Monster auction this Saturday in aid of Banagher pool project upgrade
The Shannon Bank Park Development Group is to hold a monster auction, the proceeds from which will go towards the upgrade of Banagher's outdoor swimming pool, this Saturday, April 26, Corrigan's Corner House at 8pm.
The event is one of a number of local fundraising initiatives in support of the swimming pool's redevelopment. Signed jerseys from the successful Offaly All-Ireland senior hurling and football teams of 1981 and 1982 will be a prominent feature of the auction, and are expected to garner much attention on the night.
Additional items to be auctioned include signed jerseys from the 2025 Triple Crown winning Ireland rugby team, as well as Leinster, Connacht, and Munster rugby teams, as well as hurleys signed by the Faithful County's 1994 senior and 2024 U20 All-Ireland hurling winners.
Also up for auction will be a football signed by the three men to lift the Sam Maguire cup for Offaly - Willie Bryan, Tony McTague and Richie Connor - a hurley belonging to Johnny Dooley, signed by brothers Johnny, Billy, and Joe Dooley, and a signed hurley used by underage Offaly player Adam Screeney.
A signed singlet worn by double Olympic gold-winning boxing champion Kellie Harrington, plus a selection of signed Shane Lowry memorabilia, will also be available for auction.
The monster auction is part of a major fundraising effort towards the much-anticipated upgrade of the Banagher outdoor swimming pool. The new pool is set to open this summer, offering an exciting new amenity for the local community and visitors alike.
The state-of-the-art outdoor swimming facility, located on the banks of the Shannon, is set to feature enhanced seating, wider pontoons, and a dedicated kayak/paddleboard launch with wheelchair access provided. The overall budget for the project is approximately €788,000, of which 85% has been secured through grants and fundraising, with an outstanding balance of around €120,000 set to be raised locally.
Further fundraising initiatives include a Carrauntoohil Challenge when over 100 locals will climb Ireland’s highest peak on Saturday, May 10, in support of the campaign, while a fundraising swim, the 'River Shannon Challenge' hosted by the local swimming club, will take place on Saturday, June 28.
Shannon Bank Park Development Group representative, John Butler, said that the committee is "overwhelmed by the level of support" for the initiative to date.
"This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to create a lasting legacy for Banagher. Every contribution brings us closer to a new pool that will benefit generations to come," he said.
"Beyond offering a safe and enjoyable environment for swimmers of all ages, the upgraded pool will promote physical health and mental well-being, and serve as a welcoming, inclusive space for everyone."