‘True Limerick spirit’ goes into Going for Gold

THERE was  no golden sunlight at the launch of this year's Going for Gold competition but a bright future is guaranteed for all communities that take part.

Mayor of Limerick, John Moran, and Gerry Boland, of the JP McManus Charitable Foundation, officially launched Limerick Going for Gold 2024.

Judging will soon get underway in the annual competition, which encourages communities to be environmentally aware and keep their neighbourhoods tidy.

Mayor Moran encouraged more communities to get involved. 

“Limerick Going for Gold’s mission aligns with my own vision of a cleaner, brighter Limerick, a place where residents, communities, and nature thrive. 

“Since 2012, Going for Gold has been uniting neighbourhoods, fostering sustainable practices, and celebrating the true Limerick spirit of volunteerism and community. Let’s continue the positive momentum and encourage even more participation in 2024,” said Mayor Moran.

Mr Boland said Going for Gold has had a transformative impact on communities that take part. 

“Their dedication has improved the physical landscape through renovated playgrounds, freshly painted murals, or meticulously tended gardens. 

“As we set down roots for the next round of the competition, let’s remember that it’s not just about winning or losing. It’s about the journey, the camaraderie and the collective effort to improve local areas for everyone’s enjoyment,” said Mr Boland.

READ MORE: Works have started on Limerick swimming pool upgrades

A top prize of €10,000 and other monetary prizes are up for grabs this year. Additionally, a prize fund of nearly €60,000 in grant assistance has been distributed to local communities already this year through the Going for Gold initiative.

Grants of between €200 and €3,000 have assisted community groups to improve biodiversity, litter management, pollinator friendly planting while also highlighting the need to protect our heritage and environment.

There is over €60,000 in prizes across categories: Tidy Towns, Limerick Bee Friendly in Bloom, Residential Areas, Endeavour Award, and Reuse Award. 

Judges will focus on litter control and upkeep of green areas, pollinator friendly planting, sustainable planting, overall impression and biodiversity. The prize giving ceremony is in October.

Limerick Going for Gold is an annual competition managed by Limerick City and County Council with sponsorship from JP McManus Charitable Foundation.

The competition is supported by Limerick’s Live 95, Limerick Leader, Limerick Post, I Love Limerick, Limerick City Centre Tidy Towns and Southern Media and Marketing Design.