Limerick communities are Going for Gold following competition launch
As one of Limerick’s most successful environmental and community initiatives, the competition promotes biodiversity, nature conservation, circular economy, and sustainable living.
Limerick City and County Council, in collaboration with the JP McManus Charitable foundation, has encouraged communities across Limerick to partake in Limerick Going for Gold 2026.
This year's competition was officially launched at the Moyross Enterprise Centre by Mayor of Limerick, John Moran, together with Helen O’Donnell of the JP McManus Charitable Foundation.
As one of Limerick’s most successful environmental and community initiatives, the competition promotes biodiversity, nature conservation, circular economy, and sustainable living.
Communities across the city and county are invited to take part, as the initiative continues to inspire local groups, residents, volunteers and organisations to work together to enhance their communities, improve biodiversity, protect the natural environment and create more sustainable places to live, work and visit.
Mayor of Limerick, John Moran, described Limerick Going for Gold as "one of the finest examples of community spirit in action".
"The competition not only enhances the appearance of our communities but also delivers lasting environmental benefits through biodiversity projects, pollinator-friendly initiatives and sustainable practices. I look forward to seeing communities across Limerick showcasing the incredible work taking place in every corner of our city and county."
The competition – now established as one of Limerick's flagship community programmes – offers significant prizes to those who succeed across a range of categories.
Along with the top prize of €10,000, additional prizes of €7,000 and €5,000 will be awarded to the winning participants, bringing the prize fund to over €70,000.
Almost €80,000 in Environmental Improvement Grants will also be distributed to local communities, with grants ranging from €200 to €5,000 to support projects focused on biodiversity enhancement, litter management, circular-economy initiatives, sustainable planting schemes, and environmental improvement works.
Príomh Chomhairleoir, Cllr Catherine Slattery, described the pride taken by people in their local areas as "incredible", saying the competition "gives that energy a real focus and support".
"It’s not just about improving how places look, but about building stronger, more connected and more sustainable communities right across Limerick. Every year we see groups push themselves further, especially in areas like biodiversity, recycling and climate action, and that’s something we should be really proud of."
The initiative is supported by Live 95, the Limerick Leader, Limerick Post, I Love Limerick, Limerick City Centre Tidy Towns, Southern Marketing Design & Media and community organisations throughout Limerick.
Speaking on behalf of the JP McManus Charitable Foundation, Helen O’Donnell added:
"The Foundation is proud to continue supporting an initiative that empowers communities, strengthens local pride and delivers positive environmental change across Limerick."
Applications for entries have now closed. Adjudication will take place in August this year, alongside a radio campaign with public voting on Limerick’s Live 95FM.
Winners will be announced at the prestigious Limerick Going for Gold Gala Awards Ceremony later on in the year.
Full details of competition categories are available on www.limerick.ie.