Louth Rose 2024 announced

Justine McGuirk has been selected as the 2024 Louth Rose following a selection process that took place on Saturday, June 15th at The Gateway Hotel, Dundalk.

The event saw nine local entrants from Drogheda, Ardee, Collon, and Dundalk participate for the coveted title. The day was filled with plenty of fun with individual interviews in the morning, group interviews in the afternoon, and culminated in live stage interviews that evening.

The judging panel on the day consisted of Mark Irwin 2013 Internation Rose of Tralee Escort, Karol Ann Kenna 2008 Louth Rose and Natalie Kelly founder of the Drogheda Dolls.

Hosted by Ollie Turner from Galway Bay FM, the night was a spectacular celebration of local talent and community spirit. The event was supported by Cathal on sound and light, stunning floral arrangements from Blooms Florist Dundalk, makeup on the night was by Emily from EOB Make Up, hair styling by Clodagh’s Hair & Beauty, and the whole night was captured by the amazing photographers Robert and Ross from Sky Lark Fotos.

The audience enjoyed a wonderful evening showcasing these incredible women of Louth and the passion and pride they have for their communities. Fun was had by all with plenty of great prizes for the best banners, Best Dressed Lady on the night Fiona Doyle and Best Dressed Gent James McMahon.

Justine McGuirk, a resident of Ardee originally from the vibrant town of Drogheda is a proud graduate of DKIT with a Bachelor's (Hons) in Health and Physical Education. During her studies, Justine discovered her passion for working with people with disabilities and has since been a dedicated advocate for their rights and abilities. She currently works as a day service supervisor, creating meaningful activities for those she supports.

In addition to her professional achievements, Justine is an active member of the Voices of the Boyne Choir, a social choir that celebrates the incredible talents of women across Louth. 

Justine's positive and bubbly personality, coupled with her commitment to making a difference, perfectly embodies the spirit of the Rose of Tralee. Sponsored by Voices of the Boyne and Illuminated Skin, Ardee, she will represent Louth at the International Rose of Tralee Festival in Kerry from August 16th to 20th. Along with her fellow 2024 Roses, Justine will embark on a tour across Ireland, visiting various counties and attractions before arriving to Tralee.

Justine reflected on the past few days: “I am truly overwhelmed by the outpouring of support I've received since being selected to represent Louth at this year's Rose of Tralee festival. The encouragement and kindness from my friends, family, and community have been incredibly heartwarming.

"I am filled with gratitude and excitement as I look forward to this amazing journey. Every moment of the selection process has been a joy, and that's thanks to the amazing Louth Centre Coordinator Clodagh, Emma Barry the 2022 Louth Rose, and the eight other incredible ladies who were up for selection. I am privileged to have been selected to represent us as a group and I hope to make you all proud.”

The selection night also featured a charity raffle that raised nearly €1,000 for local charities chosen by the Rose entrants. The proceeds will benefit Drogheda Dolls House, Northeast Cancer Research & Education Trust, Maria Goretti Children’s Respite Centre, and Drogheda Women’s and Children’s Refuge.

If you or your business would like to support Justine on her journey as the Louth Rose or should you wish to invite her to attend an event, please contact Clodagh Murray at the Louth Rose Centre by email at louthrosecentre@roseoftralee.ie or via the official Louth Rose social media pages.