Four schools in the Killarney area were among 34 across Kerry to benefit from the Lee Strand 50% School Milk Cash Back Programme for the 2024/2025 school year.

In total, €17,276 was presented to schools across the county to support activities and resources for pupils.
The participating Killarney schools were Cullina National School, Faha National School, Gaelscoil Faithleann, and Kilcummin National School. On average, schools received €500, with the top earning school receiving €1,208.
Gearoid Linnane, CEO of Lee Strand, said: “It is our goal to see as many pupils as possible in Kerry drinking fresh, nutritious milk from local farms during the school day. The school milk programme is subsidised by the EU, and the National Dairy Council provides complimentary fridges to all participating schools. We are delighted to present €17,276 cash to 34 schools in Kerry to spend as they wish during the school year.”
Registrations are now open for this year’s programme. Participating schools will be entered into a €500 draw, and every pupil who registers for the school milk programme will receive a free Lee Strand pencil case. For more information, schools can contact Lee Strand on 066 7121084.

Several Killarney organisations and individuals were celebrated at the 2025 Kerry Community Awards, which took place at the Rose Hotel in Tralee on September 18

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Community and voluntary organisations from across the county attended the event.
A spokesperson for the awards said the judging panel faced a tough task after receiving a record number of entries. “The calibre of applications was exceptionally high this year and we congratulate all of the groups who have been shortlisted. We also thank every organisation who entered and encourage them to apply again in future years.”
The Kerry Community Awards aim to recognise the work of voluntary and community groups across the county.

The spirit of Spa was recognised by the Kerry Community Awards Committee when the club received a Gold Award for its commitment to developing the club as a community hub.
The award was accepted by James Cahill, who has been instrumental in developing community-based facilities and activities for numerous years. “This award is an endorsement of the great voluntary ethos that exists within Spa GAA, and recognition of the strong connection with the local community,” he said.
Former chairman Michael Cronin and Child Welfare Officer Ann Holland were also present to celebrate the achievement.
Founded in 1948, Spa GAA Club now has more than 750 members and extensive facilities including full-size pitches, a sports hall, a gym, a walking track and a newly installed solar energy system. The club regularly runs events such as emergency response demonstrations with the Killarney Cardiac Response Unit and supports initiatives like the Kerry Shine Green Ribbon Campaign for mental health awareness.

Several other Killarney area organisations also received nominations at the 2025 Kerry Community Awards. These included clubs and groups working across sport, culture and community development. Local representatives praised all the nominees for their ongoing efforts to improve the quality of life in the town and surrounding areas.
Among the local groups shortlisted are the Killarney Cardiac Response Unit (KCRU), Killarney Valley Classic and Vintage Club, and Killarney Women’s Shed.
The awards ceremony highlighted the strength of Killarney’s community spirit and the dedication of volunteers who give their time to support local causes.