Lottery luck for the Kilmurry history group

KILMURRY Historical and Archaeological Association was one of six organisations named as winners in the first ever National Lottery Good Causes awards.

The awards honour the inspiring work of projects, clubs and individuals from all over the country with the help of Good Causes funding. Nearly 30 percent of every euro spent on National Lottery games goes back to Good Causes.

Kilmurry Historical and Archaeological Association is passionate about preserving the heritage of the region and encourages more tourists to visit. The Good Causes funding went towards the costs of repairing the Kilmurry Independence Museum and Cultural Centre along with restoring the Kathleen O’Callaghan dress and shawl.

Other winners were the Rebel Wheelers Multi Sports Club, which is a voluntary organisation which encourages children with physical disabilities to take part in all sports. The Cork Arc Cancer Support House was also chosen. It provides a holistic service to people with cancer, and their families.

The Cork Community Art Link was also chosen. It brings creativity to places where people live, work and play.

The Bere Island Projects Group was another worthy winner. It creates employment opportunities aimed at sustaining the island population. The final winner was the Good Shepherd shelter at Edel House in Cork. This is an emergency shelter for 50 homeless and vulnerable women and children across Cork city and county.

All of these winners will now represent Cork in the South Regional finals in the hope of a place in the National Finals in November. Each category winner will receive €10,000, and the overall Good Cause of the Year will receive an additional €25,000.