Meadow Lake Woodlanders Regional Camp and 10th Anniversary

By Jennifer Nichols, Meadow Lake Progress
Reprinted with permission

It was a weekend to celebrate, learn and have a lot of fun at the Meadow Lake Woodlanders Regional Camp on June 20-22. The camp was held at Matheson Lake in the Meadow Lake Provincial Park. Approximately 55 people came from Meadow Lake, Cold Lake, Bonnyville and as far away as Edmonton, Ardmore, Wetaskiwin and Stoney Plain to join in the fun.

The weekend kicked off on Friday with opening ceremonies and the 'Ask the experts' wildlife identification game. Teams got competitive and had a lot of laughs, but also learn a lot about nature and wildlife in the park.

On Saturday morning everyone got cooking with the Camp Kitchen Challenge. The Pathfinders cooked up bannock and veggies over tin can stoves, the Trailblazers made burgers, grilled cheese and breakfast in their leave no trace challenge and the A/Cs made a three course feast.

It was a busy day with a horsemanship demonstration by the local 4-H club at Vivian Lake, the Fresh Air Dexterity - a series of skill-testing challenges by Kirt Bennett and numerous assistants, an introduction to Wildland Firefighting for the A/Cs with Nancy Carberry, and lots of free time for swimming and enjoying the hot sun

The pot luck supper in the evening was delicious - there was more food than the whole group plus special guests could eat! Special guests included Chief Warden Terry Garrett, Meadow Lake MLA Jeremy Harrison, Garry Nelson, Kirt Bennett, Nancy Carberry, Bill Land and Woodlanders founding members: Dave and Ruth Wolfe, Howard MacCuish, Matthew Wolfe, Shane McWatters, Amanda McWatters.

The local Forest Wardens received their badges and Neil Marsh gave out some special gifts to people who have helped the club throughout the year. There was even a 10th Anniversary cake that MLA Jeremy Harrison and Chief Warden Terry Garrett cut. After supper everyone took part in a JFW trivia game and were treated to original music by Bill Land, a magic show by Kirt Bennett and a big campfire.

It was a busy weekend, but everyone had a great time. There was even time to do some canoeing, kayaking and other fun outdoor activities. Thanks to everyone who travelled so far to come to camp, and for everyone who worked hard to make it a success!

Have a look at some pictures!