Shining lights of Laois to be celebrated at gala awards

Tim Browne, Unsung Hero, with his wife Geraldine and their colleagues at Clonad GAA, who were Climate Action Runners-up in the Laois Community & Voluntary Awards 2025. Photo: Michael Scully | Photo: Michael Scully

placeholder image — Tim Browne, Unsung Hero, with his wife Geraldine and their colleagues at Clonad GAA, who were Climate Action Runners-up in the Laois Community & Voluntary Awards 2025. Photo: Michael Scully | Photo: Michael Scully

Laois Community and Voluntary Awards to honour the county’s volunteer heroes

All roads lead to Portlaoise this week for a gala night of celebration of voluntary work right around Laois.

Laois County Council, in partnership with Laois Public Participation Network (PPN) and corporate sponsor People First Credit Union, will honour the heroes of local communities across County Laois at the 17th Annual Gala Laois Community and Voluntary Awards, on Friday, November 13, at the Midlands Park Hotel, Portlaoise.

The organisers say the awards are hosted to recognise the tremendous contribution made by community and voluntary groups to life in Laois.

All nominees will be celebrated for their outstanding contributions, their dedication and generosity in giving their time to help strengthen clubs and community groups across the county.

The awards provide an opportunity to recognise the individuals and groups whose commitment strengthens communities, supports inclusion, promotes wellbeing, protects the environment, celebrates culture and heritage, and enhances the quality of life for people across the county.

Cllr Catherine Fitzgerald, Cathaoirleach of Laois County Council, spoke about the celebration of voluntary work in communities.

“Excitement is building in anticipation of this year’s Community and Voluntary Awards. I’m looking forward to shining a light on the exceptional work done by volunteers in clubs and groups all across Laois. These individuals give up their time for the enhancement of their local area, and this commitment deserves to be recognised and celebrated,” she said.

Michael Rainey is the Chief Executive of Laois County Council.

“It is with great pride that Laois County Council hosts this annual event in collaboration with Laois PPN and People First Credit Union. Every year, we see the passion and dedication that volunteers have in their locality.

"The variety of categories on the night shows the range of ways in which volunteers from all ages work together to bring new initiatives and advancements to their communities and we look forward to celebrating them for their achievements,” said the CEO.

The Leinster Express / Laois Live is the official media partner. Laura McLoughlin, Editor, commented on what it means to be involved.

“The Leinster Express is delighted to once again be the media partner for these very special awards. The dedication, commitment and hard work of our volunteers is truly remarkable. As a local newspaper, we believe it is so important to shine a spotlight on the incredible work being carried out by individuals and groups in communities right across Laois.

“I would like to wish everyone who has been nominated the very best of luck. The Leinster Express team is looking forward to a fantastic evening celebrating the people, passion and community spirit that makes Laois such a special place,” she said.

The awards have been judged by PPN Representatives from around Ireland and the eagerly awaited results will be announced on the night.

Trophies and prizes will be presented to the category winners and runners-up. Each group and individual nominated will be presented with a Certificate acknowledging their contribution to the community and voluntary effort in Laois.

One of the most anticipated awards each year goes to an individual who the judges believe puts in such effort that they can be regarded as an Unsung Hero, for the work they do within their communities.

The award categories are supported by: Laois Volunteer Centre, Connect Laois, Laois Sports Partnership as well as the council’s Arts & Heritage, Climate Action and Environment Sections,

The Master of Ceremonies on the night will be Laois’ Justin Treacy. Attendees will arrive from 6.45 pm and the official start time is 7.30 pm. Portlaoise Comhaltas will provide musical entertainment as guests arrive.

Laois representatives at the IPB Pride of Place awards from Clough and Portlaoise will be special guests on the night. Clough Village won in the 0-300 category while Portlaoise Tidy Towns were Runners-Up in the Climate Action and Biodiversity Category.

Laois Federation of Tidy Towns Awards will also be presented on the night.

Arts, Culture & Heritage Award

Sponsored by Laois County Council Arts & Heritage Sections

The Arts, Culture & Heritage Award recognises clubs, groups and organisations who enhance their local areas by conserving, protecting and promoting the arts, culture and heritage of their local community through collective creative activities. Examples include drama, music, literature, arts, festivals, conservation, and heritage.

Nominees: