Mucklagh Community Centre Marks 10 Years of Connection, Celebration and Remembering

Connection, Celebration and Remembering was the fitting theme as Mucklagh Community Centre celebrated its 10th anniversary with a wonderful Family and Community Day last Sunday.

The centre was alive with activity as hundreds of people gathered to celebrate a decade of achievement, community spirit and volunteering. Visitors enjoyed a fascinating display of local artwork alongside a photographic exhibition documenting the journey of the centre—from the turning of the first sod and the various stages of construction to the countless events and activities that have taken place over the past ten years. The displays created a lasting record of Mucklagh’ s recent history and reminded everyone of what can be achieved when a community works together.

There was entertainment for all ages throughout the afternoon. Evan Dunne from Killina, better known as The Mind-Magician, amazed the crowds with his close-up magic as he mingled among families and friends.

Children were kept busy in the dedicated children's area, where Rachel provided colourful face painting while Kate and Sarah supervised an art and colouring competition. Jay delighted younger visitors with an energetic puppet show, while guests also enjoyed a selection of delicious homemade treats prepared by Carmel and served by the dedicated team of Mucklagh Community Centre volunteers.

Master of Ceremonies Ollie Bryant guided the afternoon's celebrations before welcoming a number of speakers to the stage.

Opening the formal proceedings, Willie O'Grady warmly welcomed everyone and reflected on the remarkable community effort that made the centre possible. He acknowledged the commitment of volunteers, local organisations, businesses and supporters whose generosity of time, fundraising and practical assistance transformed a shared vision into reality. He reminded those present that "it takes a village to build a community," describing Mucklagh Community Centre as living proof of what can be achieved through unity and volunteerism.

Centre Manager Caroline Bryant spoke passionately about what the community centre means to local people. She explained that the centre is far more than simply a building—it has become the hub and  beating heart of Mucklagh, where friendships are formed, loneliness is reduced and people of every generation feel welcome and connected. Reflecting on the centre's success, she noted that more than 44,000 people passed through its doors during the past year alone, highlighting its importance as a place where people meet, where story’s begin and memories are created.

Chairperson John Cotter highlighted the vital role played by the Mucklagh Community Centre Lotto in making the centre a reality. He explained that the Lotto provided the financial stability needed to secure funding for the project and thanked everyone who has supported it over the years. Thanks to that continued support, the centre recently cleared its mortgage, allowing plans to move forward for the next phase of development, including the redevelopment of the car park with improved accessibility, outdoor seating, an outdoor gym, EV charging points and additional community facilities.

John also expressed sincere appreciation to the Lotto committee, promoters, volunteers and everyone involved in the weekly draw before presenting €500 promoter prizes to Bernie Foster and Margaret Guinan. The highlight of the presentations came when Lesley Nolan was presented with Mucklagh Community Centre's first-ever Lotto Jackpot of €20,000, a milestone moment in the centre's history.

The entertainment continued with a special performance from Ruaile Buaile, bringing the celebrations full circle. Ten years ago, at one of Mucklagh Community Development's very first Community Fun Days held in Shamrocks GAA grounds, the group—then still schoolboys—performed for the local community. It was particularly fitting that they returned to help celebrate the centre's tenth anniversary.

The hugely talented local musicians had every generation singing along. While many enjoyed the traditional Irish favourites, the biggest cheer of the afternoon came when they performed the much-loved "Killeagh Song," which had both young and old joining in.

The 10th Anniversary Celebration was a wonderful success, bringing together families, neighbours, volunteers and friends to reflect on the past, celebrate the present and look forward to the future. It was a fitting reminder that Mucklagh Community Centre remains a place built by the community, for the community, where connection, celebration and belonging continue to flourish.

A sincere thank you to all everyone who attended, and the many volunteers whose dedication and hard work made the day possible. Your support and community spirit made this milestone celebration one to remember.