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Tom celebrates his 100th birthday

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CELEBRATING: Tom O'Connell from Ross Road, pictured with his son Ger, is celebrating this week after turning 100-years-old. Photo Michelle Crean

By Michelle Crean

COVID put a halt to any party plans - but that didn't stop Tom O'Connell from Ross Road celebrating his milestone birthday on Wednesday when he turned 100-years-old.

It was certainly a day to remember however, as not only did he receive a cheque from President Michael D Higgins, but also had many calls, cards and good wishes throughout the day. He even had a small celebration with close family, where he enjoyed some a cake and a few drinks.

His own father lived to a great age and passed away just six months shy of turning 100.

And, the secret to long-life is "to take the world easy and not to be doing the fool", he told the Killarney Advertiser.

"I'm usually in bed before 10pm, and enjoy the odd drop of Guinness."

Tom was born in Meelkilly, Abbeyfeale on January 27, 1921. He worked as a manager in Currans Creamery and lived in Currans for 40 years. Then, in retirement, he and his wife Mary, who sadly passed away 18 months ago, settled in Killarney, in Scrahan Mews on Ross Road. The couple have four adult children Ger, Noel, Margaret and Joe, as well as three grandchildren Thomas, Eoin and Maeve.

"I was mad about Killarney, there is just something about it," he said.

Life for the past year has been tough on everyone but for Tom he said that although it means less visitors to avoid contracting the virus, he really hasn't been too bothered about it.

"[COVID], it takes no part in my life. Visitors have had to stay away as the bloody thing is too dangerous."

And asked if he'll take the vaccine, he said he would when it's available.

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Gary Moynihan wins racecourse style title

Style reigned supreme at Killarney Racecourse as local resident Gary Moynihan and Offaly’s Sylwia Novak captured the top honours at the Canella Lane Best Dressed Day. Moynihan, a local neuromuscular […]

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Style reigned supreme at Killarney Racecourse as local resident Gary Moynihan and Offaly’s Sylwia Novak captured the top honours at the Canella Lane Best Dressed Day.

Moynihan, a local neuromuscular therapist, claimed Best Dressed Gentleman in a made-to-measure six-button burgundy double-breasted suit with a navy check from Saville Menswear in Cork. He completed the winning look with a shirt and paisley tie from Simply Suits Killarney and brown derby shoes from Pavers at the Killarney Outlet Centre.
Best Dressed Lady was awarded to Novak, a hospital personal assistant from Tullamore, who wore a red polka-dot ensemble and custom hat designed by milliner Rita Daly, featuring sustainable jewellery made from recycled plastic.
Canella Lane owner Ciana Aspell praised the high standard of fashion on the day, while Killarney Racecourse Manager Karl McCay thanked the sponsors and racegoers for their support.
With the summer season now wrapped up, the team at Killarney Racecourse is gearing up for the October Festival on October 4 and 5, featuring its first-ever Student Raceday with SPIN South West on the Monday. Early ticket booking is advised.

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Gleneagle Concert Band opens recruitment drive for new members

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The Gleneagle Concert Band is inviting new members of all ages to join the ensemble as it prepares for its new season starting this September.



Open to children, young people, and adults from Killarney and surrounding areas, the band offers specialist instrumental tuition starting from age nine. Beginners can take lessons in clarinet, flute, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, French horn, euphonium, tuba, percussion, and drums before progressing into the main band.

No previous experience is required for adults or children. The band also welcomes adults who already play an instrument or wish to return to music after a break.

“What makes Gleneagle special is that our musicians don’t just rehearse in a room and play the occasional concert,” said Music Development Officer Vincent Condon. “They perform at major events, festivals and community occasions, take part in film productions, travel internationally and, importantly, have fun together as a band. The band is open to everyone. We welcome young people who want to learn an instrument, as well as adults who have previous musical experience and would like to return to playing.”

For information on registration and lessons, contact 087 222 9513 or visit the band’s social media pages.

Busy summer of events


The Gleneagle Concert Band has concluded a busy 12 months featuring public performances, festival appearances, and charity work.

Highlights included the annual summer street concerts in Killarney town, along with performances at Puck Fair, the Rose of Tralee, and the Summer in Killarney Festival. Band members were also involved in the filming of Jimmy, an upcoming Hollywood biographical drama based on actor Jimmy Stewart.

Community fundraising remained a focus over the past year, with the band supporting local causes including the Kerry Stars Special Olympics Sports Club and Recovery Haven Kerry Cancer Support House alongside a sold-out Annual Concert.

Following a tour to Seville in 2025, the band has confirmed its next overseas trip to Bilbao and San Sebastián in northern Spain, scheduled for August 2027.

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