Tipperary village celebrated its 300th Split the Pot fundraising draw
Mullinahon’s weekly split the pot raffle raises funds for Knocknagow Community Centre
The village of Mullinahone celebrated its 300th Split the Pot raffle in aid of the Knocknagow Community Centre last week.
The weekly raffle has become a cornerstone of community life in the village. It is run entirely by dedicated volunteers, Dick Egan and Kevin Keating, and has grown steadily since its inception, bringing neighbours together while raising funds and sharing a bit of excitement each week.
With an average prize fund of around €150, the initiative has consistently delivered small but meaningful wins to participants across the village.
What sets Mullinahone’s raffle apart, however, is not just the prize money — it’s the spirit behind it.
Each draw is accompanied by a video shared within the community, often filled with humour, creativity, and a personal touch that keeps people engaged. These clips have become a weekly highlight, showcasing how even a small rural village can embrace technology and digital tools in a way that feels authentic and inclusive.
“The videos are half the fun,” one local resident remarked. “They keep everyone connected, especially those who might not always be able to get out and about.”
Participation has always been at the heart of the raffle’s success. Open to everyone in the village, the initiative frequently finds ways to involve different members of the community in meaningful ways
One particularly memorable draw took place in the kitchen of a local resident celebrating her 100th birthday. Volunteers brought the raffle to her home, combining the weekly draw with a heartfelt celebration — a moment that perfectly captured the warmth and inclusivity of the initiative.
Beyond the weekly excitement, the raffle also plays an important role in supporting the wider community. After each winner receives their prize, all remaining funds are reinvested into the Mullinahone Community Council. These funds go directly towards maintaining, refurbishing, and repairing the Knocknagow Community Centre, ensuring that it remains a vibrant hub for the people of Mullinahone for years to come.
Organisers took the opportunity during the 300th celebration to thank the many local shops and businesses throughout Mullinahone that continue to support the initiative by providing space for the Split the Pot boxes each week. Their generosity and community spirit have played a vital role in the raffle’s continued success and visibility throughout the area.
Over the course of 300 draws, “Split the Pot” has become far more than a fundraiser. It is a symbol of community spirit — where volunteers give their time generously, neighbours support one another, local businesses lend their support, and even the simplest idea can evolve into something deeply impactful.