Happy St. Patrick's Day to all our Readers

Parish Church Lotto Draw Results
There was no jackpot winner in the Parish Lotto on Thursday, March 13, 2025. The numbers drawn were 8, 13, 15, and 20. The winner of the weekly draw for €30 was Maura Gorey. Next week's Jackpot for Thursday, March 20, 2025, will be €5,000.

We are delighted with the support shown for our Parish Lotto, it is a fundraising initiative that is of great benefit to the parish. Please pass the word on and invite friends and family to take part. You can join, see the draw results, and details of how your support is making a big difference at: https://www.ourfundraiser.ie/org/fethardkillusty

Table Quiz on Friday Night in Cloneen Hall |

Died Recently
The death has occurred on Friday, March 14, 2025, of Aidan O'Dwyer Gasworks, Thurles, and formerly Newtown, Drangan, peacefully after an illness bravely borne with strength and dignity in the loving care of the staff in the Oak Ward University Hospital, Waterford, surrounded by his devoted wife Lauren and his loving family.

Deeply regretted by his loving wife and best friend Lauren, parents Tom and Bridget (Biddy), brother Barry and his partner Megan, mother-in-law Janice, brothers-in-law James and Kevin, Uncles, aunts, grand-uncles, relatives, neighbours and a wide circle of friends, especially all his friends in the 'Strongman and Arm wrestling' community. Aidan will be fondly remembered by many.

Reposing in Brett's Funeral Home Mullinahone (E41 EV78) on Sunday, March 16, from 5pm to 8pm. Requiem Mass on Monday, March 17, at 2pm in the Church of The Immaculate Conception, Drangan, followed by burial afterwards in the new Assumption Cemetery Drangan. For those who would have liked to attend but cannot, you may view Aidan's Funeral Mass by CLICKING HERE House Strictly Private "May His Gentle Soul Rest in Peace. "The family would like to express their sincere thanks to all those who cared for Aidan throughout his illness. Messages of sympathies for the O'Dwyer family can be left online by CLICKING HERE

A Huge Thank You!

Now that the Christmas season has long passed and spring is appearing, we just want to take a moment to say THANK YOU to everyone who donated to the Fethard Christmas Lights fundraiser. Your generosity made it possible to bring festive cheer to the town, and we are so grateful for your support. A special mention to David O'Mahoney and his team for doing such a great job of installing and taking down the lights.

Community spirit like this is what makes Fethard such a special place. We can’t wait to do it all again next Christmas and for many years to come with our new lights! From all of us on the fundraising team — thank you!
– Sybil Cope and Jack O'Sullivan on behalf the Fethard Business and Tourism Group

Died Recently
The death has occurred on Thursday, March 13, 2025, of Denis Godfrey, Gracedieu, Waterford, and formerly of Derryluskin, Fethard. Denis passed away peacefully at University Hospital, Waterford. Predeceased by his parents Joe and Katie Godfrey. Deeply regretted by his loving wife Josephine, daughter Deirdre, son-in-law Neil, grandson Eoin, granddaughter Grace, brothers Austin and his wife Mary, John and his partner Marie, sisters-in-law Mary and Joan, his aunt Rita Smyth, nieces, extended relatives, neighbours and many friends.

Reposing at McCarthy's Funeral Home, Fethard, on Friday March 14, from 5pm with removal to Holy Trinity Parish Church, Fethard, at 7pm. Funeral Mass on Saturday, March 15, at 11am followed by burial in Calvary Cemetery. Messages of condolence for thge family can be left online by CLICKING HERE May he rest in peace.

Sami Laaksonen chosen to play for Munster in the FAI Youth Interprovincial tournament

Sami Laaksonen, Knockelly, Fethard, who was chosen to play for Munster in the FAI Youth Interprovincial tournament.

Congratulations to Sami Laaksonen, Knockelly, Fethard, who was chosen to play for Munster in the FAI Youth Interprovincial tournament consisting of three games over last weekend against: Leinster FA at Jackman Park on March 7; against Ulster FA at Pike Rovers on March 8; and Connacht FA at Jackman Park on Sunday 9.

On Saturday evening, the full Munster FA Youth Squad were presented with framed certificates by Munster Football Association Chairman, John Buckley, to acknowledge their representation of the province at the FAI Interprovincial games. Cahir Park Youths players Callum Butler Buckley and Sami Laaksonen were among the 20 chosen for the Munster squad, who were a credit to their clubs, leagues and families over the weekend.

Cahir Park FC Manager, Chris Higgins, said that the club was proud of Sami and Callum’s achievements over the season and the dedication both players have shown towards the club and soccer. Chris also thanked the parents for their support and commitment to the lads who have made huge strides in their development, and on everyone’s behalf, wished them both well in the Munster Youth games taking place.

Fethard & Killusty Community Council to receive €100,000 funding for Convent Community Hall


Michael Murphy T.D. passed on the good news to Fethard & Killusty Muintir Council CLG on March 11, that we are to receive €100,000 funding to deliver enhancement and refurbishment work on Fethard Convent Community Hall. The committee were delighted with the news that they are to receive this much-needed funding and stated it will ensure the future of the Convent Community Hall use in providing essential public services in Fethard & Killusty.

The announcement under the Community Centre Investment Fund represents the latest capital investment in upgrading Community Centres and will see grants of up to €100,000 provided to successful projects. The funding will be used to upgrade, renovate and refurbish Community Centres, Parish Halls, Scouts Clubs, Youth Hubs, Family Resources Centres and Sports Complexes across the country.

The Local Enhancement Programme 2025 is funded by the Department of Rural and Community Development to support community and voluntary groups and organisations around the Country. The Tipperary fund is administered by Tipperary County Council on behalf of the Tipperary Local Community Development Committee (LCDC).

Fethard & Killusty Community Council would like to thank Deputy Michael Murphy and Cllr Mark Fitzgerald for delivering the ‘Good News’.

Died Recently
The death has occurred on March 5, 2025, of Sr. Juliana (Sally) Purcell, Presentation Convent, Hospital, Limerick and formerly Ballinlough, Kilteely, Co. Limerick. Sr. Juliana was also one of the last six Presentation Sisters to leave Fethard Convent on July 20, 2020.

Sr. Juliana passed away peacefully at The Galway Clinic. Predeceased by her parents Philip and Nora, brothers Br. Michael (Sean), Billy, Tommy, Br. Charles (Michael) and Philip, sisters Kathleen Judge, Sr. Rita, Sr. Josephine, Nora Donovan and Isobel Horton. Deeply regretted and sadly missed by her Presentation Community, sisters Nancy (Ivory) Breda (McManus), nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews, great grandnieces, great grandnephews, cousins, relatives and many friends.

The late Sr. Juliana Purcell's funeral cortége arrived to St. John The Baptist Church, Hospital, on Saturday, March 8, for requiem Mass at 11.30am, with burial afterwards in the convent cemetery. Messages of condolence for her family can be left online by CLICKING HERE May her Gentle Soul Rest In Peace.

GAA Sports Development Lotto Results
Fethard GAA Sports Lotto draw results for March 11, 2025, are as follows: the numbers drawn were: 19, 22, 29 and 35. We had no Jackpot winner and no Match 3 winner.. One' lucky dip winner received €100: Margaret Ryan. The next draw takes place on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, when the jackpot is €30,000.

Thanks for your support for Gaza


A huge thank you to all who gave so generously to the Oxfam Gaza appeal on Saturday. €1,075 was raised and one hundred percent of all proceeds will go directly to families in Gaza. A special thanks to Siobhan McNamara for organising it, Fethard Horse Country Experience for hosting, and the Tipperary Fox Hounds for donating €285. Donations can still be made for a few days in the FHCE or at anytime directly to Oxfam.

Fethard Ballroom celebrates 32 years of Social Dancing next weekend
As Fethard ballroom celebrates 32 years of social dancing this weekend we have great nights of social dancing arranged. Peter Bourke will provide the music on Sunday night, March 16, and on Monday night, St. Patrick’s Day, March 17, for our anniversary night, we have Checkers providing the music. All are welcome to come along and enjoy a terrific night’s social dancing on either night, from 8.30pm to 11.30pm. Admission is €10, which includes tea and cakes and raffle.

This week's Tipp Echo Free Paper available Online
Read this week's or back issues of the Tipp Echo newspaper online by clicking here. You can read local news and sports from the surrounding districts and also view Recollections from 2014 photographs from the past, and local Fethard News.

New Tipperary GAA Commemoration Committee
On Saturday, March 15, the New Tipperary GAA Commemoration Committee will gather to pay homage to the former GAA club at the monument erected at Noan East between Ballinure and Laffansbridge. This is a simple ceremony with a few kind words in remembrance of the personnel of the area who kept the flag flying from its foundation in 1946, to its demise in the early sixties, due to the ‘one club one parish’ rule. The ceremony will conclude with a prayer. So if you feel like coming along at 2pm the committee will be delighted to welcome you – you never know who you might meet there! Tiobraid Árann Abú!

Athletics Munster Indoors at Nenagh


Well done to Miceál McCormack who competed in the Munster Indoor Athletics in Nenagh last weekend. L to R: Miceál McCormack (Fethard Athletic Club) who came 2nd in the Over-75 60m Sprint and 3rd in the Over-75 Shotput; Kevin Fox (Fanahan McSweeney Athletic Club) who came 1st in the Over-70 60m Sprint; Donal Crowley (Tralee Athletic Club) who came 1st in the Over-75 60m Sprint; and Mossy Wolfe, Chairman Munster Council AAI.

Fethard Community Games 'Got Talent'


Community Games Swimming Champions

Caoimhe Nevin who won the Girls U12 Freestyle event at the Community Games County Swimming finals held in Thurles on Sunday, March 9.

Fethard & Killusty Community Games congratulate Caoimhe Nevin and Toby Hayes, both of whom became county champions at Community games county swimming finals held in Thurles on Sunday, March 9. Caoimhe won the Girls U12 Freestyle event and Toby won Boys U16 Butterfly event. They will both represent Tipperary at the National Swimming Finals in the Watershed, Kilkenny.

Toby Hayes being congratulated by county chairman Micheal Maher on becoming Boys U16 Butterfly champion at the Community Games County Swimming finals held in Thurles on Sunday, March 9.

Daffodil Day ‘Walk/Run’ at Fethard Town Park
Local Sports Clubs, in conjunction with Fethard Daffodil Day committee, have organised a Daffodil Day Walk/Run 5K to take place on Friday, March 28, starting at 7.30pm at Fethard Town Park, in aid of Irish Cancer Association. All are invited to take part and support this most worthy cause.

Fethard AC Shines at Novice A in Dualla – Women’s and Men’s Teams Deliver Stellar Performances!
Fethard AC had a remarkable day at the Novice A races in Dualla last Sunday, with both the women’s and men’s teams showcasing incredible talent, determination, and teamwork.

Fethard AC Women Shine at Novice A in Dualla
Fethard AC women's team: Back L to R: Kitty Conry, Oonagh Burke, Laura Early, Mary Hurley, Theresa Coffey, Lisa Williams, Isobel Minogue, Deirdre Royce, Áine Doocey, Ann Tillyer. Front L to R: Paula Hendricksen, Edel Roche, Tanya O’Brien, Lorraine Kennedy, Marie Carrol, Katie Ryan, Carol Molloy, Barbara Ryan and Teresa Hurley.

Novice A was held in Dualla last Sunday, and Fethard AC had an incredible showing with 19 women taking on a tough 3km course. The hard work and dedication paid off as the club brought home the Novice A cup for the second year in a row – a huge achievement for everyone involved!

Leading the charge was Laura Earley, who stole the show from the very start. Laura set a blistering pace and led the field early on, but Orla Healy of Moyne AC managed to edge past her in the closing stages. Laura held on brilliantly to secure a fantastic 2nd place in a time of 11:32, an incredible performance – well done, Laura! Hot on her heels was Edel Roche, who ran a strong and controlled race to finish in 3rd place with a time of 11:43. Edel has been in superb form lately, and this result reflects her hard work and consistency. A brilliant podium finish for Edel!


Fethard AC Ladies retaining the Novice A cup from Owen Fanning L to R: Laura Early, Edel Roche and Paula Hendricksen

Following closely behind was Paula Hendriksen, who crossed the line in 6th place with a time of 12:14. Paula showed real strength throughout the race, helping to secure the team win with another impressive performance. Just behind Paula was Barbara Ryan, who made her debut for the club and immediately made an impact, finishing in 9th place with a time of 12:46. Barbara showed real composure and strength – we're excited to see what she’ll bring to future races! Carol Molloy followed in 11th place with a time of 12:59. Carol paced the race perfectly, growing stronger as the race went on – a real sign that the hard training is paying off.

Next home was Tanya O'Brien in 13th place with a time of 13:12. Tanya recently joined the club and made an impressive debut, looking strong throughout the course. We can't wait to see more from her in the future! Marie Carroll came through with a time of 13:57. Marie has been struggling with a knee injury over the last month, but you wouldn't have known it from the way she powered through the race – a gutsy performance! Next to finish was Kitty Conry, who ran an impressive debut race, coming in with a time of 14:59. Kitty recently joined from the 3k series and showed great promise on the day. Close behind was Theresa Coffey, who finished with a time of 15:02. Theresa made her road racing debut, and her steady improvement over the past few months was clear to see – a really strong performance!


First three ladies to finish L to R: Edel Roche (3rd place), Orla Healey of Moyne AC (1st place) and Laura Early (2nd Place)

Consistent as ever, Deirdre Royce followed in with a time of 15:07. Deirdre has been a reliable performer for the club, and this was another solid run from her. Oonagh Burke made her debut for the club and ran a very strong race to finish with a time of 15:12 – a great start to her Fethard AC journey! Next home was Isobel Minogue with a time of 15:44. Running on home turf, Isobel put in another steady and consistent performance – great work! Lisa Williams followed in with a time of 16:41, making her road debut. Lisa showed how much her hard work in training is paying off – well done! Despite carrying a knee injury, Aine Doocey battled through to finish in 34th place with a time of 17:00. Aine showed real grit – we can't wait to see her shine in the Novice B.

Next to cross the line was Lorraine Kennedy with a time of 17:15. Lorraine ran a steady and controlled race – a great performance! Teresa Hurley followed closely with a time of 17:33. Teresa made her road racing debut and showed impressive strength throughout – a brilliant first outing! Finishing just behind Teresa was Katie Ryan with a time of 17:42. Katie, also dealing with an injury, was thrilled to run pain-free – she's looking forward to the Novice B already! Mary Hurley came home in with a time of 18:02. Mary found the course tough but showed real determination to finish strong – a fantastic effort! Rounding out the Fethard AC finishers was Ann Tillyer with a time of 18:59. Ann made her racing debut and, despite finding the course challenging, pushed through to the end with an impressive effort.

Strong Performance for Fethard AC at Novice A Men's 6K in Dualla

Fethard AC Men's Team: Back L to R: Keith Browne, Aidan O’Brien, John Henry Smyth, James Maher, Jack Spillane, Jack Davey, Michael Power and Kevin Tobin. Front L to R: Cathal Hurley, James Denn, Pat Morrissey, Eddie Hayes, Neilie Hall and Michael Ryan.

Fethard AC had an incredible showing at the Novice A Men's 6km in Dualla last Sunday, with 14 men lining up to take on the challenging course. The perfect weather conditions and a tough, undulating course finishing around the track set the stage for some impressive performances. The team delivered a strong mix of experienced consistency and standout debuts, showing great promise for the season ahead.

Leading the charge for Fethard AC was Michael Power, who made an impressive debut, finishing with a time of 21:57. Michael showed great strength and determination throughout the race — an excellent first outing for the club. Just behind Michael was the ever-consistent James Maher, who crossed the line with a time of 22:00. James ran a solid and steady race, showing his trademark strength and focus. Kevin Tobin completed the race in 23:12 on his debut. Kevin has only recently joined the club, and his strong performance hints at great things to come. Following closely was Jack Davey with a time of 23:15. Jack ran a fantastic debut race, handling the tough course with confidence and grit. Just a few seconds behind was Cathal Hurley, finishing with a time of 23:18. Cathal demonstrated his consistency once again, putting in a solid and controlled performance.

Jack Spillane completed the race with a time of 24:34. Jack ran a strong and determined race, showing his growing strength and stamina. Not far behind, Eddie Hayes secured a time of 24:53. Eddie continues to improve with every race, and this performance was no exception. Another consistent showing came from James Denn, who finished with a time of 25:05. James demonstrated his reliability once again with a steady and focused run. Neilie Hall followed closely, finishing with a time of 26:09. Neilie put in a great effort and managed to maintain a strong pace throughout the course. John Henry Smyth made his debut with a time of 26:55. John put in a confident performance, showing real promise for future races. Also making his debut was Aidan O’Brien, who finished with a time of 27:29. Aidan has only recently joined the club, and his strong start shows he’ll be one to watch. Keith Browne also impressed in his debut, finishing with a time of 28:09. Keith handled the course well and showed excellent potential. Pat Morrissey put in a determined performance with a time of 28:42. Pat’s hard work is clearly paying off, and his strong debut reflected that. Finally, Michael Ryan rounded off the team effort with a time of 34:44. Michael showed consistency and determination, finishing his debut race with confidence.
A huge well done to all Fethard AC athletes for their fantastic debut performances and consistent efforts throughout! What a day for Fethard AC's brilliant performances, strong teamwork, and a promising future ahead! A massive congratulations to all the women who competed your dedication and hard work are truly inspiring. Welcome to our new members, and we’re excited to see what the future holds for this talented squad!

Killusty National School now enrolling for September, 2025!


Killusty National School are now enrolling for September 2025. For further details contact the school on Tel: (052) 6132314, or by email at: killustyns@gmail.com or visit our website at www.killustyns.com

The Clothes Rack, Charity Shop, Fethard

Voluntary staff members who run ‘The Clothes Rack’ charity shop on Main Street Fethard. Standing L to R: Veronica Fogarty, Carmel Rice, Maura Gorey, Mary Cloonan, Mary Colville, Nell Broderick, Joan Gough, Maureen Whyte, Monica Aherne, Phil Wyatt. Seated in front L to R: Agnes Evans and Margaret Ward.

The Clothes Rack has been supporting local charities since 2010 and appreciate your contributions and support since then. Unfortunately, we can no longer accept bags of clothing for recycling as we cannot dispose of them. WE are still glad to receive good quality items for resale in our shop on Main Street, Fethard. Our business hours are: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, from 10am to 12 noon, and from 2pm to 4pm. Do drop in and you might grab a bargain or two!

Fethard Juvenile GAA Club 'Easter Camp'


Fethard Juvenile GAA Club will hold their 'Easter Camp' for ages 4 to 14, from Tuesday April 15 to Thursday April 17, from 10am to 2pm. The camp will include hurling, football, camogie, rounders and lots more, suitable for bots and girls aged 4 to 14. Fethard GAA shorts and socks included.

Planning your Golf Society Day Out?


Whether planning a team building event or simply a day out to settle family rivalries, you can be sure of unbeatable value, friendly staff and a great time at Slievenamon Golf Club. To add to the fun, why not include a game of mini golf or (for the more intrepid) a stint on our Adventure Course when calculating team scores! Our ‘March Madness’ special offer is now available for those interested in buying 10 Green Fees for only €120, that you can use on weekdays or weekends. For more information, contact us on 052 613 2213 or email apowell@slievenamongolfclub.com

Big Picture - Operation Transformation 2014

This photograph was taken of participants in the Operation Transformation 'weigh-in' held in Fethard Convent Community Hall on January 29, 2014, with group leader Biddy O'Dwyer.

You can zoom in closer to see more detail by clicking the photograph to zoom-in and double-clicking the photograph to zoom-out or use the controls when you hover at the bottom of the photograph. If you can help with names or further information please let us know. Your comments, names or corrections are always welcome to: fethardnews@gmail.com

Faces and Places from the Past
This week we have a variety of photographs taken in 1995. We invite people to let us know any missing names, including first names, or any other information that we can add to our files for future generations. If anyone can help us, please do and send any comments, photo information, names, to fethardnews@gmail.com

Fethard First Communion June 3, 1995


Fethard First Communion June 3, 1995


Fethard First Communion June 3, 1995


Pupils from Killusty National School who recently received their First Holy Communion at The Church of the Sacred Heart, Killusty on May 25, 1995 are L to R: Patricia Lee, Sharon Duggan, Gillian O’Shea, Lucy Sheehan and Ciara Hickey.


Members of Civil Defence pictured at their stall on Main Street at Fethard London Reunion Festival held on July 2, 1995. Includes Mickey Mullins, Joe Strappe and Tommy Gahan.


Pat Culligan leading his son 'One Little Indian' on his pony in the Fethard London Reunion Festival & Fancy Dress Parade held on July 2, 1995.


Taking part in the 'On Your Toes' display at Fethard Festival Fancy Dress Parade on July 2, 1995 were Back L to R: Lisa Walsh, Susan McCormack, Donna Walsh, Fiona Ryan. Middle L to R: Emma Fitzgerald, Norah O'Meara, Stephanie McCormack. Front L to R: Siobhán Cleary and Eleanor Roche.


Taking part in the 'On Your Toes' display at Fethard Festival Fancy Dress Parade on July 2, 1995 were Back L to R: Aoife O'Meara, Aideen O'Donnell, Fiona Maher, Hannah Sheehan. Front L to R: Evelyn O'Connor, Tara Mullins, Alice Delahanty and Helena McCormack.


Group of dancers from the Fethard “On Your Toes” school who led the Fancy Dress Parade on July 2, 1995. Pictured in St. Patrick's Place after the parade.


Group of dancers from the Fethard “On Your Toes” school who led the Fancy Dress Parade on July 2, 1995. Pictured in St. Patrick's Place after the parade.


Group of dancers from the Fethard “On Your Toes” school who led the Fancy Dress Parade on July 2, 1995. Pictured in St. Patrick's Place after the parade.


'Squaws in the Move Looking for a Reservation' one of the entries in the Fancy Dress Parade on July 2, 1995. L to R: Ann Marie Connolly, Jane Hayes and Sara Healy.

"Fethard's Wall Draws Them All" – Nano Nagle National School entry in the Fancy Dress Parade held on July 2, 1995.

Please send any comments, photo information, names or stories, to fethardnews@gmail.com

Fethard News for inclusion on this website
Comments or items for inclusion on this website can be emailed to fethardnews@gmail.com or delivered by hand to Joe Kenny, Rocklow Road, Fethard.

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