Success for Tipperary communities at Pride of Place Awards 2026
Tipperary Cathaoirleach Cllr Fiona Bonfield congratulated the communities on their achivement
Tipperary communities celebrated success at the All-Ireland Pride of Place Awards 2026, held at the Convention Centre Dublin over the weekend, with two local projects receiving national recognition for their outstanding contributions to community life.
Newport Sensory Room was named a joint winner in the Inclusive Communities category, while Visit Lorrha-Dorrha secured runner-up position in the Community Tourism Initiative category.
Tipperary Cathaoirleach Cllr Fiona Bonfield welcomed the achievements, praising the dedication of the communities and volunteers involved in both projects.
“What a fantastic night for Tipperary at the All-Ireland Pride of Place Awards 2026 in the Convention Centre Dublin,” Cllr Bonfield said.
“I was absolutely delighted to see two outstanding Tipperary projects receive national recognition, with Newport Sensory Room named joint winners in the Inclusive Communities category and Visit Lorrha-Dorrha recognised as runners-up in the Community Tourism Initiative category.”
Cllr Bonfield also congratulated the county’s other nominees, North Tipperary Agricultural Show and Clonmel Circular Square, for representing Tipperary at the national event.
“Congratulations also to our other excellent nominees, North Tipperary Agricultural Show and Clonmel Circular Square, who proudly represented the very best of our county on the national stage,” Cllr Bonfield said.
She said the awards reflected the commitment of people throughout the county who work to strengthen their communities and improve the lives of those around them.
“These awards are a testament to the hardworking, caring and committed people in communities right across Tipperary. They also demonstrate what can be achieved when local volunteers and community groups are supported through grant assistance, community partnerships and local engagement,” Cllr Bonfield said.
“Together, they deliver projects that enhance the quality of life in their areas and make a real difference to the people they serve.”
The Pride of Place Awards recognise the work of volunteers, community organisations and local leaders in supporting vulnerable members of communities, preserving and promoting cultural heritage, protecting the environment and creating welcoming places where people can belong and thrive.
Cllr Bonfield acknowledged the importance of these efforts in building stronger, more inclusive communities throughout the county.
“The awards recognise the volunteers, community groups and local leaders who work tirelessly to support vulnerable members of our communities, preserve and promote our rich culture and heritage, protect our environment, and create welcoming places where everyone can belong and thrive,” she said.
The Cathaoirleach also paid tribute to the staff of Tipperary County Council for their support of community initiatives, highlighting the role they play in helping local groups develop projects and reach their full potential.
“I would also like to acknowledge the outstanding support provided by the staff of Tipperary County Council, whose encouragement, expertise and commitment help community groups achieve their full potential,” Cllr Bonfield said.
In particular, she praised Angela Sheehan, Pride of Place Liaison Officer, for her work in supporting the county’s nominees and helping them gain national recognition.
“I want to pay tribute to Angela Sheehan, Pride of Place Liaison Officer, for her dedication, guidance and hard work in supporting and nominating these amazing Tipperary communities for national recognition,” she said.
Concluding her message, Cllr Bonfield thanked everyone involved in the projects and celebrated the community spirit that continues to make a difference throughout Tipperary.
“A sincere thank you and congratulations to all involved. Your dedication, passion and community spirit continue to make Tipperary a better place for everyone,” she said.
“These achievements belong to the people of Tipperary. We are immensely proud of you all and look forward to seeing even more success in the years ahead.”
The results represent a proud moment for the county, recognising the dedication of local volunteers and community groups whose work continues to make a lasting contribution to Tipperary.