Tractor Run Success, Fairbrook Concert and Recent Wedding

GAA News

This years cul camp was a fantastic success with over 80 children taking part. It was really heartwarming to see all the boys and girls playing together in such glorious weather. The future is certainly looking bright for Ballyduff Lower GAA club.

You may notice as you pass by our hurling field that the new development work has now begun. The planned ball wall, astro turf and running/walking track will benefit all club members and the community when completed. Of course to fund all these fabulous facilities, a fundraising drive must now start to make up the shortfall of the grant. Leaflets will be circulated to all members and parents. They hope to get as much support as possible to help develop their facilities for the future.

Memorial Run/Walk

The annual Liz Hayes Memorial 5 mile fun run/walk will take place on Friday August 10th. Walkers will leave Ballyduff at 6.45pm and the runners will follow on at 7.30pm. Entry is €10 and €5 for students and juniors and all money raised will go towards our local community centre. Se2 have kindly offered to sponsor cash prizes for the first three male and females home and the first male and female home in the over 40’s and 50’s sections. The first male and female juniors will also receive a prize and plenty of spot prizes also on the night. The route is a beautful scenic route taking in the stunning Knockaderry Lake. Following the run a fine array of delicious refreshments will be waiting for you to enjoy in the community centre.

West Waterford AC will take care of race timmings and all are welcome to come along and join in the fun and the atmosphere.If you would like to find out some more information take a look on their facebook page Liz(Eilis) Hayes Memorial Fun Run. This is a great community event and a fun evening out for all the family.

Tractor Run Success

Kilmeaden Vintage Tractor Club held another very successful tractor run on Sunday July 22nd. This annual event has been going from strength to strength every year and is always hugely popular . This group have raised a fantastic amount of money for The Solas Cancer Support Centre over the past few years and I know their constant support is greatly appreciated.

There was a vast array of tractors and cars on display for the run and then it was back to Haughtons to park up the vehicles and allow the drivers fill their hungry bellies with the delicious barbeque on offer and of course it needed to be washed down with a pint or two. John O Shea was on hand to play music to suit all ages and there was a great atmosphere as people relaxed in the beautiful sunshine. This was another huge success and a big well done must go to the organisers who put in such hard work every year. I will have the total amount raised for you in a few weeks so keep tuned.

Recent Weddings.

We wish every congratulations to Karen Power and John Paul Browne who recently tied the knot in Bonmahon church. Karen is a popular member of the teaching staff at Ballyduff N.S and a member of the Dawn Players Drama Group. There was no acting this time though as she declared her vows with our own Fr.Mick officiating. It was on to Hotel Kilkenny then to enjoy their reception with friends and family. We wish the happy couple every happiness in their future lives together.

Wedding bells were also ringing in our own local church in Ballyduff on July 21st as local Adamstown lady Claire Flynn exchanged vows with her groom William Gough. Fr. Mick was once again on hand to make sure everything went as it should. I got to have a sneaky look at the bridal party as they exited from the church and the bride looked stunning and beamed from ear to ear as she stood in the beautiful sunshine greeting her guests. Another stunner I spotted coming out also was the brides grandmother the great Bridie Power looking as proud as punch. The wedding guests then took the road to Dungarvan for a reception of good food and lots of dancing in the fabulous Park Hotel. Our heartiest congratulations to this newly married couple we hope their future is full of lots of love and laughter.

Fairbrook Concert

On Saturday August 11th you will treated to some beautiful music as Fairbrook House host their annual Summer concert. You have two chances on the day to catch the musical line up with the first concert from 1pm to 3pm and the second from 5pm to 7pm. The programme begins with Madeleine Doherty singer/harpist and composer. Trained as a celtic harpist she has toured Europe, The USA and the Carribbeen. During the interval you can enjoy some bubbles and nibbles while taking a stroll in the garden and a view of the museum. Following the interval you will be treated to Brazillian Portuguese music from Bossa Nova to Fado. For further information and booking please contact 051 384657 or 085 8131448 or drop an email to artmastenbroek@gmail.com or take a look on www.fairbrook-house.com

Recent Death

Our parish is most definetly a poorer place following the death of one of its’ nicest ladies. Our community was shocked to hear of the death of Helen O Leary, Ballyduff Village. I’m sure if you looked up lady in the dictionary you would find Helens name in the meaning. A quiet unassuming woman who never put in or out on anyone she was a pleasure to meet and always had a kind word to say to you. Her life revolved around her family and she adored each and every one of them. She was not only their mother, but their friend, the one to turn to for advice and the one to give encouragement and support. She excelled at being a grandmother and indeed a great grandmother and spent many happy hours enjoying their company. To her husband Tony she was his life companion, welcoming him home after his working day and supporting him through lives journey.

Helen was a big fan of the GAA cheering on our local Ballyduff teams and of course the Deise boys but when those Cork boys took to the field you dare not say anything about her native county. She also enjoyed her garden, keeping up with the news and politics and was also a fan of the quiz shows on telly. Her home was a place of welcome, a place where you felt at ease and comfort and she made a lovely cup of tea.

For Tony, Martina, Olivia, Kenneth and Stephen and all the family life has changed dramatically but I know in my heart of hearts that Helen will never stop guarding and protecting them just as she did for all the years. We genuinely share their grief and hope that the wonderful memories they have will bring them comfort and peace in the weeks and months ahead. May this beautiful sweet lady rest in gentle peace.

Newcastle Mass
A great crowd attended the annual graveyard mass at Newcastle cemetery on Tuesday July 24th. The Lord sent his glorious sunshine as people sat around on the rocks to offer their prayers for all who are buried in Newcastle. Fr. O Halloran was joined on the night by Fr. Don Moran who is home on his annual Summer visit to his native place. I was unable to attend myself so was delighted to see some fantastic photos taken by Michael Faulkner on the night. A big well done and thank you goes to the McGrath family who take such good care of the graveyard from year to year.

Raffle Thanks, Memorial Run and Sympathies

Raffle Thanks.

The organisers of the recent “Home to Rome” raffle have asked me to say a very big thank you to all who supported them on the day. They greatly appreciated all your generosity and also the kindness of the prize sponsors . Much thanks also to the staff and management of Centra in Kilmeaden for allowing the ticket selling at their premises. The lucky winners on the day were Ann Doherty, Kilkenny, Ava Spillane, Kilmeaden and Hannah Duffy, Butlerstown.

The Curry family have been overwhelmed by the support they have received to date for their charity cycle. Arthur and his son Jordan intend to cycle from Ballyduff Village to Rome in memory of Arthur’s late mother the wonderful Cait Curry who was a very highly regarded member of our community. Her wish was to visit Rome but never got the chance and so they plan to travel there in her honour. The family have decided to take the opportunity to raise money for The Hospice. Throughout Cait’s illness the family got to see first hand the tremendous work that the Hospice do and the support they give to both the patient and their family so wanted to do something to show their appreciation. If you would like to support this charity event please go to the go fund page gofundme.com/home-to-rome-2018

GAA News.

Ballyduff Lower GAA club are about to commence work on a huge development in the grounds in Kildermody. The work will consist of the construction of a ball wall, astroturf, lighting, running track and other improvements. The work is due to commence in two weeks and could be finished by September. The total cost of the works will be close to €120,000. The club have managed to secure a capital sports grant of almost €60,000. The club will soon announce their plans for fundraising for this fabulous development which will benefit the entire community. Full details will follow shortly.

Memorial Run.

The Liz Hayes annual memorial 5 mile fun run will take place on Friday August 11th. Walkers will head off at 6.45pm and the runners will go at 7.30pm. Entry is €10 or €5 for students and juniors. Se2 have kindly come on board again to sponsor cash prizes for the first three males and females and for the first male and female over 40 and 50. The first male and female juniors will also receive a prize and there will be lots of spot prizes on the night too. The first male and female home will also be presented with the Liz Hayes trophy. The West Waterford AC club will take care of race timings. Following the run there will be a fine array of refreshments on offer in the community centre, followed by the prize giving.

Newcastle Mass

The annual Newcastle cemetery mass will take place on Tuesday July 24th at 7.30pm. In memory of our ancestors who walked to mass every week, a faith walk will leave from Ballyduff church at 6.30pm and head for Newcastle. The group of walkers will carry with them a 300 year old chalice which will be used during the mass.

 

Tractor Run

The Kilmeaden Vintage Tractor club will host their annual tractor run on Sunday July 22nd. The tractors will head off from Haughtons at 1pm and take off on a beautiful scenic route and then it’s back to Haughtons for a tasty barbeque and some great music from our own John O Shea. This is always a brilliant day with all money raised going to the Solas Cancer Support Centre. If you would like any more information please contact 087-2216589.

Sympathies.

We extend our deepest sympathies to Peggy O Shea and Nancy O Sullivan on the recent death of their sister Kitty Dunne. My aunty Kitty lived in Dublin but always kept in regular touch with everything going on back in Kilmeaden. She was a huge part of all our lives and we shall miss her deeply. We pray that her gentle soul now rests in peace and that she enjoys the peace and comfort of heaven.

Mass Thanks, Time to Tee Off and Tractor Run

Bridge News.

Our local Ballyduff/Portlaw bridge club enjoyed their annual Summer party last Monday. They started off the night brilliantly with a lovely meal in The Sweep bar and restaurant. It was then back to the school hall for their weekly game of bridge and the results were as follows:

1st: Peggy Murphy and Mary Prendergast.

2nd: Geraldine McMahon and Breda Murphy.

3rd: Anna Ryan and Ann Tobin.

4th:Mary Shanahan and Michael O Donovan.

Mass Thanks.

What a beautiful sunny evening we had for our annual graveyard mass. A great crowd attended in the sunshine to offer their prayers for all who are buried in our graveyard. As always the graveyard looks beautiful and Fr. Mick gave special praise to Michael(Jnr) Power for taking such great care of the grounds all year through. A special mention must also go to our very hardworking sacristan Ann Nolan who does such tremendous work day in and day out. The choir added beautifully to the mass with some very well chosen hymns.

I was delighted to see so many people come to the community centre afterwards for a cuppa and a chat. A big thank you to all those who gave me a hand on the night and to all who donated buns and cakes. It was a lovely evening and a great show of community support.

GAA Lotto.

The numbers drawn in the latest lotto draw were 1, 11, 17 and 25. There was no jackpot winner but the three lucky dip winners of €50 each were Tommy O Brien, Margaret Power and Paul Dunne. The next draw will take place on Monday July 16th and there will be a fantastic jackpot of €11,000 on offer. Tickets cost just €2 each or 3 for €5 and are available from all committee members and will also be on sale outside Centra on Saturday July 14th. Get your ticket early and choose those four numbers wisely.

Time To Tee Off.

Our local soccer club will swap their soccer ball for golf balls when they head off for their annual Golf Classic on July 20th and 21st. This is always a very popular day out with a game of golf on the beautiful Waterford Golf Course followed by a delicious meal. A team of 4 costs €120 so book your team in. For more information please contact Paddy Kirk.

 

Junior Cul Camp

Ballyduff GAA club will host a Junior Cul Camp for boys and girls under the age of 6 from July 23rd to 27th in tandem with the GAA Cul Camps. The camp will run from 10am to 1pm at a cost of €25. If you think your child would be interested you can register and pay with camp co-ordinator Brian Hearne.

Tractor Run

The Kilmeaden Vintage Tractor Club will host their annual tractor run on Sunday July 22nd. There is always a fine display of machines on this run and they will leave from Haughtons at 1pm and take in a beautiful scenic route. All money raised on the day will go to the Solas Cancer Support Centre so if you would like any more information please call 087 2216589.

Fantastic Success

We send our heartiest congratulations to Jake Bagge, Adamstown who travelled recently to Gyor in Hungary with the Estonian team to take part in the European U18 championships. Jakes mam Ave is Estonian which makes Jake eligible for the team. The championships were hugely successful for Jake as he returned home the winner of both the 800m and the 1500m. Jakes parents Ave and Ivor are hugely proud of his achievement as I am sure all the family are.

Walk and Talk

Our local nursery and academy section of Ballyduff GAA club like to do their bit to help promote positive mental health. With this in mind they will host a walk and talk event on Saturday July 14th leaving from Haughtons at 11am. They will travel along our lovely greenway and take in the nice scenery enjoying each others company. Sponsorship cards are available from any committee member or you can simply donate on the day. This is the only fundraiser this group have all year and use the money raised to give this talented little group of players a nice trip out. This is a lovely community event so come along and join in the fun. Light refreshments will be kindly provided by Gerry and Margaret O Connell who are fabulous supporters of the juvenile section.

Popes Visit

Some people have been enquiring about how to get tickets for the Popes visit. Tickets for the final mass at the Phoenix Park are available online at www.worldmeeting2018.ie/tickets

Birthday Girl

We wish a very happy 70th birthday to Eleanor O Brien, Ballyduff Village who celebrated her big day recently. Eleanor was surprised by all her buddies in our local choir with a lovely birthday cake and a very tuneful Happy Birthday. I’m sure her husband Jim and all the family will have made sure that she was spoiled well and were on hand to help her celebrate.

GAA News

Our young teams have been very busy of late and the future of the club is certainly looking bright. The U7 hurlers travelled to Ballygunner and played some very competitive games. A great crowd of supporters showed up and were treated to some brilliant hurling.

The U8 footballers hosted a blitz and welcomed teams from Roanmore, Rathgormack and St. Mollerans. There was some fantastic skill on show with the Ballyduff lads coming out on top. Ballyduff were delighted to welcome some new players who are really looking forward to playing some more games. The supporters were on hand again to cheer the team on and thanks also to Cathal for refereeing the games.

The U13/14 hurlers were also in action recently. The U 13’s had a great win over Passage while the U14’s went down to a very strong Ballygunner side. Both teams played at a very high level and gave the very best of themselves.

 

Your Notes

Keep in contact with everyone over the Summer months through these notes letting everyone know what is going on in your club or organisation. Send birthday wishes, congratulations, condolences, thanks, wish the cat well whatever you like. You are welcome to contact me on 087 9838392 or spillanelinda2017@gmail.com or as I have said before stop me for a chat( I’m an expert at that). Look forward to hearing from you

Graveyard Mass, Amazing Success and Home to Rome.

Bridge News
The Ballyduff/Portlaw bridge club held their latest game on Monday June 25th and the winners were:

1st: Anne Kennedy and John Fitzpatrick.

2nd:Nano Fitzgerald and Geraldine McMahon

3rd: Breda Cowman and Mary Kennedy.

4th: Joan Hartley and Mary O Brien.

Graveyard Mass

Our annual graveyard mass will take place in Ballyduff cemetery this Wednesday July 4th at 7.30pm. I ask you to please spread the word to people in other areas who have relatives buried here and would like to attend the mass. If you are visiting your family grave during the week to put some fresh flowers on or give a tidy up to we ask you to please bring a bag with you and take home any dead flowers or wreaths with you as there is a strict no dumping policy in the graveyard.

Following the mass we will have a cuppa and refreshments in the community centre. This is always a lovely chance for people to have a chat and meet up with people they may not have seen for a while. If you would like to donate a few buns or biscuits please give me Linda Spillane a shout on 087-9838392 or I will be in the hall that evening from about 6.30pm.

Schools Out

The pupils and staff of Ballyduff N.S and Jelly Tots playschool finished up for their Summer holidays last week and we wish each and every one of them a very happy and safe Summer full of laughter and fun. To all our 6th class young men and women we wish them the very best of everything as they head off to secondary school but they have a whole Summer to enjoy first.

Tractor Run

The Kilmeaden Vintage Tractor club will hold their annual charity tractor run on Sunday July 22nd. They will head off from Haughtons at 1pm on the day and take in a lovely scenic route. The club do this every year to raise money for The Solas Cancer Support Centre and have raised a phenomenal amount of money over the years for the charity. This is always a much looked forward to event and is always a great day out so if you would like any further information please contact 087 2216589.

Ballyduff Youth Drama

Ballyduff Youth Drama are pleased to announce that they will put on another production this year. The group cater for boys and girls from 5th and 6th classes from the Ballyduff/Kilmeaden areas. Rehearsals will begin on September 10th and end in February. The cost of insurance per child is €15 and although registration night has taken place you can contact Helen Millea, Joan Cheasty or Eleanor Foley if your child is interested in joining.

Amazing Success.

Congratulations to all the guys from Ballyduff NS who were the glorious winners in the Division 2 section of the Waterford Primary Schools Football League 2018. The guys returned victorious with the Jack Kennedy Memorial Cup. This was a huge achievement for the lads and their teacher John Carey who put in a huge effort. A big well done to all the parents who attended and gave the lads the encouragement and praise they so richly deserved. This was a very special day for the lads and a just reward for their committment and dedication. We are all very proud of them all.

Home To Rome.

Speaking recently to Arthur Curry(Jnr) he tells me that he and his son Jordan are very busy organising and training for their planned cycle from Ballyduff to Rome. The family saw first hand the fantastic work being done by the Waterford Hospice when their mother Cait fell ill and unfortunately died last year. Cait was a very well known lady in our parish and was loved by all who met her. One of her regrets was that she never got to go to Rome so Arthur and Jordan decided to carry out her wish for her and at the same time show their gratitude to the Hospice by raising money for them. The guys plan to leave Ballyduff on August 4th carrying two momentos of Cait’s which they will have blessed in Rome and bring home to her grave.

Watch out for upcoming fundraising events and I would also like to make you aware of the go fund me page where you might wish to donate www.gofundme.com/home-to-rome-2018

Golden Couple, Lourdes Fundraiser and Waterford No. 5

Golden Couple.

Congratulations to local Amberhill couple Paddy and Annie Kirk who recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. This lovely popular couple celebrated with their family and friends and an enjoyable time was had by all. We wish Paddy and Annie many more happy years of wedded bliss.

Bridge News

The Ballyduff/Portlaw bridge club met on Monday June 18th for their weekly game of bridge and the winners were as follows:

1st: Peggy Murphy and Elizabeth Mooney.

2nd: Theresa Phelan and Ann Marie Brown.

3rd: Mary Kennedy and Kathleen Collins.

4th: Mary Prendergast and Nano Fitzgerald.

GAA Lotto

The numbers drawn in the latest lotto draw were 1, 2, 14 and 26. There was no winner of the jackpot but the three lucky dip winners of €50 each were Linda Connery, Alice O Brien and Ann Murphy. The next draw will take place on July 2nd and will have a fabulous jackpot of €10,850 on offer. Tickets are just €2 or three tickets for €5 and are available from all committee members and will be on sale outside Centra on Saturday June 30th.

Lourdes Fundraiser

Our local Lourdes fundraising committee would like to say a big thank you to all who recently supported their raffle and talent show.The following is a list of prize winners in the raffle:

Hamper: MJ Healy

Cosmetics: Nicola Tierney

Car Service Voucher: Theresa Barry.

Other Prizes: Brian Spillane, Christine Tubbritt, Rebecca Healy, Bid O Brien, Billy Tubbritt and Eugene Power.
The popular winner of the talent show was Angela Ryan so huge congratulations to Angela who won over the judges will her beautiful voice.

Church News.

We send birthday wishes to our Parish Priest Fr. Mick who celebrated his birthday last week.

Our annual graveyard mass will take place on Wednesday July 4th at 7.30pm so please spread the word to people in other areas who have relatives and friends buried in Ballyduff. A reminder to any of you who are visiting your loved ones graves to please bring home any old wreaths or flowers with you as there is strictly no dumping in the graveyard. Following the graveyard mass there will be some light refreshments served in the community centre. This is a lovely opportunity for people to have a chat and a cuppa.

Next weekend will see the annual sacristans collection taken up at both masses. We are very lucky to have such a dedicated and hardworking sacristan. Ann excels in her role with a friendly smile and a chat for all.

Make Up Awards

Congratulations to local lady Laura Dempsey who has been nominated for the Blogger/Vlogger of the year award in the Irish Make Up Awards 2018. Laura excels in the beauty industry and we wish her the very best in her nomination.

Waterford No.5

Congratulations to Callum Lyons, Ballyduff who lined out in the No.5 jersey for the Waterford U21 hurling team. Unfortunately things didn’t go their way on the night but Callum’s family and club are very proud of his achievement. Callum is very dedicated to his sport and practices for many hours.

GAA News.

The nursery and academy groups of Ballyduff Lower club will host their sponsored 5k walk and talk on Saturday July 14th. The walk will leave from Haughtons at 11am and head along our beautiful greenway. What a perfect way to spend a little time, taking in some beautiful scenery, breathing in some fresh air and chatting to old friends and new. A big thank you to Gerry and Margaret O Connell who will provide some lovely refreshments. Come along and join in and enjoy all things positive.

There are many matches being played at present across all ages in the club and some great results coming back. To keep up to date with all the fixtures, results and photos tune into the club facebook page.

 

Deepest Sympathy

We offer our sincere sympathies to Una Counihan, Lacka Road on the recent death of her beloved father. Mr. Sean Diamond lived in Strabane, Co. Tyrone and his funeral mass and burial took place in St. Marys church, Melmount. We send our condolences to all the Diamond and Counihan families and we pray that Sean will rest in gentle peace.

Tractor Date.

Sunday July 22nd is a date to definetely mark into your diary. The Kilmeaden Vintage Tractor club will host their annual tractor run in aid of The Solas Cancer Support Centre. Leaving from Haughtons at 1pm this is always a wonderful event with a big following. If you would like some more information please contact 087 2216589.

Ballyduff AFC

The U14 team notched up a 4 nil victory in Tramore last week to become league champions. Huge credit most go to all the team and the management of Gavin and Jimmy who worked so hard all year. They were hit by some injury worries during the league but they regrouped and showed their strength of character and deservedly came out as champions. Scorers on the night were Sean Fitzgerald, Jack O Donnell and Alex Reade.

The clubs annual Summer Camp will take place from July 2nd to July 6th and all are welcome to come along . To book your spot please contact Paddy Kirk. The cost of the camp is €45 per child, €35 for the 2nd child and free for a 3rd child.

 

Dr. Martin Centre

The Dr. Martin Centre in Portlaw offer many different services to the community. You do not have to be from Portlaw to avail of these services all are welcome to check out what is on offer.

On the first Thursday of each month a clinic is held from 11am to 12.30 which helps any older members with any issues or problems they may have filling up medical card forms or any other types of forms.

Dinner with dessert for just €6 can be delivered or collected any day once your order is in before 11.30am. To order call 051 387111 or 087 4611309

The chiropodist visits the centre every second Wednesday and you need to book an appointment in advance. The complimentary therapist visits every second Tuesday and you also need to book in advance for this. Eyes on the road mobile opticians also visit the centre and need to be booked.

There is music in the centre every Wednesday afternoon by local musicians Tuller, Sean O Brien, Gerry Walsh and Bim Connors. There is meditation on Thursday mornings and bingo on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons.

The centre opens from 10am to 4pm on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays and invites you all to drop in. If lack of transport is preventing you getting to the centre please contact them and they will make arrangements for you.

The centre is of course indebted to the volunteers who pop in to help for an hour or two. They simply call in and have a chat with members, play a game or quiz, sing a song or maybe share a hobby or craft skill they may have. If you would like to volunteer please contact Alice Kiersey on 051 387111.

Anniversary Masses

The booking of weekend anniversary masses for the months of July, August and September have now been taken but if you happened to miss them please contact Linda Spillane on 087 9838392 and she will book one for you.

Toddle Total, Annie Treat and Fun Day Out

Bridge News.

The Ballyduff/Portlaw Bridge club played their latest game on Monday June 11th and the results were as follows:

1st: Mary Prendergast and Catherine Power.

2nd: Sean Hennessy and Nano Fitzgerald.

3rd: Monica Sullivan and Breda Murphy.

4th: Geraldine McMahon and Peggy Murphy.

Hall AGM

The directors of Ballyduff Community Centre Development Co. Ltd will hold the AGM of the company in the Community Centre on Wednesday June 20th at 8pm. All are invited to attend.

Graveyard Mass

Our annual graveyard mass in Ballyduff cemetery will take place on Wednesday July 4th at 7.30pm. This is always a well attended occasion and so I ask you to spread the word to people living outside the area who have relatives and friends buried in our graveyard. Directly after the mass refreshments will be served in the community centre. This is a lovely chance for people to sit and have a chat. As usual I will be relying on the generousity of all you lovely people to do a little homebaking please. I will tell you all more through these notes in the coming weeks.

Our graveyard is a place we all treasure and are lucky to have a very well kept place to visit our loved ones. On your most recent visit you may have noticed the beautiful new footpaths in the newest part of our graveyard and the clearing of rubble from the area. Unfortunately people had begun dumping soil, old wreaths and flowers in a corner of the graveyard. There is absolutely no dumping allowed in the graveyard and we would ask you out of respect and courtesy to your loved ones and those visiting them please bring home any old flowers and plants when you are cleaning up your graves.

Ballyduff AFC.

Our local soccer club are going from strength to strength and have wonderful facilities on offer. Have you been considering getting involved with the club? The club will hold their AGM on Thursday June 21st in Ballyduff Community Centre at 7pm. The club are always eager to welcome some new faces and would be delighted if you decide to come along.

Toddle Total
A big well done to all the staff, parents and boys and girls from Jelly Tots playschool in Ballyduff Community Centre who recently got their walking shoes on and walked and chatted all in aid of Barnardos. This charity work with vulnerable children and their families and do tremendous work. All at Jelly Tots raised a fantastic €450 for the charity so a big congratulations to them all.

County Success

A huge well done to local lads Ross Coffey O Shea and Jack Harrington who have been placed on the U20 Waterford County Football Panel. This is a fabulous achievement and I know their families and club are very proud. Of course these two lads have grown up beside each other as next door neighbours so all those balls kicked over and back the ditch really paid off.

Annie Treat.

The students from Star Struck Theatre school which runs in our community centre gave us 3 great nights of music and song as they put on their performance of Annie. It is very heartwarming to see them all on stage beaming and enjoying themselves. They all treated us to fantastic individual and group performances and of course a special mention must go to Tadgh Kavanagh, our four legged, furry friend who put in a “wuff-derful” performance each night.

 

Newcastle Mass.

Every year a mass of remembrance is celebrated in the graveyard and old church ruins at Newcastle cemetery. This mass is offered for all those buried in the graveyard and all our ancestors who travelled to mass there over the years. This years mass will take place on Tuesday July 24th at 7.30pm which is the Feast of St. Declan with the usual faith walk leaving from Ballyduff Church at 6.30pm. This is to honour all our ancestors who walked to mass every week. The walkers on the faith walk will carry with them a 300 year old chalice which will be used during the mass.

 

Date For Your Diary

A date to mark in your diary is Sunday July 22nd when the Kilmeaden Vintage Tractor Club will host their annual tractor run in aid of The Solas Centre. This club have raised a lot of money for the centre over the past 10 or so years. This event is always very much looked forward to and a most enjoyable day. I will have more information for you over the coming weeks so stayed tuned.

Fun Day Out

As we celebrate the World Meeting of Families this year you are invited along to the Waterford and Lismore Diocesan Fun Day in Mount Mellary Abbey on Sunday June 24th from 2pm to 6pm. You are invited along to this free event with activities for all ages including kite making, candle ritual, tours of the abbey, bouncy castle and music. You are welcome to bring along a picnic or food, tea and coffee will be available.

Parish Website
A reminder to you all and all your families living in other counties or countries that you can read these notes amongst other things on our beautifully designed website www.ballyduffparish.com I have met many people who have told me that people who are from our area but now live abroad or elsewhere love to log in and read about what is going on in the parish. The website also features a fantastic virtual tour of our church which was designed by the very talented James Tubbritt. James’s wife Christine uploads these notes each week and takes care of the website. I mention this because I firstly want to remind you of our website and also because Christine celebrated her 50th birthday this week and I want to wish her very happy birthday wishes and I know James and Faye and Lana made sure she was spoiled rotten which she thoroughly deserved. Every happiness to one of the most glamorous 50 year olds I know.

Brilliant Blitz
Last Saturday morning four clubs and 120 young lady footballers took part in an U8 and U10 blitz in Kildermody. This was a very enjoyable event with great football skills on show. The future of Waterford LGFA is certainly bright. This event was kindly sponsored by Centra, Kilmeaden so a big thank you to Eilish and Donal for their generous sponsorship.

Booking of Masses

The booking of anniversary masses for the months of July, August and September will take place after both of the weekend masses this weekend. If you have a First anniversary or Months Mind during these months please contact Linda Spillane on 087 9838392 before the weekend as you will have first preference over the dates.

Cheque Presentation, Lourdes Night and Home to Rome

Cheque Presentation

On Bank Holiday Monday the 25 cyclists from the Portlaw Village Wheelers who completed the 500km Munster Airport Challenge cycle back in April presented their cheque to their chosen charity Touching Hearts. The guys were delighted and proud to present a cheque for the fantastic amount of €36,826.00. This unbelievable amount was raised through the generosity and kindness of all you wonderful people. A huge thank you to all who supported this event and helped to raise this fabulous amount. You have helped to bring the dream of a new Sacred Heart Centre a bit closer and the children who depend on these services deserve the very best. A big well done to all the cyclists who took part and put such heart and commitment into the challenge. They should all be very proud of themselves.

GAA Lotto

The numbers drawn in the latest lotto draw were 9, 10, 19 and 21. There was no jackpot winner but the three lucky dip winners of €50 each were Niall Clifford, Brendan Madders and Davy and Annie Gahan. The next draw will take place on June 17th and will have a fantastic jackpot of €10,700. Tickets cost just €2 each or 3 for €5 and are available from all committee members and will be on sale outside Centra on Saturday June 16th. Get your tickets early and choose those 4 numbers very carefully.

Hall AGM

The directors of Ballyduff Community Centre Development Co. Ltd will hold their AGM of the company in the community centre on Wednesday June 20th at 8pm. All are very welcome to attend this meeting and please spread the word.

Lourdes Night.

Each year our parish raises money to send people from the area on the Waterford /Lismore Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes. To raise funds the annual singing contest for the honour of winning the Jimmy Fox Memorial Cup will take place on Saturday June 16th in O Donnachas. Music on the night will be by Dick Quinn and all singers are welcome to come along and join in the fun.

A Word of Thanks.

Our local Tidy Towns group have asked me to say a big thank you to the individual who donated tins of paint for the painting of the kerbs etc. This person does not want to be mentioned but we hope you know how grateful everyone is. A big thank you also to the group of men I saw out the other night doing the painting. All this painting, cutting grass, setting flowers, picking up litter go on without any fanfair announcing them. People working away quietly not wanting any recognition, that’s how a community works so a massive thank you to all those little magic fairies.

Post Office Meeting

There was a very low turnout at a recent meeting to update the community on the current situation regarding the proposed closure of Kilmeaden PO. The current Postmaster has been offered a retirement package and must make his decision by July 31st but after hearing from speakers we were all left in no doubt that he would be very foolish not to accept as there is no investment or funding being offered to the office so it could next year be forced to close with no retirement package on offer then. Understandably the people attending were frustrated and angered by the actions of An Post and the government in yet another dig at rural areas. It is very disappointing that we look set to loose a vital service for many people in our area and many surrounding areas.

Home To Rome

Father and son duo Arthur and Jordan Curry have set themselves a very ambitious goal by planning to cycle their way from Ballyduff to Rome and all to help raise funds for Waterford Hospice. This charity holds a very special place in their hearts as their kindness and compassion were a God send to them while Arthurs mam Cait Curry fought her illness with great bravery and dignity. Before his mam died Arthur learned that one of her regrets was that she had never been to Rome and so he promised that somehow he would bring her spirit to Rome and allow her to see it through his eyes.

We’ll keep you updated with all the plans for this event due to take place in August and hope that you will consider supporting this event.

Birthday Celebrations, GAA News and Confirmation Time

Birthday Celebrations

A little bird told me that Ballygarron man Sean Guiry recently celebrated his 80th birthday but he wasn’t the only family member celebrating a birthday last week. His son John and daughter Helen also got to blow out birthday candles. We wish them all very warm birthday wishes and I am sure they have had their fill of birthday cake for another year.

Gaa Lotto.

The numbers drawn in the latest lotto draw were 4, 7, 10 and 21. There was no winner of the jackpot but the three lucky dip winners of €50 each were Martin Murray, Andrew Rockett and Donnacha O Fuarthain. The next draw will take place on June 4th and will have a fantastic jackpot of €10,550 on offer. Tickets cost just €2 each or three tickets for €5. Tickets will be on sale outside Centra on Saturday June 2nd.

Gaa News.
The Nursery/Academy section of the club welcomed a very important visitor along to their training section last week. Derek McGrath popped in to say hello and give the group some good advice. It was a real treat for the boys and girls and some of the adults too. The children were awestruck by his presence and humility. The coaches and parents would like to say a big thank you to Derek for being so generous with his time and they wish him and all the Waterford team the very best of luck in their championship campaign.

The club would like to remind you all that tickets for the Deise draw are now on sale and can be purchased from John Stephenson or any committee member.

Confirmation Time.

The boys and girls from 5th and 6th classes in Ballyduff N.S arrived in sunshine at St. Nicholas’ church on Thursday, May 24th to receive the Holy Spirit through the Sacrament of Confirmation. These young men and women were extremely prepared and recited readings, prayers of the faithful and reflections perfectly. Their friends and schoolmates formed a beautiful choir and really enhanced the ceremony. Some of the candidates sang the verses of the psalm with each one singing beautifully. Gifts were carried reverently to the altar and they didn’t forget to welcome everyone at the beginning and thank all who had helped them on their journey to Confirmation.

Bishop Cullinan was joined by Fr. Mick and Fr. Richard aswell as Fr.John Harris a native of Amberhill whose nephew Conor and niece Ashling were receiving their Confirmation. The ceremony was very memorable and was organised so well. A big thank you to all the teachers and staff of Ballyduff N.S who put such a huge effort into these occasions. A special thank you to our wonderful sacristan Ann who always makes sure our church is looking fantastic.

A big thank you to the ladies and gentlemen who gave their time to serve a lovely cuppa and delicious cake in the school hall after the mass. This is a lovely tradition and a great chance for everyone to relax and have a chat. My own son Adam was one of the children who received his Confirmation this year and I must say we were given some beautiful memories to cherish from the ceremony. A big well done to all and to anyone who helped in any way at all.

Communion Day, AGM Notice and Our Kerry Man.

Communion Day.

The boys and girls from 2nd class in Ballyduff N.S were certainly in the Lords good books on their communion day as he sent his most glorious sunshine. The boys all looked very dapper and handsome and the girls were pretty in their beautiful dresses. Some of the older pupils from the school sung wonderful hymns which really made the ceremony so special. The boys and girls took part in the readings, prayers of the faithful, offertory and even treated us to the actions to the Our Father. Their communion mass felt so special and personal and this was down to the wonderful job done by each child and of course the fantastic support from their teachers and their families. After the ceremony the parents council had organised a cuppa and cake in the school hall. It was nice for everyone to get together and enjoy a relaxing chat after a busy morning. I know that Fr.Mick was delighted to see so many of the children at mass on Sunday morning and I was delighted to be on Minister of the Eucharist duty so I got to give some of my little friends their first Sunday mass communion. We send our sincere congratulations to all the boys and girls and thank them for sharing their big day.

Book Launch
“The Faith Journey of the Deise People” a book by Rt. Rev. Mgr. Michael Olden will be launched on Friday May 25th at 6.30pm in The Book Centre. The book deals with the history of the diocese of Waterford and Lismore telling the history of each individual parish. All are invited to go along to the launch.

Recent Death

We extend our deepest sympathy to Niall O Sullivan, Adamstown on the recent death of his father Christy O Sullivan, Earls Court. Christys funeral mass took place in St.Marys church, Ballygunner with burial in the adjoining cemetery. We offer our deepest sympathy to all the family and pray that Christy now enjoys the beauty of Gods kingdom.

AGM Notice.

The Directors of Ballyduff Community Centre Development Co. Ltd will hold their AGM in the Community Centre on Wednesday June 20th at 8pm. All are welcome to come along.

GAA News.
A big well done to all the U21 football team who beat De La Salle 2-8 to 1-8 in the recent Eastern final. There was some great skill on show with great effort from the defence line. We wish them the very best in the County Final.

Congratulations to the Ballyduff NS hurling team who qualified for the semi final in their completion without loosing a game. This is a fantastic team and if they keep their heads can go all the way. We have no doubt that Mr. Carey will keep them grounded.

The Nursery and Academy section entertained a large group from Carrigeen at U5, U7, U9 and U11 levels. There were some very enjoyable games with the Waterford/Kilkenny rivalry alive and well. There are 75 children playing in this section and huge thanks to the coaches and parents for all their help. The future certainly looks bright for the club.

Some fixtures you might like to mark in your diary are Junior A Football

25th May 7.30pm

V Dunhill(Home)

1st June 7.30pm

V Roanmore(Home)
Junior C Hurling

22nd June 7.30pm

V Butlerstown(Away)

29th June 7.30pm

V Dunhill(Home)
Inter Hurling

23rd June 7.pm

V De La Salle(Dunhill)

30th June 7pm

V Erins Own(Kill).

Our Kerry Man
We are all deeply saddened to hear of the death of another great parish man from our community. The great Sonny Griffin, Penrose Cottage, Ballyduff returned home to God last week leaving a sence of deep loss in our parish. Sonny shared his life with his wife Joan in their cottage in the centre of the village overlooking the church which played a huge part in their lives. Sonny originally came from the kingdom of Kerry and bore his colours proudly when the Kerry teams were taking to the field. Sonny was a man of great intelligence and it was a real privelege to listen to his stories. He was a great community man always on hand to help in any way he could. The church held a very special place in his heart and he was a fantastic help at both the midweek morning masses and the weekend mass. I know Fr. Mick and our sacristan Ann really appreciated all that he did and shall miss him greatly. A man of real integrity and respect, a man full of gentleness and kindness, a man whom we shall all miss greatly. As he came from the kingdom of Kerry we know that he now rests in the kingdom of God where joy and peace surround him. We send our deepest sympathy to Joan and all the family and may the gentle soil of Ballyduff rest lightly on him. Good night and farewell to our favourite Kerryman.

 

Confirmation Blessings.

We send our best wishes to all the boys and girls from 5th and 6th classes in Ballyduff N.S who will make their Confirmation in Ballyduff church on Thursday next May 24th. The mass will take place at 11am and all are invited to come along. We hope that everyone enjoys a very special day and please God the weather will be kind to everyone.

GAA Lotto, Collection Thanks and Notes for You.

GAA Lotto

The numbers drawn in the latest lotto draw were 1, 5, 15 and 21. There was no winner of the jackpot but the the three lucky dip winners of €50 each were The Walsh Family, Kathleen Harris and Donal Hickson. The next draw will take place on May 20th and will have a brilliant jackpot of €10,400. Tickets cost just €2 or 3 for €5 and are available from all club members or will be on sale outside Centra on Saturday May 19th.

Collection Thanks

The organisers of the recent IHCPT church gate collection have asked me to say a big thank you to all who supported their recent collection. €260 was raised which is greatly appreciated.

Ballyduff AFC.

All at Ballyduff Soccer club are gearing themselves up for a busy few months. During the month of July they will host their Golf Classic and the annual bag pack. The club are hoping to facilitate a FAI Summer Camp if there are enough people wishing to take part. If you think your child would be interested please let Paddy Kirk know.

The club would like to send their best wishes to U14 player Michael O Connor. All at the club wish him a speedy recovery.

Congratulations to U12 player Conor Kearns who celebrated his birthday with a party for his friends on the astroturf. A reminder to you all that the astroturf is available for hire at excellent rates.

 

Notes For You.

I want to invite you all to participate in these notes so if you or your club or group would like me to include an item for you please get in touch with me by a Thursday evening and I would be delighted to do it for you. You can ring or text me on 087-9838392 or drop me an email on spillanelinda2017@gmail.com or of course just stop me while I’m out and about and we’ll have a chat.

These community notes are a brilliant way to reach out to people living in our community and the surrounding areas and for many it’s there link with what is going on.

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.