Sporting memorabilia among highlights of monster auction fundraiser for Banagher outdoor swimming pool

THE Shannon Bank Park Development Group will hold a Monster Auction on Saturday next April 26^th as part of its fundraising efforts for the Banagher Outdoor Swimming Pool upgrade.

Among the highlights are signed jerseys from Offaly’s 1981 All-Ireland-winning hurling team and 1982 All-Ireland-winning football team.

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Other notable items include:

• Unique artworks created by local artists

• Signed jerseys from the 2025 Triple Crown-winning Ireland rugby team, as well as Leinster, Connacht and Munster rugby teams

• Hurls signed by the 1994 Senior and 2024 U-20 All-Ireland hurling winners

• A football signed by the three men to lift Sam Maguire for Offaly - Willie Bryan, Tony McTague and Richie Connor.

• A hurl belonging to Johnny Dooley, signed by brothers Johnny, Billy, and Joe Dooley

• A signed hurl used by Adam Screeney

• A signed singlet worn by double Olympic gold-winning boxing champion Kellie Harrington

• A selection of signed Shane Lowry memorabilia

• A Kerry jersey signed by four of the all-time great forwards – David Clifford, Colm ‘Gooch’ Cooper, Maurice Fitzgerald and Mikey Sheehy

• Tickets for the 2025 All-Ireland Hurling Final!

The auction, which also features antiques, farm supplies, furniture, holidays, and much more, will take place in Corrigan’s Corner House, Banagher, at 8pm on Saturday April 26th. Remote bidding is available for those who cannot attend in person—email banagherpool@outlook.com for details.

This auction forms part of a major fundraising drive following the successful allocation of €616,000 in grant aid from the Fáilte Ireland Just Transition Fund towards the long-anticipated upgrade of the Banagher Outdoor Swimming Pool. The new pool is set to open in Banagher this summer, offering an exciting new facility for the local community and visitors alike.

The project will deliver a state-of-the-art outdoor swimming facility, located on the banks of the Shannon. It will feature:

• Wheelchair access

• Enhanced seating

• Wider pontoons

• A dedicated kayak/paddleboard launch

The overall budget for the project is approximately €788,000, of which 85% has already been secured through grants and fundraising — leaving a balance of around €120,000 to be raised locally.

A number of local organisations have pledged their support and are hosting fundraising events, including:

• Monster Auction: Sports memorabilia, artwork, antiques, farm equipment, and unique experiences up for grabs on Saturday April 26^th in Corrigan’s Corner House, Banagher. Remote bidding available. Email banagherpool@outlook.com.

• Carrauntoohil Challenge: Over 100 locals will climb Ireland’s highest peak on Saturday May 10^th in support of the campaign. Training provided. Limited places still available.

• River Shannon Challenge: A fundraising swim hosted by the local swimming club on Saturday June 28th, open to entrants nationwide. One of the campaign’s main highlights.

• Nameplates and Corporate Sponsorship: Supporters can purchase personalised nameplates to be displayed at the new pool. Corporate sponsorship packages are also available for businesses eager to support this landmark community project.

• Online Donations: Visit www.idonate.ie/cause/Banagherpool to contribute directly.

Additional fundraisers include a horse and pony trek, charity cycle, local pub events, and initiatives organised by local schools.

“This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to create a lasting legacy for Banagher,” said John Butler, spokesperson for the Shannon Bank Park Development Group. “We’re overwhelmed by the initial support and are calling on the community to join us in making this project a reality. Every contribution brings us closer to a new pool that will benefit generations to come.”

The upgraded pool will provide numerous benefits to the community. Beyond offering a safe and enjoyable environment for swimmers of all ages, it will promote physical health and mental well-being, and serve as a welcoming, inclusive space for everyone. It will also foster a stronger sense of community and connection.

The pool holds significant historical value, with a swimming facility on the site since the 1950s. Its redevelopment will also boost the local economy, attract tourism, and enhance the recreational appeal of the midlands.

For more information on upcoming events or to learn how you can support the campaign, visit banagher.ie/pool or contact (087) 6106686/(085) 2675862.

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