Laois club set to sparkle on its diamond celebration
Mountmellick Macra members look forward to 60th celebebration
Mountmellick Macra is delighted to reveal details of its diamond anniversary celebration, which the club says marks a remarkable milestone for a club that has been at the heart of the community.
The club says that what began when a group of young people came together with a vision for the future on January 3, 1966, has grown into one of the "most enduring and vibrant" Macra clubs in the country.
From early meetings in the Town Hall, to evenings spent in the Courthouse watching Teilifís Feirme on a rented television from the late Michael Scott, to Young’s, and finally to the club’s Hall on Patrick Street, Mountmellick Macra describes their six decades journey as one of "commitment, ambition, and community spirit".
The club elaborated in a statement to the Leinster Express / Laois Live.
"The club’s history is steeped in the hard work of its founder members and the early committees who took a bold step in purchasing a former bottling factory on Patrick Street. This building became the foundation of today’s hall, with a major extension completed in 1976 through sheer determination and pride.
"Over six decades, Mountmellick Macra has remained a voluntary organisation supported by the guidance of experienced members. The club has celebrated All‑Ireland victories, endured narrow defeats, welcomed generations of new members, and become a cornerstone of local life. More than 50 weddings and countless lifelong friendships have grown from the club’s activities, and members continue to represent Laois with distinction at county and national level.
"Investment in the club’s facilities has been a major priority for the current committee. Recent improvements include the addition of a balcony, enhanced wheelchair‑accessible facilities, and a full roof repair with high‑grade insulation — made possible through grant aid and generous contributions from past and present members," it said.
Celebration Sub‑Committee PRO Zoe Dempsey spoke about the upcoming celebrations.
“Sixty years is a phenomenal milestone for any club, and one we simply couldn’t let pass. It’s also important for younger and newer members to learn about our history and where it all began.
“We have a weekend packed of activities to mark the occasion,” she said.
Pictured: Mountmellick Macra members celebrate.
Friday, May 8: Farm Walk A farm walk will take place on Tom Fennelly’s farm (Eircode R32 YA21) at 7.15pm. The evening will feature a range of speakers and is open to all.
Saturday, May 9: Blessing of the Hall The community is invited to the Macra Hall on Patrick Street at 12.30pm for a blessing of the hall. This is an open invitation and a chance for visitors to tour the building and learn more about its history.
Saturday, May 9: Gala Banquet The celebrations will conclude with a Gala Banquet in the Midlands Park Hotel Portlaoise at 7pm. This special evening will offer past and present members the opportunity to reconnect, reminisce, and celebrate six decades of Mountmellick Macra.
Ms Dempsey encouraged people to come along.
“Past, present, and associate members are warmly invited to join us for our anniversary events. Our club has always prided itself on an open‑door ethos, and that spirit continues into these celebrations. It promises to be a wonderful occasion — one not to be missed,” she said.
For further information or to purchase tickets for the Gala Banquet, please contact: Aidan – 083 4560231 Ursula – 087 4166969