With an outstanding 30-year history, the band has had a deep influence on Cork's cultural fabric and the arts, which is acknowledged with this prize.

Two hundred people, invited from every walk of life in Cork, attended the Gala Awards Lunch at the Metropole Hotel.

An internationally successful band from Cork, The Frank and Walters have charted both domestically and abroad with their classic Indie classics.

Paul Linehan on lead vocals and bass, Ashley Keating on drums, Rory Murphy on lead guitar, and Cian Corbett on keyboards make up the band.

Their unique place in the music industry is demonstrated by the group's longevity and the ongoing success of their songs, such as the Cork Anthem “After All,” which was chosen as Cork's favourite song.

Known for being powerful representatives of Cork, they stated the band is still very much in the game with a large discography of critically praised and internationally successful songs and albums.

“In many ways, it's hard to imagine that thirty years have passed since “After All” became a bona fide hit single and The Frank and Walters shared their dressing room at Top of the Pops with Paul McCartney, but in other ways, it isn't,” stated Colm O'Callaghan, Head of RTÉ Factual Content.

“Because great pop songs never go out of style, and “After All” is without a doubt one of those songs, along with many of Frank's compositions.”

“After All” is the best of The Frank and Walters, and Frank and Walters are the best of us—not haughty, simply better. They represent everything that makes Cork unique.

The organiser of the awards, Manus O'Callaghan, praised The Frank & Walters Band, saying that their victory was a testament to both their skill as musicians and their unwavering support of Cork's creative community. Cork's current status as a centre of culture is largely due to the Frank & Walters."

Broadcaster Dáithí Ó Sé, who has co-hosted the RTÉ Today Show with Maura Derrane from the RTÉ Cork studio for many years, was given the Honorary Cork Person Award.

“Dáithí's contagious energy, wit, and upbeat spirit have brought laughter and joy to audiences across the nation for over two decades,” stated Ann-Marie O'Sullivan, partner in the awards and organiser. This award honours his extraordinary career as a well-liked TV host and media figure, all while operating out of RTÉ's Cork headquarters.”

The prizes were awarded by Cork County Mayor Councillor Frank O'Flynn and Cork Lord Mayor Councillor Kieran McCarthy, demonstrating the cooperation of the county and city in honouring outstanding achievement.