All About Cork: Warm tributes paid to ‘true Ballyphehane legend’ Billy

Tributes have been paid to a pillar of Ballyphehane’s sporting world. Billy Twomey passed away in Cork University Hospital last week following a lifetime of dedication to his beloved Ballyphehane GAA on and off the field since the early 1960s.

Known as ‘Mr Ballyphehane’, Mr Twomey held every position in the club from player for many years to going all the way to president, a position he held up until his death.

In a statement to The Echo, Ballyphehane GAA paid tribute to one of their beloved sons.

“We are deeply saddened by the loss of our president and most of all, a friend to all at the club and in the community.

“Billy was not only just a Ballyphehane GAA man, he was a family man and a very proud member of this great community. The tireless work he did between the underage ranks and adult teams was incredible.

“This is a sad time for the club to lose such a well-respected member and cherished friend. Billy was a vital part of Ballyphehane GAA and the community. When you think of great club people and loyalty, Billy was right up there. He has left a remarkable legacy at the club.”

Ballyphehane Celtic extended their condolences to the family, friends, and countless loved ones of Billy Twomey.

“A true Ballyphehane legend. Billy was a stalwart of Ballyphehane GAA, a tireless community man, and someone who embodied everything that makes ‘The Hane’ so special. His love for the area, his dedication to sport, and his selfless spirit left an imprint on generations.

“Men like Billy don’t come around often. Without people like him paving the way, supporting the local club, and fostering community spirit, we simply wouldn’t be where we are today.

“He was one of Ballyphehane’s own — and always will be.”

Sinn Féin councillor Fiona Kerins said: “Billy Twomey was a constant down ‘The Green’ for decades.

“He spent his life building up, expanding, fundraising and advocating for Ballyphehane GAA club. He has left behind a legacy that will never be forgotten by the people of Ballyphehane.”

A minute of silence was held for Billy before last Saturday night’s match.

“Today we make one last journey with Billy and say goodbye through his beloved Ballyphehane parish,” the club said.

Togher man elected Lord Mayor, 42 years after his father

Togher native and Fianna Fáil councillor Fergal Dennehy was elected Lord Mayor of Cork at last Friday’s meeting of Cork City Council, with 23 votes in favour.

Mr Dennehy is the successor to Green Party counillor Dan Boyle, a Turner’s Cross local who passed on the baton following a year serving Cork city as Ardmhéara.

A councillor since 2004, Mr Dennehy is the son of former Fianna Fáil TD John, who also served as lord mayor from 1983 to 1984.

The new lord mayor recalled fond memories of Togher’s very first First Citizen.

“The story starts in June 1983 when Togher had its first ever lord mayor. I remember the evening very well, sitting in the back of the car and looking at the crowds that surrounded us. Togher Road came to a standstill and was lined by every club, group and organisation in the parish that showed up in force to congratulate the new lord mayor. A reception was held in the Togher Community Centre which went on until the early hours of the following morning, said Mr Dennehy.

“Dad tells a story of, on the way back to Togher, calling to a house on Connolly Road to a gentleman that encouraged him to become involved in politics. Dad wanted to thank him and share his achievement with him. After a short while the gardaí called to the house and respectfully asked if the lord mayor had intended on staying much longer. When asked why, the garda replied that there was no rush but it was just that traffic on Togher Road had been at a standstill for the past hour.”

Upon his election, Togher Boxing Club wished Mr Dennehy well.

“Congratulations to our club secretary councillor Fergal Dennehy on being elected Lord Mayor of Cork. A very proud day for Fergal whose father John was lord mayor in 1984. Congratulations to Fergal and the Dennehy family.”

Elizabeth Fort show

“No female headliners? No Problem” said Cork musician Áine Duffy when she saw a lack of gender diversity on the upcoming Live at the Marquee series. In response she alongside Cork City Council and the Night Time Economy are pleased to present “Don’t Touch My Knob”.

Set in Elizabeth Fort, County Cork ‘Don’t Touch My Knob’ features an all-female lineup including MC and comedian Sinéad Quinlan, Ria Rua, Áine Duffy, and electronic DJ Nathalie Mac. Expect raw talent, skill, craic, and laughs. “This isn’t just a gig. It’s a statement.”

A reclaimed space for unseen talent, Elizabeth Fort was specially chosen for its significant role in history as a female prison and deportation centre between 1822 and 1837. Speaking on the upcoming show Áine Duffy says, “Join us for a powerhouse protest gig celebrating incredible female artists, too often hidden by corporate gatekeepers. No female headliners at the Marquee and just 2% females on the airwaves. We’re taking back the stage.”

Tickets €20 are on sale from Eventbrite.ie.

Silver for school garden

Students from Scoil Maria Assumpta, Ballyphehane were all smiles at the Muintir na Tire, Cork City and County Councils Schools’ Garden competition presentation of awards at County Hall with the school receiving a silver medal award for their efforts.

The Muintir na Tire competition, sponsored by Cork County Council and Cork City Council, is open to all primary schools in Cork city and county that have a school garden or who are in the process of developing one.

A representative for the school said: “ At Scoil Maria Assumpta we pride ourselves on having a holistic approach to creating a caring and nurturing learning environment for all our students. The school garden team are passionate about creating a beautiful environment where the children can relax, play, and learn.

“We are very lucky to have so much space in our school for playing and exploring. At the back of our school we have a range of shrubbery and flowers encircling our playing yard. We have beautiful mature trees all around our school and yard.”

Councillor Joe Carroll said: “Activities that that can help children learn the importance of nature while staying active are crucial for health and wellbeing. Since its establishment in 2012, the competition has inspired thousands of students across Cork to embrace the outdoors and Cork County Council is very proud to have supported the competition each year.”

Ballyphehane NS is no stranger to awards for their school garden, having won gold in the 2024 colour and art category.

Céilí returns to the Lough

Locals are reminded that the craic agus ceoil will return to the Lough tonight.

The annual céilí at the Lough returns tonight at 7.30pm, with the well-loved open-air dancing and trad sessions running each Wednesday until August with a live céilí band.

World renowned Riverdance star Michael Flatley took to social media this week to share a video encouraging lovers of music and dance to take part.