Community Centre AGM, Community Garden and Message from Fr. Mick

May 12, 2023 Christine Tubbritt

GAA Lotto

The numbers drawn in the latest lotto draw were 12, 14, 17 and 26 and there was no winner of the jackpot. There were three lucky dip winners of €50 each and they were Alice Walsh, Mairead Counihan and Ollie Fleming. The next draw will take place on May 14th and there will be a fantastic jackpot of €9,650 up for grabs. Tickets are just €2 each or three tickets for €5 and will be available from all committee members and will also be on sale on Saturday 13th at Centra.

Community Centre AGM

Recent developments at Ballyduff Community Centre.
The board of the Community Centre applied for a grant allocation from the Pobal Community Centres Investment Fund to fund the supply and installation of a stair chair lift and the installation of a suspended ceiling in the hall, including insulation over the ceiling. €15,367.90 was approved and €13,831.11 has been received so far. The works are now completed and are much appreciated by all groups who use the centre.
The board also applied to Waterford City and County Council for a grant from the Community Support Fund. We were approved for €2,000 and the full amount has been received. This was for the annual insurance premium €1,375 and the balance was to be used as a contribution towards the painting of the hall. The painting work is also completed, and the board wishes to express its gratitude for the funding received from Pobal and Waterford City and County Council.
The centre is available for many local groups/activities. As well as Jellytots pre-school, current activities include yoga, dance, bridge club, High Road Community Alert and GAA meetings.
AGM: The Annual General Meeting of the Community Centre will take place in the centre at 7.30 p.m. on Tuesday May 30th 2023. All are welcome.
Linda Spillane recently attended a couple of meetings in Ballyduff Community Centre and was full of praise for the wonderful improvements which have been made. Huge credit must go to a very hardworking committee. It is a fantastic asset in the community and is the perfect spot for many activities and groups.

Community Alert

Our local community alert group held their final meeting before the summer break last week. Waterford City and County Mayor John O Leary and his wife Eileen attended the meeting and told those in attendance about their experiences over the past 10 or 11 months. John explained how much he has enjoyed his time as Mayor and while it has been a very busy time, he has met some wonderful people and has been able to witness first-hand the excellent work being done around Waterford by so many volunteers and groups. The community alert group made a presentation to John and Eileen to congratulate them and to let them know how proud their local community are of them.
Following the meeting everyone enjoyed a chat over a nice cuppa and some treats. The community alert group will resume meetings again in September, but their text alert scheme will remain active over the summer months keeping people informed of any suspicious activity in our area.

Ballyduff AFC

Ballyduff AFC are continuing their clothes collection and are asking you to clear out those wardrobes and presses and drop your unwanted to the dressing rooms on club grounds. Items can be dropped off any day between 10am and 8pm.
The club have announced the dates of their very popular summer camps. The club’s own camp will begin on July 3rd and the FAI camp will begin on July 17th. Watch out through their website and Facebook page for payment link details.

Community Garden.

The necessary paperwork and documentation for our proposed community garden is now almost completed and we are all looking forward to seeing work beginning on site. The group are delighted with the support they have received so far and are excited to talk about ideas and plans for the garden. A design plan will soon be drawn up so if you have any ideas for things which should be included then please see the Facebook page or you can contact Peter Jacob, Declan Finn or Linda Spillane. Remember this will be a garden for all ages and abilities and a place for all in the community.

Message from Fr. Mick

Our beloved Fr. Mick has spent the past four months in hospital, and he would like all his parishioners and friends to know that he has now moved to the Care Choice Home in Dungarvan. He likes to keep in touch with local happenings and welcomes visitors. You can also send him a text message which will be read to him. We all wish Fr. Mick the very best and keep him in our prayers.

Alzheimer’s Tea Day

A big thank you to all who supported the annual Alzheimer’s tea and coffee morning in Ballyduff Community Centre. A fantastic amount of €600 was raised on the day and this money will stay in the Waterford area. A big thank you to Niamh Larkin who organises this event every year.

Ballyduff GAA, Alzheimers Tea Day and Concert Success

May 5, 2023 Christine Tubbritt

Ballyduff AFC

Ballyduff AFC have two different collections running at present. The scrap collection is continuing, and you are welcome to drop your pieces to the grounds. They are also running a clothes collection so why not have a clear out of those wardrobes and drop off your bags of unwanted items to the dressing room. Items can be dropped off any day between 10am and 8pm.
The club have announced the dates of their very popular Summer camps. The club’s own camp will begin on July 3rd and the FAI camp will begin on July 17th. Watch out through their website and Facebook page for payment link details.
Congratulations to the U14 team who won the U14 league. This team won 9 out of their 10 games which is a fantastic achievement. A big thanks must go to their coaches John and Maura who have been with this team since U6 level. This team have always focused on teamwork and communicating with each other which resulted in good performances and focus. The parents also need to be thanked for their support and encouragement.

Ballyduff GAA

It’s that time of year again when we can win some fantastic prizes. The Deise draw is a brilliant way to support our GAA clubs as 75% of all money raised goes back into the club. There are 6 draws commencing on May 22nd and cost €15 per month. You can purchase your ticket from any of the committee members here in Ballyduff or you can contact Brian on 087-2486423.

Recent Death

We were all saddened to hear of the death of Michael O Regan, Kilmagemogue recently. Michael was a man of the land who enjoyed working on the farm and rearing his animals. He was a quiet, unassuming man who enjoyed spending time with his wife Ann, their children, and grandchildren. He was also a beautiful singer with a lovely melodic tone which told the story of an Irish ballad perfectly. We have no doubt that he will now be a proud member of God’s heavenly choir and we pray that his sweet soul now rests in peace. Mick’s funeral mass took place in St. Nicholas’ church in Ballyduff, and he was laid to rest in the adjoining cemetery. We extend our deepest sympathy to his beloved wife Ann, his sons Brendan and Raymond, his daughters Michelle and Priscilla, his sons-in-law, daughter-in-law, grandchildren, his brother Patrick, sister Noeleen and all the extended family. May the wonderful memories they bring them peace and comfort.

Alzheimers Tea Day

We are all aware of the fantastic work being done by the Alzheimers Society. The support and help which they give to their members and their families is invaluable and we must all work together to ensure that these services continue within our communities. On Thursday May 4th we will have an opportunity to help raise much needed funds as we gather to celebrate National Alzheimers Tea Day. Ballyduff Community Centre is the venue for a lovely tea and coffee morning from 9.30am to 12 noon. All funds raised stay local and will benefit those living in the Waterford area. Drop into Ballyduff Community Centre and enjoy a nice cuppa and a chat and I will let you in on a little secret, there are always some very tasty treats but don’t tell anyone that I told you.

Concert Success.

I recently had the pleasure of attending Karan Casey’s show in Garter Lane. Karan, a native of Ballyduff is touring around Ireland promoting her new album “Nine Apples of Gold”. The home ground gave Karan and her fellow musicians a warm Waterford welcome and in turn we were treated to a night of beautiful music and song. Each song told a story and transported you to a time or place in your own life. If I could have sat there for hours and hours, I would have been very happy.
I am delighted to report that Karan’s album now takes the No.1 spot in the FAI Folk Chart. This is truly deserved, and I know that Karan really appreciates all the support. Karan never forgets her roots and loves returning home to her dad Karl who is her No.1 fan and loves catching up with neighbours and friends. We wish her continued success and look forward to hearing her again soon in her native home.

Alzheimers Tea Day, 21st Celebrations and Ballyduff Community Centre.

April 28, 2023 Christine Tubbritt

GAA Lotto

Ballyduff Lower GAA club held their lotto draw on April 16th and the four lucky numbers drawn were 5, 23, 26 and 28. There was no winner of the jackpot and the new jackpot of €9,500 will now be up for grabs on April 30th. Wouldn’t that be a lovely way to end off the month. The three lucky dip winners of €50 each on the night were Michelle Dunphy, Kim Bergin and Gary Flynn. Tickets are just €2 each or three for €5 and are available from all club members, online or will be on sale at Centra in Kilmeaden on Saturday April 29th.

Bridge Club

The Ballyduff/ Portlaw Bridge club held their recent game on Monday April 17th at the results were as follows:
Joint Winners: Ann and William Tobin and Kathleen Collins and Patsy Roche.
Joint 3rd: Iris Graham and John Fitzpatrick and Peggy Barron and Joan Hartrey.

Recent Death

We extend our deepest sympathies to MJ Healy, High Road on the recent death of his father Mervyn Healy late of Coxtown, Dunmore East. Mervyn will be sadly missed by his wife Marie, daughter Margaret, sons Derek, Raymond and Mervyn John, son-in-law, daughters-in-law, grandchildren, great grandchildren, sister, brothers and extended families. Mervyn’s funeral mass took place in the Holy Cross Church, Killea followed by private cremation.

Alzheimers Tea Day

We are all aware of the fantastic work being done by the Alzheimers Society. The support and help which they give to their members and their families in invaluable and we must all work together to ensure that these services continue within our communities.
On Thursday May 4th we will have an opportunity to help raise much needed funds as we gather to celebrate National Alzheimers Tea Day. Ballyduff Community Centre is the venue for a lovely tea and coffee morning from 9.30am to 12 noon. All funds raised stay local and will benefit those living in the Waterford area. Drop into Ballyduff Community Centre and enjoy a nice cuppa and a chat and I will let you in on a little secret, there are always some very tasty treats but don’t tell anyone that I told you.

ITF Championships

Congratulations to Ben Latham, Cullinagh and his teammate Christine Franks who travelled recently to Romania to represent Ireland at the ITF European Championships. Ben is a member of Master Franks Taekwondo club. This a fantastic achievement for Ben to be chosen from competitors all over Ireland.

21st Celebrations

Congratulations to local lady Maria Power (nee Smith), Ballygarron who recently celebrated 21 years in business. Aura Skin and Laser Clinic is situated in the Ballinakill Shopping Centre on the Dunmore Road offer a dedicated and friendly service to their customers and are always willing to work with each individual to find the perfect treatment for their needs. We wish Maria and her staff continued success and many more great years serving the people of Waterford and beyond.

Ballyduff AFC

Ballyduff AFC have two different collections running at the moment. The scrap collection is continuing, and you are welcome to drop your pieces to the grounds. They are also running a clothes collection so why not have a clear out of those wardrobes and drop off your bags of unwanted items to the dressing room. Items can be dropped off any day between 10am and 8pm.
The club have announced the dates of their very popular Summer camps. The club’s own camp will begin on July 3rd and the FAI camp will begin on July 17th. Watch out through their website and Facebook page for payment link details.

Ballyduff Community Centre

Do you have a little budding chef in your house? Ballyduff Community Centre will play host to cookery classes from July 17th to July 21st from 10am to 12.30pm each day. These classes are for boys and girls aged 6 to 12 years and they will learn to cook flapjacks, traybakes, pasta bakes, pizza and many other tasty treats. There will be 8 people per class and a €25 deposit is needed to secure your place. For more information, please contact Siobhan on 087 9027425.

Thought for the week.

Happiness is an inside job.
Don’t assign anyone else,
That much power over your life.

Bingo in Kill, Community Alert and Easter Commemoration

April 21, 2023 Christine Tubbritt

Recent Death

We extend our deepest sympathy to Derek Laffan, Ballyduff West on the recent death of his beloved father Freddie Laffan. Freddie was a very well-known and much loved character in Portlaw and was a true community man. One of the founding members of Portlaw Musical Society, Freddie gave some wonderful pantomime performances over the years and was known for adding in his own lines from time to time. A native of Mooncoin he remained true to his county with the Kilkenny flag flying with pride at the gate during the season and Ann would place the Waterford flag on the other side. Their marriage was probably one of the best Kilkenny/Waterford partnerships. They loved to spend time together and with their two sons Kieran and Derek, their wives Jacinta and Fiona and of course their adored grandchildren.
The huge crowd at Freddie’s funeral and burial was a testament of the high esteem in which Freddie was held. His name may never appear in any school history books, but his name will be forever remembered in the history of Portlaw. May he now rest in gentle peace and who knows within months there could be a Pantomime Society in heaven.

Suir Valley Railway

Waterford Suir Valley Railway in Kilmeaden is now open for the 2023 season. The easter bunny enjoyed a wonderful time there over Easter and many people enjoyed the beauty and magical feel of the railway with a trip on the train passing through the fairy woods and the stunning views over the river Suir. There were many chocolate eggs and treats along the way.
Would you like to become part of the team at Waterford Suir Valley Railway? Can you spare one day per week? The team are now adding to their volunteer crew and would love to hear from you. This is a wonderful opportunity to get out and about and meet people from all walks of life. Speaking to many of the volunteers they all say that it is one of the best decisions they ever met. The joy and pleasure you see on people’s faces is something that cannot be equalled. Friendships are made and the variety of people that you meet makes every day exciting and interesting. Many people dreamed of driving a train when they were a child, and this could become a reality. If you would like to find out more or express your interest, please contact Maria Kyte on 051-384058 or check out their Facebook page or website.

Bingo in Kill

Our friends in Kill Community Centre are organising Bingo nights every Saturday night, beginning on May 6th at 8pm. All proceeds are being donated to the Waterford Branch of the Parkinson society. This is a charity which is close to many of our hearts and how nice would it be to support the fabulous work that they do, while we enjoy a night of fun. So, gather your two little ducks and get your legs eleven to Kill. Eyes down at 8pm.

Church News

It is now time to hand back your Trocaire Box so that the money can be counted and sent to where it is needed. You can drop your box back to the church when you are passing or before or after any of the weekday or weekend masses.
If you would like to book an anniversary mass for your loved one during the months of April, May or June please contact Linda Spillane on 087-9838392.
The Easter collection for the support of the priests of the parish is continuing so please drop your envelope into the collection basket at the weekend masses. You can also drop it to the sacristy during the week if you would prefer. There is a letterbox on the sacristy door inside the church.

Community Alert

The next meeting of our local Community Alert Group will take place on Wednesday April 19th at 8pm in Ballyduff Community Centre. This will be the final meeting before the Summer break so it would be lovely to see as many as possible there. The Gardai will be in attendance and will be happy to deal with any queries and questions. The text alert scheme will continue throughout the Summer informing you of any suspicious activity in or around the area. This is a fantastic way of keeping up to date with any happenings to watch out for. The information received from the Gardai is sent out by text straight away and has helped many times in the apprehending of individuals. If you would like to become a member of the text alert scheme, you can join for the year for just €5. Please contact Linda Spillane on 087 9838392.

Easter Commemoration

Congratulations to John O Leary who each year organises an Easter commemoration at the 1916 plaque on Ballyduff Village Green. Following Easter Sunday morning mass, a large crowd gathered around the plaque. It was only fitting than in his year as Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. John O Leary would read the Proclamation. One of Ballyduff’s oldest residents Tommy O Brien raised our Tricolour to its’ glory and talented piper Tommy Kiely played our National Anthem. This was a lovely occasion attended by young and old coming together to celebrate our heritage and it is wonderful to see this tradition being carried on. A big thank you to John who always organises the event.

The Big Sing, County Success and Easter at the Railway

April 14, 2023 Christine Tubbritt

GAA Lotto

The four lucky numbers drawn in the latest GAA lotto draw were 5, 10, 15 and 26. There was no winner of the jackpot and the three lucky dip winners of €50 each were Sue Foley, Lizzie O Keeffe and Niall Clifford. The next draw will take place on April 16th and there will be a jackpot of €9,350 up for grabs. Tickets cost just €2 each or three for €5. Tickets can be purchased from any committee member and will also be on sale at Centra on Saturday April 15th.

Bridge News

The Ballyduff and Portlaw Bridge club played their most recent game on Monday April 3rd and the results were as follows:
1st: Ann Tobin and Celia Nugent.
2nd: Sean Hennessy and Patsy Roche
3rd: Kate Hayes and Geraldine McMahon
4th: Anne-Marie Brown and Mary Kennedy.
The club took a break on Bank Holiday Monday and the next game will be played on Monday April 17th.

The Big Sing

On Thursday March 30th, a group off 22 students from 3rd to 6th classes in Ballyduff N.S travelled to The National Stadium in Dublin with their teachers Ms. Bates and Ms. O Neill to take part in the big sing. What a fantastic opportunity for the young people to join with so many other schools and experience the joy of performing to an audience. Parents who travelled to the stadium as spectators and they were uplifted by the fantastic atmosphere and the amazing energy which filled the stadium. This was a wonderful opportunity for the students and parents of Ballyduff N.S to create wonderful memories together.

County Success

Congratulations to Ballyduff Lower Camogie player Trudie O Reilly who has been named on the Waterford primary games team. What a fantastic achievement by Trudie and the club are very proud of her. We wish Trudie and her fellow teammates the very best of luck for the future season.

Ballyduff AFC.

Ballyduff AFC held their popular Easter camp last week. The young boys and girls enjoyed a variety of games and activities. A fantastic time was had by all and a big well done to all at Ballyduff AFC for organising and to the coaches Roisin, Orla, Laura, Alanna, Ben and Conor who made sure everything ran smoothly.

Easter at the Railway

Congratulations to all at Waterford Suir Valley who pulled out all the stops to welcome the Easter Bunny. The station was decorated beautifully and I’m sure that the Easter Bunny and friends felt very welcome. The brightness and colour gave everyone a lift and it wasn’t just the children who were excited to meet the Easter Bunny.

Church News

A big thank you to all who helped out during Holy Week, it is a very busy week in the Church’s calendar and requires lots of volunteers. Thank you to all who helped with the readings and prayers, Eucharistic ministers and the choir for adding so beautifully to the ceremonies. Joan Cheasty did a wonderful job on the flower arranging and of course as always, we thank our very dedicated sacristan Ann Nolan who keeps the church looking so wonderful and has everything set out and ready for each ceremony. Easter is a time of great joy and happiness as we glory in the promise of the resurrection.

Thank you Message, Daffodil Day and Easter Commemoration

April 7, 2023 Christine Tubbritt

THANK YOU MESSAGE

On one of my most recent visits to Fr. Mick, he asked me if I would write a message for him so that he could thank people through the notes. He has been in hospital for the past three months and while life has changed a lot for him, he is very grateful for all the good wishes and prayers he has received. He enjoys people visiting and keeping in touch with all the news from the parish. Fr. Mick has been serving our parish for 29 and a half years and we miss him desperately. He asks that we continue our prayers for him, and he ensures me that he will be praying for all of us.

RECENT DEATH

We were all saddened to hear of the recent death of Michael Connolly of Cullinagh. Michael was of course one of the founder members of our local soccer club. Michael had a vast knowledge of the club and the previous clubs that were in the area like Kilmeaden Utd and Dawn Rovers. When the new club was being formed in 1970, Michael and his brother Maurice were great players but also provided the first playing field which was called Connolly Park. I have heard some great stories of games played on that pitch. Michael always kept a keen interest in the club and his vision all those years ago has made it the great success it is today.
Michael will be sadly missed by his wife Ann, daughters Eve and Mary Sue, his son John, grandchildren, nephews, extended family, neighbours and friends. Michael’s funeral mass took place in St. Nicholas’ Church, Ballyduff followed by private cremation.

BRIDGE NEWS

The Ballyduff/ Portlaw bridge club played their latest game on Monday March 27th and the results were as follows:
1st: Anne Kennedy and Elizabeth Mooney.
2nd: Ann and William Tobin
3rd Ann-Marie Brown and John Fitzpatrick
The game on Monday April 3rd will be the Open Draw Easter Fare so I look forward to receiving the details of that.
The club would like to take this opportunity to send warm Easter wishes to all their members, past and present.
During their game on Monday March 20th, the club held a special bridge night in aid of Daffodil Day. The group presented a very generous cheque to Elma Walsh who was representing the Waterford Cancer Society and the club would like to thank all the visitors who came and supported this very worthy cause.

DAFFODIL DAY

For many years now Aileen Stephenson has organised a local group of volunteers to collect at Centra in Kilmeaden on Daffodil Day and what a wonderful job she did. She has now passed the reigns onto Elizabeth Mooney, and we know that she will continue this wonderful work. Speaking to Elizabeth she told me that she had been overwhelmed at peoples kindness and generosity. She asked me to print a thank you from her and I do so with great pleasure: ” I would like to thank Donal and Ailish Hickson, Fiona, Anne and all the staff at Centra in Kilmeaden for facilitating our volunteers on Daffodil Day. We are not alone made to feel welcome, but Fiona and her staff went above and beyond to help us with this worthy cause.
I would like to thank the wonderful team of volunteers who were so generous with their time and support. I would like to thank Deirdre, Ali and all at Jelly Tots in Ballyduff, Marie Reade and all at Whistlestop Café and Damien and all at Gala. I wish to thank Linda Spillane for all her guidance and publicity, Elma Walsh for her continued support and advice and Des Daunt for his outstanding, tireless work with the Waterford Cancer Society.
A very special thank you to all who supported so generously on the day and made the day such a success”
On your behalf I would like to say a big thank you to Elizabeth Mooney for being the kind hearted, community spirited lady that she is and for having everything organised so well.

EASTER COMMEMORATION

Following the 10am mass in Ballyduff on Easter morning , you are all invited to gather with your community outside the church at the commemoration plaque. The proclamation will be read, our tricolour will be raised and the National Anthem will be sung. All are invited to join together and celebrate our heritage.

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK

To be kind, is more important than to be right.
Many times what people need is not a brilliant mind
that speaks, but a special heart that listens.

Easter Disco, Team Success and Your Notes

March 31, 2023 Christine Tubbritt

BRIDGE NEWS

The Ballyduff/ Portlaw Bridge club played their latest games on Monday March 13th and Monday March 20th and the results were as follows:
March 13th: 1st: Kathleen Collins and Iris Graham.
Joint 2nd: Ann-Marie Brown and Mary Prendergast.
Mary Kennedy and Joan Hartery.

The game played on March 20th was a special charity night in aid of the Irish Cancer Society and the results were as follows:
1st: The Mooneys.
2nd: Michael and Ruth Murray
3rd: Therese Greaney and Joan Hartery.
Joint 4th: Patsy Roche and Michael Greaney.
Peggy Barron and Monica Sullivan

GAA LOTTO

Ballyduff Lower GAA club held their latest lotto draw on Sunday March 19th and there was no winner of the jackpot. The numbers drawn were 2, 8, 22 and 28. There were three lucky dip winners of €50 each were T.J Condon, Kathleen Atkins and Dickie Murphy. The next draw will take place on Sunday April 2nd and there will be a jackpot of €9,200. Tickets cost just €2 each or three for €5 and are available from all committee members and will also be on sale at Centra on Saturday April 1st so don’t be an April fool and get your ticket earlier.

EASTER DISCO

Time to get your Easter boogie on and get your dancing shoes ready. Ballyduff Community Centre is the venue on Friday March 31st for a fabulous Easter disco for kids aged 4 and up. All are welcome to drop into the disco between 6pm and 8pm. Entry fee will be €5 and all proceeds go to Ballyduff Lower GAA club. The disco is kindly sponsored by Kiddies Kingdom, Centra and Gala.

BALLYDUFF AFC.

Ballyduff AFC are busy getting ready for their very popular Easter Camp which will take place from April 3rd to April 7th at St. Nicholas Park, Ballyduff. The camp will run each day from 10am until 1.30pm with plenty of fun guaranteed. This is a fantastic opportunity for young boys and girls to learn some new skills, play some fun games and make some new friends. The cost is €65 for your first child, €50 for the second and your third child goes free. If you would like some more information, check out the club’s very informative Facebook page or contact 087 2764883.
The club are keeping themselves very busy both on and off the pitch and are always thinking of ways to raise funds to continue to improve their fantastic facilities. At present they are running two different collections, a clothes collection, and a scrap collection. Items can be dropped to the club grounds any day between 10am and 8pm.
They are also delighted to have finished the extension to their walking track and are thrilled to bring this addition to all their members and the wider community.

TEAM SUCCESS

Congratulations to local lady Sarah O Connor who has been selected as a member of the Waterford U14 B County Camogie Squad. This is a fantastic achievement for Sarah and we are all very proud of her and look forward to watching her competing.

RECENT DEATH

We extend our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Ruth Gamble, late of Cullinagh who died recently. She will be sadly missed by her daughter Edwina, son David, her sons-in-law, daughter-in-law, grandchildren, great grandchildren and all her relatives, friends and neighbours. Ruth’s funeral service was celebrated in St. Mary’s Church, Kilmeaden with burial in the adjoining cemetery. May she rest in peace.

YOUR NOTES

We now have many new residents in our area, and we extend a very warm welcome to them all. We need to let everyone know about what is happening within or clubs and organisation and encourage people to get involved in community life. If you would like me to include any information in these notes or would like to give a shout out to Paddy who turned 80, or Peggy Sue who just got married, Lucy who graduated or got a new job, Petulia who had a baby or your dog Rover who found a bone, then please contact me by Thursday evening of each week. You can email me on spillanelinda2017@gmail.com or call or text on 087 9838392 or just stop me if you see me out and about, I never refuse a chat!

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK

Happiness is an inside job
Don’t assign anyone else
that much power over your life.

Anniversary Celebrations, Hurling Places and New Businesses

March 24, 2023 Christine Tubbritt

Anniversary Celebrations

We send warm congratulations and best wishes to popular local couple Seamus and Michelle Dunphy who recently celebrated their 17th wedding anniversary with their beautiful children Hollie and James. The very popular proprietors of The Sweep bar and restaurant spend their time extending a warm welcome to all who enter their premises so we hope they managed to take some time off on their special day and enjoy some nice food and a few drinks. We wish them continued happiness and many more years of wedded bliss.

Flying Tent.

Are you missing a red tent from your garden in the Ballyduff Village/ Ballyduff West area? Following the high winds, a couple of weekends ago, a local lady woke to find one in her back garden. Thankfully there was nobody in the tent, unless of course they fell out in a different garden, but I haven’t received any reports yet!! If you are missing the tent and would like it back, please contact these notes and I will put you in touch with the finder.

Hurling Places

Congratulations to Ballyduff Lower players Jack O Donnell and Rory Dobbyn who have been named on the Waterford U20 Hurling Team for the 2023 season. Lead by manager Gary O Keeffe the team will commence their campaign on March 22nd when they take on Limerick in Fraher Field at 7pm. Congratulations to Jack and Rory, this is a wonderful achievement for them both and I have no doubt that they will give 100% to their training and every game.

Dulcet Anniversary

If you have ever had the pleasure of hearing the beautiful sounds of Waterford group Dulcet then you know what a real pleasure it is. One of the members is Ballyduff lady Rachel Breen whose voice blends beautifully in harmony with her fellow members. Dulcet celebrate their 20th anniversary with a special performance at St. Patrick’s Gateway Centre on Friday April 14th. They will be joined by the following special guests Dordan, Edmund Rice Choral Society, Scott Keappock, Lily Power and Strange Fruit.
Tickets are just €15 and are available from Menders, Colbeck Street and all proceeds will go to The Solas Centre and Oasis House. A wonderful night of music and song is promised while supporting two fantastic charities.

New Businesses

We welcome the proprietors and staff of Moon café and restaurant to Kilmeaden and wish them the very best of luck. Serving authentic breakfast and lunch and Thai and Burmese cuisine, there is surely something for everyone.
We also welcome all at Greenway Fuels who have set up in The Forge in Kilmeaden catering for all your heat and firing needs.
Dinny’s Mobile Washing services work from a unit at Hennessy’s Garage and will have your car or vehicle shining at their car wash and valet.
Kilmeaden is growing every day with new homes popping up everywhere, so it is wonderful to see such positive activity taking place and to see new businesses realising the great potential there is in the area.
I am a great promoter of shopping local so please support these new businesses and also all the wonderful established local businesses in the area, whenever you can. These are the places we turn to for spot prizes, donations and sponsorship for all our charity activities and club and organisation support.

Ballyduff AFC.

Confirmation

We send our best wishes and congratulations to all the young people from Portlaw N.S who received the Sacrament of Confirmation in St. Patrick’s church, Portlaw on Tuesday March 14th. We hope they all enjoyed a lovely day and wish them all well for their future.

Daffodil Day

The annual daffodil day will take place on March 24th, and we will have an opportunity here in Kilmeaden to support this very worthy cause. Elizabeth Mooney is arranging a group of people to sell daffodils and the daffodil day merchandise at Centra on the day. Please support this very worthy cause while purchasing some lovely merchandise whose bright Spring colours will always bring you joy.

Social Dancing

Are your toes tapping every time the music starts? Do you watch “Dancing with the Stars” thinking “I could do that”! The answer to your question could be right here. Social dancing classes are beginning in Ballyduff Community Centre on Tuesdays from 7.30pm to 9pm. All are welcome to attend, with all levels catered for especially beginners. You don’t need to have a partner as you can be paired up with one of the Fred Astaires or Ginger Rogers there. So if you want to waltz, jive or quick step around the floor please contact Helen on 086 8541081 for more information.

Slip Jig or Reel?

The Mulcahy Bible Dance School will hold Irish dancing classes in Ballyduff Community Centre on Thursdays at 4.30pm. All levels are welcome to come along and join in the fun. If you would like to book your place or find out more about the classes, please contact Faith on 087 2040961.

Your Notes

We now have many new residents in our area and we extend a very warm welcome to them all. We need to let everyone know about what is happening within or clubs and organisation and encourage people to get involved in community life. If you would like me to include any information in these notes or would like to give a shout out to Paddy who turned 80, or Peggy Sue who just got married, Lucy who graduated or got a new job, Petulia who had a baby or your dog Rover who found a bone, then please contact me by Thursday evening of each week. You can email me on spillanelinda2017@gmail.com or call or text on 087 9838392 or just stop me if you see me out and about, I never refuse a chat!

Thought For The Week

Happiness is an inside job
Don’t assign anyone else
that much power over your life.

Birthday Girls, Daffodil Day and Social Dancing

March 17, 2023 Christine Tubbritt

Birthday Girls

Warmest birthday wishes to Freya Harvey, The Woodlands, Portlaw who celebrated her 21st birthday on March 7th. Freya was joined by family, friends and neighbours in The Forge, Portlaw where they all enjoyed a great night and danced the night away to the sounds of the great Michael Rockett. We wish Freya many more happy birthdays to come.
The beautiful Ruby Kearns, Kilmagemogue hit that all important milestone of 1 on March 8th. Ruby is a very popular young lady with a smile to brighten up everyone’s day. She celebrated in style with her Mammy and Daddy, Kelvin and Jessie and all her family and little friends. I’m sure there was lots of yummy cakes and treats on offer and we look forward to seeing all the photos. Happy 1st birthday precious little girl.

GAA Lotto

The numbers drawn in the latest lotto draw held on March 5th were 6, 24, 27 and 28 and there was no winner of the jackpot. The three lucky dip winners of €50 each were Helen Millea, Harry c/o The Sweep and Linda Connery. The next draw will take place on March 19th and there will be a fantastic jackpot of €9,050 up for grabs.
Tickets can be purchased from any committee member and will also be on sale at Centra in Kilmeaden on Saturday March 18th. Tickets cost just €2 each or three tickets for €5.

Bridge News

The Ballyduff/ Portlaw Bridge Club held their latest game on Monday March 6th and the results were as follows:
1st: The Mooneys
2nd: Peggy Murphy and Ann Cox.
3rd: Deirdre Phelan and Elizabeth Mooney.
4th: Peggy Barron and Monica Sullivan.

Baby Boom.

Congratulations and warm welcome wishes to the world to two new cousins who joined our community in recent weeks. Ray and Danielle Ryan welcomed their beautiful daughter Lottie to their family, and she is a very lucky young lady to have a great big sister and brother who are ready to teach her all the tricks of the trade. Ray’s sister Mairead Gooney and her husband Kevin welcomed their handsome son Oisin to their family and his brothers were ready to welcome him home and fill him in on life in Gortaclode and how to wrap mammy and daddy around your finger. We welcome Lottie and Oisin to our community and look forward to watching them grow up.

Daffodil Day

The annual daffodil day will take place on March 24th, and we will have an opportunity here in Kilmeaden to support this very worthy cause. Elizabeth Mooney is arranging a group of people to sell daffodils and the daffodil day merchandise at Centra on the day. She is on the lookout for some volunteers, so if you would like to offer your support please contact her on 087 2067920.

Social Dancing

Ballyduff AFC

Ballyduff AFC are keeping themselves very busy both on and off the pitch and are always thinking of ways to raise funds to continue to improve their fantastic facilities. At present they are running two different collections, a clothes collection and a scrap collection. Items can be dropped to the club grounds any day between 10am and 8pm.
The club have now finished the extension to their walking track and they are delighted to bring this addition to all their members and the wider community.

Slip Jig or Reel?

Bridge News, Charity News and Community Garden

March 10, 2023 Christine Tubbritt

BRIDGE NEWS

The Ballyduff/Portlaw Bridge Club held their latest game on Monday February 27th and the results were as follows:
1st: Iris Graham and Elizabeth Mooney.
2nd: Nano Fitzgerald and Sean Hennessy.
3rd: Kate Hayes and Peggy Barron
Joint 4th: Celia Nugent and Mary Kennedy
Breda Murphy and Monica Sullivan

BALLYDUFF AFC

Ballyduff AFC are holding a fundraising scrap collection so it’s time to get rid of that junk that’s cluttering up those sheds and garages. You can drop off your items to the club grounds each day between 10am to 8pm. Please remember no glass or plastic objects, tyres or fridges.

CHARITY EVENT

We send warm good luck messages to local man Gavin O Rourke who will make his way to Croke Park on April 22nd but there won’t be a hurley or football in sight. Gavin will abseil from the roof of the Hogan Street to help raise funds for The Solas Centre. We are all aware of the wonderful work being done by all at the centre and the fantastic help and support they give to all their clients and their families. Gavin wants to give back to the centre who have given such great support to his wife Nicola who is currently going through chemotherapy.
On Saturday April 22nd Gavin will join other volunteers as they abseil down the Hogan Stand and hope to raise as much money as possible for such a worthy cause. If you would like to sponsor Gavin as he takes on this challenge, he would be very grateful for any donation. To donate just log into https://www.idonate.ie/Gavin O Rourke. We send our warmest get well wishes to Nicola and we will be thinking of her and keeping her in our prayers.

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. There will also be some samples of club gear available to try on for sizes before you order some. 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

The Community Garden committee are busy getting all the paperwork and forms ready for the project. They will meet a representative from the council next week and get the plans in motion to have the land signed over to the group and make plans for getting the garden started. It has been wonderful chatting to people about possible items which could be included in the garden.

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK

Keep your face always towards the sunshine
And shadows will fall behind you.

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.