During Storm Eowyn, Galway Bay FM proved the irreplaceable value of local radio, keeping the community informed through every power outage, road closure, and emergency update—even after losing their own broadcast mast ! Even in the face of diversity they continued to deliver entertainment and promotions as well as providing much needed funds for their charity partners.
When Storm Eowyn wreaked havoc across Galway, Galway Bay FM stood strong, delivering vital updates to keep the community informed. From power outages to downed trees, road closures, school and post office closures, storm damage, and water shortages, Galway Bay FM were dedicated to keeping listeners in the loop during this chaotic time.
Despite the storm cutting the radio mast at Sandy Road in half and briefly taking us off-air, the Galway Bay FM team rose to the challenge. A true team effort between the newsroom, reception staff, and on-air staff ensured the updates kept flowing.
John Morley, host of “Galway Talks” current affairs show on Galway Bay FM, became a vital source of accurate and timely information on the savage effects of storm Eowyn for other media outlets such as the BBC.
The commitment to a multiplatform approach was key. They shifted gears to keep listeners informed through our social media channels, website, and live streams, ensuring no one missed critical updates during the storm. Many people drove long distances to purchase battery radios so they could get the ever-changing information being broadcast by Galway Bay fm, describing it as the only place they could get these vital updates.
This storm proved that, no matter the challenges, local radio remains at the heart of the community—ready to inform, support, and weather the storm together. Lets not forget their commitment to providing entertainment and exceptional promotions with our partner clients as well as providing much needed funds for our charity partners.
Below are some of the out of spot highlights over the last couple of months.
Galway Bay FM Christmas Charity Challenge
The Galway Bay FM Christmas Charity Challenge saw 4 Galway Bay FM presenters’ pair with local charities to take on a series of challenges as suggested by listeners… but all was not as it seemed as each of the challenges had a “fun” twist.
The GBFM Christmas Charity Challenge was a huge success. Christmas is a time of giving but with so many demands on people’s budgets it’s easy to get lost in the noise. This cross-platform campaign delivered key messaging across our website, social channels and on-air and helped raise awareness (and funds) for our four charity partners; NCBRI, Galway SPCA, Cafe Link and Galway Hope Space.
You can watch more here on Galway Bay FM’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DDw_1UqMswD/?igsh=bWY4c3RxbXRrYTRq
From the initial listener suggestions and charity shoutouts to the slick videos on social and the hilarious on-air debriefs after the challenges were completed and the twists were revealed, the presenters’ energy was infectious and delivered a fun, engaging promotion.
Circle K “Kits for Clubs” Deliveries
The Circle K “Kits for Clubs” campaign was an absolute GOAL, scoring big with local clubs across the city and county! Like a last-minute hat trick, receiving this amazing prize brought pure joy to the kids in the three winning clubs—Tuam Celtic FC, Colga FC, and West United FC. Described by their coaches as total game-changers, the kits were exactly what the teams needed to shine.
Though the entry from the clubs had a slow start, it picked up serious momentum, with over 3,500 votes pouring in by the closing date. Delivering the kits during training sessions was unforgettable—the buzz among the kids was electric! They were thrilled to gear up and take their game to the next level. Proud parents and supporters took to social media with posts showing off the new kits and sharing how they’ve made a difference for their teams.
In the end, this campaign wasn’t just about providing kids with new gear—it was about honoring the incredible volunteers who dedicate their time to give kids the chance to participate in sports, celebrating teamwork, and showcasing that local is powerful.
Watch here: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DFxxKmcMFuk/?igsh=OW5za2RsYXQwNDAx
