Tuam Women's Shed
Portumna Tidy Towns
Portumna Tidy Towns and Tuam Women’s Shed represented Galway County Council during a two-day judging visit for the 2026 IPB Pride of Place competition, which recognises communities that improve local areas through volunteering, inclusion and regeneration.
Judges visited both towns, meeting volunteers, community groups, schools, youth organisations and local stakeholders to see firsthand the impact of their work. Portumna is competing in the Community Tourism Initiative category, highlighting projects that promote the town’s heritage, environment and tourism assets, including Portumna Castle, the Blueway and Forest Park. Tuam Women’s Shed is competing in the Inclusive Communities category, showcasing initiatives that foster wellbeing, social inclusion and community connection.
Galway County Council representatives praised the dedication, pride and community spirit displayed in both towns, noting the strong involvement of people of all ages and backgrounds. The competition, organised by Co-operation Ireland and sponsored by IPB Insurance, celebrates communities that create vibrant, inclusive and sustainable places to live.
The winners will be announced at the national awards ceremony in Dublin on 24 October 2026.