The seven winning persons/groups with council officials and elected representatives, (back from left) Sean Galligan, Mickey Moran, Ruairí Ó Conchubhair, PJ Kennedy, Annette Barr Jordan, Westmeath County Council, and Minister of State Robert Troy, TD; (front) Barry Kehoe, chief executive, Westmeath County Council, Pól Ó Braoin, Marie Allen, Cllr Aoife Davitt, An Cathaoirleach, Westmeath County Council, Cllr Emily Wallace, Sarah McCormack, and Cathy Whelehan.

Westmeath’s community champions celebrated at annual Cathaoirleach Awards

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Westmeath County Council hosted the 20th anniversary of the annual Cathaoirleach Awards ceremony at Belvedere House and Gardens on Friday, bringing together community leaders, volunteers and organisations to celebrate the outstanding contributions made across County Westmeath over the past two decades.

Marking this significant milestone, the much-anticipated event welcomed a large audience of community representatives and supporters, both in person and online, and recognised excellence across a diverse range of categories including community involvement, environment and heritage, youth initiatives and social inclusion.

Over the last 20 years, the Cathaoirleach Awards have become a cornerstone of community recognition in the county, highlighting the vital role played by volunteers and showcasing the positive impact of their work in every corner of Westmeath.

An Cathaoirleach Cllr Aoife Davitt presented awards to exceptional individuals and groups whose dedication and commitment continue to make a meaningful difference in their communities.

Addressing attendees, Cllr Davitt paid tribute to the award recipients: “These awards honour the incredible spirit of volunteerism in Westmeath. The individuals and groups recognised here this evening embody the generosity, resilience and pride that strengthen our communities every day.”

Award Winners Include:

• Overall Cathaoirleach Award: Soroptimists Mullingar and District – recognised for their dedication and commitment for over 35 years to improving the lives of women and girls.

• Community Involvement: PJ Kennedy – honoured for his lifelong contribution to the musical landscape in Westmeath.

• Heritage and Environment: Gaeltacht Átha Luain – acknowledged for creating a thriving community space promoting the Irish language.

• Social Inclusion and Equality: Cathy Whelehan – celebrated for her vital work with the community in Rochfortbridge and surrounding areas.

• Recreation and Sports: Sean Galligan – recognised for over 40 years of dedication to Mullingar Bridge Club.

• Active Elderly: An Grianain (Golden Years) – honoured for their inclusive and long standing work in providing social inclusion opportunities for older people.

• Children and Youth: Westmeath Community Games – celebrated for providing sporting and cultural opportunities for young people for over 50 years.

The ceremony also featured presentations for Tidy Towns achievements, Environmental Film Awards, STEM projects, Pride of Place winners, and significant Project of the Year funding awards totalling €20,000 to:

• Westmeath Archaeological and Historical Society

• St. Owen’s Graveyard and Church Restoration Group

• Loughnavalley GAA Healthy Club

• Athlone Canal Heritage Committee

• Moate Railway Station Group

• Stoneleigh Residents Association

• Kingscourt Residents Association

• Coolevin Park Residents Association

Chief executive Barry Kehoe emphasised the council’s commitment to supporting community initiatives: “In 2026, Westmeath County Council will invest €618,000 in community grants and awards, demonstrating our ongoing commitment to supporting community development and local initiatives throughout the county.

“The most significant investment, however, continues to be the invaluable contribution of our volunteers, whose time, dedication and civic pride play a vital role in sustaining and strengthening our communities.

“Their efforts, often undertaken quietly and without recognition, are fundamental to the continued wellbeing and resilience of County Westmeath.”

The event showcased entries from some of the 1,016 registered community groups across Westmeath’s Public Participation Network, demonstrating the vibrant voluntary sector that underpins community life throughout the county.

Shane Boyne, environmental awareness officer, presented Eco Schools Awards to six educational institutions, while Pride of Place County winners, Esker House, will represent the Westmeath at the National All-Island competition later this year.

The ceremony was hosted by MC Aonghus McAnally and featured traditional Irish music; full footage is available through the council’s live streaming service.

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