Mental Health Message Revives Drogheda’s Mall Buoy Icon
By ArdeePost Reporter
Drogheda’s Mall Buoy Gets Vibrant Update to Champion Mental Health Awareness
The iconic Mall Buoy at Drogheda Port has been given a striking new look as part of a local initiative aimed at promoting mental health awareness. This annual project, now a beloved community tradition, is the result of a heartfelt collaboration between Drogheda Port Company and SOSAD (Save Our Sons and Daughters), an organisation that provides free mental health support throughout Ireland.
Each year, the buoy—an unmistakable symbol of the town’s maritime heritage—is repainted with a fresh design by local volunteers. This year, however, the update carries an especially poignant message.
The new artwork was brought to life by local art teacher Sarah McAlevey and her talented Transition Year students from St. Oliver’s Community College. Their vibrant and hopeful design reflects the importance of mental wellbeing and serves as a public reminder that help is always available.
Murtaghs of Drogheda generously sponsored the paint, helping turn this vision into reality. But for the organisers, this initiative represents much more than an art project.
“This project is more than a fresh coat of paint,” said Nessa Lally of Drogheda Port Company. “It highlights the connection between the port and the community. It’s about resilience, creativity, and support.”
Carmel Murphy of SOSAD echoed this sentiment. “This buoy serves as a reminder that mental health support is available. We are grateful to use it as a canvas to spread that message.”
SOSAD offers free and confidential mental health services across the country. Their Freephone line, 1800 901 909, operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, for anyone in crisis or in need of support.
As the buoy now stands proudly along the waterfront—bright, bold, and full of meaning—it continues to act as a beacon not just for boats, but for hope, awareness, and community unity.