Killarney has secured its 24th Gold Medal at the 2025 SuperValu Tidy Towns Competition, continuing the town’s long-standing record of success in the national competition.

The town scored 395 points, marking another strong performance for the Killarney Tidy Towns group and reflecting the ongoing community effort to protect the local environment and maintain the town’s distinctive charm.

Cathaoirleach of the Killarney Municipal District, Cllr Martin Grady, said he was “very proud” of the achievement and paid tribute to the volunteers and council staff who continue to drive the project forward.

“This Gold Medal is a recognition of the dedication shown across the community, from residents, traders, tidiness groups and municipal staff , day after day,” he said.

“Winning 24 Gold Medals is no small feat. It sends a clear message that Killarney is not only a top location for visitors and tourism, but also a place where people live with pride and care for their town.”

Among the initiatives praised were the Coffee Cup Project, which has significantly reduced the use of single-use takeaway cups, and the utility box mural scheme, which continues to brighten key streets across the town.

Cllr Grady said the achievement reflects Killarney’s strong community spirit and commitment to improvement.

“What matters most is that Killarney continues to be a place where people enjoy living, working and visiting,” he added. “The medal is an important milestone but the work doesn’t stop here.”
Killarney’s success came alongside recognition for other Kerry towns, including Tralee, Kenmare and Listowel.

A special Woolly Celebration Day will take place at Kate Kearney’s Cottage on Saturday, November 8, from 11am to 5pm.

The event is hosted by The Wise Wool Project in partnership with Curraghmore Farm and The Nature Hub.

The day will explore one of Ireland’s most valuable yet often overlooked natural resources , wool.

Visitors can follow the story of wool from fleece to fabric and take part in a range of hands-on activities, including wet felting, needle felting, spinning and tablet weaving.

There will also be a panel discussion with local farmers, artists and educators on the importance of wool in Ireland’s heritage and its potential role in a more sustainable future.

Wool was once central to rural life, but today it is often treated as waste, costing farmers more to shear than it is worth.

The Wise Wool Project aims to draw attention to this issue and encourage creative, community-led solutions.

The Woolly Celebration Day is funded by Kerry Arts Council and Creative Communities and is open to anyone interested in crafts, nature or sustainable living.

Admission is free, but booking is required for workshops. To reserve a place, visit curraghmorefarm.ie/wisewoolcelebration2025.