Martin Tyrell was born in 1936 and reared in Ballybeg in the parish of Annaghdown. He emigrated to Australia when he was 20, returning 7 years later. He established himself as a very successful businessman in Tuam, but has always remained a Ballybeg man at heart. Martin has written in many different forms all through his life. His book ‘The Rocky Road’, published in 1998, contains a wealth of information about the heritage of his native place. Topics covered range from ‘the fair day’ to ‘the bonfire’ and ‘small farms’. Martin spoke eloquently in this recording about his life in Ballybeg, Canberra and Tuam with Evelyn Stevens in March 2025. He is a great supporter of the Annaghdown Heritage Society.
Above: Tyrrell Insurances & Auctioneering, Tuam; Martin Tyrrell with Australian Prime Minister Harold Holt; and Martin Tyrrell pictured with his wife Ann and their granddaughter Alannah.
