Podcasts about Ballina

Fáilte ar ais chuig eagrán nua de Ar An Lá Seo ar an 6ú lá de mí an Mheithimh, liomsa Lauren Ní Loingsigh. I 1975 tháinig an nuacht amach go mbeadh an phacáiste comhrialtas chun dífhostaíocht a laghdú agus go mbeadh boilsciú ann, agus bhí plé cráite ann I rith an deireadh seachtain. I 1986 bhí coimhlint idir stailceoirí agus gardaí agus mar sin de tháinig an airm isteach chun é a stopadh I mBaile Átha Cliath. I 1998 bhí plean ann leis an chostas de 2 milliún punt chun athchóiriú a dhéanamh ar Tipperary Crystal agus d'oscail sé ar an lá seo agus bhí ionad cuairteoirí nua ann I gCarraig na Siúire. Bhí ionad siopadóireachta níos fearr ann agus níos mó áiseanna chun ithe. Bhí an taobh amuigh déanta suas chomh maith. I 2006 tháinig sé amach go raibh An Cherry Tree I mBéal An Átha an tríú bialann is fearr sa tír sa Jacob's Creek Reserve Restaurant Awards agus bhí sé an bhialann is fearr I gCúige Mumhan. Bhí nach mór 100 bialann ainmnithe timpeall an tír agus shroich An Cherry Tree uimhir a trí. Sin Doctor & The Medics le Spirit In The Sky – an t-amhrán is mó ar an lá seo I 1986 Ag lean ar aghaidh le nuacht cheoil ar an lá seo I 1974 tháinig Dolly Parton agus RCA Records amach le hamhrán darbh ainm I Will Always Love You – bhí sé a dara hamhrán ón albam Jolene. Rinne sí taifead ar an amhrán bliain roimhe agus scríobh sí an t-amhrán do Porter Wagoner. I 1987 shroich Whitney Houston uimhir a haon lena amhrán I Wanna Dance With Somebody – a dara hamhrán a shroich uimhir a haon sa Bhreatain. Shroich sí uimhir a haon I dtír eile agus bhuaigh sí Grammy don amhrán I 1988. Agus ar deireadh breithlá daoine cáiliúla ar an lá seo rugadh aisteoir Paul Giamatti I Meiriceá I 1967 agus rugadh aisteoir Jason Isaacs sa Bhreatain ar an lá seo I 1963 agus seo chuid de na rudaí a rinne sé. Beidh mé ar ais libh an tseachtain seo chugainn le heagrán nua de Ar An Lá Seo. Welcome back to another edition of Ar An Lá Seo on the 6th of June, with me Lauren Ní Loingsigh 1975: the coalition opackage to cut unemployment and inflation was due to be ready by thr weekend following agonising deliberations. 1986: a violent confrontation between corporation strikers and gardai ended in an army squad being forced to abandon a clean up operation in central dublin.  2006 -The Cherry Tree in Ballina was voted the third best restaurant in Ireland in the Jacob's Creek Reserve Restaurant Awards – and the best in Munster. Up to one hundred establishments throughout the country were nominated for the award and the Cherry Tree made it to the top three.  1998 -A £2m restructuring plan at Tipperary Crystal was on show as it officially opened it's new look Visitor Centre at Carrick-on-Suir, The enlarged centre provides for a more comfortable shopping environment which also includes extended restaurant facilities. The exterior of the building has also benefitted from the development work which has been in progress for some months.  That was Doctor and The Medics with Spirit In The Sky – the biggest song on this day in 1986 Onto music news on this day In 1974 RCA Records released 'I Will Always Love You' by Dolly Parton, the second single from Parton's thirteenth solo studio album, Jolene. Recorded on June 13, 1973, the singer wrote the song for her one-time partner and mentor Porter Wagoner, from whom she was professionally splitting at the time. 1987 Whitney Houston had her second UK No.1 single with 'I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)'. It reached No.1 in over a dozen other countries and won a Grammy Award for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance in 1988. And finally celebrity birthdays on this day – actor Paul Giamatti was born in America in 1967 and actor Jason Isaacs was born in the UK on this day in 1963 and this is some of the stuff he has done. I'll be back with you next week with another edition of Ar An Lá Seo.

-new chair of the SKS Killaloe Music festival taking talking about events taking taking place this weekend for the Festival in Killaloe and Ballina. https://killaloemusicfestival.com/programme-2025  Originally broadcast as part of Saturday Chronicle 31st May 2025 hosted by Patricia Anne Moore and Tom Hanley. as broadcast from the Killaloe Ballina Family Resource Centre, the Green, Killaloe, https://kbfrc.ie/  Saturday Chronicle is Sponsored by JAMES M NASH AND DERG KITCHEN DESIGN http://dergkitchendesign.ie Message or what's app the studio on 089 2582647 or email sbcrstudio@gmail.com

Kim welcomes Claudia Lawrence, the visionary CEO and founder of Dinner Is Served in Ballina, New South Wales, Australia. As the debut guest of the Intuitive Leader Series, Claudia shares her unique journey leading an award-winning sustainable food business—blending intuitive decision-making, manifestation practices, and practical business strategy.Whether you're an established entrepreneur, an aspiring intuitive leader, or anyone craving fresh perspectives on business leadership, this episode delivers inspiration for navigating the ever-changing New Era of business.Episode HighlightsTrusting Intuition for Business SuccessClaudia dives deep into what it means to truly trust your intuition as a business leader. She shares personal stories about hiring, pivoting during staff changes, and knowing when it's time to move forward—emphasizing how she physically feels intuitive signals and the importance of honoring those instincts, even (and especially) in high-stakes moments.Manifesting Opportunities and Using Energetic SignaturesManifestation isn't just a buzzword for Claudia—it's a daily practice. She reveals how keeping the “how” out of manifestation, starting with small intentions, and building a track record of trust in the universe has helped her call in everything from the perfect business location to a fully electric kitchen. Claudia also discusses the Intuitive Success Quiz and explains how understanding both her own and her team's unique Signatures allows for harmonious, effective collaboration.Key Episode Quotes“There's nothing that I can't create or manifest. The faith comes from practicing and seeing it work—start small and build proof.”“It's a balance—the more you honor your intuition, the greater dividends it pays. But as a business owner, you also need to know your numbers and have a plan.”Key Questions Answered1. What practical steps did Claudia take to manifest major wins for her business?[12:09] Claudia shares that her manifestation process started simple—with intentions and daily affirmations written in a journal and expanding as evidence built. She discusses manifesting her ideal business location and securing solar panels, highlighting the importance of removing the “how” and letting the outcome unfold. “Each day in my journal, and each time we were setting intentions around the moon—solar panels, I'd like that... and I removed that ‘Well, how's that going to happen?'” 2. What advice does Claudia have for aspiring entrepreneurs and intuitive leaders?[34:59] Claudia emphasizes the need for balance: “I feel that when I built the kitchen and the space we're in, I relied too heavily on magic [...] but I didn't do my due diligence with the numbers.” She encourages combining practical business planning (knowing your numbers, backup plans) with intuition and manifestation. “It would be to make sure that you have a plan, create the vision in your mind and make it a big vision. [...] But make sure you understand your numbers.” Connect with Claudia Lawrence & Dinner Is Served!Website: https://dinnerisserved.com.au/Location: Ballina, New South Wales, just south of Byron Bay, AustraliaInstagram: @dinnerisservedauFind them locally: Search “Dinner Is Served” in Google Maps to visit their award-winning cafe or order ready meals in the Northern NSW region.Subscribe, Rate, and ReviewEnjoyed this episode? Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform, leave a review, and share with friends who would value these insights on intuitive business leadership and soulful success!

The Mary Robinson Centre and University of Galway, along with partner Mayo County Council, will host the third Mary Robinson Climate and Nature Conference. The conference will bring together climate justice advocates, scientists, activists, community groups and policymakers to address local, national and global challenges and opportunities in relation to climate justice and nature conservation. Centering on the theme "Courage in Crisis", the annual conference will take place in Ballina, Co Mayo, on May 26th and 27th where the former president grew up, and where the new Mary Robinson Centre is located. Mary Robinson Centre and University of Galway host 2025 climate and nature conference Mary Robinson said: "The Mary Robinson Nature and Climate Conference will centre on a call to courage in the face of the climate and nature crisis, a crisis that touches every part of our shared world. In these urgent times, it is through meitheal, the Irish tradition of coming together in collective effort, that we find strength, purpose and hope. Only by standing together can we meet this moment with the boldness it demands. I'm looking forward to being in community in my hometown of Ballina, imagining together what each of us can do to build a better future." Along with Mary Robinson, the conference will feature a distinguished lineup of Irish and international speakers including: Dr Aoibhinn Ní Shúilleabháin, DCU; Anja Murray, ecologist, policy analyst, broadcaster and author; Dearbhla Richardson, youth climate justice activist; Dr Elaine McGoff, An Taisce; Dr Gerard McCarthy, physical oceanographer and climate scientist; Professor Hannah Daly, UCC; Professor John Barry, Queens University Belfast; Professor Navjot Bhullar, University of Canberra, Australia; Tom Arnold, Ireland Africa Rural Development Committee; Dr Omnia El Omrani, Global Climate and Health Alliance; and Laura Cook, Project Dandelion. The conference will feature a diverse range of workshops, panel discussions, walks, music and art, and aims to create space for people to connect, share ideas, and collaborate, with several of the conference events open to the public. Dr Caitríona Carlin, School of Natural Sciences and Ryan Institute at University of Galway and conference co-chair, said: "It was uplifting to hear Mary Robinson recognise the interconnections between climate and biodiversity, when she changed the name of the conference to climate and nature in 2024. This is the first year that the conference formally addresses climate and nature and we are grateful to the funders and sponsors who have supported us. The conference enables us to acknowledge that actions for climate, for nature are also for us. We are part of the environment, and in finding common ground, we can make space for courageous conversations and actions to meet the multiple challenges ahead." Dr Sinéad Sheehan, School of Psychology and Ryan Institute, University of Galway and conference co-chair, said: "This year, while we are bringing the conference to Ballina, we also want to bring Ballina to the conference! There's a great programme of events planned around the conference, including an art exhibition at the Mary Robinson Centre, a 'Connecting With Trees' walk in Belleek Woods on Sunday, and an eco-gathering on Tuesday featuring groups working on climate and nature. We're also looking forward to a special 'Oíche Cultúr agus Craic' on Monday night with music, poetry and storytelling - it should be a brilliant few days for Ballina and the wider community." Dr Alma Clavin, Lecturer in Sustainability at University of Galway and conference co-chair, said: "This conference creates a necessary courageous space for those activated in climate and nature work to connect with each other and new ideas. The conference is taking place in a county that has a fantastic network of community-led climate and sustainability initiatives and a distinctive biodiversity-rich landscape. We're delighted to host this important ...

Last Thursday was a hugely significant day for the twin towns of Killaloe and Ballina, as the long-awaited Brian Boru Bridge was unveiled. The €88 million project connects the twin towns of Killaloe and Ballina while also providing a new 6.2 kilometre Killaloe Bypass as well as regional road enhancements. However, what should have been a day of joy for locals seems to have instead been a day of anger and frustration. That's because locals say they were “locked out of history” - claiming politicians and local representatives were invited to the unveiling of the Brian Boru Bridge...but they weren't allowed to attend its opening. To discuss this further, Alan Morrissey was joined by Deirdre Scanlan, from Ballina.

The Minister of Transport has hailed a new bridge in East Clare as "transformative" for the region. Fianna Fáil Minister Darragh O'Brien attended the unveiling of the long-awaited Brian Boru Bridge on Thursday afternoon. The €88 million project connects the twin towns of Killaloe and Ballina while also providing a new 6.2 kilometre Killaloe Bypass as well as regional road enhancements. Clare FM's Seán Lyons headed to the Clare/Tipperary border to cover the event where the Minister was subject to some early accusations.

Presented by Petula Martyn, coming from the twin towns of Killaloe and Ballina ahead of the opening of the Brian Boru Bridge today.

The Minister for Transport will officially open a long-awaited bridge in East Clare in the coming week. Minister Darragh O'Brien is set to unveil the Brian Boru Bridge connecting Killaloe and Ballina next Thursday at 3pm. The major infrastructural project crosses the River Shannon one kilometre south of the existing Killaloe Bridge and will connect the Killaloe Bypass with the R494. Killaloe Fianna Fáil Councillor Tony O'Brien says it's a gamechanger.

After a bizarre last ditch bid by Jon Winfield to curry favour from a Ballina detective, the coroner heading the inquest into Bronwyn’s presumed murder sums up the case against the surfing bricklayer. He describes Bronwyn’s predicament in May 1993, the plans she was making for herself and her two girls, and her resolve to be free from Jon. The coroner weighs and rejects Jon’s claims – that a mentally befuddled Bronwyn had gone on an impromptu break and must have started a new life. Jodie’s protection of her father comes under closer scrutiny. Chrystal reveals the significance of a signet ring. At the end of the inquest, Jon’s luck looks like it’s finally run out – he’s being referred to the DPP with a recommendation that he be prosecuted for murder. Read more about this case and see photographs, maps, timelines and more at bronwynpodcast.com. If you have information which may help solve this cold case, you can – contact our team confidentially by emailing bronwyn@theaustralian.com.auSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You might have noticed from the officially released Vatican photographs that the Pope is lying in an open casket. But, is this still a common practice in Ireland nowadays, and if so, why?Joining Seán to discuss is David MacGowan from Foley and McGowan Funeral Home and Crematorium in Sligo and Ballina.Image: Reuters

Retailers are calling for a crackdown on what they are calling an “epidemic” of shoplifting across the country; many would like to see tougher sentencing of those convicted to deter the growing rates of the crime.Joining Kieran to discuss is Vincent Jennings, Chief Executive Officer of the Convenience Stores & Newsagents Association of Ireland, Sheila Clarke, who runs Clarke's XL shop in Ballina, Co. Mayo and later, Jean McCabe, CEO of Retail Excellence.

You might have noticed from the officially released Vatican photographs that the Pope is lying in an open casket. But, is this still a common practice in Ireland nowadays, and if so, why?Joining Seán to discuss is David MacGowan from Foley and McGowan Funeral Home and Crematorium in Sligo and Ballina.Image: Reuters

This week's Village Tour takes us to Ballin in North Tipp live from the Lakeside Hotel! We found out about the village and it's incredible growth, it's importance to the Tourism Industry. We also found out more about the local sport, drama and musical scene, its rich history and those involved in active retirement. Find out more about Ballina here: https://discoverloughderg.ie/project/ballina/ Find out more about river cruises here: https://www.killaloerivercruises.com/ Find out more about the Lakeside Hotel here: https://www.lakesidehotel.ie/

On this morning's show... A contract has been signed to use Dundrum House Hotel Complex as an IPAS accommodation center. Mattie McGrath is live in studio. Shane Phelan will discuss the Grace Case Report Memories of school lunches Gardening with Ultan Nesbitt And the village tour stops at Ballina.

There's no busier jockey in northern NSW than Wauchope based Luke Rolls. The expat Kiwi drives huge mileage to honour commitments at northern rivers and tablelands tracks. Born and reared in Fielding on New Zealand's North Island, Luke was initially apprenticed to Bruce Marsh at Foxton. He transferred to a Victorian stable in the early 2000's and his subsequent journey has produced an impressive tally of more than 760 winners. Luke begins our chat by talking about his move to the NSW mid north coast with Cassie Schmidt, the lady destined to become his wife. He says hard work was the only way to go in the first few years. The jockey takes us through a normal day in his life. Few jockeys ride more trackwork than Luke Rolls. Luke says he has to keep an eye on the clock when he has commitments at a faraway meeting. The constant travelling is the toughest part of his job. He acknowledges the ongoing support of a special group of northern trainers. Luke takes us back to early days on the farm at Fielding NZ. Horse racing wasn't on his radar. He admits he was more intent on becoming an All Black than a professional jockey. Luke looks back on his initial apprenticeship to top trainer Bruce Marsh. He'd never been on a horse. He looks back on his first race ride. He finished second but says the horse should have won. Luke hasn't forgotten his first winning ride. It turned out to be his one and only NZ winner. He talks of a transfer to a Victorian stable when Bruce Marsh landed a contract to train in Singapore. The jockey remembers a happy 18 months with Terry O'Sullivan at Stawell and the handful of winners he rode on country tracks. Luke admits he suddenly lost interest in racing after the Victorian stint. He went to Sydney with mates and landed a job as a welder. He looks back on a return to NZ and a job with Affco Abbatoirs. That job generated an opportunity to work in rural Queensland which didn't work out. Next step was another meatworks job on the Gold Coast. Finally the lure of the thoroughbred prompted him to give riding another crack. A newspaper advertisement led him to a job with a Gold Coast trainer. Luke was thrilled to win a race at Ballina soon after returning to race riding. He talks of a tremendous winning run on the Gold Coast which yielded a local apprentices premiership. Luke remembers a growing interest in his services from Brisbane stables. He's never forgotten his first trip to the metropolitan winner's circle. In fact it happened twice on the day. He talks of the jockey who became a formidable rival on the Gold Coast and of the day he rode the first four winners on the programme. Luke looks back on his only ride in a Gr 1 race. He was flown to Sydney by Queensland owners to handle a lightweight in The Galaxy of 2009. For one thrilling moment at the 200m he thought the race was in his keeping. He talks of an Eagle Farm win on a horse destined to win a Gr 1 down the track. Luke acknowledges the successful riding career of wife Cassie despite a torturous battle with weight. When she opted to relocate from the Gold Coast to her native Wauchope he elected to go with her. Cassie's “dream job” came along soon after. He says nobody was surprised when Cassie decided on a training career. Her first win came not long after gaining her licence and Luke Rolls was the jockey. Luke talks of his marriage to Cassie and the successful trainer/jockey combination they've developed. It's a nice chat with a Kiwi born jockey who preferred motor bikes to horses in his early days at Fielding.

For the first time since 1993, Creggs are the Bank of Ireland Connacht Junior Cup champions following this 15-point victory over Dunmore in Ballina on Sunday (30th March 2025). Mikey Dunne and captain James Brandon got two tries each, with Brian Diffley and Mark Dowd also crossing the whitewash. Galway Bay FM's match commentary team were Ollie Turner and Alan Deegan.

One year after being in their first ever final, Dunmore rugby club chase a first ever Connacht Junior Cup on Sunday (30th March 2025) when they clash with Creggs. Leading up to the big match, Galway Bay FM's Ollie Turner headed to An Dún Rí in Dunmore to sample the atmosphere. == Kick-off at Ballina on Sunday is 3.30pm and we'll have LIVE coverage here on Galway Bay FM.

Two weeks following their league success against Connemara, Creggs target ending a 32-year wait this Sunday (30th March 2025) when they take on Dunmore in the Connacht Junior Rugby Cup Final. Leading up to the big match, Galway Bay FM's John Mulligan headed to Creggs RFC clubhouse to sample the atmosphere. == Kick-off at Ballina on Sunday is 3.30pm and we'll have LIVE coverage here on Galway Bay FM.

Clare County Council has submitted a funding application under the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund (RRDF) for the delivery of significant new public realm regeneration and enhancement projects in Crusheen and Killaloe-Ballina. The proposed multi-million-euro schemes include the reopening of Crusheen Railway Station and the development of a multi-purpose community enterprise hub and crèche in the village, as well as revitalising the public realm in Killaloe-Ballina town centres and transforming the vacant Killaloe Courthouse into a cultural and musical venue. To discuss this further, Alan Morrissey was joined by Senior Planner and Killaloe MD Coordinator for Clare County Council, Brian McCarthy. Photo(C): https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1281922090415310&set=pb.100057925933323.-2207520000

Thousands of dead fish are washing up on the shores of coastal and riverside towns of Northern New South Wales. Flathead, bream, whiting, and schooling prawns have died in a devastating fish kill in the aftermath of Tropical Cyclone Alfred. The fish are dying as a result of a lack of oxygen in the water. Rural Reporter Dusty Fitzpatrick spoke with Ballina local Stan Golding about how locals are feeling.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Happy Harmony Week! On News Time today we have five epic stories including a rare fossil donated to a Queensland school, a shipwreck unearthed by a cyclone, and the secret to growing enormous pumpkins.Quiz Questions1.How many fossilised footprints were discovered in the one rock?2.Where is the Gove Peninsula?3.What is the name of the shipwreck thought to have been unearthed at Ballina?4.Which Victorian town is home of the Electric Light Theatre?5.How heavy was Mark's biggest pumpkin?Bonus Tricky QuestionWhat colour do people wear during Harmony Week?Answers1.662.North-east Arnhem Land (in the Northern Territory, Australia)3.The Comet4.Mildura5.426 kilograms (as heavy as a grand piano)Bonus Tricky AnswerOrange

Tropical Cyclone Alfred has changed direction and is directly heading towards the Queensland coast. A warning has been issued for Double Island Point in Queensland to Yamba in New South Wales, including Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Byron Bay, and Ballina. BOM Senior Meteorologist Dean Narramore, told Gary Hardgrave on 4BC Drive, "Cyclone warning means that we are likely to see gales develop in this area within the next 24 hours, likely tomorrow afternoon into tomorrow evening. "Gales are defined as sustained winds at 64km an hour, gusting even higher than that. So they'll first feel it on the islands through Moreton and Straddie." "Then we'll feel it on the coast, and then we'll see it move inland as we move through Wednesday night, particularly during the day Thursday and especially during Thursday night," Mr Narramore continued. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Re-interment of Frank Stagg. Last week we remembered Frank Stagg who died on hunger strike in an English prison in February 1976. Frank began his fourth and final hunger strike in December 1975. He died 62 days later. He last request was "to be buried next to my republican colleagues and my comrade, Michael Gaughan" who died on hunger strike two years earlier. Michael had been buried in Ballina with republican honours.Faced with the prospect of another high-profile funeral of a republican hunger striker the plane carrying Frank Stagg's coffin was diverted by the Irish Government from Dublin, where the Stagg family and friends were waiting, to Shannon. Frank's body was hijacked and taken by helicopter to Ballina, where it was buried. A 24-hour guard was put in place and concrete was poured over it to prevent the family from exhuming the coffin.Frank's brother George later described how, when  he took his mother to visit the grave, Special Branch officers took photographs of her as she knelt and prayed. Slán Brendan.This week came with the death of our comrade and friend, Bik McFarlane. 

Wir fahren die australische Ostküste nach Norden über Diamond Beach, Goldcoast bis zur Sunshinecoast. Dazwischen nehmen euch mit nach Ballina, wo der Sand unter unseren Füßen quietscht, und nach Brisbane, das ganz anders war, als wir dachten. Und Wasser spielt diesmal eine große Rolle: Gemütliche und blitzschnelle Fähren, Haie im Fluss, Flut-Tipps am Straßenrand, Schwimmbad (mit Strand) am Strand und 13 Liter Wasser im Schnabel eines Pelikans. Und als ob das nicht schon genug wäre, gibt's ein freies Stromkabel im Pool und einen echten Eisberg. Und wir lassen uns von einem Australier erklären, warum sie so entspannt sind und was sie glücklich macht. Wir freuen uns, wenn ihr uns weiter an euren Erlebnissen teilhaben lasst oder Tipps und Fragen zu unseren nächsten Reisezielen (Neuseeland, Indonesien/Bali, Singapur) habt: klickt hier -> [Anrufbeantworter](https://www.speakpipe.com/happytogo) Bilder findet ihr bei Instagram unter @happytogo.podcast

Welcome to The Love Line, where we have teamed up with Winters Jewellers in Ballina to give away a bespoke diamond ring worth up to €5,000 this Valentine's Day. Qualify to win by contacting the Love Line and completing our challenge!

The Killaloe-Ballina Community & Family Resource Centre's Connect Cafe is making its return. The cafe, in conjunction with the Irish Dementia Cafe Network, will take place at the Family Resource Centre on Tuesday, 28th of January from 6:30pm. To get some background on the cafe and what will be happening, Alan Morrissey was joined by cafe coordinator, Aifric Devane. Photo (C): Killaloe/Ballina Community & Family Resource Centre, Facebook

Wesley O'Brien is a tennis coach at the Killaloe-Ballina Tennis Club. The Killaloe native has been involved in blind tennis since 2017 and has been to a number of World Championships as part of the Irish Blind Tennis team. A new programme for blind and visually impaired people will begin at Killaloe-Ballina Tennis Club later this month. To discuss this further, Alan Morrissey was joined by tennis coach at the Killaloe-Ballina Tennis Club, Wesley O'Brien, and tennis player on the Irish team in the B4 category, Margueritte Quinn. Photo (c) by Bobex-73 from Getty Images Pro via Canva

There are big matches taking place in the All-Ireland League for Galwegians and Corinthians, plus some important contests in the Connacht Women's Senior League. And the Men's Connacht Cup gets underway. To set the scene, here's Galway Bay FM's William Davies. == Selected Fixtures (Saturday 1pm Hamilton Park) – Sligo vs South East Galway Warriors (Senior Women's League) (Saturday 7pm) – Ballina vs Corinthians, Monivea vs Ballyhaunis (Men's Connacht Rugby Junior Cup) (Saturday 7.30pm Tuam) – Tuam vs Loughrea (Men's Connacht Rugby Junior Cup) (Saturday, 8pm Dexcom Stadium) – Connacht vs Lyon (European Challenge Cup) (Sundy 12pm) – Galwegians vs Westport, University of Galway vs Tuam/Oughterard (Senior Women's League) (Sunday 1pm Corinthian Park) – OLBC/Corinthians vs Ballinrobe (Senior Women's League) (Sunday 2pm) – Ballinasloe vs Buccaneers, Connemara vs Sligo, Creggs vs Corrib, Dunmore vs Castlebar, Westport vs Ballinrobe (Men's Connacht Rugby Junior Cup)

It came as a surprise recently to learn that I hadn't interviewed Scott Seamer since 2003 when he flew from Ballina to be a guest on Sky's Inside Racing programme. At the time of the interview the former northern rivers jockey had posted an amazing 15 Gr wins in two years following on from a Queensland Oaks victory on Ethereal in 2001. A few months later Scott landed the coveted Caulfield and Melbourne double on the same wonderful staying mare. Since quitting the saddle in 2011 the former ace jockey has joined the ranks of Australia's commercial breeders. I was delighted he was able to find the time to join us on our regular racing podcast and equally delighted  to find him in reminiscent mood.  Scott was thrilled to see Ethereal's trainer Sheila Laxon win her second Melbourne Cup with Knight's Choice in November. He talks about the transformation of his Fernleigh property from a macadamia farm to commercial breeding enterprise. Scott says his first duty as a breeder was to find the right foundation mare. He's now breeding from four of her daughters. He talks of his breeding share in a high profile Queensland stallion. The multiple Gr 1 winning jockey previews his four horse draft being prepared for the Inglis Classic Sale in February. Scott remembers his unhappy departure from race riding at Doomben in late 2011. He takes us back to his first time on a racecourse in the late 1970's. He tagged along with his mother and stepfather to a Bowraville meeting, and was instantly hooked. Scott looks back on a stablehand's job with Coffs Harbour trainer John Hennessy, and the offer of an apprenticeship from Grafton trainer Ron Gosling. Very clear in his memory is the occasion of his first race ride at Lismore. He tipped the scales at 32 kgs. Scott talks of his thrilling first win at Casino and the transition to a metropolitan win at Eagle Farm in 1987. He pays tribute to Protester,  the genuine bush galloper who gave him an amazing twenty wins. The former ace jockey looks back on his relocation from the northern rivers to Glen Innes. He enjoyed a very successful five years from his tablelands base, and forged an association with a champion country trainer. Scott talks of his decision to give Brisbane racing a serious shot. He was encouraged to make the move by outstanding jockey manager Trevor Lansky who brought him unexpected opportunities.  Seamer talks of Ethereal's outstanding win in the Queensland Oaks. She came with the barnstorming finish destined to become her trademark. He admits to chasing the ride on the bonny mare when she resumed in NZ in the spring of 2001. He offered to pay his own way across the ditch. Scott recalls his tense battle with Sky Heights in the Caulfield Cup, and the wet weather leading up to the Melbourne Cup. He takes us through Ethereal's brilliant Cup win. He talks about a McKinnon Stakes win on Derby day. Thanks to his new NZ connections Scott was able to land some plum rides over the 2001 Auckland summer carnival. He looks back on a memorable Derby/Oaks double at Ellerslie.  The former jockey started the new year with a bang winning the Magic Millions on Lovely Jubly. He recalls the race. Scott remembers a successful autumn carnival in Melbourne highlighted by wins in the C.F Orr and Australian Guineas. The former talented horseman still shakes his head when he thinks about a four win haul on Golden Slipper day 2002- two Gr 2's and two Gr 1's. He remembers the wins by Ethereal and Calaway Gal. Seamer's dazzling autumn win sequence earned him a short term contract in Hong Kong. He later wished that invitation hadn't arrived. He fractured two vertebrae in a nasty fall and was out of action for several months. Up to this point in time, Scott had been treated very kindly by the racing media. That changed when he was beaten on Bel Esprit in the Manikato Stakes. He handled it philosophically. He says he felt the need to make a statement when the 2003 autumn carnival got under way in Sydney. He made the best kind of statement by winning the Australian Derby on Clangalang with a 10/10 ride. The former jockey talks of another Derby win a short time later. He was thrilled to win the Queensland Derby for Bede Murray on Half Hennessy. Scott talks of another Gr 1 win at the same carnival on Picaday in the T. J Smith Classic.  He says he was delighted to win the 2004 Epsom for Tulloch Lodge on Desert War. Scott looks back on his final Gr 1 victory. He made the trip back to NZ to win another Derby on Coniston Bluebird for the late Bede Murray. The jockey turned commercial breeder pays a heartfelt tribute to Louise, his wife of twenty nine years and to twenty one year old daughter Caitlin who's currently chasing a Uni degree in Business and Law. This is a laid back chat with a former jockey whose story is an inspirational one. The tiny northern rivers apprentice who dared to dream. He worked hard and didn't squander a single opportunity. His emergence to ride 22 Gr 1 winners is one of Australian racing's most endearing tales. You'll enjoy our trip down memory lane with Scott Seamer.

It's claimed it's in Killaloe's best interests for its existing bridge to remain open to traffic for the time being. A public consultation process with a view to pedestrianising the 18th century bridge to Ballina is currently underway, ahead of the opening of the new Shannon Bridge Crossing, which is expected between January and March of next year. A major milestone of the €60m project has also been reached, with the Killaloe Bypass officially opening this week. Meelick Fianna Fáil TD Cathal Crowe believes it's vital both bridges co-exist until the level of traffic demand for each is determined.

The annual Killaloe/Ballina Christmas Day Swim will take place on, yes, you've guessed it...Christmas Day! This year will be the 36th edition of the swim. The aim of the event is to raise funds for some worthwhile causes. To find out what to expect, Alan Morrissey was joined by Jonathan McGrath, Chris O'Neill from Kilalloe Tidy Towns, and Damien Madden from Ballina Community First Responders. Photo (c): Killaloe Ballina Christmas Day Swim via Facebook

The potential pedestrianisation of a landmark bridge is East Clare is being described as a "once-in-a-lifetime opportunity". An informal public information session will be held in the Killaloe Hotel today from 5pm to 7pm on Clare County Council and Tipperary County Council's intention to pedestrianise the existing Killaloe-Ballina Bridge. The plan forms part of the Killaloe Bypass, Shannon Bridge Crossing and R494 Improvement Scheme which involves the construction of a new vehicular traffic bridge and connect the proposed Killaloe Bypass to the R494. Killaloe Municipal District Senior Planner Brian McCarthy believes the measure would have a very positive effect on both towns.

Books are always a good Christmas present choice and Edwin McGreal's 'Our Finest Hour', in which over 50 Mayo GAA clubs reflect on their own individual day of glory, has the makings of a fine festive gift. Ed joins Rob and John on the pod to chat about the book and the many stories and photos it contains within its covers.Also on this pod, ahead of Friday's now sold-out Club Stars event Mike chats with Seán Regan of Ballina Stephenites and Tooreen. Seán will be presented at the Club Stars event with an Outstanding Achievement Award (sponsored by Connacht GAA), having won back-to-back county medals in football and hurling with Ballina and Tooreen respectively.      

Bonus pod this week where Nick and Mark run through a few questions from the Talk Birdie Wolfpack.Daniel from Ballina has a comment on the rakes at his course - he loves them, Nick and Mark a little less so.Jeremy wants to know if there is a chance the Australian Masters will ever return, Mark is biased of course given his beloved Huntingdale hosted the event for so long.Patto is about to head to Adelaide with his beautiful wife Mel for a holiday, they'd never been and would like to play some golf while they are there and ask for a few tips.And Rohan has commented on the famous Ben Hogan quote about golf being a game of misses, and we find out what Nick and Marks 'best misses' were.We're here with the great support of PING, see your local golf shop or professional for a PING club fitting. Just like they have with Nick O'Hern, PING will help you play your best. The Golf Clearance Outlet, great prices on the best gear. See them instore in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide, Sunshine Coast, or online here. watchMynumbers, the powerful data-based golf app in the world - play smarter by using your data. Download from the AppStore or GooglePlay.And Southern Golf Club - hosting the Master of the Amateurs in January - entry is free!Remember to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and TikTok, and you can see all our Masterclass videos on YouTube here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Ball & All presents a LIVE Podcast from the Book Launch of Col Lee's 'Turning the Tide'. Col Lee is an absolute champion bloke and an integral part of the Northern Rivers community. ‘Turning The Tide' is about the extraordinary story of Ballina Rotary's response to the 2022 floods crisis, written by Col with assistance of his neighbour & former journalist Christine McNeil. We're unbelievably grateful to be in the same postcode as Col Lee, let alone support him with his book launch a few Fridays ago.  Copies of ‘Turning The Tide' are available for $20 from the Ballina-on-Richmond Rotary Club, with profits going to help the Hot Meal Centre and future community projects of the club. In Ballina you can find copies at: Wallace & Co, the Commonwealth Bank, 101.9 Paradise FM, and the Ballina Maritime Museum.https://www.echo.net.au/2024/11/ballina-flood-book-launched-in-style/   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We had our podcast interview with Keith Ballard safely “in the can” before he reported for duty at Saturday's Julia Creek Cup fixture at Mount Isa. It's now history that the legendary jockey went out a winner on the final ride of his 55 year career. Keith was winless in the first four races, but turned it around in the last when he went straight to the lead on Metal Bar and romped home by more than five lengths in the Julia Creek Cup. The fairy tale was enhanced by the fact that Keith's wife Denise trains the winner. Two days earlier we caught up with the 71 year old to reminisce a little about his remarkable career. He began by revealing that Denise had been trying to get him to retire for quite some time. He talks about a recent Cloncurry win on Capiteel for his trainer wife and acknowledges the support of trainer Tanya Parry. Keith talks about Denise's former riding career in an era when female jockeys were battling for recognition. He says Denise isn't too tough on him when his judgement is astray. The veteran says he was humbled in the extreme when the Ballards of Mount Isa were inducted into the Racing Queensland Hall Of Fame in 2021. Keith talks about the likelihood of withdrawal symptoms in the months ahead. The evergreen horseman says his nerve has remained intact.  He gives a few reasons for his longevity as a professional jockey. The Longreach born horseman says he was initially inspired by the riding success of his uncle Jim Ballard.  Keith pays tribute to his stoic and hard working mother, and speaks of his six brothers. He recalls his very first race ride, and an unforgettable first win on the very same horse.  Keith says he's been relatively lucky when it comes to race falls, but he looks back on one bad buster at age 62- the worst fall in his long career. That fall occurred at remote McKinlay best known as the venue for many scenes in the famous Crocodile Dundee movies. Keith remembers some of the best horses he's ridden over more than half a century. His number one vote goes to Mr Ziesel, big by stature and big on ability. He pays tribute to the consistent Kerr Street. He won nine races on the horse in one season including the 1983 Darwin Cup. Keith remembers King Wells. He won 17 races on the former Victorian. The veteran says his career wouldn't have been complete without a Birdsville Cup win. He ticked that one off the bucket list in 2009. Keith talks about Sahara Canadian. He won 11 races on the grey, including one at faraway Ballina. He talks about another prolific winner in Be Somebody. He once drove 1000km to ride the horse at Darwin even though he knew the gelding couldn't win. Keith pays tribute to a handful of jockeys for whom he had special admiration. He makes special mention of a talented bush trainer. Keith pays a heartfelt tribute to son Dan, a very talented jockey whose career has been terminated by weight problems. Ballard says his failure to ride a metropolitan winner doesn't faze him too much. He talks about a handful of other jockeys who rode into advanced years. It was a great pleasure to talk to a genuine Queensland racing icon.

Mark Duffy, a Fine Gael election candidate in county Mayo has said the portrait of President Joe Biden, in Ballina town centre is causing ‘a pronounced issue' among the town's general population due to the United States' ties with Israel. Newstalk Breakfast spoke to Ann De Burca, Chair of the Mayo Branch of the Ireland Palestine Solidarity Campaign.

The cabin has gone pan-pacific this week with our first American guest/comedian Mike Goldstein! We come back around on some horse cock misinformation we spread earlier, hear about both sides of Kansas City... and some January 6th festivities. I promise it's fun though. Follow the cabin on Instagram and TikTok @flogcabin or get around the flogs individually @danmuggleton, @andrewhamiltoncomedy and @tomwitcombecomedy. Also full episodes of Flog Cabin are now live on YouTube! And also follow Mike Goldstein! He's on Instagram @comedymikegoldstein, half of The Phone Hacks podcast which is excellent and touring the Gold Coast on November 9th!Don't miss the flogs live on tour around Australia:Daniel Muggleton 2024 Australian Tour (Oct 24-27 Woolgoolga, Ballina, Brisbane & Sunshine Coast)Tom Witcombe at Good Comedy Club Nov 7Andrew Hamilton in Queensland Nov 13-16Sponsored by Pilot, Men's Health Treatments Online www.pilot.com.auSave $20 on your first order with promo code FLOGGERS20 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Clare author Marie O'Connell last joined us to chat about her book 'Third Time Lucky'. Marie has been hard at it since then; she has not only written one new book, but two called My Influencers of the Past: Making The Invisible Visible' and 'By the Fireside: Granda's Memories' The Ballina-based writer will be launching them this weekend. To talk more about this, Alan Morrissey was joined by Marie O'Connell. Photo (c): terimakasih0 from pixabay via Canva

Trump towels, DeSantis boots, Biden's Blewitts of Ballina and Tim Walz finds Livingstone . . .

The curtain came down on the Mayo club championship quarter-finals on Sunday. John, Mike and Rob were out and about in Foxford, Breaffy and Ballina to see some of the title contenders in action while we also round up the stories of the other games of the day. 

Ballina prepares to enjoy Brian Irvine's all-comers Totally Made Up Orchestra; Paddy Woodward on the pursuit of endless spring; the fluttery sound world of the Middle Ages; and Róis finds the fun in traditional approaches to death.

Crona Byrne, Owner, The Owl and Pussycat Daycare, Ballina, Co. Tipperary and Mick Kenny, on the national council of The Association of Childhood Professionals and community childcare manager of two services in Kilkenny

In this episode, Aideen Finnegan sits down with former president of Ireland Mary Robinson and film director Aoife Kelleher to talk about their brand new film, Mrs Robinson. Told in her own words, the documentary reflects on key moments in Robinson's life and career including her move from law into politics, the wedding that her parents refused to attend, and some of her political and personal regrets. In this conversation, Robinson explains why she was initially hesitant to make the film, what she hopes people can take from it and how she went from a shy child growing up in Ballina to walking the halls of Áras an Uachtaráin. Director Aoife Kelleher talks about her memories as a young girl watching the 1990 election, what inspired her to make the film and the joy of going through archive footage including never before seen home-videos shot by Robinson's father. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With Paul Ginty, local business owner, and Jarlath Munnelly, local Fine Gael Councillor

Where is Bronwyn Winfield? The devoted mum has been missing since 1993 – and the man behind The Teacher's Pet is on the case.   Go to theaustralian.com.au/bronwyn to listen. Plus, you can read more about this case and see exclusive stories, maps, timelines, graphics, video and more. This episode of The Front is presented by Claire Harvey, produced by Kristen Amiet and edited by Josh Burton. The multimedia editor is Lia Tsamoglou and original music is composed by Jasper Leak.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Where is Bronwyn Winfield? The devoted mum has been missing since 1993 – and the man behind The Teacher's Pet is on the case.   Go to theaustralian.com.au/bronwyn to listen. Plus, you can read more about this case and see exclusive stories, maps, timelines, graphics, video and more. This episode of The Front is presented by Claire Harvey, produced by Kristen Amiet and edited by Josh Burton. The multimedia editor is Lia Tsamoglou and original music is composed by Jasper Leak.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Where is Bronwyn Winfield? The devoted mum has been missing since 1993 – and the man behind The Teacher's Pet is on the case.   Go to theaustralian.com.au/bronwyn to listen. Plus, you can read more about this case and see exclusive stories, maps, timelines, graphics, video and more. This episode of The Front is presented by Claire Harvey, produced by Kristen Amiet and edited by Josh Burton. The multimedia editor is Lia Tsamoglou and original music is composed by Jasper Leak.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Where is Bronwyn Winfield? The devoted mum has been missing since 1993 – and the man behind The Teacher's Pet is on the case.   Go to theaustralian.com.au/bronwyn to listen. Plus, you can read more about this case and see exclusive stories, maps, timelines, graphics, video and more. This episode of The Front is presented by Claire Harvey, produced by Kristen Amiet and edited by Josh Burton. The multimedia editor is Lia Tsamoglou and original music is composed by Jasper Leak.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.