Annual St. Patrick's Day Awards presented in north Mayo capital

The annual St. Patrick’s Day Awards at Ballina Arts Centre celebrated the winners from this year’s parade in the north Mayo capital.

The event was opened by Mags Downey-Martin, who congratulated all participants for their involvement and extended a special thanks to the parents and group leaders whose dedication ensured the children were so well prepared for the day.

She also thanked the grand marshals on the day, David Cawley and Fergal Birrane, for their generosity with their time both before and after the parade.

Mary Moyles, president of Ballina Chamber of Commerce, highlighted the parade’s significance to the local economy and praised the strong turnout of spectators. She also expressed her gratitude to Ballina Municipal District for their financial support, noting that the parade would not be possible without it.

While some parades around the country were being cancelled, Ballina’s is going from strength to strength, Ms. Moyles noted.

Matt Farrell, who has served as MC for the parade for an impressive 35 years, announced the winners, while the awards were presented by Councillor Jarlath Munnelly, cathaoirleach of Ballina Municipal District.

In his remarks, Councillor Munnelly paid tribute to the parade committee for their commitment and hard work, wishing them continued success in the years ahead.

The evening concluded with a special presentation from Ms Moyles to the committee in recognition of their efforts.

The overall winner for 2026 was Katie’s Corner and the Community Perpetual Award was presented to Order of Malta.

The winners of each category were as follows: Voluntary Emergency Services Award – winner Civil Defence, merit Grainne Uaile Sub Aqua Club; Voluntary Community Services Award – winner Teach an Uisce Sub Aqua Club Search & Reovery, merit River Moy Search & Rescue; Community Participation/Promotion Award – winner 5th Mayo Scout Group, merit Ballina Show; Youth Participation Award – winner Bofiled CCE, joint merit Ardagh/Moy Brownies and Ballina Stephenites Hurling; Sports Club Award – winner Ardnaree Sarsfiels GAA Club, merit Kilmoremoy LGFA Club; Diversity in Sport Award – winner Moy Valley AC, merit Ballina Rugby Club; Culture & Drama Award – winner Sylvan Kelly School of Dancing, merit Scoil Rince Tara Kennedy; Primary School Award – winner Knockanillo NS, merit Gaelscoil na gCeithre Maol; Best Float Award – winner Coca Cola, merit Hollister; Community Perpetual Award (Matt Farrell Trophy Cup) – winner Order of Malta; overall winner Katie's Corner.