence. YOUNG PLAYERS IN ACTION: Killarney Athletic’s U11 boys produced a superb comeback to defeat Iveragh, recovering from two goals down to win with a late strike. Alexander scored a hat-trick, including the decisive goal in the closing minutes. The U10 boys’ White and

Navy teams welcomed Tralee Dynamos to Woodlawn for their first outing of the year in the non-competitive league. Both sides enjoyed valuable game time, with the fixture providing an opportunity to develop their skills. The U10 girls’ Blue and White teams also began their season at home against two QPR sides, producing encouraging performances and showing excellent teamwork. The U9 boys enjoyed a friendly outing against QPR, with thanks extended to the hosts for their hospitality. U13 GIRLS: Killarney Athletic’s U13 girls enjoyed a friendly fixture against Inter Kenmare, followed by pizza and refreshments. The club thanked Conor, Betty and the Inter Kenmare team for a great evening. The girls’ next fixture is away to Dingle on 17 October. CONGRATULATIONS TO CHRIS AND LUCY: Congratulations to senior player Chris O’Meara, who became engaged to Lucy May over the weekend. Chris had already enjoyed a successful Saturday evening, scoring twice for the Senior B team. Everyone at Killarney Athletic extends their best wishes to the happy couple.

Killarney Celtic LOTTO: Numbers drawn 1, 11, 22, 24. No Jackpot winner. Match 3 winners received €75. Next jackpot €14,000 on Monday October 19th. Tickets available from The Dungeon Bookshop, Amber Shop (Top of Ross Road), club members and online through Clubzap. COACHES WANTED for the upcoming 2026/27 season. Positions available across all age groups from Academy to Senior Teams. If interested, please contact Mike Lyne 086 083 6356. MEMBERSHIP for the 2026/27 season is now open. Membership payment can be made online. NATIONAL LEAGUE GROUP 3: Killarney Celtic 1-1 Newbridge Town. Stephen McCarthy. Killarney Celtic came away with a point last Saturday from this home game with Newbridge after a Stephen McCarthy goal cancelled out an earlier goal from the visitors. The opening quarter saw Newbridge create chances, and they were unlucky not to be ahead but that all changed after 25 minutes when Noah Byrne hit an absolute screamer to the Celtic net. Celtic were back on level terms when Victor Udeze crossed low from the right and Stephen McCarthy finished to the net from close range. The game swung more towards Celtic in the 2nd half but neither team could find the breakthrough and so the spoils were shared. SENIOR: McCarthy Insurance Group Munster Junior Cup Round 2 - Killarney Celtic Premier 0-7 St Brendan's Park. KDL Division 1 - Killarney Celtic 3-1 Windmill Utd. YOUTHS: Jako Ireland Munster Youths Cup Round 2 - Killarney Celtic 0-2 Castleisland.

FAI U17 CUP: Killarney Celtic 4-1 Castleisland. Stephen Shine 2, Kiernan Kelly. A solid performance from the u17s saw the squad qualify for round 3 of the Fai U17 Cup. Stephen Shine had Celtic in front after 18 minutes which stayed that way to halftime. Stephen Shine was back on the scoresheet after 69 minutes. Celtic made certain of victory when Kiernan Kelly netted in the 73rd and 76th minutes. Castleisland gained a consolation goal at the very as Celtic move on to round 3. U15 SFAI NATIONAL CUP ROUND 2: Killarney Celtic 4-0 Newmarket Celtic. Josh Buckley 2, Kyle Fleming, Eoin Murphy. Killarney Celtic advanced to the next round of the U15 SFAI National Cup after a clearcut win at a breezy Celtic Park. The breakthrough goal was all important and it was Celtic who secured the lead and went on to win the game. U15 DIV 1: Killarney Celtic B 1-2 Killarney Athletic B. Jayden Gunda. An exciting finish to this game saw Celtic B just fail to Athletic. U15 DIV 3: Killarney Celtic C 4-3 Mastergeeha. Timmy O'Sullivan, Sean Looney, Ryan Casey, Culann Cronin. Celtic came out on top of this exciting contest. Mastergeeha pushed all the way to the final whistle, but Celtic kept in front to take the points. U13 SFAI NATIONAL CUP: Killarney Athletic 0-3 Killarney Celtic. Andrew Daly, Tymur Misiura, Oliver Stachowiak. Celtic advanced to round 3 after a fine win in Woodlawn. Celtic led 2-0 at half time. Athletic fought back in the 2nd half but Celtic held firm and then struck for the insurance goal to seal the win. U13 DIV 1: St Brendan's Park 3-1 Killarney Celtic B. Adam O’Riordan. Celtic were 2 down at half time but the team upped their game in the 2nd half and were rewarded with a goa by Adam O’Riordan. U13 DIV 1: Inter Kenmare 1-0 Killarney Celtic C. Celtic C battled all the way to the final whistle but just came up short on the day. U11 PREMIER: Castleisland 4-3 Killarney Celtic A. James Keane, Aaron O'Callaghan, Paddy Lynch. U11 DIV 3: Killarney Celtic C defeated Castlemaine. GIRLS: KDL Premier Women. Killarney Celtic 2-0 Inter Kenmare. Lan O'Connor, Hannah Casey. A strong 1st half saw Celtic lead 2-0 at half time and in the 2nd half Celtic kept Kenmare at bay to take the win. CONGRATS to Killian Daly U11 who made the KSBGL Team of the Week.

Mastergeeha U16 GIRLS PREMIER: MEK 4 Mastergeeha 3. U13 BOY’S NATIONAL CUP ROUND 2: Mastergeeha 1 v St. Brendan’s Park A 7. Bunratty Cratloe A 6 v Mastergeeha FC B 0. Mastergeeha U13 B team made the trip to Bunratty Cratloe A on Saturday evening to face the hosts. Led by Captain Ben O’Leary Mastergeeha repelled Bun-

ratty’s early attacks but Bunratty soon showed their class and proved too strong for us on the day. Credit to the Mastergeeha boys for competing until the final whistle. Mastergeeha’s fighting spirit was best epitomised by Jack Sheahan and Finn Murphy. Thanks to Bunratty Cratloe for a sporting game and for putting on a great spread of food for the travelling contingent, much appreciated. U15 BOY’S NATIONAL CUP ROUND 2: Mastergeeha 4 v Nenagh Celtic 1. Scorers on the day were Evan Burke, Sean Doyle, Conor Doherty and Michael O’Donoghue. U11 BOY’S PREMIER: Mastergeeha A 5 v Listowel Celtic A 5 4/10. U11 BOY’S DIVISION 1: Park B 4 v Mastergeeha B 2 4/10. U11 BOY’S DIVISION 2: Mastergeeha B 4 v Castleisland C 7 4/10. U15 BOY’S DIVISION 3: Killarney Celtic C 4 v Mastergeeha B 3. TEAM OF THE WEEK: Congratulations to Lochlann O’Callaghan who made this week’s Kerry Schoolboys & Girls League team of the week. LOTTO: There was no winner of our lotto on 9th October 2026 for the Jackpot of €11,600. Numbers drawn were 12, 21, 23, 28. Consolations Prizes of €50 each to the following Jerdy Sheehan Kilcummin, John & Teresa Kerins Mastergeeha, Noreen C Sheehan Knockneeghea Louise Hurley. Our next draw will take place on Friday 16th October 2026 at the Village Inn for a Jackpot of €11,800.

MEK Galaxy FOOTBALL FOR ALL got underway this week in Milltown, offering children with additional needs and disabilities the opportunity to enjoy football in a safe, welcoming and supportive environment and become take or a team. Training sessions take place every Monday evening in Milltown Community Hall from 5pm to 5.50pm, and new members are always welcome. The group is also looking for volunteers who would like to get involved. Anyone interested in joining or volunteering please contact Danny on 087 653 6631 WELL DONE to the u11 MEK Orange team beating Mastergeeha B 2-1 today. POTM Ben Cronin. WELL DONE to the u11 MEK Black team beating Listowel B 4-1 today. POTM John Canty. ACADEMY: Our boys’ and girls’ Academy now trains at Listry Astro every Friday from 6pm–7pm.New members always welcome. U16: Well done to the u16's girls who had a great win over Mastergeeha 4-1. POTM Isabelle O'Connor & Aoibhin O'Flaherty.

Killarney Legion LOTTO: Numbers 10, 15, 18, 21. Bonus 16. Match 3s - Sheila Looney, Michelle O’Farrell, Michelle Doolan. SENIOR LADIES: Our senior ladies development team continued to provide us drama a plenty this morning in Abbey-

16.10.2026 SPORT NOTES dorney. After drawing their previous 2 games (winning 1 and losing 1 in ET) we visited Abbeydorney this morning for a R3 game. In a tight encounter the game ebbed and flowed with both teams working scores. Abbeydorney lead at the half time break by 5 points thanks to some well taken goals. The second half saw the home team pull away and extend their lead early doors but for the legion girls to rally a great comeback. With the game in added time legion received a free which was dispatched to level the game and the game ended in a draw. No extra time played today which sees us now in a final to be played next weekend. U16 BOYS: U16 East Kerry Championship Semi Final. Killarney Legion 2-15 Listry 2-10. Our U16 Team hosted Listry in the East Kerry Championship Semi Final in a wet Johnny Culloty Park this morning. We played with a strong wind in the first half but were slow to get going and failed to take advantage of the elements. Listry scored a goal mid-way through the half, and at half time we lead by a solitary point, 0-7 to 1-3. Facing into the elements in the second half, the team found far more energy and intensity. They worked some great scores into the wind and worked hard all over the field. We ran out 5-point winners in the end. Well done to all the boys for raising their game in the second half and they look forward to another final on a date to be decided. Thanks to Listry for a fine game and to Padraig O'Sullivan for excellent officiating. Lastly well done to all the boys who received their Junior Cert results this week. Keep up the good work! SYMPATHY: The club sends its condolences to the family of John Leen of Park Drive who passed away during the week. Ar Dheis De go raibh a Anam.

Dr Crokes GAA SENIOR COUNTY CHAMPIONSHIP: Dr. Crokes 3:26 Austin Stacks 2:21. This was an entertaining and high-scoring County Championship encounter. We made a slow start trailing 4 points to 1 point after five minutes of play. Cian McMahon followed with a goal in the 6th minute to reduce the deficit. 4 minutes later Gavin White finished off a superb pass from Gavin O'Shea for a second goal, to help swing the scoreboard in our favour. Tom Doyle, introduced for Gavin O'Shea, made an immediate impact with a point, while David Shaw’s two-pointer helped maintain our advantage. Tony Brosnan and David Shaw continued to add scores, but Stacks kept in touch and a late point left the sides level at 2-10 to 1-13 at halftime. The second half continued in the same dramatic fashion, with scores flowing at both ends. Tom Doyle and Tony Brosnan kept the scoreboard ticking over, while Brian Looney and Charlie Keating contributed crucial scores. Charlie proved particularly influential, landing a series of superb two-pointers to swing the momentum back in our favour.

BASKETBALL: The U16 Killarney Cougars boys versus Ballincollig at the open tournament at the Presentation Gym.

Cian McMahon also converted a free and added a crucial goal as the sides exchanged further scores in a tense finish. With Stacks threatening to take control, the boys showed great character and attacking quality in the closing stages. Tony Brosnan's two-pointer, followed by points from Charlie Keating and Evan Looney, helped keep the pressure on, before Cian McMahon landed another outstanding two-pointer to cap a strong individual performance. LOTTO took place on October 12th. Numbers drawn were 13, 17, 26, 27. Jackpot of €5,900 was NOT WON. 4 patrons matched 3 and received €100 each. Jackpot for draw on October 19th will be €6,200. Play online. BINGO: Dr. Crokes Bingo continues every Sunday in St. Mary's Parish Hall. Doors will open at 7pm with the first game commencing at 8pm. KATHLEEN'S GENTLE EXERCISE CLASS continues on Mondays at 11am in the clubhouse. All welcome. FR. PADDY'S CARDS returns on continues on Wednesdays at 8pm in the clubhouse. Bring €5 and a playing partner. Everyone welcome. GENTLE YOGA for men and women continues on Thursday's from 6:15pm-7pm. €40 for 5 weeks. SPEEDY RECOVERY to John Lyne. CONDOLENCES to the Duggen Family on the passing of Tadgh. May he rest in peace. NOTES: If anyone has anything they want to add to our club notes, please email communications.drcrokes.kerry@gaa.ie.

Fossa GAA LOTTO: The numbers drawn on 11/10/2026 for a jackpot of €11,550 were 8, 19, 27, 28. There was no jackpot winner. The €40 consolation prize winners were Ann Marie Breen, Beatrice Colleran, Tina Myers, Joan O’Donoghue 27

Arbutus Grove, Torin Lyne, Barleymount. Tickets are available from our sellers and can also be bought online.

Kilcummin GAA DIVISION 1 EAST KERRY FINAL: Kilcummin 0-16 Firies 0-10. Congratulations to our U16 Boys who defeated Firies in the Division 1 East Kerry Final last Sunday morning in Spa GAA grounds. Well done to all the players and coaches. KILCUMMIN GAA LOTTO: There was no winner of our lotto on Monday, 5th October 2026 for the Jackpot of €10,750. Numbers drawn were 08, 15, 22, 29. Consolation prizes of €50 went to Sean Kelly, Ballydesmond; Nora Riordan; Flor O’Sullivan; John Canavan. Our next draw will be on Monday, 19th October for Jackpot of €11,000. Thank you for your continued support.

Killarney Golf Club (Ladies) RESULTS: 18 Hole Stableford Competition held on 9th 10th & 11th October. In Killeen Golf Course. Kindly Sponsored by Killeen House Hotel. 1st Jane Dwyer (19) 32pts (Last Nine), 2nd Sinead Galvin (17) 32pts, Best Gross Emma Vinarcik (+1) 31pts, 3rd Lorna O'Leary (27) 31pts, 4th Grainne McShortfall (15) 31pts, 5th Eimear O'Donnell 30pts (Last Nine).

Ross Golf Club (Ladies) RESULTS: 10th October 2026. Results from 9 - hole single Stableford competition. Mary Gorman (15) points 16, Therese O'Keeffe (13) points 18, Sheila O'Mahony (10) points 26. COMPETITIONS: 17th October 2026. 9 & 18 - hole single Stableford competition. Enter via the BRS App. MEET AND PLAY every Wednesday morning. Meet in the Club House 10.00am tee off 10.30am. All Members welcome. GOLF LESSONS: PRO Jonathan Clery is available to give golf lessons at Ross Golf

Club. Please contact Jonathan directly on 086 2143510.

Ross Golf Club (Men) RESULTS: On Oct 10th and 11th we held the final of the Keane’s Jewellers Strokeplay Medal competition. The winners were Gold Medal Winner - Mike Doody. Competition Results - 1st Donie Broderick 67 (12), 2nd Jonathan Casey 68 (7). Gross Prize Alan Flynn 75. Division1 - 1st Peter Wickham 72 (8), 2nd Daniel Shine 72 (7). Division 2 - 1st Steve Shine 69 (16), 2nd Jimmie Smith 71 (15). Division 3 - 1st John Fleming 71 (23), 2nd Seamus McCarthy 73 (20). On Thursday Oct 1st our Seniors held their weekly 10-hole competition. The winners were 1st Dermot O'Connor 22pts, 2nd Ambrose O’Donovan 21 pts, 3rd Andy Cole 20 pts, 4th Seamus McCarthy 19pts.

Beaufort Golf Club (Men) RESULTS: Please find the results of our Men’s Pairs Competition played on Sat 10 & Sun 11 October. Format – 18 Hole Scotch Foursomes – Yellow Tees. Sponsor – Anthony McElligott Accountancy. 1st Conor Bernie & Ryan O’Riordan - Net score 67 (Last nine holes), 2nd Mickey Fitzgerald & Daniel G O’Sullivan – Net score 67, 3rd Alfie Giles & Kieran Flynn – Net score 69. Next Men’s Competition Sat 17 & Sun 18 October. Format - 18 Hole Stableford – Yellow Tees. Sponsor – Moriarity’s of Ireland, Gap of Dunloe.

Deerpark Pitch & Putt NATIONAL SCOTCH FOURSOMES: Well done to our Secretary Damien Fleming on winning the Overall Gross with Tralee's Jason Cregan at Sunday's National NonMixed Scotch Foursomes in Tralee as well as Ciara Lowe and Eileen McCarthy on winning the Ladies prize. Congrats to all the other Kerry prizewinners from the weekend as well.

16.10.2026

SPORT NOTES SUNDAY DRAWS: Two Ball ScrambleFirst Nett: John Murphy & Dan Kiely 35, Gross: Denis Duggan & Dan Kiely 47 and Second Nett: Niall O'Loughlin & Colm O'Dowd 36. CHRISTMAS HAMPER: Please note that due to unforeseen circumstances this weekend’s Christmas Hamper event has been provisionally rescheduled to the weekend of Sunday November 1st next. Further details next week. BEST WISHES: To our club members heading to Barcelona this weekend for the Catalan International Pairs event. DEEPEST SYMPATHIES: To the Duggan (Tadhg) and McMonagle (John) families on their recent bereavements. May they Rest in Peace.

Killarney RFC U18.5 BOYS: Killorglin RFC 29 v 10 Killarney RFC. Boys Clubs U18.5 Munster Conference 3, Ballymalis. Our U18.5s travelled to Ballymalis for a big local derby. Despite a committed effort and great travelling support, Killorglin came out on top on the day. Heads up lads – plenty of rugby left this season. SENIOR MEN J2: Kilrush RFC 14 v 25 Killarney RFC 2nd XV. North Munster Gleeson League Division 2, Monmore. A great away win for our J2 side in Clare. Well done to all involved on a strong result on the road. U16 BOYS: Killarney RFC v Tralee RFC. Aghadoe – this fixture was postponed. New date to be confirmed. SUNDAY 11TH OCTOBER: U18.5 Girls (K.I.L.K.) – Cobh-Kinsale 7 v 37. Killarney/ Iveragh/Listowel/Killorglin. GIRLS CLUBS U18.5 LEAGUE: Conference 1, Cobh. An excellent away performance from our K.I.L.K. girls, who travelled to Cobh and came home with a superb 37–7 win. Huge congratulations to the squad and coaching team. U14s (K.I.C.K.): Killarney/Iveragh/Castleisland/Killorglin 26 v 14 Clonakilty RFC, Aghadoe. A great result at home in Aghadoe, with our U14s securing a well-earned 26–14 win over Clonakilty. SENIOR MEN J1: Killarney RFC 19 v 24 Tralee RFC. Munster Junior League Division 2, Aghadoe. In a tight contest at Aghadoe, the lads battled hard right to the end, but Tralee edged it by five points. Plenty of positives to take into the next round. WELL DONE to all players, coaches, volunteers and supporters who made the weekend happen – and a special mention to our partner clubs in the K.I.L.K. and K.I.C.K. amalgamations. Onwards to the next round of fixtures! STAY CONNECTED: For fixtures, results, team news and photos, follow us on: Facebook: facebook.com/killarneyrugbyclub. Instagram: instagram.com/killarneyrfc. X (Twitter): x.com/KillarneyRFC. TikTok: tiktok.com/@killarneyrugby. YouTube: Killarney RFC channel. Website: killarneyrugby.com – sign up to our

newsletter at the bottom of the homepage. Club shop: killarneyrugby.com/ shop. WhatsApp: (089) 955 0046. A BIG THANK you as always to our sponsors – Scotts Hotel Killarney, Killarney Avenue Hotel, Activate Gym, FDC Group and McDonald's Killarney (Park Road). NEW MEMBERS are always welcome!

Killarney Cougars BC GAMES: The busy week saw more pre-season games scheduled before the commencement of the new season KABB competitions. JUVENILE DEVELOPMENT: The first development session of the season was held at the Pres Gym on last Saturday for ages 9-13 boys & girls with Coach Kelly. Limited places were available and there was a full house for the first session. U16 GIRLS: The U16 girls continued with pre-season games with a trip to Milltown on Friday last. The Cougars were into an early lead and were well on top throughout the game despite a spirited effort from St Colman's. The Cougars settled quickly, with Aimee Shine, Madison Angland, Clodagh Donnelly, Jessica Leane all putting scores on the board from the early stages to set Cougars up for the win. ACADEMY GIRLS & BOYS GAMES: Our Academy Girls & Boys were both in action on Sunday evening v St Colman’s. The Girls impressed throughout and led for long periods to secure a good win. The Boys made a great start to their game and were impressive in the early stages. St Colman's were very determined in the second half and finished the stronger to secure a deserved win in good game. The Cougars will host St Bridget's Currow on Sunday in Kilcummin U10, U11 & U12. KERRY AREA BASKETBALL BOARD: The KABB new season’s fixtures are available to view on kerrybasketball.com, games to commence from mid-October. The KABB scheduled EGM was held on October 15th. LATEST TRAINING SCHEDULE OCTOBER: Monday: Boys U14, U16 & U18. Tuesday: Academy Girls & Boys U6 & U8; Girls U10 & U12; Boys U10. Wednesday: Boys U12, U14, U16 & U18. Thursday: Girls U14, U16 & U18. Friday: Boys U16 & U18. Saturday: Juvenile Development sessions. Senior Men's practice Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. INFO: The full training schedule, fixtures, club information and membership details are available on the new App Killarney Cougars BC it is available to download through the Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

Muckross Rowing Club ST. MICHAEL’S HOR: Last Saturday, October 10th, the club kicked off its competitive events calendar for the new flatwater rowing season 2026/’27 with a familiar journey to O’Briensbridge for the St. Michael’s Autumn Head Of the River. The 3km time trial saw a large contingent of 45 crews competing for Muckross on

the day with all age groups represented from Junior 13 to Masters. The club enjoyed a successful day on the Shannon with four category wins, three second place and two third place finishes. Congrats to our winning crews in the Men’s J13 Quad, Women’s J16 Quad, Women’s Masters Double and Women’s J14 Quad. Well done to also to the Men’s J18 Double, Women’s J14 Quad (B) and Mixed Masters Quad who all finished second and to the Men’s J13 Quad (B) and Women’s J14 Single placing third. Well done to all our rowers, coxes and coaches on a great club performance. Special thanks to Eoin Moynihan for towing the boat trailer to and from the event and to all our coaches, parents and adult members who helped with the organisation of our HOR outing! CONGRATULATIONS: Congratulations to Martin Murphy and Orlagh Moloney on the birth of baby Luke. Wishing Martin, Orlagh and family every health and happiness for the future! NATIONAL TRIALS: Well done to Colm O’Connor and Donncha Kissane O’Sullivan who recently participated in the first round of water trials for the national rowing squad 2027. EVENTS: Upcoming events include Castleconnell HOR, Sat Oct 24th, Castleconnell; Skibbereen HOR, Sat Nov 14th, Cork City Marina; Provinces Indoor Rowing Championships, Sat Nov 21st, UL Arena Limerick; Muckross HOR, Sat Dec 5th, NRC Farran. Killarney Salmon & Trout Angling Club SPONSORSHIP: The Club is delighted to announce that we raised E600 for St. Francis School in Beaufort at the recent Tom Bambury Memorial Competition. We would like to acknowledge the great sponsorship received for the event from Sheehan's Centra on the Muckross Road, ensuring that we could maximize our fundraising at the event. THIS WEEKEND we have our annual dinner and prize giving taking place on Saturday night 8pm in the East Avenue Hotel.

Killarney Bridge Club RESULTS: Monday 12th October. North/ South - 1st Phyllis O'Regan and Joan Culloty, 2nd Therese McCarthy and John O'Shea, 3rd Brenda Moynihan and Mary O'Connor. East/West - 1st Eileen Brosnan and Hugh O'Connell, 2nd Eithne Coffey and Hazel O'Connell, 3rd Anne Looney and Ger Foley. Congratulations to all the winners. The Individual Competition takes place on Monday next October 19th. and we look forward to a big turnout for our first competition of the season.

Fossa Bridge Club RESULTS: 8th October. N/S 1st Phyllis O’Regan & Pauline Lyne, 2nd Finola Spillane & Ger Foley, 3rd President Michael McHugh & Anne Looney. E/W - 1st Tim & Mai Corcoran, 2nd Mary Gleeson & Evelyn O’Leary, 3rd Don O'Sullivan & Hanneke Nieman. Well done everyone.

REMINDER: First major of the season, the prestigious "Club Pairs" which is held over two weeks is starting next week 22nd October & 29th October. Good luck to everyone. BRIDGE CONTINUES every Thursday morning at 10am at The Castlerosse Hotel. New members are very welcome.

Euro Bridge Club RESULTS: 6th of October 2026. 1st Lynda O’Connor and Finola Spillane, 2nd Mary Gleeson and Maureen Culloty.

Fossa Two Mile CCÉ JUNIOR SET DANCING returned on Wednesday and will continue until the 17th of December from 7-8pm @ Fossa Community Centre. Still space if you would like to join in. ADULT SET DANCING continues every Tuesday night - 8.15pm for beginners, improvers and advanced 9-10.30pm All very welcome. AGM: Fossa Two Mile CCÉ AGM will take place on Monday 19th October @ 8.30pm Fossa Community Centre. If you are interested in getting involved or would like to offer your support or ideas for the year ahead then please come along. Everyone is very welcome.

Kilcummin JINGLE AND MINGLE CHILDREN’S CHOIR: Rehearsals for the Kilcummin Christmas Jingle & Mingle Children’s Choir continues every Wednesday, from 7pm to 8pm in the Parish Office (beside the church). All national school children are very welcome to take part. The choir will perform at the Jingle & Mingle Christmas event on Sunday, 13th December, in Kilcummin N.S. Sports Hall. A wonderful way to share some festive cheer and community spirit. KILCUMMIN COMHALTAS: Kilcummin Comhaltas will hold their AGM on Wednesday, 21st of October at 9pm in the Parish Centre. All members welcome. STATION MASS: Station Mass for the Coolick School Area will take place on Wednesday, 21st October at 7.30pm. Townlands include Coolick, Coolbane, Dooneen, Dunrine, Lisroe, Dromadeesirt, Knocklebede, Coolnagarrihy, Knockeenalicka, Ardagh, Cloonteens, Ballydunlea, Buddihans and Gortnatona. IRISH WHEELCHAIR ASSOCIATION: South Kerry Branch: A huge thank you to all who contributed to our church gate collection last weekend. DOG FOULING: Dog waste is not only unpleasant, it can be harmful to health. It carries bacteria and parasites such as Toxocara Canis, which can cause serious illness in children and adults, including stomach upsets, infections, and even eye damage leading to vision loss. Dog fouling left on paths, parks, and play areas is a risk to everyone in our community. By cleaning up after your dog, you help keep our public spaces safe, healthy, and welcoming for all. Bag it. Bin it. Every time.

16.10.2026

ADVERTISING 71

EDDIE NOONAN GROUNDWORKS

WE SPECIALISE IN GROUNDWORKS OF ALL TYPES, INCLUDING: • Concreting • Landscaping • Tree surgery

• Kerbing • Foundations • Rock breaking

• Site clearance • Driveways and yards • Houses to floor level

• Septic tanks • Boundares and walls • And much more...

Ailbhe Collection

If you’re in doubt, give us a shout – we’d love to talk to you about your project.

T: (087) 351 0738 | www.eddienoonangroundworks.com

A Little Rustic A lot of Charm

VEHICLE SALES

085 2607281

SOURCING

SERVICING

Kilcummin, Killarney, Co. Kerry

RECOVERY

www.kerrygarages.ie

© Published by KILLARNEY ADVERTISER LTD. Printed by KILLARNEY ADVERTISER. This product is 100% recyclable – please recylce when used. © All artwork by the Killarney Advertiser and third parties in this issue are protected by Copyright. The Killarney Advertiser reserves the right to alter the content or omit of any advertisement before publication without prior notice. © The Killarney Advertiser reserves the right to rufuse any publication of ads or articles as it sees fit. A refund will be permitted for any ads placed and paid for, but not printed.

KERRY GARAGES