THE Tuam Sensory Garden was spearheaded by the volunteers at Tuam Women’s Shed. Photo: Ray Ryan

Tuam Women’s Shed vie for Pride of Place award

Council showcase work done in Palace Grounds

Neha Kumari

Published: Wed 19 Aug 2026, 2:02 PM

MEMBERS of Tuam Women’s Shed are excited to represent County Galway at the 2026 IPB Pride of Place Awards.

The community group has been nominated by Galway County Council in the Inclusive Communities category in recognition of the work they have done on the Michael McGrath Sensory Garden in Tuam's Palace Grounds. Portumna Tidy Towns group has been chosen for the Community Tourism Initiative category.

“We are excited and looking forward to the awards night,” said Mary O’Neill, Chairperson of Tuam Women’s Shed.

She told The Tuam Herald that the women in the group have done a fantastic job in creating an inclusive spot for everyone to enjoy.

“They do the job without looking for anything in return. Seven to eight women go there every week to do a few bits of work and keep it tidy,” she added.

Established in 2021, Tuam Women’s Shed has developed into a significant community organisation focused on wellbeing, inclusion and social connection.

Almost 40 members

The group with almost 40 members has worked alongside volunteers, schools, businesses and Galway County Council, to deliver a beautiful Sensory Garden and create an accessible community space designed for people of all ages and abilities.

Ms O’Neill believes that the garden has gone beyond initial expectations and is serving the community every day.

“A few years ago, that space was just a patch of land but now it’s colourful and welcoming for everyone,” she noted.

Since the official opening of the garden last year, a chess table has been added and voluntary group is also working towards havinga picnic table installed in the near future.

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CLLR Siob Hugh Ryan, Cllr Karey McHugh Farag, Director of Services, Michael Owens, Corporate Services, Rural, Community & Tourism Development and Integration and Galway County Council Tuam Area Office Staff at Tuam Palace Grounds. photo: Murtography. Murtoqraphy

Mary herself regularly visits the garden and is happy to see the space being enjoyed by both children and adults.

The group is now preparing for a visit from the judges of the IPB Pride of the Place Awards on Tuesday, September 1, as part of the adjudication process. The winners will be announced at a gala dinner on October 24, in the Convention Centre in Dublin.

Community spirit

Cathaoirleach of Galway County Council, Councillor Andrew Reddington said that the two nominations reflected the strength of community spirit across the county.

“Portumna Tidy Towns and Tuam Women’s Shed represent the very best of community leadership and volunteerism in County Galway.

“Their dedication has transformed local spaces, strengthened community pride and created places where people feel connected and supported.

“They are wonderful ambassadors for Galway, and I wish both groups every success in this year’s competition,” he added.