What is Pride of Place?
Irish Public Bodies (IPB) Pride of Place, in association with Co-operation Ireland, is an all-island competition that celebrates the incredible work being done by communities across Ireland.
Launched in 2003, the competition highlights how people come together to shape, improve, and enrich daily life in their local areas. Since the competition commenced, it has positively impacted hundreds of thousands of people who are proud of their place.
How the competition works
Pride of Place invites communities to showcase their achievements directly to a panel of judges. Through oral presentations, communities highlight their activities, culture, and the unique aspects that make them proud.
A key element of the competition is demonstrating strong partnerships with local authorities and ensuring that all sectors of the community are included. It’s about fostering respect, inclusion, and a shared sense of belonging regardless of age, background, or income.
The competition also encourages communities to take pride in their heritage, culture, achievements, and people. It’s a celebration of what makes each place special and the collective efforts that strengthen community spirit.
County Galway’s 2024 achievements
County Galway continues to shine in the Pride of Place competition:
- Williamstown was named runner-up in the ‘0–300 Population’ category. Nominated by Galway County Council, the community was recognised for:
- The restoration of Williamstown Mill and Millers Cottage
- A 3.3km looped walkway with biodiversity signage
- A safe pedestrian link between the primary school and GAA grounds
- Kinvara was runner-up in the ‘Climate Action & Biodiversity’ category. The community’s collaborative efforts led to the Biodiversity Action Plan 2021–2024, developed with Burrenbeo and the Kinvara Ballinderreen Tree Gang. Over 9,000 native trees have been planted by local families, schools, and groups.
2025 representatives
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During the Cathaoirleach awards ceremony in May 2025, Clarinbridge was selected by Galway County Council to represent the County in the All-Island Pride of Place Competition in the '300-1,000 population' Category.
The entry and judging process will be coordinated by Clarinbridge Tidy Towns on behalf of the community.
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Marconi Men’s Shed will represent the county in the ‘Community Wellbeing’ category. This is Ireland’s first men’s shed founded exclusively by male family carers, following the Creative Carers Wood-turning Project funded by Creative Ireland.
The original male family carers who took part in the Creative Carers woodturning project.
