Bridge News, Community News and Church News

March 3, 2023 Christine Tubbritt

GAA Lotto

Ballyduff Lower Gaa Club held their lotto draw recently and the numbers drawn were 10, 14, 17 and 20. The three lucky dip winners of €50 each were Eva Flavin, Maire Morrissey and Eabha Power. The next draw takes place on March 5th and there will be a fantastic jackpot of €8,900 on offer. Tickets are just €2 each or three for €5 and are available from all committee members and will also be on sale at Centra in Kilmeaden on Saturday March 4th. Just 4 lucky numbers stand between you and that lovely jackpot.

Bridge News

The Ballyduff/ Portlaw Bridge club played their latest game on Monday February 21st and the results were as follows:
1st: Mary Cummins and Mary Kennedy.
2nd: Nano Fitzgerald and Kate Hayes.
3rd: Mary Prendergast and Ann Cox.
4th: Geraldine McMahon and Kathleen Collins
5th: Ann and William Tobin.

Ballyduff Lower GAA Club

There are lots of activities happening within our local GAA club with many sections getting back to their training schedule. The academy training for children aged 4 years + returns on Saturdays from 10am to 11am. For more information see the Ballyduff Lower GAA Facebook page or contact Paul on 087-2424918.
The U10 LGFA Gaelic Football training will return on Thursday March 2nd in Ballyduff Lower ball wall from 6.30pm to 7.30pm. This group is open to all girls born in 2013/2014 and newcomers are always welcome.
Ballyduff Lower GAA club is a hive of activity with something for everyone and new members are always welcome. Check out their Facebook page and find details of training times and scheduled events.

Ballyduff Lower Camogie Club

Our local camogie club will host an information evening on Wednesday March 8th from 7pm to 8pm in Ballyduff Community Centre. If your child is already a member or if they are interested in joining, there will be an opportunity to meet the coaches and committee. You can also receive help filling up registration form. There will also be some samples of club gear available to try on for sizes before you place your order. Drop in have a cuppa and a chat and find out all about this very popular group.
Training will resume for girls aged 4 + on March 13th from 6.15pm to 7.15pm in Tom Cheasty Park, Kildermody X91 YKO7.

Community Garden

An information meeting about the possibility of creating a community garden in Kilmeaden was held on February 21st. It was a very enthusiastic and positive meeting where people were informed that a piece of land between the entrance to the Greenway at the top of Matthews Cross and Waterford Suir Valley Railway was available and the council were willing to sign in over to a group as a possible site for a community garden. The meeting was told about the possibilities of such a garden, it could include raised beds, a pond area, wild flower area, some seating, fruit trees, vegetables and so much more.
The garden would be for all ages to share and come together as a community. A place that would be wonderful for a healthy body and healthy mind. A committee needed to be elected to apply for grants etc. Peter Jacob was elected as Chairman, Linda Spillane as Secretary and Declan Finn as Treasurer. Watch out for more information on this exciting project.

Church News
We have now entered the season of Lent and Trocaire boxes are available in the church. Please take one home and place it in your house where you may have the opportunity to donate a little when you have the chance. Every little bit is appreciated by Trocaire as they continue to help as many as they can.
The Parish choir rehearse on Wednesday nights in the church at 8pm and are happy to welcome new members.
As you know our beloved priest and friend Fr. Michael O Byrne is in hospital at the moment. He has asked me to say a big thank you to you all for all the good wishes, visits and prayers. He has been faced with challenges which he approaches with courage and faith in the Lord. He asks that you continue to keep in your prayers and he is remembering you all in his.

Ballyduff AFC

Ballyduff AFC have announced details of their Easter Soccer Camp. The camp will run from April 3rd to 7th. This camp is aimed at boys and girls from 5 to 12 years of age and will include games, practice, new skills and most importantly plenty of fun. It will run daily from 10am to 1.30pm at can be booked on klubfunder or if you would like some more information visit the club Facebook page or contact 087 2764883 or email BALLYDUFFAFC70@GMAIL.COM

For A Happy Life.

Make sure one of the paths in your life
leads to the beach, the forest and on some days
a table full of cake and chocolate.
Walk barefoot wherever
and whenever you can.
Learn to love your alone time.
Always let your heart,
hope and dream and love.
Be honest with yourself.
Turn the page you are stuck on.
Expand the story.
Make enjoyment important in your life.
See your age as a gift
and not a curse.

Grease is the Word, Panto Time and Community Garden.

February 24, 2023 Christine Tubbritt

Grease is the Word.

Rehearsals are now well under way for Ballyduff’s Youth Dramas production of Grease. Passing by Ballyduff Community Centre where rehearsals take place, I felt chills multiplying!! saw beauty school dropouts and the power was just electrifying. The stage is set for another super show from this drama group who treat us to a wonderful performance each year. This group consists of pupils from 5th and 6th classes and gives young people a fantastic opportunity to shine.
The show will take place on Thursday February 23rd at 7.30pm, Friday February 24th at 7.30pm and Saturday February 25th at 8pm. Tickets will go on sale from February 10th and will be €10. Book your ticket now by calling or texting Eleanor on 087 4046904 and remember Grease is the word!

Ballyduff AFC

Ballyduff AFC are hosting a fundraising clothes collection and invite you to clear out and declutter those wardrobes and hot presses. You are welcome to drop off your bags of clothes to the dressing rooms in the soccer grounds any day between 10am and 8pm. This is a wonderful opportunity to get some early Spring cleaning done while supporting your local club. The closing date for this collection is February 25th so start sorting those clothes etc.

Community Garden

A beautiful piece of land has been made available with the possibility of building a community garden and this is a wonderful opportunity for all ages to design a garden with something for everyone. Some possible suggestions I have heard are a pond area, natural, wildflower section which attracts bees and insects, bird feeding area, benches to sit and ponder on, raised beds with plants or vegetables. Grants are available and the council will help with footpaths etc.
This piece of land is situated just off the Greenway between the entrance to the Greenway at the top of Matthews Cross and Kilmeaden Railway station. A place for all to enjoy together with no commitment needed from anyone, a place to meet and chat together, a place to learn from each other and share our skills and talents.

An information meeting will take place on Tuesday February 21st at 7.30pm in Ballyduff Community Centre and all are welcome to come along and find out more about this project.

Birthday Boy

We send warmest birthday wishes to the very popular Ardeenlone man Val Bagge who recently celebrated his 60th birthday. Val celebrated the way he loves best, with his family around him. I’m sure his lovely wife Joan, daughters Karen, Laura and Valarie, his sons-in-law and his beloved grandchildren made sure that he was spoilt and treated like a king. I hope Val was treated to a pint or two of Guinness and that he enjoyed his special day.

Recent Death

Our parish is mourning the loss of one of our oldest parishioners who at the wonderful age of 93 has returned home to God. John Hanley has lived in the shadow of the church all his life and received his dying wish to stay in his own home during his sickness. John Hanley was a highly intelligent, educated man who graduated from UCD at the tender age of 70. He loved nothing more than a good chat and most definitely had his own opinions. John worked for The Queally Family at Matthewstown for many years and was a much valued member of staff.
The funeral mass was celebrated by John’s nephew Fr. John Hennebry and he was joined by Parish Priest Fr. Francis Xavier. It was a beautiful mass of thanksgiving for John’s life and the family chose some lovely readings and prayers. Vanessa Whelan added some gorgeous hymns which really enhanced the mass. John was a man whose faith was very important to him, and it was a big part of his daily life. Since I was a child I knew exactly which seat I would find Johnny sitting in at mass. We extend our deepest sympathies to Johnny’s brothers Bill and Tommy, his nieces, nephews, extended family and many friends.

Panto Time

My Dad and I enjoyed our annual night out at the Portlaw Panto last week. My Dad performed in many of these Panto’s when I was a child and we always enjoy our night out. This year the Panto was once again full of colour, laughter, fun, singing, dancing and of course that all important comedy. The work and commitment that goes into staging a show each year is phenomenal and the Portlaw Musical Society really put their heart and soul into it. There were many standout performances but the whole cast gave 100%. Well-done of course to local Kilmeaden man Darren Butler who entertained the audience with his singing, his dance moves and comedy. Watch out he’ll have his own one man show soon!! Congratulations to all the cast and crew of Beauty and the Beast who entertained their audience and treated us to a wonderful night out. We look forward to next year’s production in their new hall.

Bridge News

The Portlaw/ Ballyduff Bridge Club played their latest game on Monday February 13th and the results were as follows:
1st: Kate Hayes and Sean Hennessy
2nd Joan Hartery and Mary Prendergast.
3rd: Gerald McMahon and Nano Fitzgerald
4th: Ann and William Tobin
5th: Ann Marie Brown and Iris Graham.

Engagement
Congratulations to local Dooneen lady Orla Mooney who recently announced her engagement to Stephen O Neill. We wish the happy couple the very best for the future and hope that they enjoy the excitement of planning their wedding.

Thought for the Week

What lies behind you and what lies in front of you, pales in comparison to what lies inside of you .

Ballyduff Youth Drama, GAA News and Community Garden

February 17, 2023 Christine Tubbritt

GAA Lotto

The numbers drawn in the latest lotto draw were 9, 12, 13 and 19 and there was no winner of the jackpot. The three lucky dip winners of €50 each were Oli Carroll, Michelle Dunphy and Kirara Murphy. The next draw will take place on Sunday February 19th and there will be a jackpot of €8,750 on offer.
Tickets are €2 each or three for €5 and are available from all committee members and will also be on sale on Saturday February 18th at Centra in Kilmeaden. The only thing you must do now is to think of those 4 lucky numbers and decide what you would like to spend that lovely jackpot on?

Ballyduff Youth Drama

Sneaking a peek in at rehearsals in Ballyduff Community Centre, there was a lot of hairspray and leather to be seen. Grease is most definitely the word as rehearsals are electrifying. Ballyduff Youth Drama consists of pupils from 5th and 6th classes and for many years now they have treated us to fantastic, colourful and entertaining performances.
This year they are treating us to a night of song and dance as they bring us “Grease”. T-Birds and Pink Ladies will be taking to the stage on Thursday February 23rd at 7.30pm, Friday 24th at 7.30pm and Saturday 25th at 8pm. Tickets are priced at €10 and can be booked by calling or texting Eleanor on 087-4046904

Ballyduff AFC

GAA News

Ballyduff Lower GAA club is a hive of activity with lots of things going on. In the 2023 Premier Intermediate Hurling Championship draw, Ballyduff have been placed in Group B with Tramore, Cappoquin and Shamrocks. We all look forward to watching some good live games and cheering our club on.
The club are on the lookout for a new club crest. The GAA, Camogie and LGFA are looking for ideas and suggestions so why not come up with a unique design incorporating all aspects of the club and area. The club committee decision will be final and there will be prizes for the best three designs. What a proud moment it would be for you watching your team run onto the pitch wearing jerseys designed by you. The competition will close on February 17th.

Community Garden

A piece of land has been made available to our community to build a community garden. This piece of land is situated off the Greenway between the entrance to the Greenway at the top of Matthews Cross and Waterford Suir Valley Railway. This would be a wonderful amenity for all ages in the community. There are so many items that could be part of it, a little pond area welcoming frogs etc, bird feeding area, wildflower area which would be very inviting to bees and insects (they may even open a bug hotel there!!), raised beds and planters, seating area to sit and ponder or have a chat. We have many very talented and active people in our community who would bring so much to a project like this, and the project would also bring a lot to many people.
An information meeting will take place on Tuesday February 21st at 7.30pm in Ballyduff Community Centre and you are all invited to come along and see what it is all about. Please spread the word to your neighbours and friends.

Thought For The Day.
Since we are celebrating St. Valentine’s Day, I will stick to the love theme. Love is a wonderful part of our lives and comes in many forms. We have the romantic side of love, the love given and received from family and friends, the love received from a beloved and faithful pet and whatever way we visualise love, we all feel that warm, safe feeling and know that everyone deserves to feel loved.

Being deeply loved by someone, gives you strength
While loving someone deeply, gives you courage
We are most alive when we are in love
The only thing we never get enough of, is love
And the only thing we never give enough of, is love
There is only one happiness in this life
To love and be loved

Death of a Lady, Grease is the Word and Baby Burns

February 10, 2023 Christine Tubbritt

Recent Death

We send our deepest sympathies to William Harrington, Ballyduff Hill on the recent death of his father. Nicholas Harrington was a resident of Carrigrue, Ballinaneesagh and formerly of Ard na Greine. He is predeceased by his wife Phil and sisters Anna and Jenny.
Nicholas will be sadly missed by his children William, Niall and Gillian, son-in-law Chris, daughters-in-law Mary and Annette, grandchildren, his sisters Angela and Eily, nieces, nephews, extended family and many friends.
The funeral mass for Nicholas took place in St. Paul’s Church, Lisduggan followed by private cremation. We pray that he now rests in peace.

Death of a Lady

Our parish and community are mourning the loss of one of its most valued parishioners. Mrs. Mary Shanahan, Amberhill was definitely a lady true and true. A lady in stature, a lady in word, a lady in heart and soul. She had a lovely way of making people feel comfortable in our presence and wanted to hear about your life and about how your family was. Her love for her family was evident to all, she beamed with happiness in their presence and was always so proud of her children and grandchildren.
Her faith was a very important part of her life and she was a loyal and dedicated supporter of our local church and loved meeting her neighbours and friends for a chat after mass. She was also a very talented bridge player and was a very proud member of the Portlaw/ Ballyduff Bridge Club. The club cancelled last weeks game as a mark of respect to their dear friend.
Mary will always be sadly missed and deeply loved by her son Roger, daughters Margaret, Helen and Moyra, sons-in-law Simon and Chris, daughter-in-law Sheila, her grandchildren, extended family and her many friends. We pray that Mary’s sweet, gentle soul now rests in peace and that she is now reunited with her beloved husband Roger.

Grease is the Word.

Ballyduff AFC

GAA News

Waterford Sports Partnership has partnered with Waterford GAA to offer men aged 35 and over a chance to dust off those hurleys and reintroduce themselves to a sliotar and ger involved in Waterford Social hurling. This is a6 week programme that will run from February 13th from 8pm to 9pm in both Butlerstown GAA club and Ballinameela Gaa club. You can register your name on www.eventbrite.ie. This is a great opportunity to play a game of hurling while enjoying a laugh or two along the way. I have no doubt that there are many candidates for this in our parish because many times outside mass or outside Centra I have had to dodge a sliotar or two as some men of this age have relived matches of days gone by. So pick up that hurley and bring all those great passes and free taking to the field of play.
Applications are now being taken for coaches for the Kellogg’s GAA Cul Camps which will take place around Waterford from July 3rd to August 25th. Applicants must be 18 by July 1st and training for coaches will take place on Thursday April 6th in the SETU arena at Carriganore. Check out the Gaa website and Facebook page for more details.

Baby Burns

Warmest congratulations and best wishes to Ciara (Larkin) and Kevin Burns on the arrival of their beautiful baby son. Baby Liam, Ciaran Burns arrived on February 1st and has Mammy, Daddy, Grandparents and all the Larkin and Burns families very proud and excited. Ciara and Kevin will never be short of a babysitter, in fact they may have a stampede at their door. We wish this happy little family every good wish in the world, and we look forward to meeting baby Liam and having a little cuddle. Comhghairdeas ar bhreith do mhac alainn.

Thought for the Week

Before your head hits the pillow tonight
Remind yourself of the things you did right
Let go of the things you could have done better
Be patient with yourself and always remember
That big things are achieved not all at once
But rather one day at a time.

Bridge News, Suir Valley Railway and Gala Sponsership

February 3, 2023 Christine Tubbritt

GAA Lotto

Ballyduff Lower GAA club were back to business last weekend hosting their first lotto draw of 2023. The numbers drawn were 10, 14, 15 and 22 but there was no lucky winner of the jackpot. The three lucky dip winners of €50 each were John Walker, Veronica Carey and Shane Larkin. The next draw will take place on February 5th and there will be a fantastic jackpot of €8,600 up for grabs.
Tickets are just €2 each or three for €5 and are available from all committee members and will also be on sale outside Centra in Kilmeaden on Saturday February 4th. Choose four lucky numbers and you could get your hands on that very nice jackpot.

Bridge News

The Ballyduff/ Portlaw bridge club played their most recent game on Monday January 23rd and the results were as follows:
1st: Anne Kennedy and Iris Graham
2nd: Nano Fitzgerald and Geraldine McMahon
3rd: Kate Hayes and Sean Hennessy
4th: Monica Sullivan and William Tobin
5th: Peggy Murphy and Deirdre Phelan
The club would like to wish their teammate and friend Fr. Mick a speedy recovery who is presently in hospital.

Recent Death

We send our deepest sympathy to Billy Tubbritt, Blacknock on the recent death of his brother Jimmy. Jimmy lived in Lismore Park and was formerly of Alexander Street. He is survived by his daughters Karyn and Caroline, their mom Eileen, his partner Betty, sons-in-law Robert and Karl, his grandchildren, great grandchildren, his brothers Billy and Paul and his extended family.
Jimmy’s funeral mass took place in St. Pauls Church followed by burial in St. Otterans Cemetery. May he now rest in peace.

Suir Valley Railway

The staff and management of Waterford Suir Valley Railway are getting ready to welcome you along during the mid term break in February. The railway will operate from Sunday February 11th to Sunday February 19th. Trains will depart on the hour each day from 11am to 3pm Monday to Saturday and from 12 noon to 4pm on Sundays. You can book your ticket online or at the station. Plan a nice day out while the children are off school and show them all the beautiful sights from the train and enjoy some nice refreshments and home baking at The Whistlestop Café.

Ballyduff AFC

Grandparents Day

Congratulations to all the pupils and staff at Ballyduff N.S who held a beautiful mass for all the grandparents. The pupils from the school offered special readings and prayers and the choir sang some lovely hymns. Following the mass the grandparents were invited to the school hall to enjoy some refreshments laid on by the Parents council. The children were very excited to show their grandparents, their classrooms and introduce them to their teachers. A lovely morning was had by all.

Gala Sponsorship

A big well done to Damien and Majella Hennessy and all at Gala Kilmeaden who have sponsored the lovely Makayla Laffan as she sets out on her season with the U16 Waterford County Football team. We all wish Makayla a very successful year and wish her the very best in her training and preparations and we know that she will as always give 100% commitment and dedication.

Thought For the Week

Life is precious and each moment given is an opportunity
not to be missed, for our moments combined are the sum
of our life. Take a moment to breathe peace in,
exhale stress out and breathe a fresh start in and exhale
the negativity things of yesterday out .

Grandparents Day, School Admissions and Dr. Martins Centre

January 27, 2023 Christine Tubbritt

Grandparents Day.

School Admissions

Admissions are now open for the 2023/2024 school year and the teaching staff are excited to meet the new arrivals in September. The closing date for applications is January 27th so if you require any further information or need an application form, please contact the office at Ballyduff N.S on 051 384414.

Choir Practice

Our local parish choir have changed their rehearsal night and now meet on a Wednesday night at 8pm. New members are always welcome to drop along and meet with the group. It is a nice, relaxed group with no pressure put on anyone. It is a well known saying that when you sing at mass, then you pray twice. Now that can’t do any harm, can it?

Bridge News

The Portlaw / Ballyduff Bridge club played their latest bridge game on Monday January 16th in Ballyduff Community Centre and the results were as follows:
1st: Peggy Murphy and Elizabeth Mooney
2nd: Ann Tobin and Geraldine McMahon
3rd: John Fitzpatrick and William Tobin

Ballyduff Lower Camogie Club

Ballyduff Lower Camogie Club will host their AGM on Thursday January 26th at 7.30pm in Ballyduff Community Centre. All are welcome to attend. Our local club had a very successful year in 2022 with many members and enjoying playing for their club. New volunteers and helpers are always welcome so drop along to the AGM and hear about the club’s plans for the new season.

Dr. Martin Centre

Do you live and drive in the Portlaw and Kilmeaden areas? Can you spare one hour, three days a week? The Dr. Martin Centre is looking for a volunteer to operate their meals on wheels service. If you are interested in helping out please make contact by one of the following means, volunteerwaterford.ie, paul@volunteerwaterford.ie or call 086 1424928

Ulster Success

Local Carriganure man John Kennedy was most definitely a star player for Ulster University as they overcame Belfast rivals Queen’s University by 13 points in the semi final of the Conor McGurk Cup. John set up some lovely, classy scores. The Mount Sion player has really enjoyed playing with Ulster University for the past two years and has praised the top class conditions of pitches etc. They now go on to meet either Donegal or Antrim in the Final and John hopes to bring a McGurk medal back home to Waterford. We wish John and his team mates the very best of luck.

Ballyduff Lower GAA

Tickets are now on sale for the GAA National Club Draw which are a vital source of income for every club. There are some excellent prizes up for grabs in the draw which will take place on March 15th. Tickets are just €10 and are available from all committee members.

County Success

Congratulations to Ballygarron lady Kate O Donnell who recently lined out in the corner back position for the Waterford U 14 panel against Wexford. What a wonderful achievement for Kate and we wish her the very best for the 2023 season. We look forward to some great games ahead.

Ballyduff AFC

Ballyduff AFC would like to thank everyone who recently supported them through the Tesco Community Fund. The club received €576 for which they are very grateful. The club are delighted to have training and matches back and are thrilled to see such activity back in the grounds

Bridge News, Ballyduff N.S. and Keep in Touch

January 20, 2023 Christine Tubbritt

GAA Lotto

The good news is that the Ballyduff GAA will host their first lotto draw of 2023 on Sunday January 22nd. January as we all know is a long, lean month and how nice would it be to win that fantastic jackpot of €8,450. Tickets are just €2 each or three tickets for €5. Tickets are on sale from all committee members and will also be on sale on Saturday January 21st at Centra in Kilmeaden. Choose your four numbers carefully and you could be starting off your New Year with a bang while also supporting your local club.

Bridge News

We wish a very happy New Year to all the members of the Ballyduff/ Portlaw Bridge Club and we are delighted to hear that they are back to their Monday night games in Ballyduff Community Centre. If you are interested in taking up bridge as a New Year activity or would like some more information please contact Elizabeth Mooney on 087 2067920. There is no need to have a partner, so all individuals are welcome.
The club played their first game of 2023 on Monday January 9th and the results were as follows:
Joint First: Mary Kennedy and Anne Kennedy
Kathleen Collins and Patsy Roche.
Third: Mary Prendergast and Joan Hartery
Fourth: John Fitzpatrick and Deirdre Phelan.

Ballyduff N.S

As part of the Catholic Schools Week, Ballyduff N.S will celebrate Grandparents Day on Wednesday January 25th. The day will start off with mass at 10am in St. Nicholas’s Church to offer thanks for the wonderful support and help grandparents give to their families. Following the mass, the Parents Association invite everyone along to the hall in Ballyduff N.S to enjoy a nice cuppa and some refreshments. We all know what an important role grandparents play in the lives of their grandchildren and this is a lovely way to say a simple thank you and to also remember those grandparents who have returned home to God but still watch over us.
Admissions are now open for the 2023/2024 school year and the teaching staff are excited to meet the new arrivals in September. The closing date for applications is January 27th so if you require any further information or need an application form, please contact the office at Ballyduff N.S on 051 384414.

Birthday Celebrations

The Power family in Ballyduff Village certainly know how to celebrate and always mark every occasion as a family together with great joy and laughter. There were two milestone birthdays to mark recently as Stephanie’s husband Ronan Hogan clocked up his 40th while the main woman and driving force behind the whole family Bridget reached the young age of 60. We wish them both every happiness and many more happy birthdays to come.

Keep In Touch

As all clubs and organisations begin their activities and meetings again for the New Year, why not let people know about what is going on within your club or group by contacting the writer of these notes. Want to send good wishes to someone celebrating an occasion or have you a photo of local interest? Local community notes are an important part of community and parish life and help to let everyone know what is going on in their area and help to create a good community spirit. Please send any items you have for inclusion to Linda Spillane at spillanelinda2017@gmail.com or contact her on 087 9838392.

Thought for the Week

Be strong enough to stand alone
Smart enough to know when you need help
And brave enough to ask for it

Christmas Thanks, Yoga Classes and Community Alert

January 13, 2023 Christine Tubbritt

Christmas Thanks

A big thank you to all who helped to have our church looking so beautiful over Christmas. Our lovely crib took centre stage and received many visits from those at mass. It is always so nice to see so many young children visit the crib with their parents and grandchildren and hear their lovely innocent comments and questions. On Christmas Day I met two lovely little girls who asked me to tell them why I was taking a piece of the straw from the crib and putting it in my purse. They then proceeded to do the same and so continues the traditions. We also had a bright sparkling Christmas tree and fabulous flower and candle arrangements. A special word of thanks must go to our fantastic sacristan Ann who takes such fabulous care of our church all year round. She takes great pride in her work, and we are all very grateful to her for her dedication and commitment.

Recent Death

We extend our deepest sympathy to Mary Harrington, Ballyduff Hill on the recent death of her beloved sister Elizabeth Purcell who lived in England. We keep Mary and all her family in our prayers and hope that they find peace and comfort in their memories.

New Signing

Massive congratulations to local lady Kate Foley who has recently been signed by Treaty United FC. Kate has been signed as their goalkeeper for the 2023 Women’s Premier Division season. If any of have had the pleasure of watching Kate in goal, then you will know that Treaty United have found themselves a real treasure. A talented goalkeeper Kate is also a very dedicated team player always giving 100% to her fellow teammates. We wish Kate and her team the very best for the 2023 season and look forward to watching her progress.

Birthday Boy

Birthday boy Michael (Mickey) Barry of Raheen recently celebrated his 80th birthday and was wined and dined by his family and friends. The young man celebrated with those closest to him and I hear that a great time was had by all. Surrounded by his wife Elizabeth, his children Eileen, Michelle and Shay and his beloved grandchildren, I’m sure Mickey was at his happiest. We wish Mickey many more happy birthdays.

Early Retirement

We all wish the very best to Bernie Crotty, Portlaw who has recently taken early retirement from Portlaw/Lisduggan Credit Union. Many people here in Ballyduff and Kilmeaden are members of the local credit union and know exactly what a wonderful job Bernie has done over the years. Bernie was always that warm, friendly, helpful face that you met and was always on hand to give help and advice. The dedication and commitment Bernie has given to the Credit Union is to be admired and we thank her for her years of service. We wish her many years of happiness as she and Ger hopefully enjoy some rest and relaxation.

Ballyduff GAA

Ballyduff GAA Club enjoyed a great night of celebration as they celebrated the 25th anniversary of their 1997 Junior Hurling Championship win. Everyone enjoyed watching a recording of the game and reliving the glory. Following the game there was some critical analysis and some food and beverages and some music to try out those dance moves. A great night was had by all.

Ballyduff AFC

Ballyduff AFC are ready to get back into training and games and are looking forward to the new season. The club have big plans for 2023 to develop their space, their teams and their facilities. Check out their Facebook page to see details of teams and training times.

Yoga Classes

If you are looking for a way to rest and relax after the Christmas season, then why not try some Yoga classes which will take place in Ballyduff Community Centre on Wednesday nights. If you would like to find out some more information, please contact Virginia on 083 3717354

Community Alert

Our local community alert group will hold their next meeting on Wednesday January 11th at 8pm in Ballyduff Community Centre. All are welcome to attend this meeting as it is so important that we all work together to keep our community a safe place to live. Members of the Gardai will be in attendance. If you have forgotten your yearly text alert fee of €5 then this is a perfect opportunity to pay. Please spread the word about the meeting to your neighbours.

Bridge News, Church News and Medal Presentation

December 23, 2022 Christine Tubbritt

Bridge News

The Portlaw/ Ballyduff Bridge Club played a game on Monday December 5th and the results were as follows:
1st: Kate Hayes and Sean Hennessy
2nd: Margaret White and Ann Tobin
Joint 3rd: Geraldine McMahon and Nano Fitzgerald
and
Fr. Michael O Byrne and Margaret Breen
Joint 5th: Patsy Roche and Kathleen Collins
and
Elizabeth Mooney and Sean Breen
On Monday December 12th the members of the club gathered in The Sweep to enjoy a delicious meal together. After settling into their new partnerships, they enjoyed a well-run game of bridge and the results were as follows:
1st: Peggy Barron and Elizabeth Mooney
2nd Nano Fitzgerald and Celia Nugent
3rd: Kathleen Collins and Anne Kennedy
4th: Fr. Mick O Byrne and Sean Hennessy
5th: John Fitzpatrick and John Mooney
6th: Mary Kennedy and Patsy Roche
We wish all the members of the Bridge club a very happy Christmas and look forward to hearing about their games again in the New Year. The club will resume on Monday January 9th in Ballyduff Community Centre. I thank Elizabeth Mooney for sending me on the results every week.

GAA Lotto

The numbers drawn in the latest lotto draw were 1, 2, 8 and 10 and there was no winner of the jackpot. There were 6 lucky dip winners this week and each of them won €50 each. The winners were Nancy O Sullivan, Michelle Dunphy, Brian Barron, Noel O Connell, Paddy McGill and John Stephenson. The lotto will take a little break over Christmas and will return in the New Year with a whopping jackpot of €8,450. A big thank you to all who support the lotto, those who sell tickets and the committee who put a lot of time and effort into it. It is a brilliant fundraiser for the club, and I know that they really appreciate the support they receive. I thank Kathleen Power for sending the results to me each fortnight.

Church News

As we begin the final preparations for Christmas, we have the perfect opportunity to prepare ourselves spiritually for the birth of Jesus. A reconciliation service will take place on Thursday December 22nd at 7.30pm in St. Nicholas’s Church and all are welcome.
The times of our masses for Christmas weekend are as follows: Christmas Eve mass will be celebrated at 7.30pm and on Christmas morning at 10am.
The Christmas collection for the support of the priests of our parish will be taken up over Christmas and Fr. Mick and Fr. Francis hope that you will be as generous as possible. They are aware that there are a lot of demands on people at this time, but they hope that you can support them.
Christmas is always time to thank people so a big thank you to all who give their time to help in our church. A big thank you must go to our wonderful sacristan Ann Nolan who goes above and beyond to keep our church in such good condition. She gives 110% to her work and always with a smile and friendly word for everyone. We are truly blessed to have her.

Medal Presentation

Ballyduff N.S held a special day recently to present medals to their winning teams. Winner of numerous All Ireland medals and the present Waterford U14 Ladies Football Manager presented the medals to the Ballyduff Lower N.S U13 Roinn C Cup Winners 2022. Mayor John O Leary presented the medals to Ballyduff Lower N.S Boys U13 Roinn B Shield Winners 2022. What a wonderful occasion for these young men and women as they continue their journey playing the game they love.
Congratulations also to the staff and pupils of Ballyduff N.S who helped Fr. Mick celebrate the 200th anniversary of our beautiful church recently. I was unable to attend due to other commitments, but everyone I met after it were full of compliments and praise. I thank sincerely the wonderful John Hearne who sent me some fabulous photos which I hope to share with you over the coming weeks.

Recent Death

We were all very saddened to hear of the death of a beautiful lady and friend to many Colie O Brien from Blacknock. When you think of a true Irish Mammy, Colie was up there at the top of the list. She adored her family and once they were happy, she was happy. A devoted wife to her adoring husband Christy they lived their life happily together in their beautiful home in Blacknock. She loved to spend time with her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren and was very proud of them all. She also enjoyed her garden and the beauty of nature around her and of course many enjoyed her tasty cooking and baking. Blacknock has a lovely community atmosphere, and her neighbours were very important to her, and she was to them. At her funeral I saw her neighbours, even some who had moved away some years ago gather to pay their respects. In my childhood Colie and Christy lived beside us for a while and I always enjoyed Colie’s visits to my mother as she had an infectious smile and loved a good hearty laugh. We pray that Colie is at peace in God’s kingdom where there is no pain or suffering and hope that she is enjoying some good hearty laughs with family and friends gone before her. We send our deepest sympathies to her beloved husband Christy, her children Ann, Carrie and Noel, grandchildren, great grandchildren, sisters, brothers, extended family and many friends. May her sweet gentle soul now be at rest in God’s beautiful garden.

Recent Death

We extend her deepest sympathies to the Walsh family on the death of Philip Walsh, Portlaw and formerly Kilmeaden. Philip will be dearly missed by his sons Declan and Aidan, his daughter Angela, his grandchildren, his brothers Pat and Michael, his sisters Margaret Carlin, Bernie Crotty and Martina O Donoghue and all the extended family and friends. His funeral mass took place in Ballyduff Church with burial in the adjoining graveyard. We pray that he now rests in peace with Christ in his heavenly home.

Celebration Night

Ballyduff Lower GAA club will host a celebration night on Friday December 30th at 8pm in The Sweep Bar to mark the 25th anniversary of our team winning the Junior Championships. Great celebrations were had in 1997 and I have no doubt that the celebrations will continue Friday 30th. There is sure to be a story or two told and many pucks of the ball relived so come along and join the fun.

Christmas Wishes

I would like to extend my sincerest good wishes to each and every one of you. I wish you all the joy and peace of the Christmas season and I offer the hand of friendship and comfort to those of who are finding the season lonely or painful. I sympathise with any of you who have suffered a loss during the year or any of you who are suffering through illness or nursing a family member or friend through an illness. I urge any of you who are hurting or worried in any way to speak about it with a friend or a professional.
Christmas is different for everyone so we must all open our hearts and our minds to the world around us and enjoy and be thankful for what we have and for the people we have in our lives. Life is so precious and none of us know what lies around the corner so all we can do is be grateful for each new day and make the best we can of it. So, this Christmas enjoy those around you and make many memories.
I thank all the contributors to these notes and all of you who take the time to read them. I hope that we will continue to work together in 2023 and look forward to receiving your items for inclusion. Remember you can contact me on 087 9838392 or spillanelinda2017@gmail.com

Bridge News, Rally Success and Junior Cert Relsults

December 16, 2022 Christine Tubbritt

GAA Lotto

The numbers drawn in the latest lotto draw on November 27th were 2, 12, 16 and 20. There was no winner of the jackpot but the three lucky dip winners of €50 each were Breda O Donnell, Emma O Leary and Caoimhe Kelly. The next draw will take place on December 11th and there will be a jackpot of €8,300 on offer and there will also be six lucky dip winners of €50. Tickets cost just €2 each or three for €5 and are available from all committee members or will be on sale at Centra, Kilmeaden on Saturday December 10th. Choose those four numbers carefully and you could be celebrating Christmas early.

Bridge News

Ballyduff/ Portlaw bridge club played their latest game on Monday November 28th and the results were as follows:
1st: Nano Fitzgerald and Sean Hennessy
2nd: Geraldine McMahon and Joan Hartrey
3rd: William Tobin and Deirdre Phelan
4th: Fr.M O Byrne and Mary Prendergast.
The bridge club have now moved venue and will play their future games in Ballyduff Community Centre on Monday nights at 7.30pm. No partner is required. If you would like any further information, please contact Elizabeth on 087 2067920.

Ballyduff GAA

Ballyduff Lower GAA club will hold their AGM on Friday December 9th at 7.30pm in Ballyduff Community Centre.
All are welcome to come along to the meeting and get involved with the club. Please note that only fully paid-up members are entitled to vote.
The ladies’ group have now moved from Friday to Wednesday nights so if you would like to take up some exercise while having a few laughs why not pop along to the ball alley where the ladies meet under lights from 7.30pm to 8.30pm. All are welcome

Rally Success

At the recent World Rally Championships there was a new category added called the WRC2 Masters Cup for over 50’s. Our own rally superstar MJ Morrissey finished 2nd overall in the co drivers. They travelled 5 rounds in Monte Carlo, Sweden, Ypres, Catalunya and Japan. Congratulations MJ on your wonderful achievement.

Junior Cert Results

Congratulations to all the young men and women who recently received their Junior Cert results this week. Although they had to wait a long time to get their results, their wait is now over and I’m sure they all enjoyed their celebrations

Waterford Suir Valley Railway

There has been a lot of activity around Waterford Suir Valley Railway lately as preparations have been underway for Santa’s arrival. The elves have been busy putting up lights and decorations. Santa is now busy meeting all the boys and girls and finding out what they would like for Christmas. I might pop down and have a little chat with him myself. Don’t forget to book a ticket to see Santa and check if you are on that good list.

Church News

Fr. O Byrne has asked me to say a big thank you to all who attended the weekly masses during November for our loved ones who have returned home to God. On Wednesday November 30th the mass was offered for all those who died during the year, and it was a beautiful mass enhanced by music and song from our local parish choir. A big thank you to all who helped at these masses.
If you would like to book an anniversary mass for a loved one during the months of January or February please contact Linda Spillane on 087 9838392.

In the Diocese of Waterford and Lismore in the southeast of Ireland, Ballyduff and Kilmeaden are about 23 miles from Dungarvan and 5 miles from Waterford.