in Chatsworth, Grey Highlands, Southgate, West Grey
May 13, 2025
BY SOUTHGREY.CA STAFF — Volunteers in Eugenia braved black flies and mosquitos to come together on the night of May 12 to repair the broken bleachers at the Community Park and discuss ways to make further improvements. Grey Highlands Deputy Mayor Dane Nielsen and Councillor Joel Loughead joined the crew and gave some insights into navigating municipal procedures for park rejuvenation.
Broken boards and brittle wood had made the aging benches unusable and dangerous to sit or climb on. New boards supplied by the municipality and the resourceful efforts of residents gave new life to the old structures. It was a sign that summer would soon arrive and the park would be bustling with kids and families, eager to use the ball diamond, reborn bleachers, grassy spaces and formidable playground equipment. Folks will also continue to enjoy the shelter of the new post-and-beam pavilion, erected in 2023.
"There's been a recent groundswell of community engagement, thanks to new residents and their ideas, but also a restored pride-of-place, thanks in part to recent upgrades," said Ron Barnett, Eugenia District Community Improvement Association (EDCIA) Chairperson. "We want to make this park work better for the community."
A new group of residents has undertaken the task of revitalizing the park, meeting periodically through the winter to bring new ideas forward and spark engagement in the process. Although in its early stages, the group plans more park improvements for the foreseeable future.
On Saturday, June 28, the Eugenia Gold Rush festival will entertain the community starting with a pancake breakfast and yard sale at the Highland United Church. Kids games and amusements, including an inflatable obstacle course, bouncy castle, trackless train and panning for gold will begin at 11 am in the Community Park. Live music, horseshoe tournament, silent auction and beer tent will take over the park in the afternoon. The Burger Guru and The Flying Chestnut will be providing food. Tyler Hanley, Blue Sky and Bored of Education will provide entertainment.
Proceeds from this annual event will go towards park improvements. The EDCIA is currently raising money to fund a drilled well and upgraded electrical service for the pavilion. "A clean filtered water supply to the park will enable many other future projects and improvements that our community has envisioned for the park, including possible community gardens, dog park, and washing facilities for public and/or private events," said Barnett.
Photos: Rudy Hartman
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