Community Champion, Mossy Buckley has been honoured at the Cork County Mayor’s Community Awards 2026, receiving the Northern Division Individual Award in recognition of his outstanding voluntary contribution across multiple communities.
Originally nominated in the Volunteers Award category, Mossy was celebrated at a ceremony held on Tuesday, 10 February at County Hall, Cork City, where community groups and individuals from across the county were recognised for their service.
Cllr. Gearóid Murphy, who nominated Mossy, said he was delighted to see both Mossy Buckley and Mallow Musical Society honoured on the night, offering special congratulations to Mossy on winning the North Cork individual category.
Cork County Council described Mossy as an exceptional volunteer whose work has had a positive and lasting impact across Mallow, Cecilstown and Castlemagner. In River Valley, he plays a central role in the Residents’ Association and is a consistent supporter of Mallow Tidy Towns, contributing year-round through litter picks, leaf clearing, weeding, estate upkeep and community engagement.
His commitment extends well beyond Mallow. Born and raised in Cecilstown, Mossy has long-standing ties to the parish, including playing on the Ballyhass National School team that won the Duhallow final in 1981, scoring a point in the decider. Within Castlemagner Parish, he has supported numerous initiatives including restoration of the historic water pump in Castlemagner village, assisting with the launch of heritage signage at Lohort Castle, tidy-ups of Castlemagner graveyard and various local improvement projects.
He has also contributed to fundraising and collections for Penny Dinners over many years and is known for regularly carrying out litter picks, weeding and maintenance work quietly and without recognition.
Ken O’Flynn TD described the award as a proud moment for the community, stating that Mossy’s recognition reflects “years of quiet dedication, decency and service to others, the type of contribution that rarely seeks attention, yet holds communities together.”
Community groups across North Cork have echoed that sentiment, noting that volunteers like Mossy strengthen the fabric of towns and villages through consistent, practical and selfless work.
The award, presented on behalf of the Mayor of the County of Cork, Mary Linehan Foley, marks a fitting tribute to a volunteer whose impact is visible across multiple communities.