Jumble Sale in the Wetlands this Saturday!
The Tralee Educate Together
National School Parents Association is hosting a community jumble sale on Saturday, November 9th, from 10 am to 2 pm at Tralee Bay Wetlands. With all items priced under €5, it’s a great chance to find some bargains, and everyone is welcome!
Joanne Laffan, a committee member, shares her enthusiasm: “There’s still work to be done in spreading awareness about the Educate
Together schools and their unique ethos of equality, child-centered learning, democratic operation, and co-education, providing a real alternative to religious schools. Moving to Tralee from Dublin two years ago, we found the school to be an incredible community of like-minded families. Nestled in a forest setting, the school emphasizes outdoor learning, creating a fairytale-like environment for the
children. Unlike Dublin’s Educate Together schools, which are often oversubscribed, securing a place here was much easier.”
Funds raised from the jumble sale will go toward supporting Tralee Educate Together’s initiatives,
enhancing the educational experience for all students. Join in for a morning of community spirit and fantastic finds!
Aqua Dome set to reopen on Dec 28th after completing 6 week refurbishment, starting next Monday
MANAGEMENT at the Aqua Dome Tralee have announced that the attraction will close on Monday 11th November for a period of six weeks to facilitate essential plant replacement.
The water filtration systems and the air handling will be replaced at a cost of approximately €850,000 as they are coming to the end of their lifespan.
The CEO of The Aqua Dome, Kieran Ruttledge, said, “The Aqua Dome is now entering its 31st year of operation and some of the plant equipment - the water filtration systems and the air handling - needs to be replaced. We have decided to undertake the essential work now
as it is the quietest time of the year for business. Members of the Aqua Dome will not lose out due to the closure as six weeks will be added on to their membership.
“The work is expected to take around six weeks and which means we are planning to re-open to the public on December 28th in time for the post-Christmas and New Year holiday period.”
The Aqua Dome is hoping to secure grant support for the work which, while necessary, is very expensive.
The Aqua Dome is a very important part of Tralee’s tourism infrastructure and attracts around 170,000 visits each year.
Minister Foley welcomes €355,610 funding to upgrade 19 community centres in Kerry
Minister for Education and Kerry
T.D, Norma Foley has welcomed the allocation of €359,266 to 19 community centres in Kerry for upgrade works under the Community Centres Investment Fund 2024 – Category 1.
Minister Foley said that these upgrade works are vital because community centres are so important to wellbeing in our towns, villages and parishes.
She said: “These grants will make a big difference. They will go towards supporting local groups to improve kitchen and toilet facilities, replace old windows and doors, upgrade
heating systems and improving disability access.
“19 community centres in Kerry are benefitting, with the total grant funding coming to €359,266. Successful projects under Category 2
will be announced in the coming months.
“Our community centres provide the physical space for friends, neighbours and those who are socially isolated to come together.
“Government will continue to give a helping hand to community groups to improve their own local community spaces.”
H AR R I S
Just
A Viennese Strauss Gala
This sparkling production recreates the music and romance of a bygone era of glamourous soirees and glittering ballrooms. Featuring highlights from some of the great Operettas and music of Strauss, Kalmar and Lehar, performed by the European Baroque Ensemble and four Soloists from major Opera companies.Tickets €25
Matches & Old Flames
Brand new Irish comedy from Tommy Marren and Crokey Players promises fun and laughter galore as Maureen Corcoran decides to find love for her two maturing sons without their consent!
Tickets €27/25/21
ABBA Forever
One of the year's most popular shows, this smash hit returns for a party night to remember featuring ABBA's greatest hits, making a great start to the festive season. So get your dancing boots on cause 'Here We Go Again'!
Tickets €30
Rambling House
Radio Kerry returns with legendary Sean O'Sé and Elle Marie O'Dwyer leading the full Rambling House cast of singers, storytellers, musicians and Irish dancers. Enjoy a lively evening of nostalgic traditional music, stories and laughter.
Tickets €31
Corcoran’s Christmas Celebration in Aid of AADI in Association with Great Southern Killarney
Corcoran’s Furniture & Carpets Ltd. is thrilled to host a festive Christmas celebration at Great Southern Killarney on Wednesday, December 4, 2024, from 6:30pm to 9:30pm. Tickets are €15, with all proceeds benefiting Corcoran’s charity of the year, Autism Assistance Dogs Ireland (AADI).
The evening kicks off with festive treats, refreshments, and live music by the Kerry Concert Choir, led by
Dr. Sharon Lyons. Santa himself will make an appearance for the children, followed by a special screening of the holiday movie Elf in the Great Southern auditorium. Adding to the holiday spirit, AADI’s ambassador dogs will be there to greet attendees.
Kieran Corcoran, Owner and Managing Director of Corcoran’s Furniture & Carpets Ltd., shared his enthusiasm for the event: “This celebration is a wonderful way to start the holiday season with loved ones. Partnering with Great Southern Killarney allows us to raise essential funds for Autism Assistance Dogs Ireland, a truly deserving cause. We look forward to an evening filled with joy, music, and community spirit in one of Killarney’s most iconic hotels.”
Jamie Power, General Manager at Great Southern Killarney, echoed
this sentiment: “We’re delighted to collaborate with Corcoran’s on this event. Supporting local charities and community gatherings is especially meaningful during the holiday season. We look forward to a festive, fun-filled evening with everyone.”
Tickets are available on Eventbrite under “Corcoran’s Christmas Celebration in Association with Great Southern.”
Spotted on the Street
Lohercannon greyhound trainer Johnny Kelliher,2nd left, was celebrating a major victory when Ashtown Aris won the feature event at Listowel coursing on Sunday for The Barony Syd.Photo Moss Joe Browne.
Its beginning to look a lot like Christmas ...The
“SNAPPED ON SOCIAL MEDIA”
We pick out some great photos posted on social media each week ...if you have any good ones please send them in... email traleeadvertiser@gmail.com or message us on our Facebook page... Enjoy!
Three Kerry Amigos!!!
At the Annual Dinner of the Kerry Association in London recently Kerryman Of The Year - PJ Crean( centre) with Association Chairman Noel’O Sullivan and Kerry Vice Chair Liam Lynch.
Remembering Fungie !
How often did we all say that sentence with a big smile.... HE IS BEHIND YOU! Rudi and Volker having fun on the laser and of course Fungie pops up from behind!
Motorsport Ireland President and rally star visit MTU Tralee
Motorsport Ireland President Aiden Harper and Rally Academy member
Aoife Raftery visited Munster Technological University (MTU) Tralee on Monday, coinciding with The Rose Hotel Kerry Winter Rally, which used MTU’s campus as its service park for the first time. This collaboration between MTU and Kerry Motor Club aims to strengthen Ireland’s bid to host the World Rally Championship (WRC), with MTU Tralee shortlisted as a potential venue alongside Waterford and Limerick.
President Harper emphasized, “Our dream is to have Ireland on the WRC calendar in 2026 or 2027. This is a major opportunity for the country, and we’re working closely with the
Major Bids Department in Killarney to secure government support.”
Aoife Raftery, the first female driver in the Motorsport Ireland Rally Academy, shared her experiences with MTU students, encouraging the next generation to explore careers in motorsport, from engineering to management. “Rallying is a complex sport, and I hope to inspire more young people to pursue their passions,” she said.
During the visit, Harper and Raftery explored MTU’s virtual reality suite, which includes a road safety simulator. Raftery praised the simulator, advocating its use in schools to educate drivers on the dangers of distractions and speeding. She also recorded a road
safety message for Kerry County Council, supporting the “Keep the Race In Its Place” campaign, emphasizing road safety, especially for young drivers.
Spotted on the Street
will be looking even better soon !! Remembering Gay ...the Master ! 5 years ago this week !
Trafford! Do you know who it is ?
The tradition never ends...As Bruno Fernandes slotted home Man Utd’s only goal in their recent 1-1 draw with Chelsea, a young fan sporting the green and gold was front and centre of the celebrations
Tralee to showcase 2 National League Games under Lights in the New Year ....as we welcome Armagh & Dublin Kerry jersey spotted at
SATURDAY
TRALEE | CO KERRY
Guests and visitors alike can enjoy locally sourced, modern cuisine from our newly crafted menu and our extensive range of daily specials.
Dine in a casual and relaxed setting with breathtaking views of Tralee Bay and the Slieve Mish Mountains.
The Palace Bar & Restaurant is Open All Week!!! Sun - Thurs 12.30pm – 9pm | Friday & Sat 12.30pm - 9pm A la Carte & Daily Specials - All walk-ins welcome!
Ballyroe Heights Hotel hosts semi-private and private function rooms to cater for the perfect atmosphere for your party. To reserve your booking, please contact us by phone: 066-7126796 / Email: info@ballyroe.com or just call in to us .
GOOD NEWS ONLY!
MTU Kerry Campus proudly welcomed students
embarking on their five-year tertiary degree for an exciting induction day. These students will begin their academic journey across multiple campuses, including Kerry College’s Denny Street and Listowel campuses, as well as Cork College of FET’s Morrison’s Island and Macroom campuses.
The comprehensive programme, designed to blend theoretical learning with practical skills, offers students a dynamic pathway toward success in their chosen fields. The induction marks the start of a collaborative and enriching educational experience for all involved. The Institutions involved are Kerry College, Denny Street Campus/Kerry College, Listowel Campus/Cork College of FET, Morrison’s Island Campus/Cork College of FET, Macroom Campus
Ten-fold increase in number of customers in Kerry since rollout of TFI Local Link
TFI Local Link has transformed public transport in rural Ireland, reaching a remarkable 100,000 passenger journeys each week, with Kerry alone now seeing 7,375 weekly users. Since the launch of the National Transport Authority’s (NTA) Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan in 2022, Kerry has seen a ten-fold increase in ridership, demonstrating the significant impact on local communities.
Key routes across Kerry, including those serving the Dingle Peninsula and the popular Route 280 from Waterville to Killarney, have become essential links for people commuting to work, attending school, accessing healthcare, and engaging in social activities. These new services provide affordable and convenient transport options that connect communities, reduce isolation, and
improve quality of life.
Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan celebrated the milestone, saying, “This transformation in rural public transport shows how much people appreciate accessible transit options. 100,000 passengers a week is incredible, and it’s just the beginning. We’re working towards a network that reaches every town and village, building a more connected, sustainable Ireland.”
Anne Graham, CEO of the NTA, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the success of the Connecting Ireland plan. “This milestone is a testament to the hard work of Local Link offices, operators, and drivers. I always believed Connecting Ireland could be transformative, but the success we’re seeing has surpassed expectations.”
Alan O’Connell, TFI Local Link
Kerry’s General Manager, noted that high-frequency routes have seen Kerry’s passenger numbers rise from 15,136 in 2019 to a projected 370,000 by the end of
2024. “Connecting Ireland has been a game changer for Kerry, proving that when you build these services, people will use them,” he said.
Super Rose Hotel Winter Rally weekend
Richard Moffett from Monaghan clinched victory at the 2024 Rose Hotel Kerry Winter Stages Rally, defending his crown with a commanding start-to-finish lead. Despite a new co-driver since his last win in 2022, Moffett dominated the field across all six stages. Moffett led early after the initial two runs through Mount Eagle and Headleys Bridge, ahead by 6.8 seconds over Jonathan Pringle, with Killarney’s Conor Murphy in third.
Rob Duggan, a pre-race favorite, retired due to brake issues in the opening stage, while Ryan Loughran also exited early with a prop shaft failure but rejoined under the super rally format for the last four stages. Stage 3 saw the exit of both Pringle and Murphy, easing Moffett’s path to victory. Johno Doogan moved into second, with Limerick’s Chris O’Callaghan up to third, sparking a close race between the two for the runner-up spot. Moffett maintained
Three generations of the Costello family contested The Rose Hotel Kerry Winter Rally’They were. Megan, Joe, Jason, Eoin Mulvihill and Mossie.
his lead through wise tire choices and careful management, leading by 33.6 seconds by the final service halt at the MTU Kerry North Campus. The contest for second remained tight, with O’Callaghan just 4.2 seconds behind Doogan as they entered the final stages. In the closing runs, Moffett extended his lead, eventually winning by 34.9 seconds. Doogan held onto second, finishing 4.9 seconds ahead of O’Callaghan.
Donegal’s Donagh Kelly and Rory Kennedy took historic honors, narrowly beating John O’Donnell and Paddy Robinson in their BMW M3.
Competitors praised the MTU Kerry North Campus, which served as a new service park and potential host for future World Rally Championship events. Both drivers and spectators commended the facilities, marking a successful rally day in Kerry.
IS GROUP FITNESS MORE EFFECTIVE?
Read on... below is a study conducted by Les Mills Labs in 2021 - Its results are promoting the positive benefits of healthy gains from Group exercise.' Catriona Cantillon, Manager, Zero Gravity , Sports Performance & Fitness Studio
'LES MILLS STUDY GETTING INTO GROUP FITNESS' Get Fit Together Study 2021
Background: Globally, 1.5 billion adults are currently overweight and of these, 500 million are obese. Additionally, over 62% of adults under 40 are not regularly physically active and 20% are inactive. The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM)recommends the following to help people live a healthy lifestyle: 60 minutes of cardiovascular activity 3-5 days per week, 8-10 strength exercises twice weekly, and flexibility exercises once per week.
The Question: Can LES MILLS™ group fitness classes satisfy the ACSM recommendations and significantly change people’s health?
Method: 25 sedentary (but otherwise healthy) adults (15 women and 10 men) aged 25-40 completed a 30-week group exercise program.
These involved participants undertaking:
• A six-week familiarization period (where fitness classes were introduced gradually, and time spent exercising increased progressively to reduce injury risks as well as to optimize adhesion to the program)
• A 12-week block of six group fitness classes every week (three cardiovascular, two strengths, and one flexibility)
• A 12-week block of seven group fitness classes per week (four cardiovascular, two strengths, and one flexibility)
Results: A gradual introduction to group exercise classes also helped increase participants’ confidence and capability week-on-week. Study participants who initially had a poor fitness level developed an above-average fitness level after 30 weeks of LES MILLS group fitness classes and increased their aerobic capacity by an average of 55.9%. In just 30 weeks the research group delayed the onset of cardiovascular disease by an average of 3.6 years.
Participants who engaged in the prescribed LES MILLS programs lowered their body fat by an average of 6.9% for men and 4.1% for women. Muscle mass increased by an average of 13.6 lbs for men and 2.6 lbs for women. The participants achieved 98.8% compliance across the 30-week duration.
Conclusion: A combination of LES MILLS classes creates significant physiological, musculoskeletal, and psychological changes in people’s health.
Now here is Your option: Check in with your local Les Mills-affiliated club, Manor West Leisure Club. There are a range of diverse class options available. Call a team member for advice as to how you can get started today 0667194500 ext. 2
SPORT WITH THE TRALEE
JOHN MITCHELS CLUB NOTES
Sylvie Mason Blitz
The Annual Sylvie Mason Blitz season finale took place at Ballyseedy with an enthusiastic turnout across all Academy age groups. The event began with team photos and a parade, led by Dan O’Donoghue on bagpipes, who performed the National Anthem to a packed stand. Ideal weather added to a fantastic morning of football, showcasing the skill and dedication of our young players. Special thanks to everyone involved, including referees, coordinators, and coaches, for a successful 2024 season.
Mothers & Others
Our Mothers and Others team concluded their season with a spirited game against Austin Stacks in Connolly Park. Sponsored by Wonder Women Fitness, the team proudly wore Breast Cancer Awareness socks, led by Liz Lynch, highlighting our commitment to community. The team will resume in 2025.
Minor Team
A Minor Panel meeting for players and parents will be scheduled this week; details to follow on WhatsApp.
Girls’ Teams
Congratulations to the U15 girls for their County Championship win over Shannonside Tarbert, and to our U14 girls, advancing in the North Kerry League. Well done to U17 players for representing Tralee District against St. Kierans.
Boys’ Teams
U13 Boys: Training on Friday at 4:30 pm.
U15 Boys: Town League Final vs. Ardfert on Wednesday at 6:30 pm in Caherslee. Support appreciated!
Bingo
Bingo continues Wednesday and Friday at 8 pm on John Joe Sheehy Road. Proceeds support the juvenile section.
ST. PATS GAA NOTES
Club AGM
St Pats will hold their Annual General Meeting on Sunday, November 24th at 4 pm in Curraheen Community Rooms. All are welcome to attend. Please email agenda items to secretary.stpatricksblennerville.kerry@ gaa.ie.
50th Celebration
Our 50th-anniversary event is on Saturday, November 16th at the Rose Hotel. The evening includes a drinks reception at 6:30 pm, dinner, and dancing. Tickets are €55 each. Text 0876964673 or purchase online here.
U13
Our U13s celebrated a fantastic season with a trip to Splatball and a medal presentation for winning the Central Region Cup. Special thanks to coaches Eoin, Brian, and John and sponsor Noyeks Newman Tralee.
Fundraiser with Energywise Ireland
Energywise Ireland is donating €250 to St Pats for each eligible home energy upgrade installation by club members or their family. Use referral code Sports2024-StPatsBlennerville when applying here.
Community Events
Rathass Graveyard Rosary: Tuesdays in November at 3 pm.
Best of Luck: To Mercy Mounthawk and CBS The Green in their Corn Uí Mhuirí matches on November 13th.
AUSTIN STACKS GAA CLUB NOTES
Coaching Opportunities
Interested in coaching underage Rock teams? Contact Tim McMahon at 083 1190323 to discuss age group preferences. New helpers are always welcome!
Peil Updates
Peil Faoi 9: Trophy holders for the year include Conor Long, Caelan Long, Ruairí Magnier, Faylin Carroll, Darragh Maguire, and Donnagh TownsendScanlan.
Peil Faoi 11: The U11 season ended with the Garry Fernane and John Galvin Cup finals. Trophy recipients were Elliot Toomey and Jake O’Driscoll. Thanks to all coaches, parents, and sponsors for a great year!
Acknowledgments
Special thanks to John Breen, Noel O’Connell, Dave Hill, Lee Munzter, and Adrienne McLoughlin for their support and dedication to the club.
Upcoming Events
Scór na nÓg: Best of luck to all under-17 competitors.
Coláistí Corn Uí Mhuirí & Corn Uí Shúilleabháin: Good luck to Rock players from Cnoc an tSeabhaic, Tralee CBS, and Mercy Mounthawk in their matches.
Club Merchandise and Lotto
Support the club by purchasing gear at austinstacks.ie and participating in the club lotto.
Important Game Dates
Intermediate Final Replay: Austin Stacks vs. Laune Rangers on Saturday, Nov 9th at 1:30 pm, Staid an Ghearaltaigh, Cill Airne.
Interprovincial Hurling: Congratulations to Rock player Damien Hogan on his recent victory with Ó dTórna.
TRALEE PARNELLS HURLING AND CAMOGIE CLUB NOTES
Club AGM
The club’s AGM will take place at the Meadowlands Hotel on Friday, November 15th, at 7:30 pm. All members are encouraged to attend. With several executive members not seeking re-election, we invite new members to bring fresh ideas for 2025. No prior experience is necessary; training will be provided, and outgoing members will assist with
transitions. Please return nomination forms by Monday, November 11th. For inquiries, contact any current Executive member.
Scór na nÓg
We seek secondary school-aged members for the Scór na nÓg County Final on November 9th. Events include dancing, singing, music, and more. Interested members should contact Damien Kissane at 0830486976.
Sympathy
We extend condolences to Catriona Crowley and the Sargent family on the passing of Mary in Cork, and to Sinead Curtin and the Dillane family on the passing of Dolores. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a n-anamacha dílse.
U15 and U16 Hurling
Our U15s excelled in the Tom Healy tournament, securing a spot in the finals. The U16s showed great determination but fell to Crotta in the North Kerry Championship semi-final.
GAA Future Leaders
Anna Chute attended the GAA Youth Forum on November 2nd, engaging in workshops on coaching, decisionmaking, and volunteering. Insights from the forum will inform future Youth Committee reports.
NA GAEIL CLUB NOTES
Volunteers
Na Gaeil seeks volunteers for bingo on Monday nights. If you can spare two hours every 5–6 weeks, contact Niamh at 087-9863667.
Senior Championship
Na Gaeil senior men face Kerins O’Rahillys in Round 1 of the Tralee/St. Brendan’s Championship this Sunday at 2:30 pm in Strand Road.
Annual Race Night
The Annual Race Night takes place on November 29th at 8:30 pm in the clubhouse and online. Buy a horse for €50 for a chance to win €1,000. Proceeds support club facilities for over 600 members.
Upcoming Events
Mass for Deceased Members: November 6th at 8 pm in the clubhouse.
Irish Classes: Begin Thursday at 7 pm. Drama Meeting: November 15th at 7:30 pm for those interested in a 2025 production.
Club Updates
New Website: Explore our new website at www.nagaeil.ie.
Sky Sports: Major Premier League games now available on the big screen.
History Section: Club history and results are now online.
Other News
Congratulations to Abbeydorney, LGFA All-Star nominees Deirdre Kearney and Mary O’Connell, and Kerry Ladies’ team.
For bookings, inquiries, or club notes, email nagaeilclubhouse@gmail.com.
BALLYMACELLIGOTT
GAA CLUB NOTES
AGM Dates
Coiste Na nOg: Friday, November 22nd
Club AGM: Tuesday, November 26th, 8 pm
Ladies AGM: Date TBD
Celebration Night
The club gathered at Ballygarry House Hotel to honor the achievements of our players in 2024, particularly their successes with district, school, and county teams. Many thanks to Dara Ó Cinnéide, our special guest, for his words of encouragement.
Ladies’ News
U13 District: Ballymac players Emma Lynch, Eva Burke, Aisling O’Keeffe, Aideen Healy, Maeve O’Connell, and Natalie Turner contributed in a close match, with St. Kieran’s securing a 5-08 to 2-16 victory over Tralee.
U15 and U17 Districts: Ballymac players also excelled, with U15s qualifying for the quarter-finals and U17s leading their group after wins over Tralee and West Kerry.
Scór na nÓg
We’re seeking dancers, singers, musicians, storytellers, and quiz teams for Scór na nÓg. Contact Josephine at 0861607355.
Lotto
The October 28th draw had no jackpot winner. Lucky dip winners included Aidan O’Connor (€30), Regina Mansfield (€20), and Oonagh O’Rahilly (€20). Next jackpot: €3,800 on November 4th.