Donegal Heroes Shine at Clean Coasts Ocean Hero Awards 2025!

URGENT UPDATE: Two outstanding winners from Donegal have triumphed at the 2025 Clean Coasts Ocean Hero Awards, held on December 7, 2025, at the Gibson Hotel in Dublin. The Fanad Coastal Group and Loreto Community School Milford took home the prestigious Youth Initiative Award for their impactful project focused on preserving the sand dunes at Whiteshore Beach.

The awards celebrate the relentless efforts of individuals and organizations dedicated to protecting Ireland’s coastlines. Patricia McAteer, owner of the White Harte Bar in Rathmullan, was also honored, receiving the Community Champion Business Award for her leadership in the Rathmullan Coastal Care initiative since its inception in 2013.

Over the past year, the collaboration between Loreto Community School and Fanad Coastal Group has resulted in significant advancements in dune conservation. Students participated actively, installing over 200 meters of natural fencing and attending marine workshops, demonstrating a profound commitment to environmental stewardship.

Local recognition was further highlighted as Rathmullan Tidy Towns and Hazel Russell were shortlisted in the Group of the Year and Leadership Award categories, respectively. This reflects Donegal’s robust engagement in coastal conservation efforts.

The Ocean Hero Awards have evolved significantly since their inception in 2006, growing from a single category to nine categories in 2025, recognizing a total of 45 groups and individuals nationwide for their extraordinary contributions to coastal protection.

This year’s awards underscore the importance of grassroots initiatives in combating environmental challenges. The event not only acknowledges achievements but also inspires communities across Ireland to engage in protecting their local environments.

Looking ahead, all eyes will be on how these initiatives continue to evolve and inspire further action within Donegal and beyond. As communities rally together, the commitment to safeguarding Ireland’s coastal heritage remains stronger than ever.

Stay tuned for more updates on local environmental efforts and community-driven initiatives as they unfold!