Killarney singer-songwriter Shane Doolan will release his debut single ‘The Ruins’ on Friday, September 26, on all major streaming platforms.

Shane first came to local attention earlier this summer when his band won the Battle of the Bands at the Anam Centre. He says the experience gave him the confidence to begin recording and releasing his own music.
“Creating and promoting my first ever single was nerve-wracking, but extremely exciting,” Shane said. “This project is the start of something I’ve always dreamed of.”
“The Ruins” mixes folk storytelling and indie rock influences. Shane lists Walking on Cars, Bon Iver, Kingfishr and Sam Fender among the artists he looks up to.

At just 17, the Killarney student has written, recorded and promoted the track himself, showing his ambition to build a career in music. Fans will be able to hear ‘The Ruins’ from Friday on Spotify, Apple Music and other platforms.

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.