Ballymoney Museum opens ‘Joey 25’ exhibition honouring motorcycling legend Joey Dunlop

Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens, Councillor Ciarán McQuillan pictured at the launch of the Joey 25 exhibition in Ballymoney Museum alongside Joey’s wife Linda Dunlop and daughter Joanne McCammond.

Ballymoney Museum has officially opened the Joey 25 Exhibition, a moving tribute to Northern Ireland’s most celebrated motorcyclist, Joey Dunlop, to commemorate the 25th anniversary of his untimely passing.

The free exhibition, organised by Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council Museum Services, opened to the public on Tuesday 6th May 2025 and will run until Saturday 30th August 2025, offering visitors a rare opportunity to explore the life and legacy of one of the sport’s most iconic figures.

A Legend Remembered

Joey Dunlop, affectionately known as the “King of the Roads”, was born in Ballymoney in 1952. Over a remarkable career, he amassed 26 Isle of Man TT victories, five Formula One World Championship titles, 13 North West 200 wins, and 24 Ulster Grand Prix triumphs—solidifying his place among the sport’s elite.

Yet, Joey was as renowned for his humility and humanitarian efforts as he was for his fearlessness on two wheels. In recognition of his charity work across Eastern Europe, he was awarded an MBE in 1986 and an OBE in 1996.

A Unique and Moving Exhibition

The Joey 25 exhibition showcases a unique collection of artifacts and memorabilia, many on loan from the Dunlop family archives and others loaned specifically for this display.

The Joey 25 Exhibition features an extraordinary collection of personal items, memorabilia, and artefacts, many on loan from the Dunlop family and private collectors. Among the highlights are:

• Joey’s racing leathers from the 1981 Isle of Man TT, worn during the iconic all-black protest.

• The gloves he wore during the 1998 Tandragee 100, when he lost the tip of his left-hand ring finger.

• Restored and original racing bikes ridden by Joey, kindly loaned by William McComb, Ian Waddell, and Clifford Stewart.

• A variety of trophies, photographs, and personal belongings that offer intimate insights into Joey’s life on and off the track.

Interactive displays and video tributes enhance the visitor experience, capturing Joey’s courage, commitment, and character.

A Community Celebration

The Dunlop family pictured with Stephen McMaw, Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council and Ballymoney DEA Elected Member, Alderman John McAuley, at the launch of the Joey 25 exhibition in Ballymoney Museum.

Jamie Austin, Museums Officer and Sarah Calvin, Council’s Museum Services pictured with the Dunlop family, at the launch of the Joey 25 exhibition in Ballymoney Museum.

The launch event was attended by Joey’s wife, Linda Dunlop, members of the Dunlop family, and Councillor Ciarán McQuillan, Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens.

Speaking at the opening, Mayor McQuillan said:

“Joey Dunlop was not just a sporting legend but a beloved figure who put Ballymoney on the world stage. This exhibition is a heartfelt tribute to his achievements and the profound impact he continues to have on our community and beyond.”

Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens, Councillor Ciarán McQuillan pictured with Jamie Austin, Museums Officer, Linda Dunlop, Sarah Calvin, Council’s Museum Services Manager, and Leeanne Irwin, Acting Corporate Communications and Public Relations Manager, at the launch of the Joey 25 exhibition in Ballymoney Museum.

Pictured at the launch of the Joey 25 exhibition in Ballymoney Museum are Joey’s wife Linda Dunlop, Jamie Austin, Museums Officer and William McComb, Clifford Stewart and Ian Waddell, who kindly donated bikes and memorabilia for the exhibition.

Linda Dunlop pictured with Ballymoney DEA Elected Members Councillor Mervyn Storey, Alderman John McAuley, and Councillor Darryl Wilson at the launch of the Joey 25 exhibition in Ballymoney Museum.

Museum Officer Jamie Austin extended thanks to the Dunlop family and contributors for their support, saying:

“We are honoured to host this iconic exhibition and thank all those who have made it possible. Joey’s legacy is deeply woven into the fabric of this town, and we are proud to share his story with the public.”

Joey 25 Celebration – A Town United in Tribute

The exhibition is part of the wider Joey 25 Celebration, taking place in Ballymoney this May. On 24th May 2025, over 25 motorcycling legends—including World Superbike champions Carl Fogarty and Jonathan Rea—will ride some of Joey’s most iconic bikes in a closed-road parade through the town centre, honouring the man who inspired a generation.

Linda Dunlop remarked:

“Joey’s memory lives on through the love and support of his fans and our community. This exhibition is a beautiful way to honour his life, and we’re grateful to Ballymoney Museum staff and the Council for making it happen.”

The Joey 25 exhibition showcases a unique collection of artifacts and memorabilia, many on loan from the Dunlop family archives and others loaned specifically for this display.

Visitor Information:

• Location: Ballymoney Museum

• Dates: 6 May – 30 August 2025 (Monday – Saturday, 9am–5pm; closed on bank holidays)

• Admission: Free