In 2021 Ballina lost one of its most fervent servants, Kevin Clarke.
Kevin gave over 30 years community service to the Ballina Salmon festival as well as volunteering his time and experience to other events and festivals in Ballina, Kevin Clarke was a true servant to our town and community.
To mark Kevin’s contribution to the Ballina Salmon Festival, the committee created The Spirit of Ballina Salmon Festival – Kevin Clarke Perpetual Shield in 2022.
In Kevin’s honour and every year going forward, the shield will be presented to a member of the team that encapsulates the spirit of volunteering, the spirit of giving back to the community.
In 2023, the festival committee are delighted to announce the recipient of the inaugural shied as Marian Browne, with the presentation taking place in the Cot and Cobble.
Marian has given many years’ service to the Salmon Festival and is a great volunteer for other events and sporting and community groups in Ballina.
(L-R) Mags Downey Martin Ballina Chamber CEO & BSF Secretary, Geraldine Clarke, Tommy Clarke, Marian Browne (Recipient of the award) Lorraine Devlin, Mary Dunne Chairperson of Ballina Salmon Festival and John Newcombe, Ballina Chamber Secretary and BSF Events Coordinator.
Marian Browne recipient of the Spirt of the Festival Award 2023, and Cian Gilmartin, recipient of the Spirt of the Festival Award 2022.
Featuring members of the Ballina Salmon Festival Committee, volunteers, and Kevin Clarkes’ family.
Cian Gilmartin recipient of the Spirit of the Festival Perpetual Shield 2022 with Tommy Clarke, Kevins Father.
On announcing Marians name, Chairperson of the Ballina Salmon Festival, Mary Dunne paid tribute to Kevin Clarke, who she worked with previously and remarked that Marian is a very worthy recipient of this year’s award, as she too supports the community giving back and asking for nothing in return.
Mary also announced dates for Ballina Salmon Festival 2024, July 6th – 13th 2024.
Mary stated; “As Ballina Salmon Festival celebrates its 60th anniversary in 2024, making it the oldest community festival in Ireland, we are inviting the town to come out, volunteer, get stuck in and make 2024 a very special festival year to remember.”
If you would like to get involved, volunteer or propose a festival event, please contact pro@ballinasalmonfestival.ie / 096 72800
