Choir Practice, Celebration Evening and Football Blitz

MONTHS MIND MASS.

Our community are still mourning the loss of a great community man Dermot (Dod) Whelan, and we now have another chance to come together with his family and offer our prayers for him and give thanks for all he gave to our community. Dod’s Months Mind mass will take place on Friday October 11th at 7.30pm in St. Nicholas’s Church, Ballyduff. All are welcome to join together in prayer and thanksgiving.

TESCO COMMUNITY FUND

Ballyduff Lower Camogie Club are delighted to have been chosen yet again for the Tesco Blue Token Community Fund. This time it was launched in the Tesco Poleberry store on August 26th and will run for 16 weeks. This money will benefit the entire club so please encourage your family and friends to drop along to Tesco Poleberry and drop their blue token into the Ballyduff Lower slot.

CHOIR PRACTICE.

It was wonderful to hear our lovely parish choir back singing at Sunday morning mass after their well-deserved summer break. Their beautiful collection of hymns really enhance our mass, and it is lovely to see members of the congregation singing along. The choir rehearse every Wednesday night from 8pm to 9pm in the church and would be delighted to welcome some new members. Drop along to rehearsal and you will be made very welcome.

SPOOKY EXPRESS.

Waterford Suir Valley Railway are already getting organised for their Halloween Spooky Express. This is always very popular and bookings are made very fast. Many scary looking individuals and creatures begin to arrive at the railway in the coming weeks to hide out for the chance to be part of the Spooky Express. It will run from October 27th to November 3rd. Bookings can be made online or by calling the ticket office on 051 384058 between 10am and 4pm.
All the gang at Suir Valley Railway remind you to save Saturday November 16th in your diaries as the very popular Beat the Train for DSI is due to take place. This is a very popular event which always attracts a big crowd. All proceeds goes to Down Syndrome Ireland Waterford and South Kilkenny Branch. Mark the date and watch these notes for more information.

COMMUNITY ALERT.

A community alert meeting will take place in Ballyduff Community Centre on Thursday October 10th at 8pm. It is important that all areas and clubs and organisations are represented at these meetings so that the community can work together to keep our area and its people safe and comfortable. Please spread the word about this meeting to your friends and neighbours and encourage them to attend.

CELEBRATION EVENING

The Ballyduff Lower GAA Club will host a special celebration night in O Donnachas on Saturday October 19th. This is to mark the Golden Jubilee of the 1974 Ballyduff Junior Football Team who beat Shamrocks from Knockanore to take the County Final title. This is a perfect opportunity for all the team players and mentors to meet up and enjoy a chat and share memories and also for the present players to hear the history of the club. The event will kick off around 9pm and there will be music and a laugh or two along the way.

FOOTBALL BLITZ

A big well done to the Ballyduff/ Portlaw U6/8 girls who travelled to Kilmacthomas to take part in a football blitz. The girls played very well in all 3 matches and really earned their goodie bags. New members are always welcome to this group.

BALLYDUFF AFC

The very successful “Football for All” has come to an end for its 3rd season, and it has been a huge success. To finish off the season the group did some warm ups, circuits, mini matches and a five a side with new footballs and tops sponsored by SunLife and thank you to Nicola McGrath and the team at SunLife for dropping along and supporting on the day. A big thank you also to Maureen Neary and Waterford Gardai for bringing along the squad cars and goodie bags. Special thanks to Paddy Kirk for organising the trophies and surprising everyone with the arrival of an ice cream van. The most important thanks goes to all the players and their families for coming along and supporting the club. Ballyduff AFC are looking forward to seeing you again for Season 4.

TIME FOR CARDS.

The very popular game of 30’s has resumed on Thursday nights at 7.30pm in Ballyduff Community Centre. This is open to individuals and teams of three and proved very popular before they took a little summer break. This is a lovely way to spend a few hours during the Autumn and Winter months and a great way to meet people.

GAA LOTTO

The numbers drawn in the latest lotto draw were 4, 9, 13 and 24 and there was no winner of the jackpot. The three lucky dip winners of €50 each were Margaret Millea, Anita Barry and Philip Hoban. The next draw will take place on Sunday October 13th and there will be a jackpot of €12,500 on offer. Tickets cost just €2 each or three for €5 and can be purchased from any member, online or from one of the volunteer sellers at Centra in Kilmeaden on Saturday October 12th. This lotto is a major fundraiser for the club, and they are very grateful for the support they receive.

ITEMS FOR NOTES.

If you would like me to include any items in these notes for you please contact me Linda Spillane on 087 9838392 or spillanelinda2017@gmail.com It is a wonderful way to keep in touch with what is going on in the local community and to inform people about things happening within your club or organisation.

Spooky Express, Jersey Sponsorship and Miles for Mimi

SPOOKY EXPRESS.

Waterford Suir Valley Railway are already getting organised for their Halloween Spooky Express. This is always very popular and bookings are made very fast. Many scary looking individuals and creatures begin to arrive at the railway in the coming weeks to hide out for the chance to be part of the Spooky Express. It will run from October 27th to November 3rd. Bookings can be made online or by calling the ticket office on 051 384058 between 10am and 4pm.

JERSEY SPONSORSHIP

Ballyduff GAA Club would like to say a huge thank you to Mark Scannell of Waterford Motor Village who has generously sponsored a set of jerseys for the U6 players. This is greatly appreciated by the club and ask you to give Mark a shout if you are thinking of upgrading your car.

CHOIR PRACTICE.

It was wonderful to hear our lovely parish choir back singing at Sunday morning mass after their well-deserved summer break. Their beautiful collection of hymns really enhance our mass, and it is lovely to see members of the congregation singing along. The choir rehearse every Wednesday night from 8pm to 9pm in the church and would be delighted to welcome some new members. Drop along to rehearsal and you will be made very welcome.

TESCO COMMUNITY FUND

Ballyduff Lower Camogie Club are delighted to have been chosen yet again for the Tesco Blue Token Community Fund. This time it was launched in the Tesco Poleberry store on August 26th and will run for 16 weeks. This money will benefit the entire club so please encourage your family and friends to drop along to Tesco Poleberry and drop their blue token into the Ballyduff Lower slot.

SACRISTAN COLLECTION

We are very lucky in St. Nicholas’s Church, Ballyduff to have such a dedicated and loyal sacristan. Ann always goes above and beyond the call of duty and is a friendly welcoming face to all who visit the church. She keeps our church in immaculate condition and ensures everything is in place for all occasions. The annual sacristan’s collection will be taken up at all weekend masses over the next couple of weekends. There is an assigned envelope in your yearly pack, but you can also use any envelope and simply mark it for the Sacristan collection.

TIME TO SHINE

Is your inner diva waiting to escape or were you born to strut your stuff on stage. Ballyduff Lower LGFA will hold a lip sync battle on Saturday October 5th at The Sweep Bar. Choose your partner, family members, friends to give the performance of a lifetime. Choose your song and wow us all with your outfit and then practice moving those lips to perfection. Will you choose a power ballad, rock classic or will you add some serious choreography, the choice is yours.
I have seen a few signs around the parish that rehearsals are under way. I spotted a pair of blue suede shoes through the fence of a garden, glitzy satin flares blowing on a clothesline and my daughter who is a hairdresser has been asked if she can do a beehive? Sounds like it’s going to be a great night. For more information, please contact Anita on 087 6776544.

TIME FOR CARDS.

The very popular game of 30’s has resumed on Thursday nights at 7.30pm in Ballyduff Community Centre. This is open to individuals and teams of three and proved very popular before they took a little summer break. This is a lovely way to spend a few hours during the Autumn and Winter months and a great way to meet people.

BALLYDUFF AFC FUNDING

Ballyduff AFC are thrilled to receive news that they have been awarded a fantastic amount of €141,709.00 through the Sports Capital Grant. This injection of cash has come as a great time as the club plan their clubhouse extension project. This project will include female dressing rooms, a football-for-all room, disabled toilets, a gym and a shared-use meeting room.
The club are very grateful for the support of the community and the local representatives. Our local club has wonderful facilities and the boys and girls of the club are going from strength to strength. They have been very lucky being part of a club who are always thinking ahead and planning better facilities for all who use the club and new members in the future.

GAA FUNDING

Ballyduff GAA Club were also the lucky recipients of €74,496.00 from the Sports Capital Allocation Grant. This funding will be a huge help to the club with their improved facilities project. The club cater for all age groups and have wonderful LGFA and Camogie teams. They have welcomed many new members to the club and are constantly looking at ways to improve and enhance their club. Our club will use this funding to give their members the best possible facilities. The club are very grateful to all who support them.

MILES FOR MIMI

September was especially dedicated to the awareness and research of Myeloma Cancer and Myeloma Ireland encouraged all to get out and get active and clock up the miles. Local lady Mimi Laffan is fighting and winning the battle against Myeloma Cancer and along with her family and friends she took up the campaign and while each individual clocked up their own miles, they also held some group walks around the county. On Sunday September 22nd, it was the turn of Mimi’s home parish to come together and join the cause. It was wonderful to see so many of all ages gather outside St. Nicholas’s Church in Ballyduff and join in solidarity to walk those steps in support of the myeloma campaign.
Before leaving the village, Mimi spoke to those gathered and expressed her deepest gratitude to all who had got behind this campaign and given her such fantastic support and encouragement. She said how humbled she felt to see such support. She gave a special mention to good friend and popular parishioner Dod Whelan who went to his heavenly home in recent weeks. Dod was a great support to Mimi during her treatment and she said she will never forget his kindness.
As the group headed off on their route, there were cheers and sounds of laughter. The route took the participants past the beautiful sights of the Knockaderry Lake. Once the walkers returned to the village, they were treated in the Community Centre to an array of sandwiches, cakes and treats. Mimi’s native place certainly did her proud and showed her that she is not alone in her battle. A big well done to all who were involved in the organisation of this event. Working together brings great rewards.

Choir Practice, Tesco Community Fund and Time to Shine

GAA LOTTO

The numbers drawn in the latest lotto draw were 1,2, 9 and 20 and there was no winner of the jackpot. The three lucky dip winners of €50 each were Liz Mooney, Tim Counihan and JJ Roche. The next draw will take place on Sunday September 29thth and there will be a jackpot of €12,500 on offer. Tickets cost just €2 each or three for €5 and can be purchased from any member, online or from one of the volunteer sellers at Centra in Kilmeaden on Saturday September 28th. This lotto is a major fundraiser for the club, and they are very grateful for the support they receive.

CHOIR PRACTICE.

It was wonderful to hear our lovely parish choir back singing at Sunday morning mass after their well-deserved summer break. Their beautiful collection of hymns really enhance our mass, and it is lovely to see members of the congregation singing along. The choir rehearse every Wednesday night from 8pm to 9pm in the church and would be delighted to welcome some new members. Drop along to rehearsal and you will be made very welcome.

TESCO COMMUNITY FUND

Ballyduff Lower Camogie Club are delighted to have been chosen yet again for the Tesco Blue Token Community Fund. This time it was launched in the Tesco Poleberry store on August 26th and will run for 16 weeks. This money will benefit the entire club so please encourage your family and friends to drop along to Tesco Poleberry and drop their blue token into the Ballyduff Lower slot.

U12 WINS

Congratulations to the Ballyduff Lower U12 Hurling team and the U12 Football team who both won their Finals in Walsh Park recently. Both teams have come on great in recent times and there were some fantastic skills on display. The love they have for the game is evident in the way they play and entertain the spectators. A big thank you to all their coaches and mentors for their dedication and commitment. The support and encouragement given by parents and guardians is wonderful. The teams celebrated in The Moon Café and a great celebration was had by all.
Congratulations also to the U11 hurling team who gave a great performance in their latest blitz beating Naomh Brid and Clashmore/Kinsalebeg. There were some wonderful individual and team performances and the team worked well together. They celebrated with a trip to McDonalds in Dungarvan on the way home.

SACRISTAN COLLECTION

We are very lucky in St. Nicholas’s Church, Ballyduff to have such a dedicated and loyal sacristan. Ann always goes above and beyond the call of duty and is a friendly welcoming face to all who visit the church. She keeps our church in immaculate condition and ensures everything is in place for all occasions. The annual sacristan’s collection will be taken up at all weekend masses over the next couple of weekends. There is an assigned envelope in your yearly pack, but you can also use any envelope and simply mark it for the Sacristan collection.

TIME TO SHINE

Is your inner diva waiting to escape or were you born to strut your stuff on stage. Ballyduff Lower LGFA will hold a lip sync battle on Saturday October 5th at The Sweep Bar. Choose your partner, family members, friends to give the performance of a lifetime. Choose your song and wow us all with your outfit and then practice moving those lips to perfection. Will you choose a power ballad, rock classic or will you add some serious choreography, the choice is yours.
I have seen a few signs around the parish that rehearsals are under way. I spotted a pair of blue suede shoes through the fence of a garden, glitzy satin flares blowing on a clothesline and my daughter who is a hairdresser has been asked if she can do a beehive? Sounds like it’s going to be a great night. For more information, please contact Anita on 087 6776544.

TIME FOR CARDS.

The very popular game of 30’s has resumed on Thursday nights at 7.30pm in Ballyduff Community Centre. This is open to individuals and teams of three and proved very popular before they took a little summer break. This is a lovely way to spend a few hours during the Autumn and Winter months and a great way to meet people.

QUOTE FOR THE WEEK

Courage doesn’t always roar.
Sometimes courage is a little voice at the end of the day
That says I’ll try again tomorrow.

ITEMS FOR NOTES.

If you would like me to include any items in these notes for you please contact me Linda Spillane on 087 9838392 or spillanelinda2017@gmail.com It is a wonderful way to keep in touch with what is going on in the local community and to inform people about things happening within your club or organisation.

Time to Shine, Yoga Time and Miles for Mimi

CHOIR PRACTICE.

Our local parish choir have enjoyed a little time off for the Summer but are now delighted to be returning. Practice will resume on Wednesday nights from 8pm to 9pm in the church. The choir add greatly to our weekend masses and we look forward to hearing their beautiful collection of hymns again and I know there are always some new ones ready to be added to their repertoire. New members are always welcome to join the choir so drop along to rehearsal, and you will be made very welcome.

SACRISTAN COLLECTION

We are very lucky in St. Nicholas’s Church, Ballyduff to have such a dedicated and loyal sacristan. Ann always goes above and beyond the call of duty and is a friendly welcoming face to all who visit the church. She keeps our church in immaculate condition and ensures everything is in place for all occasions. The annual sacristan’s collection will be taken up at all weekend masses over the next couple of weekends. There is an assigned envelope in your yearly pack, but you can also use any envelope and simply mark it for the Sacristan collection.

TIME TO SHINE

Is your inner diva waiting to escape or were you born to strut your stuff on stage. Ballyduff Lower LGFA will hold a lip sync battle on Saturday October 5th at The Sweep Bar. Choose your partner, family members, friends to give the performance of a lifetime. Choose your song and wow us all with your outfit and then practice moving those lips to perfection. Will you choose a power ballad, rock classic or will you add some serious choreography, the choice is yours.
I have seen a few signs around the parish that rehearsals are under way. I spotted a pair of blue suede shoes through the fence of a garden, glitzy satin flares blowing on a clothesline and my daughter who is a hairdresser has been asked if she can do a beehive? Sounds like it’s going to be a great night. For more information, please contact Anita on 087 6776544.

TIME FOR CARDS.

The very popular game of 30’s will resume on Thursday nights at 7.30pm in Ballyduff Community Centre. This is open to individuals and teams of three and proved very popular before they took a little summer break. This is a lovely way to spend a few hours during the Autumn and Winter months and a great way to meet people.

GET COOKING

Are you thinking ahead and trying to think of some new skills you would like to learn. Ballyduff Community Centre will be the venue for some adult cookery classes in October. They will take place on Tuesday nights from 7pm to 9pm from October 1st to October 22nd and will cost €100. The cost includes all ingredients, equipment, recipes and aprons. If you would like some further information, please contact Chef Siobhan on 0879027425 or drop an email to siobhanfinan04@gmail.com

YOGA TIME

Ballyduff Community Centre will be the venue for Dynamic Yoga Flow beginning on September 21st. The four-week block lessons will run on Saturday mornings at 9.30am at a cost of €45 or PAYG 13. For more information log on to www.yogawithginni.com

TESCO COMMUNITY FUND

Ballyduff Lower Camogie Club are delighted to have been chosen yet again for the Tesco Blue Token Community Fund. This time it was launched in the Tesco Poleberry store on August 26th and will run for 16 weeks. This money will benefit the entire club so please encourage your family and friends to drop along to Tesco Poleberry and drop their blue token into the Ballyduff Lower slot.

RECENT DEATH

We extend our deepest sympathy to the Kinsella family on the recent death of Tony Kinsella, Cullinagh, Kilmeaden. Tony will be deeply missed by his sons Michael, Tommy and John, daughters-in-law Dolores and Michelle, his grandchildren Niall, David, Rebecca, Muireann and Maitiu, great grandchildren Alex, Evie and Lily and all his extended family and many friends. We take comfort in knowing that he is reunited with his beloved wife Kathleen and they are relaxing with a nice cuppa and a chat. May his gentle soul now rest in the peace and love of Christ.

BALLYDUFF LEGEND

Ballyduff, Kilmeaden and the surrounding areas were all united in grief as we learned of the sad passing of one of our best-known parishioners Dermot (Dod) Whelan. Dod was a lovable character who loved nothing more than a good chat with all he met. He enjoyed a good sociable night out with family and friends and was always ready to cheer people up with a humorous story or two. He made good friends wherever he went and could always be counted on if someone needed help or assistance.
Family was of utmost importance to Dod and he was so happy in his beautiful home in Ballyduff Village with his wife Anne. It was a home where everyone was welcome to drop in for a chat and perhaps a lemonade. Of course, his other great love was GAA and he was a staunch Ballyduff Lower Club man and supported them at all times. The club will miss his great contribution but I’m sure he will be putting in a good word above for a few wins and titles. Dod will be greatly missed in our community but has left us all with some everlasting memories.
When Dod was faced with illness, he bore it with great strength and courage and fought with every breath in his body. He made the best of things and encouraged his nearest and dearest to be strong also. His faith was strong, and he was a regular visitor to St. Nicholas’s Church which shadowed his house.
He will be sadly missed by his wife Anne, his daughters Shanice and Chloe, granddaughters Lexi and Jana, stepchildren Kieran and Michelle, his brothers Dick, Tom and Anthony, sisters-in-law Bridget, Maggie and Paula and all his extended family and his many friends. We hope that they will all be able to draw comfort from all their wonderful memories and I like to think of Dod now sitting back with a large coffee watching over us all. May his gentle soul now be at peace.

MILES FOR MIMI

Local lady Margaret (Mimi) Laffan is fighting and winning her battle with Myeloma cancer. Her soul aim is to spread the word about this form of cancer. Her strength and attitude are exceptional, and she wants to raise awareness and encourage more research into treatments. A fundraising campaign was launched by Multiple Myeloma Ireland for the month of September where we are all encouraged to clock up the miles by walking, running, cycling, hiking, skipping or whatever takes your fancy. The Laffan family are behind this campaign 100% and have set up a Facebook page encouraging all to join with them and to donate to the cause by clicking onto https://register.idonate.ie/fundraiser/MimiLaffan763
On Sunday September 22nd at 12 noon, you are invited to come along to Ballyduff Village and take part in a walk which will take in the sights around the stunning Knockaderry Lake. There is bound to be a laugh or two along the way while we raise awareness and support research to develop new treatments and improvements in clinical practice.

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK.

The question isn’t who is going to let me.
It’s who is going to stop me.

ITEMS FOR NOTES.

If you would like me to include any items in these notes for you please contact me Linda Spillane on 087 9838392 or spillanelinda2017@gmail.com It is a wonderful way to keep in touch with what is going on in the local community and to inform people about things happening within your club or organisation.

Generous Donation, Get Cooking and Tesco Community Fund

GAA LOTTO

The numbers drawn in the latest lotto draw were 9, 17, 23 and 26 and there was no winner of the jackpot. The three lucky dip winners of €50 each were Valarie Walker, Brian Tyrell and Audrey Butler. The next draw will take place on Sunday September 15th and there will be a jackpot of €12,500 on offer. Tickets cost just €2 each three for €5 and can be purchased from any member, online or from one of the volunteer sellers at Centra in Kilmeaden on Saturday September 14th.

CHOIR PRACTICE.

Our local parish choir have enjoyed a little time off for the Summer but are now delighted to be returning. Practice will resume on Wednesday September 11th from 8pm to 9pm in the church. The choir add greatly to our weekend masses and we look forward to hearing their beautiful collection of hymns again and I know there are always some new ones ready to be added to their repertoire. New members are always welcome to join the choir so drop along to rehearsal and you will be made very welcome.

COUNTY FINAL WINNERS

Huge congratulations to the Ballyduff Lower U12 Camogie team who won the Gold County Final on September 1st. The girls did themselves proud and played their hearts out in a tough game against Ferrybank. Well done to Ella Phelan who was given the Player of the Match Award. The girls celebrated in style with food and drinks in the Moon Café, Kilmeaden after the game. This was a very generous treat given by Kilmeaden Groundworks. Well done girls and we look forward to watching you progress throughout the club.

GENEROUS DONATION

The Kilmeaden Vintage Tractor Club held their annual charity Tractor Run in July and once again it was a great success and a very enjoyable day. Each year the club organise this day and raise money for a chosen charity. This year the chosen charity was Pieta House and on Friday August 30th a cheque for €2,781.50 was given to the charity. The presentation night was held in Lenihan’s Bar in Newtown with many members of the club present. A big thank you to Ann who made everyone so welcome and treated everyone to some lovely food. A great night was had by all. John Dempsey represented Pieta House and spoke of how thrilled they were to receive such a generous donation as 87% of their funds comes from charitable donations. He stressed how important the services are and how there is often a rise in calls as schools and colleges head back to a new year. He thanked everyone for their support.

TIME TO SHINE

Is your inner diva waiting to escape or were you born to strut your stuff on stage. Ballyduff Lower LGFA will hold a lip sync battle on Saturday October 5th at The Sweep Bar. Choose your partner, family members, friends to give the performance of a lifetime. Choose your song and wow us all with your outfit and then practice moving those lips to perfection. Will you choose a power ballad, rock classic or will you add some serious choreography, the choice is yours. For more information, please contact Anita on 087 6776544.

BACK TO SCHOOL.

As our young people return to school and college this month, we wish them all a wonderful school year. We hope they enjoy their time there and we urge them to be kind to themselves and to others. We wish all the staff and teachers the very best for the year ahead.

TIME FOR CARDS.

The very popular game of 30’s will resume on Thursday September 12th at 7.30pm in Ballyduff Community Centre. This is open to individuals and teams of three and proved very popular before they took a little Summer break. This is a lovely way to spend a few hours during the Autumn and Winter months and a great way to meet people.

VOTE FOR WOODY

Congratulations and well done to Kilmeaden based band Woody who are one of the final four artists chosen to take part of WLR’s Waterford local Hero Final. September is Irish Music Month, which is an initiative of Hot Press and The Independent Broadcasters of Ireland. Over the coming weeks two judges and you the public will have the chance to vote who goes on to compete at national level. Log onto WLR for all your voting details. Woody were formed in 2020 and members Colm Dempsey, Alan O Brien, Cian Weldon and Craig Dunphy and are described as an Indie rock band and play all over Waterford.

EXCELLENCE AWARD

Congratulations to Damien, Majella and all the staff at Gala Kilmeaden who were once again a winner of an Excellence Award at the Gala Retail Awards. This is well deserved as they always work hard to ensure everything is in tip top condition. We wish them every success for the future.

GET COOKING

Are you thinking ahead and trying to think of some new skills you would like to learn. Ballyduff Community Centre will be the venue for some adult cookery classes in October. They will take place on Tuesday nights from 7pm to 9pm from October 1st to October 22nd and will cost €100. The cost includes all ingredients, equipment, recipes and aprons. If you would like some further information, please contact Chef Siobhan on 0879027425 or drop an email to siobhanfinan04@gmail.com

GAA NEWS

The club are delighted to share details of the Waterford Camogie Golf Classic which will take place on Saturday September 14th in Carrick-on-Suir Golf Club. This is open to all golfers and the entry price is €120 per team of 4. To enter your team you can book on BRS or call 051-640047 or email info@carrickgolfclub.net There will be €2,000 worth of prizes on offer on the day.
Ballyduff Lower GAA, LGFA and Camogie Club are delighted to inform you that all their club gear is now available to purchase through the Ballyduff Club shop with O Neill’s so log in and shop by team.

YOGA TIME

Ballyduff Community Centre will be the venue for Dynamic Yoga Flow beginning on September 21st. The four week block lessons will run on Saturday mornings at 9.30am at a cost of €45 or PAYG 13. For more information log on to www.yogawithginni.com

TESCO COMMUNITY FUND

Ballyduff Lower Camogie Club are delighted to have been chosen yet again for the Tesco Blue Token Community Fund. This time it was launched in the Tesco Poleberry store on August 26th and will run for 16 weeks. This money will benefit the entire club so please encourage your family and friends to drop along to Tesco Poleberry and drop their blue token into the Ballyduff Lower slot.

MILES FOR MYELOMA.

Congratulations to all who attended the official launch of the Miles For Myeloma in Dunhill GAA Centre last weekend and all who took part in the stunning walk around the beautiful Anne Valley Walk. Ballyduff’s own Margaret (Mimi) Laffan was diagnosed with Myeloma cancer and is campaigning for further research into treatments and services. Her family and friends have come together and will walk, run, cycle, hike their own kilometres in September but will also come together for some fixed events and invite you to join them. One of these events will take place in Ballyduff Village and Knockaderry Lake on September 22nd so watch this space for further details. If you would like to donate to this very worthy cause please log onto https://www.idonate.ie/fundraiser/MimiLaffan763

ITEMS FOR NOTES.

If you would like me to include any items in these notes for you please contact me Linda Spillane on 087 9838392 or spillanelinda2017@gmail.com It is a wonderful way to keep in touch with what is going on in the local community and to inform people about things happening within your club or organisation.

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK

Life is like riding a bicycle.
To keep your balance
You must keep moving

Yoga Time, Tesco Community Fund and Terry Butler Final

GET COOKING

Are you thinking ahead and trying to think of some new skills you would like to learn. Ballyduff Community Centre will be the venue for some adult cookery classes in October. They will take place on Tuesday nights from 7pm to 9pm from October 1st to October 22nd and will cost €100. The cost includes all ingredients, equipment, recipes and aprons. If you would like some further information, please contact Chef Siobhan on 0879027425 or drop an email to siobhanfinan04@gmail.com

CHURCH NEWS

If you would like to book a weekend anniversary mass for your loved one, please contact Linda Spillane on 087 9838392 with your preferred date. Saturday evening masses take place at 7.30pm and Sunday morning masses are at 10am.
You are invited to drop along to the church and light a candle for a special intention you may have. Our new candelabras are proving very popular. Just drop your coin in the slot and your candle will automatically light up.
If you are interested in reading at mass, new readers are always welcome. Please hand your name and number into the sacristy.

YOUTH DRAMA.

The Ballyduff Youth Drama’s annual production is always a much-anticipated event, and their production always provides a great night of fun, song and dance. The group is aimed at boys and girls from 5th and 6th classes from Ballyduff, Kilmeaden and all the surrounding areas. This is a wonderful way to make new friends and helps young people with their confidence and self-belief while having great fun. If you are interested in joining the group watch out next week for registration details.
I am delighted to inform you all that this year’s production is “Shrek Saves Far Far Away Drama rehearsals will commence on Monday September 9th. A fee of €30 will be payable on the first Monday of each month. For any further information please contact Helen Millea on 087 6493657. Places are limited so get yourself along to Registration night.

GAA NEWS

The club are delighted to share details of the Waterford Camogie Golf Classic which will take place on Saturday September 14th in Carrick-on-Suir Golf Club. This is open to all golfers and the entry price is €120 per team of 4. To enter your team you can book on BRS or call 051-640047 or email info@carrickgolfclub.net There will be €2,000 worth of prizes on offer on the day.
Ballyduff Lower GAA, LGFA and Camogie Club are delighted to inform you that all their club gear is now available to purchase through the Ballyduff Club shop with O Neill’s so log in and shop by team.

BALLYDUFF AFC

The club are pleased to announce the return of the academy section of their club. The academy will take place on Fridays starting September 6th. At 5.15pm it will be the U9 boys, at 6.15pm the U6 Mixed team, at 6.15pm the U7/8 Boys and at 7pm the U7/8 Girls.
Remember to check out the club Facebook page for information on all training times for all the different age groups and check out to see if there is a team you would like to join as a player or a coach.

YOGA TIME

Ballyduff Community Centre will be the venue for Dynamic Yoga Flow beginning on September 21st. The four week block lessons will run on Saturday mornings at 9.30am at a cost of €45. For more information log on to www.yogawithginni.com

TESCO COMMUNITY FUND

Ballyduff Lower Camogie Club are delighted to have been chosen yet again for the Tesco Blue Token Community Fund. This time it was launched in the Tesco Poleberry store on August 26th and will run for 16 weeks. This money will benefit the entire club so please encourage your family and friends to drop along to Tesco Poleberry and drop their blue token into the Ballyduff Lower slot.

TERRY BUTLER FINAL

The U11 Ballyduff Lower team put in a strong performance against Portlaw in the 15th annual Terry Butler Cup Final in St. Nicholas Park. There were many great goal scorers on the night and Michael Brophy was named Player of the Cup Final. The club were thrilled to have Eleanor and Darren Butler available to present to the Ballyduff captain Dylan Kelleher with the Terry Butler Cup.
A big thank you to Paddy Kirk for organising the teams, medals, trophies and the well deserved drinks and snacks after the game. Thank you to Paul, Neil, David and Maura for preparing the squad so well.

ITEMS FOR NOTES.

If you would like me to include any items in these notes for you please contact me Linda Spillane on 087 9838392 or spillanelinda2017@gmail.com It is a wonderful way to keep in touch with what is going on in the local community and to inform people about things happening within your club or organisation.

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK

Sometimes, you have to let go of the picture of what you thought about life and learn to find joy in the story you are actually living.

Youth Drama, Recent Death and Ballyduff AFC

GET COOKING

Are you thinking ahead and trying to think of some new skills you would like to learn. Ballyduff Community Centre will be the venue for some adult cookery classes in October. They will take place on Tuesday nights from 7pm to 9pm from October 1st to October 22nd and will cost €100. The cost includes all ingredients, equipment, recipes and aprons. If you would like some further information, please contact Chef Siobhan on 0879027425 or drop an email to siobhanfinan04@gmail.com

CHURCH NEWS

If you would like to book a weekend anniversary mass for your loved one, please contact Linda Spillane on 087 9838392 with your preferred date. Saturday evening masses take place at 7.30pm and Sunday morning masses are at 10am.
You are invited to drop along to the church and light a candle for a special intention you may have. Our new candelabras are proving very popular. Just drop your coin in the slot and your candle will automatically light up.
If you are interested in reading at mass, new readers are always welcome. Please hand your name and number into the sacristy.

YOUTH DRAMA.

The Ballyduff Youth Drama’s annual production is always a much-anticipated event, and their production always provides a great night of fun, song and dance. The group is aimed at boys and girls from 5th and 6th classes from Ballyduff, Kilmeaden and all the surrounding areas. This is a wonderful way to make new friends and helps young people with their confidence and self-belief while having great fun. If you are interested in joining the group watch out next week for registration details.
I am delighted to inform you all that this year’s production is “Shrek Saves Far Far Away”. Registration will take place on September 2nd from 7pm to 8pm in Ballyduff Community Centre. From 7pm to 8.30pm Insurance will cost €20 and is payable on the night of registration. Drama rehearsals will commence on Monday September 9th. A fee of €30 will be payable on the first Monday of each month. For any further information please contact Helen Millea on 087 6493657. Places are limited so get yourself along to Registration night.

GAA LOTTO

The numbers drawn in the latest lotto draw were 14, 15, 22 and 26 and there was no lucky winner of the jackpot. There were three lucky dip winners of €50 each and they were Caroline O Donnell, Rory Smith and Roger Mulcahy. The next draw will take place on Sunday September 1st 2024 and there will be a fantastic jackpot of €12,500 up for grabs.
Tickets cost just €2 each or three for €5 and can be purchased from any committee member, online or from the volunteer sellers who will be at Centra in Kilmeaden on Saturday August 31st. Choose those four numbers carefully.

RECENT DEATH

We were all very saddened to hear of the recent death of Edmond Cheasty, late of Knockaderry, Klmeaden. Edmond had been a resident of Killure Bridge Nursing Home for the past number of years. Edmond was a quiet, private man who enjoyed the outdoor life and chatting with friends. He will be sadly missed by his nieces Margaret and Catherine, nephew Geoffrey, sister-in-law Kathleen, extended family, neighbours and friends. Edmond’s funeral mass took placein St. Nicholas’s Church in Ballyduff and he was laid to rest in the adjoining cemetery. We pray now that his gentle soul rests in peace.

GAA NEWS

The club are delighted to share details of the Waterford Camogie Golf Classic which will take place on Saturday September 14th in Carrick-on-Suir Golf Club. This is open to all golfers and the entry price is €120 per team of 4. To enter your team you can book on BRS or call 051-640047 or email info@carrickgolfclub.net There will be €2,000 worth of prizes on offer on the day.
Ballyduff Lower GAA, LGFA and Camogie Club are delighted to inform you that all their club gear is now available to purchase through the Ballyduff Club shop with O Neill’s so log in and shop by team.

BALLYDUFF AFC

The club are pleased to announce the return of the academy section of their club. The academy will take place on Fridays starting September 6th. At 5.15pm it will be the U9 boys, at 6.15pm the U6 Mixed team, at 6.15pm the U7/8 Boys and at 7pm the U7/8 Girls.
Remember to check out the club Facebook page for information on all training times for all the different age groups and check out to see if there is a team you would like to join as a player or a coach.

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK

Every morning you have two choices:
Continue to sleep with your dreams
Or wake up and chase them.

ITEMS FOR NOTES.

If you would like me to include any items in these notes for you please contact me Linda Spillane on 087 9838392 or spillanelinda2017@gmail.com It is a wonderful way to keep in touch with what is going on in the local community and to inform people about things happening within your club or organization

Terry Butler Cup, Irish Hopes and Texas Bound

GET COOKING

Are you thinking ahead and trying to think of some new skills you would like to learn. Ballyduff Community Centre will be the venue for some adult cookery classes in October. They will take place on Tuesday nights from 7pm to 9pm from October 1st to October 22nd and will cost €100. The cost includes all ingredients, equipment, recipes and aprons. If you would like some further information, please contact Chef Siobhan on 0879027425 or drop an email to siobhanfinan04@gmail.com

CHURCH NEWS

If you would like to book a weekend anniversary mass for your loved one, please contact Linda Spillane on 087 9838392 with your preferred date. Saturday evening masses take place at 7.30pm and Sunday morning masses are at 10am.
You are invited to drop along to the church and light a candle for a special intention you may have. Our new candelabras are proving very popular. Just drop your coin in the slot and your candle will automatically light up.
If you are interested in reading at mass, new readers are always welcome. Please hand your name and number into the sacristy.

TERRY BUTLER CUP.

The annual Terry Butler Cup Final will take place on Friday August 23rd at 6.30pm in Ballyduff AFC grounds. Ballyduff’s U11 squad will take on their neighbours from Portlaw. This annual event is always a fun evening and a great way to remember a very popular man who gave so much to his club over the years. Terry loved the game and would be thrilled to see Ballyduff AFC thriving and prospering as it is. Drop along on Friday and soak up the atmosphere.

IRISH HOPES

The Irish Junior Eventing squad will represent their country with great pride at the European Championships in Poland from August 21st to 24th. Part of this squad is Gearoid Bolger from Ballyduff West. Gearoid and his horse Into Mischief will be flying the flag high and we all wish them every success. What a fantastic achievement and a very proud occasion for Gearoid and his family. Gearoid and his family have a long association with the equestrian industry and their great love and respect for their horses is evident to all. We have our fingers crossed for Gearoid and look forward to welcoming him back home.

FLYING THE DEISE FLAG

Ballyduff Camogie Club were thrilled and delighted to watch their two club members Trudie O Reilly and Aisling Counihan represent their club with great pride as part of the Waterford U14 White Camogie team. The girls and their team went on to win the All-Ireland blitz cup final. Congratulations to the girls excelling at a sport they love.

ALL-IRELAND MEDAL

Congratulations to Ballyduff lady Sarah O Connor who is the proud owner of an All-Ireland medal. Sarah was part of the Waterford team who won the U14 All- Ireland recently. Sarah very proudly flew the Deise flag, and all the members of the Foley and O Connor families are very proud to see Sarah rewarded for her hard work and commitment.

DOWN UNDER

Best of luck to our local Superwoman Diane Behan who has headed down under to Australia to compete in the World Duathlon Championships. This includes an Olympic distance of 10km run, 40 km cycle and 5km run. Diane is a member of Waterford Triathlon Club and is a super athlete who takes her fantastic achievements in her stride.

BIRTHDAY BOY.

We send very happy birthday wishes to Seamus Dunphy who recently celebrated his 50th birthday. I have no doubt that Seamus was treated to wonderful celebrations by his wife Michelle and their two beautiful children Hollie and James. We all wish Seamus the very best for his birthday and hope that he enjoys many more too. He may even have received a complimentary birthday drink in The Sweep, if he behaved himself!

TEXAS BOUND

There was never a doubt from a young age that Carriganure man AJ Bowman was bound for great things. He was rarely seen without a football in his hands and put great energy and commitment into his training. His talent and skill shone, and his face lit up every time he spoke about the game. AJ captained Cork City FC U20 squad for two years and completed his Leaving Certificate in St. Declan’s Community College, Kilmacthomas in June. He earned a soccer scholarship to Midwestern State University in Texas. He will play for MSU Mustangs while he studies business at the University. Speaking to AJ’s very proud parents Jason and Claire and his brother Spencer, they tell me that AJ is settling in nicely and adjusting to the 40-degree heat!

RECENT DEATH

We extend our deepest sympathy to the Dunphy and Butler families on the recent death of Ellen (Nelly) Dunphy, late of Lismore Park. Nelly was a native of Gortaclode and in married life she and her family lived in Blacknock for some time. She will be sadly missed by her husband Frank, her children Fiona, Suzanne, Yvonne, Nicola, Denise, Ellen, Maria and Patrick, her grandchildren, great grandchildren and extended family.
Nelly’s funeral mass took place in St. Paul’s Church, Lisduggan and Nelly was laid to rest in Ballyduff Cemetery. May her gentle soul now rest in peace, and we pray that her family will draw comfort from their wonderful memories.

YOUTH DRAMA.

The Ballyduff Youth Drama’s annual production is always a much-anticipated event, and their production always provides a great night of fun, song and dance. The group is aimed at boys and girls from 5th and 6th classes from Ballyduff, Kilmeaden and all the surrounding areas. This is a wonderful way to make new friends and helps young people with their confidence and self-belief while having great fun. If you are interested in joining the group watch out next week for registration details.

ITEMS FOR NOTES.

If you would like me to include any items in these notes for you please contact me Linda Spillane on 087 9838392 or spillanelinda2017@gmail.com It is a wonderful way to keep in touch with what is going on in the local community and to inform people about things happening within your club or organisation.

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK

Just one positive thought in the morning
Can change your whole day.

Recent Engagement, Camogie Donation and Summer at the Railway

GOLF SUCCESS

Congratulations to all who took part in the recent Golf Classic organised by Ballyduff GAA, Camogie and LGFA Clubs. A great weekend was had by all at Carrick-on-Suir Golf Club with some great skills on display. Teams of three made their way around the course, each hoping to be in with a chance to win one of the prizes which were sponsored by Gala in Kilmeaden. The winners on the day were 1st: Dylan Reade, Shane Reade and Cormac Bolger 2nd: Trevor Kiely, Jake Scanlon and Jamie Murphy 3rd: Sean O Rourke, Keevan Doherty and Scott Searson and 4th: Pat Walsh, Alex Walsh and Ben Latham. Nearest to the pin was Billy McCabe and Ritchie Butler had the longest drive.
The event was a huge success, and the club are indebted to all the sponsors and participants and of course to all at Carrick-on-Suir Golf Club. A big thank you also to all who gave their time and energy to organising this event.

RECENT ENGAGEMENT.

We send warm wishes and congratulations to Gortaclode man Darren Butler who recently took the plunge and popped that all important question to his beautiful girlfriend Zoe O Neill. Thankfully the Passage East lady said yes much to the delight of all at home. Darren chose the fabulous romantic setting of Santorini in Greece to get down on one knee but not before calling Zoe’s parents to ask their permission first. What a beautiful traditional proposal and everyone back home were thrilled to hear the great news. This very popular couple returned home to much celebration, and we wish them the very best of luck in their future lives together.

BALLYDUFF AFC

The Football Academy of Ireland will host their Summer Camp in the wonderful grounds at Ballyduff AFC. This camp combines fun with skill development, positional tactical play and football conditioning. The camp caters for boys and girls from 6 to 14 years and will take place from Tuesday August 13th to Thursday August 15th from 2.30pm to 5.30pm each day. The cost is €49, and you can book your space on www.footballacademyofireland.com/camps
A reminder that Ballyduff AFC are on the lookout for new players and coaches for many of the different age groups. Take a look on their Facebook page for more information or drop along to the grounds and have a chat with one of the lads.

CAMOGIE DONATION

Ballyduff Lower Camogie Club were thrilled to be chosen by Tesco Lisduggan and Tesco Ballybeg as part of their Tesco Community Fund recently. They received a fantastic cheque for €663 which will be put to great use by the club. A big thank you to all who supported their campaign and put the blue tokens in their slot.

SUMMER AT THE RAILWAY

The Waterford Suir Valley Railway in Kilmeaden is a real hive of activity every day. There really is something for everyone as you can enjoy a spin on the train, a walk or run along the Greenway or sit and relax at The Whistlestop Café and watch the world go by. Check out their Facebook Page or their website for all the details of train times. Wednesdays and Sundays are Choo Choo Fun Days at the railway when Honey and Barry Bear drop along to meet all the lovely children.
The train drive is suitable for all ages and abilities with under 3’s travelling free. The beautiful sights and sounds along the route are breathtaking and it is truly a relaxing experience and takes you away for the daily worries of life. Drop along and treat yourself.

COMMUNITY GARDEN

Our local community garden is really starting to take shape with great work being done by many volunteers. Remember there is something for anyone who would like to help with no great commitment needed. You can give an hour whenever you have time. A group like to meet there on a Tuesday evening from about 6.30pm to tackle a few jobs and discuss what could be done in the future days. Drop along and see how you can help to build this garden for future generations to enjoy.

REMEMBERING DOMINIC

A fantastic collection of musicians and singers gathered in O Donnachas, Kilmeaden on Monday July 29th to remember the one and only Dominic Hearne on his 3rd anniversary. Music was the centre of Dominic’s life, and he was a gifted musician and singer who brought great joy to many through his music. He made many wonderful friends along the way and through golf and motorbikes and they were only too happy to come together and enjoy some great music and to share some stories. I have no doubt that Dominic was watching from the heavens above, beaming with delight and singing along.

CHURCH NEWS

If you would like to book a weekend anniversary mass for a loved one during the months of August and September, please contact Linda Spillane on 0879838392. The Saturday evening mass takes place at 7.30pm and the Sunday morning mass is at 10am.

ITEMS FOR NOTES.

If you would like me to include any items in these notes for you please contact me Linda Spillane on 087 9838392 or spillanelinda2017@gmail.com It is a wonderful way to keep in touch with what is going on in the local community and to inform people about things happening within your club or organisation.

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK

Never stop doing little things for others.
Sometimes those little things,
occupy the biggest part of their hearts.

Scrap Collection, Lady Footballers, Graveyard Mass

SCRAP COLLECTION

Ballyduff AFC are hosting a scrap collection at their grounds in Ballyduff Lower. Items can be dropped to the grounds any day between 10am and 8pm. Please do not bring any dishwashers or items with glass. This is a fundraiser for the club who have great plans for further development of the club and its grounds. Please support by having a tidy up of that yard or shed you have been promising to do and drop your items off at Ballyduff AFC. You’ll earn great brownie points for tidying up and supporting your local club.

LADY FOOTBALLERS

Ballyduff AFC are hoping to start a ladies football team for the coming season and so are putting a call out for all goalies, defenders, strikers and midfielders to get in touch through Facebook messenger or by contacting Paul on 086 3135984.
They are also on the lookout for coaches, junior men’s players, ladies’ senior players, schoolboys and schoolgirls players, academy players and coaches. Ballyduff AFC is a wonderful club with fantastic facilities and there are teams to suit every age.

GAA LOTTO

The numbers drawn in the latest lotto draw were 7, 10, 11 and 16 and there was no winner of the jackpot. The three lucky dip winners of €50 each were Lisa Burns, Mary Margaret Smith and Liam Daly. The next draw will take place on Monday August 5th 2024 and there will be a jackpot of €12,500 on offer. Tickets cost just €2 each or three for €5 and are available from all committee members, can be purchased online or there will be volunteer ticket sellers at Centra, Kilmeaden on Saturday August 3rd.
The lotto is a very important fundraiser for the club, and they are very grateful for all the support they receive. Choose your four lucky numbers carefully and you could have the opportunity to enjoy an even longer Bank Holiday weekend.

GRAVEYARD MASS.

Unfortunately, our annual graveyard mass had to be held inside the church due to the weather. A very large crowd attended and joined together to offer their prayers for all their relatives and friends who are buried in the adjoining graveyard. We also remembered in a special way all those who no longer have anyone left to pray for them. The choir sang some beautiful hymns throughout the mass and really enhanced the ceremony. Everyone was delighted to have Kilmeaden native Fr. John Harris celebrate mass.
Following mass people gathered in Ballyduff Community Centre to enjoy a nice cuppa and some delicious refreshments. It was also a lovely opportunity for people to meet and chat. A big thank you to all who donated biscuits and cakes for the occasion and to all who helped on the night.

ITEMS FOR NOTES.

If you would like me to include any items in these notes for you please contact me Linda Spillane on 087 9838392 or spillanelinda2017@gmail.com It is a wonderful way to keep in touch with what is going on in the local community and to inform people about things happening within your club or organisation.

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.