Galway voluntary groups shortlisted for national Pride of Place award as judges set August visit
Two Galway groups have been nominated for national awards recognising the achievements of their volunteers
The Tuam Women’s Shed and Portumna Tidy Towns have been shortlisted for the IPB Pride of Place Awards, which will take place in October.
Tuam has been nominated in the Inclusive Communities category, while Portumna is competing in the Community Tourism Initiative category.
“The Pride of Place Awards celebrate communities that achieve extraordinary things through partnership and volunteer effort,” Galway County Council Deputy Chief Executive Uinsinn Finn explained.
IPB judges will visit both towns from August 31 to September 1 as part of the adjudication process.
Now in its 24th year, the all-island competition highlights the work of volunteer groups and community organisations across Ireland.
“Portumna Tidy Towns and Tuam Women’s Shed represent the very best of community leadership and volunteerism in County Galway. Their dedication has transformed local spaces, strengthened community pride and created places where people feel connected and supported,” Galway County Councillor and Cathaoirleach Andrew Reddington said.
Cllr Siobhan McHugh Ryan, Cllr Karen McHugh Farag, Director of Services, Michael Owens, Corporate Services, Rural, Community & Tourism Development and Integration and Galway County Council Tuam Area Office Staff at Tuam Palace Grounds. Credit Galway County Council.at Tuam Palace Grounds. © Murtography.
“They are wonderful ambassadors for Galway, and I wish both groups every success in this year’s competition.”
Portumna Tidy Towns secured one of the top places in the SuperValu TidyTowns Awards in 2025 for its population category, scoring 365 points out of a possible 400.
The group has focused on protecting and enhancing South Galway’s heritage, particularly around Portumna Castle and the town’s restored courthouse.
The Tuam Women’s Shed was established in 2021 to promote community engagement and social wellbeing. The group helped deliver the Michael McGrath Sensory Garden at the Tuam Palace Grounds, creating an accessible community space designed for people of all ages and abilities.
“I would encourage everyone in Portumna and Tuam to come out and support their local groups during the adjudication visits. A strong community welcome will help demonstrate the lasting value these projects have brought to their local areas and the positive impact they continue to have every day,” Galway County Council Director of Services Michael Owens said.
“The judging days are an opportunity for communities to showcase not only the outstanding work undertaken by these groups, but also the pride and community spirit that exists in Portumna and Tuam.”
Organised by Co-operation Ireland and sponsored by IPB Insurance, the awards honour communities that have shown outstanding commitment to creating vibrant, inclusive and sustainable places to live.