Children from Radharc na Mara NS in Ballybane today attended the official première and launch of their high-energy anti-litter anthem ‘PICK IT UP (EASTSIDE ENERGY)’, created as part of a Galway City Council project with youth music collective The Kabin Studio.
The official launch of the song and video by Cllr Declan McDonnell, deputising as Mayor of the City of Galway, took place in the Radisson Red, Mervue – and was the culmination of months of planning, writing and performing by the children of fifth class in collaboration with The Kabin Studio and staff from the Environment team in Galway City Council.
‘PICK IT UP (EASTSIDE ENERGY)’ focuses on themes of local community, environmental protection, and pride of place, with children calling on their local community to join with them in, “not giving in, taking action, Ballybane East side making it happen!”.
The Kabin Studio, well known for their viral video ‘The Spark’ (2024), brought their considerable expertise in youth-focused creative projects to channel the children’s experiences into a positive, community-focused anthem.
The resulting track was shot on location in the Mervue and Ballybane areas of Galway City, and brought to life as the children delivered their infectious, upbeat rap. The filming day turned into a vibrant celebration for the community, featuring appearances and support from residents' associations, community hub members, Foróige representatives, and the local community garden.
Mayor of Galway City, Cllr. Helen Ogbu praised the young performers and the community spirit behind the initiative: "This fantastic initiative highlights the creativity, passion, and pride of our young people in Ballybane. Seeing the 5th-class students from Radharc na Mara take ownership of their environment and channel their energy into such a powerful message proves that meaningful change begins at the heart of our communities. It is truly inspirational to see how this video reflects the real, positive transformation happening in Ballybane."
The initiative coincides with a significant positive shift in terms of litter management in the area. In June 2026, Ballybane achieved a vastly improved score in the Irish Business Against Litter surveys - reflecting the persistent work of residents and community hubs, working in conjunction with Galway City Council, to rejuvenate the area.
Fergal Cushen, who worked on the project as part of his work as Environmental Awareness Officer with Galway City Council, added:
"Working alongside Kabin Studios gave the students a platform to express their artistic side and show immense pride in where they live. Having a professional crew film them right in their own neighbourhood gave the students real confidence and ownership, and the warm response from residents on the day showed just how much this project means to the whole community. Thanks to Music Generation Galway City for making the connection with Kabin Studios”.
David Walsh, Waste Enforcement Officer, Galway City Council said, “The release of this brilliant music video forms part of the wider Ballybane project, which brings together community clean-ups, increased enforcement of Bye-Laws and the installation of CCTV at illegal dumping hotspots. This work, alongside the ongoing efforts of our Environmental Awareness and Enforcement staff and the local community, is helping to deliver positive results and highlights the importance of working together to protect and maintain a cleaner environment for everyone.”
This project is funded by the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment Anti-Dumping Initiative.
Project Partners: Galway City Council, Kabin Studios, Radharc na Mara National School, Music Generation Galway.
The video is available to view on Galway City Council Social Media accounts on InstagramFacebook TikTokYouTube and LinkedIn
