A EuroMillions Plus player in the west of Ireland is celebrating a life-changing win this morning after scooping the top prize of €500,000 in last night’s draw.

The Galway player purchased their winning Quick Pick ticket, on the day of the draw, from Sweeney Oil, Headford Road, Galway, Co. Galway.

The winning numbers in Tuesday night’s EuroMillions Plus draw were: 6, 9, 36, 38 and 41.

This latest win marks the 27th EuroMillions Plus top prize of €500,000 awarded in 2025, bringing the total prize money paid out to an incredible €13.5 million so far this year.

Emma Monaghan, National Lottery spokesperson, said “Huge congratulations to our latest EuroMillions Plus winner in Co. Galway – what a fantastic midweek surprise!”

“There was also one jackpot winner in France in last night’s EuroMillions draw. In total, over 57,000 players in Ireland won prizes in the EuroMillions and Plus games.”

The National Lottery is urging all players in the Galway area to check their tickets carefully and if you’re holding the winning ticket, be sure to contact the National Lottery prize claims team on 1800 666 222 or email claims@lottery.ie to arrange the collection of your prize.

Meanwhile, tonight’s Lotto Jackpot soars to an estimated €16 million! Players dreaming of becoming Ireland’s newest Lotto winner are reminded that tickets for tonight’s draw can be purchased in-store, through the National Lottery app or at http://www.lottery.ie ahead of the 7.45pm cut off.

Nearly 30 cent in every €1 spent on National Lottery games goes back to Good Causes in the areas of sport, youth, health, welfare, education, arts, heritage and the Irish Language.

In total, more than €6.5 billion has been raised for Good Causes since the National Lottery was established 37 years ago. In 2024 alone, €239.3 million was raised for local Good Causes in communities across Ireland.

Galway County Council has expanded its vehicle fleet with the addition of three new trucks and two salt spreaders to support road maintenance this winter.

The council has taken delivery of three new 26-tonne Renault tipper trucks at a total cost of €600,000.

Supplied by Dublin-based Setanta Vehicle Sales North Ltd., the vehicles will assist Municipal District Offices in delivering the annual roads programme.

In addition, funding of just over €500,000 from Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) has enabled the purchase of two permanently mounted salt spreaders with brine-spreading capability.

These vehicles form a key part of the Galway County Council’s Winter Service fleet, helping to keep strategic routes open during severe cold weather.

Last winter, more than 1,300 kilometres of the Galway road network were treated, with over 8,000 tonnes of salt spread as part of winter operations.

Cllr David Collins, Cathaoirleach of Galway County Council, said the investment will have a direct impact on safety and service delivery.

“This investment in modern, high-capacity vehicles means our outdoor crews are better equipped than ever to maintain roads, respond quickly to weather events, and keep people moving safely. It is a very tangible improvement in the way we serve communities across County Galway.”

Uinsinn Finn, Director of Services, Galway County Council, said the investment reflects the ongoing need to modernise and upgrade the fleet.

“Our teams work in all conditions to keep the road network safe and operational. Having the right, modern equipment is essential if we are to maximise their ability to do the job effectively.”

“These new trucks will not only improve efficiency in day-to-day roadworks but also allow us to treat more routes, more quickly, during winter weather events. The support from TII has been crucial in enabling us to make this upgrade.”

Aoife Raftery made Irish rally history when she became the first Irish driver to compete in the ADAC Opel Electric Rally Cup.

Supported by Opel Ireland, the Craughwell-based driver tackled the ADAC Saarland-Pfalz Rally in Germany on August 15–16, partnered by regular co-driver Hannah McKillop from Antrim.

Raftery, who also competes in the Junior FIA European Rally Championship with McKillop, contested the fourth round of the all-electric Opel Corsa-e Rally Car on Friday and Saturday.

It was only her second rally in the championship and her first time competing on former World Rally Championship stages.

Despite limited experience in both the car and the series, Raftery impressed with eighth place overall, sixth in the junior category, and ahead of women rivals Thrysa Eertmans and Justine Demeestere from Belgium, who finished 12th.

Reflecting on the result, Raftery said the support of Opel Ireland made the achievement possible.

“I was delighted to have Opel Ireland on board with me for this event. The Opel Corsa-e Rally Car is fantastic. I really enjoyed getting the feel of it again.”

“We did a test before the rally, built up more experience, and carried that into the weekend. The grip levels are incredible, and the car feels really planted to the ground, which lets you carry so much speed into the corners.”

“It’s very different compared to the combustion-engine cars I usually drive, but still just as competitive.”

Raftery explained that competing in the Cup felt like being part of something bigger, “It’s a great championship. The rest of the competitors are very fast and experienced, so we really had to push to see where we stood against them.”

“Everything is well organised, and everyone has the same car, which makes it very fair. It was fantastic to work with Opel at this level.”

The ADAC Opel Electric Rally Cup, launched in 2021, is the world’s first electric one-make rally series. Using the near-standard 100 kW (136 hp) Corsa Rally Electric, the championship has grown steadily, attracting drivers from across Europe.

The Galway RNLI lifeboat was called out south to help with a boat in difficulty off the coast of Clare over the weekend.

Galway RNLI’s volunteer crew were requested to launch by the Irish Coast Guard this afternoon to assist five people on board a 7 metre rigid inflatable boat (RIB) which had broken down off the North Clare coast.

The call came shortly after midday on Sunday, and the lifeboat launched with the crew of Aaron Connolly, Mark Purcell, Martin Oliver, and helm David Badger.

Once under way, the crew travelled south across Galway Bay to the reported location of the broken down RIB which was around halfway between Blackhead and Ballyvaughan, Co Clare.

Sea conditions were good on the bay and the lifeboat made good time reaching the broken down RIB, which had in the meantime been taken under tow by another boat in the area. The lifeboat crew assessed the situation as under control and stood by to escort the two boats into Ballyvaughan Bay where they were able to get back to shore safely.

Speaking after the shout, Helm David Badger said, ‘This was a good outcome today. Our advice is always to call for help if you get into trouble on the water or if you see someone in trouble by dialling 112 or 999 and asking for the Coast Guard.”

“It is really important that when you go to sea to always carry a means of making contact and raising the alarm, such as a VHF radio or mobile phone.”

“And of course, to wear properly maintained lifejackets which will keep you afloat and visible if you end up in the water.”

“The people on board the stricken boat did everything right today. It didn’t matter that the RIB had already set up a tow with another boat by the time we arrived.”

“We were happy to be there to make sure everyone was well, unharmed and that both boats were safe to do the tow.”

“We accompanied the boats to the pier at Ballyvaughan, and once we knew that they were going to be able to get ashore safely, we set off back to the lifeboat station.”

“We’d rather be there to help and make sure people are safe than not get the call or get the call too late.”

It’s a week of unforgettable wins and joyful journeys to National Lottery HQ, as players from across the country step forward to claim life-changing prizes.

From surprise holiday discoveries to tickets guarded like treasure, the celebrations were in full swing.

A local Athenry woman also made the exciting journey to Lottery HQ to claim her Lotto Match 5 + Bonus prize from the 2nd August draw, walking away with a dazzling €60,394. Her winning Quick Pick ticket was purchased at Tesco in Athenry Shopping Centre, Co. Galway.

The Galway native, a regular Lotto player, was completely stunned when she realised she held the winning ticket mentioned in a newspaper article.

“I saw the article saying someone in Athenry had won €60,000 in the Lotto and just assumed it wasn’t me” she laughed. “It wasn’t until later in the day, as I was preparing to go back to work after the Bank Holiday, that I remembered to scan my ticket.”

The moment of discovery was unforgettable, “I kept screaming ‘what?’ over and over – it was a total shock!”

After sharing the joyful news with her family, she wasted no time in booking a well-deserved holiday to celebrate her win.

Holiday Turns to Celebration for Sligo Syndicate’s €1 Million Win

A syndicate of five from the west of Ireland has claimed the National Lottery’s latest millionaire prize, winning the EuroMillions Ireland Only Raffle from the 1st August draw with their online ticket.

The group, based in Co. Sligo, discovered their win while on holiday, turning a relaxing break into a moment of pure celebration.

“I checked my emails the day after the draw and saw a message from the National Lottery saying I’d won big” said the syndicate lead.

“At first, I thought it was €103. Then I suspected it might be the €5,000 raffle prize. But when I realised it was the €1 million raffle win… I was in complete shock!”

Another member added, “It was the Bank Holiday weekend, so we had to wait until Tuesday morning to confirm the win with the Prize Claims team. The suspense was unreal!”

When asked how they plan to spend their newfound fortune, the group’s excitement was clear. “We’ve already booked a holiday!” one laughed.

“There’s a certain destination we’ve always dreamed of visiting, and now we can go, no expense spared. We can’t wait!”

Another member shared plans to put the winnings towards future college fees, ensuring the prize will have a lasting impact.

Mayo Duo Guard Winning Ticket Like Treasure After €40K Lotto Prize

A syndicate of two from Co. Mayo has also claimed their Match 5 + Bonus prize from the 30th August Lotto draw, scooping an impressive €40,002. The winning ticket was purchased at Hineys Londis in Crossmolina, Ballina, Co. Mayo.

One member of the duo recalled the moment he bought the ticket, “I just had a good feeling when I bought it”, he laughed.

Since discovering their win, the ticket has been treated like a treasure. “I’ve been minding that ticket with my life – it’s either been by my side or hidden away in a secret box in a cupboard.”

When asked how they plan to celebrate, the pair shared, “We haven’t celebrated just yet, but we’re looking forward to booking a holiday somewhere sunny.”

There are just a few days left to avail of the cheap disposal of large household waste with the bulky goods collections being run in the city and county this month.

The city and county councils are offering households the chance to dispose of bulky goods at the Tuam, Ballinasloe, and Clifden Civic Amenity sites, and the Barna Recycling facility on the Headford Road.

The collection service, which began earlier this month, will run through to Sunday, August 17.

Items that will be accepted include upholstered furniture, wardrobes, bedside lockers, mattresses, bed frames, dining tables and chairs.

Items which will not be accepted include construction and demolition waste, hazardous waste, bags of household waste, toys, trampolines, ceramics and textiles.

The cost of this service is €5 per car/van and trailer if it is pre-booked in advance through the Barna Recycling website.

If not booked ahead of time, you will be charged the full gate and weighbridge fee.

This service is available for domestic households only, and commercial operators will be turned away.

Work is ongoing to restore a water supply to homes in Craughwell today after a burst mains caused outages on Thursday.

People living in Craughwell, Crinnage, Shanbally, Ballnagran and surrounding areas have been experiencing water outages since yesterday due to burst mains.

Crews are on site to locate and repair the burst water main which has significantly impacted reservoir levels.

Uisce Éireann’s Ger Greally assured customers that every effort is being made to restore normal water supply as quickly as possible.

“We understand the inconvenience that unplanned outages can have. Crews have been mobilised to address this unplanned outage and we wish to thank customers in the area for their patience while the works are underway.”

Repair works are currently expected to be completed by 3pm on Friday. However, it may take 3 – 4 hours after this point before people see their full water supply restored.

An alternative water supply will be available at the Community Centre and Medical Centre in Craughwell today, until 10am on Saturday.

A Galway County Council delegation has met with local government officials in Washington County, Wisconsin, as part of a 22-year-old twinning relationship between the two counties.

Located north of Milwaukee, Washington County has a population of about 140,000 and has been twinned with Galway since 2003.

The meeting in West Bend was part of a wider programme of tourism, cultural and economic development engagements in the United States, led by Leas-Chathaoirleach Cllr Mary Hoade and Chief Executive Liam Conneally.

The group also includes Cllrs Michael Regan and Moggie Maher, and Director of Infrastructure Development, Uinsinn Finn.

Jeffrey D. Schleif, Chairperson of the Washington County Board, received a presentation from the delegation.

“Our twinning with Washington County has opened doors for Galway in so many ways,” said Cllr Hoade. “It strengthens tourism links, creates opportunities for economic development, and allows us to share ideas on public policy and community infrastructure.”

“Most importantly, it deepens the cultural connection between our counties, fostering friendships and mutual understanding that benefit both communities well into the future.”

Mr Conneally thanked the board for their hospitality and constructive exchange of ideas. “The meeting offered valuable insights into local democracy in action and comparisons with local authority functions in Ireland,” he said.

“Key topics included the recent state of emergency after record-breaking rainfall and flooding, rezoning proposals for housing, and the future use of the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee campus.”

The delegation will also travel through Illinois and Wisconsin in the coming days to meet government, tourism, cultural and business leaders.

The centrepiece of the trip is Galway’s participation in Milwaukee Irish Fest, billed as the world’s largest Irish cultural event, which attracts more than 120,000 visitors annually.

The council delegation, involved for more than three decades, will promote Galway as a visitor destination and will also attend the Chicago Irish Fest from August 22nd to 24th.

In Chicago, the programme includes a City Hall briefing on the Green Social Housing strategy, meetings with business networks, tours of urban renewal projects, and an event hosted by the Irish American Heritage Center.

Galway City Council is progressing plans for 84 social homes in Ballyburke, with the successful appointment of a contractor.

The contract for building the “Fána an tSrutháin” social housing scheme has been awarded to OCC Construction.

The project involves the design and build of 84 residential units together with a new central community/neighbourhood plaza area, local centre units, a café and crèche facility as well as a landscaped amphitheatre.

The scheme is made up of 71 apartments across 4 blocks and 13 terraced family units. Of the apartments, 40% are designed as age friendly/universal design units, which will be located adjacent to the local centre services proposed.

Speaking at the contract signing, Leonard Cleary, Chief Executive of Galway City Council, said, “I’m delighted to see this scheme reach this important milestone, with the contract signing for the construction of the new development at Ballyburke.”

“This project will provide much needed housing units in an efficient manner, enhance infrastructure, and improve facilities for residents in the area.”

Works on site will commence in the coming weeks and it is anticipated that the development will be completed in late 2027.

This brings the number of social housing units to be delivered in Galway City in the period 2022-2027 up to 1,120, with more in development.

The first part of a €4.3 million redevelopment works on Nuns Island is getting underway, with Minister James Browne announcing this week that construction is to start on the UrbanLab project at the University of Galway.

The works are a milestone in the plans for the Galway Innovation & Creativity District, led by the University in partnership with Galway City Council and funded under the Government’s Urban Regeneration and Development Fund (URDF).

The UrbanLab is the first project to commence on site as part of the €4.3million URDF funding investment for the Galway Innovation & Creativity District.

It involves the redevelopment of an old mill building at the University of Galway on Nuns’ Island in Galway city. The historic property dates back to the 1850s and originally formed part of the Persse’s Distillery complex.

The redevelopment will see it brought back into use as a dedicated and flagship space in which to bring together communities to work on new ideas and solutions for city life.

The UrbanLab will focus on innovation in sustainable urban development, public and community engagement and interdisciplinary research and collaboration between the University, the City and the diverse communities who live in, work in and visit it.

Minister Browne said, “The UrbanLab is an exciting and timely initiative. The commencement of works marks a key step forward in shaping a resilient, inclusive urban future.”

“The UrbanLab, housed in this beautiful historic structure, supported by the Urban Regeneration Development Fund, is a flagship initiative by the University of Galway focused on sustainable urban development, community engagement and interdisciplinary research.”

“It brings together communities to work on new ideas and solutions for city life. The UrbanLab will be a shared space where people can learn, talk, and do research together.”

Interim President of University of Galway, Professor Peter McHugh, added, “The concept behind the University of Galway UrbanLab is a powerful expression of the opportunity that we can afford to our city and community to develop solutions which can transform Galway and the wider region, both to live and work in.”

“The Government’s Urban Regeneration Development Fund makes that happen and we look forward to people coming together to imagine and shape a better Galway.”

Leonard Cleary, Chief Executive of Galway City Council, said, “This project is a strong example of what can be achieved through collaboration between the University, the Council, based on real community feedback contained within the Nuns’ Island Masterplan.”

“With URDF support, we are restoring a historic building and transforming it into a dynamic space for innovation, engagement focussed on sustainable urban development. The UrbanLab will help us shape a more inclusive, resilient, and forward-thinking Galway.”

Almost €20,000 was raised for UHG to provide support for grieving families who have lost children through a family memorialising their lost daughter.

The Murphy family recently presented a cheque for €19,617.08 to the Maternity Bereavement Services at University Hospital Galway (UHG).

Laura Murphy from Tuam gave birth to twins Sophie and Rían in UHG in February 2024. Throughout her pregnancy, Laura attended the High Risk Clinic at UHG, where she received specialist care. Tragically, baby Sophie passed away shortly after birth.

In memory of baby Sophie, Laura and her family organised a highly successful Race Night fundraiser in March 2025, with proceeds going to the Maternity Bereavement Fund at University Hospital Galway and Féileacáin.

The Race Night saw an overwhelming turnout and heartfelt community support, a testament to the love surrounding baby Sophie’s memory and the importance of the cause.

Speaking about the donation, Laura Murphy, said, “We are delighted to have raised these funds for the Maternity Bereavement Services at University Hospital Galway. We would like to take this opportunity to thank all the staff who supported us through a difficult time.”

“We wanted to do something meaningful in Sophie’s name,” continued Laura. “By raising awareness and supporting the Maternity Bereavement Fund, we hope to help other parents who find themselves in an unimaginable position. We’re so grateful to everyone who came out to support us.”

Helen Byrnes, Bereavement Support Midwife at University Hospital Galway said, “The funds raised will be used to improve bereavement facilities within the maternity unit at UHG, creating a more compassionate environment for grieving parents.”

“This donation will make a real difference in helping us provide more sensitive and supportive care to grieving families.”

The GUH Maternity Bereavement Team expressed deep gratitude to the Murphy family and all who contributed to the fundraiser.

Senior executives from global drinks brands, government and supply chain leaders will converge in Athenry this September for Irish Drinks Forum 2025, the country’s flagship event for the food-and-beverage export sector.

The forum will feature a powerhouse line-up of international brands, industry pioneers, and policy leaders to chart the future of one of Ireland’s most valuable export sectors.

This year’s event comes at a critical moment as producers navigate global trade tensions, including tariffs, supply chain shocks, climate pressures and shifting consumer demand.

Irish drinks exports reached record highs in 2024, while volatility across raw materials, international markets and regulation is intensifying.

Hosted at the BIA Innovator Campus on September 3 and 4th, this year’s Forum will feature keynote appearances from global industry leaders, including Jamie Fulham, Planning & Media Manager Diageo, (part of the world’s largest drinks company) and Emma Walls, CEO of the National Dairy Council.

More than 40 sector leaders from across Ireland, Europe, Asia and North America will contribute, spanning whiskey, beer, Irish cream liqueurs, cider, spirits, malt, finance, sustainability, and innovation.

The sector now accounts for almost half of Ireland’s total food and drink exports and supports over 38,000 jobs nationwide, playing a foundational role in local economies from Donegal to Cork.

Lynn Harte, Programme Manager of the Irish Drinks Forum, said that this event is “a strategic spark for Ireland’s drinks industry at a time when building resilience, innovation, and connection matter more than ever.”

“At BIA Innovator Campus, we’re proud to host and power this national platform that unites producers, pioneers, and policymakers under one roof. As the operational home of the Forum, we’re not just facilitating conversations, we’re shaping the future of food and drink from the ground up.”

“This year’s programme is bold, forward-thinking, and built on collaboration, and we’re excited to see the industry’s next chapter take shape here in Athenry.”

Mary Sadlier, CEO of Coole Swan Cream Liqueur, a premium Irish liqueur brand competing on the global stage, welcomed the focus of this year’s Irish Drinks Forum on building resilience in the industry.

She added, “Our resilience is all about moving forward. You only lose when you stop moving. In a retail-based business, the numbers really matter.”

Highlights of this year’s Forum include:

●       Tariff Stress Test: International pricing strategist Ed Heskins (Iris Pricing Solutions, London) will lead a live scenario analysis on US/EU tariff threats.

●       Net-Zero Maturation Reveal: McCallan Bonded will showcase Ireland’s first net-zero whiskey maturation warehouse as part of the Forum’s “Future Finds” technology track.

●       Circular-Economy Lab: A hands-on workshop exploring new revenue streams from brewing and distilling by-products, hosted by Beverage Brewing Technology.

●       Cooperage Masterclass: Legendary Midleton cooper Ger Buckley, retiring fifth-generation cask expert, will share rare craft insights in a live demonstration.

●       Global Market Outlook: Eoin Barra Co-Founder of Tipple, discusses how a new approach has changed the online direct to customer pathway.

Ireland’s flagship international arts festival for children returns to Galway from 10 – 19 October 2025, inviting schools, families and young audiences to dive into a world of imagination, creativity and wonder.

The 2025 festival will feature stunning new work in theatre, circus, puppetry, dance and visual art by leading Irish and international artists. Here is a look at three of this year’s festival highlights to get excited about.

First Impressions by Cork based artist Jane Hayes is a landmark exhibition made especially for early years audiences.

Sculpture, textiles, photography and animation come together to reflect how young children truly experience art: playfully, curiously, and with all their senses.

FEN by Orla Clogher is a visually rich and poetic story told through puppetry, shadow play and music.

As machines threaten a precious wilderness, one gentle soul rises to protect the last curlew egg with the help of a playful fox. A moving and magical non-verbal experience for schools and families.

Matière(s) première(s) by Compagnie par Terre / Anne Nguyen Dance Company, France is a powerful and thrilling dance show blending street and African dance, exploring heritage, resilience and connection. A breathtaking celebration of movement for young and old.

With a vibrant mix of world-class Irish and international performances, the festival promises ten days of in-person experiences that spark joy, provoke thought and encourage young minds to express themselves freely.

At the heart of Baboró is a deep commitment to accessibility and inclusion, ensuring that children from all backgrounds across Galway can experience the transformative power of the arts.

The programme includes shows made especially for children with additional needs and provides access support for young audiences.

“Baboró is about creating space for children to engage with big ideas, experience joy and explore their own creativity through the arts,” says Aislinn Ó hEocha, Artistic Director of Baboró.

“We believe every child deserves the opportunity to experience joyful, powerful, thought-provoking performances that nurture empathy, imagination and confidence. Alongside moments of pure joy and belly laughs!”

“Bringing international and Irish artists to venues throughout Galway city and county makes that possible, for ten extraordinary days, when children are the most important audience.”

Baboró’s full programme launches on Tuesday, September 2. The Box Office opens Wednesday, September 3. School bookings and group rates will be available.