Village resident creating behind-the-scenes comforts on the trails
Noticed anything new around the neighbourhood lately?
A pair of picnic tables have recently appeared at the tennis courts, as has a new bench at the Arbutus Lookout, and another on Trudi's trail.
These are all the work of a local resident, who enjoys putting the fruits of his favourite hobby in a place where his neighbours can enjoy them.
This quiet carpenter, who prefers to remain anonymous, is reponsible for a number of projects popping up around the village and local trails. His walking stick rack was first featured in an article earlier this year, addressing ways that visiting hikers are made to feel welcome.
Like many residents, he enjoys hiking the trails and taking in the views himself.
"A big reason I want to make these things is because we have so little out there. Everywhere I look I see a good spot to sit," he laughs.
"I build largely because I can. I see the need for something and if I can act on that, I find the work rewarding on its own."
He sees the 'stick library' as a bit of a social experiment. While he's keen to see the sticks being used and returned, he says he won't be surprised if the rack disappears.
Regardless of the outcome of his experiment, he plans to add more items in future if he can find the time. "Maybe picnic tables for the waterfall overlook soon?"
Much like the local Trailblazers, this quiet carpenter seems set on making the hiking experience around the village an enjoyable one.
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Beautifully made additions to the community. and I look forward to seeing more.
Above Magnesia Falls would be the perfect spot for a picnic table, however we installed one there several years ago, along with an interpretive sign and were made to remove it by MOT
We were told it was too dangerous a position, should a debris torrent fill the basin ! The picnic table was subsequently moved to the Centennial Trail section below the Pit.
P.S. several of us have wondered about the significance of the number 50 on the bench at Arbutus Point ?
I was so pleased to see the walking stick holder at the Sunset Drive trailhead! Before it appeared, walking sticks were frequently thrown down onto the garden areas that I help to tend. Very few sticks have ended up on the garden since the stick holder appeared. Thank you to the quiet carpenter for this thoughtful structure!
John Dundley and I have talked about the bench at the Arbutus Look Out.
One mystery has been solved now by the gentle carpenter.
I have yet to discover the new additions on our trail system.
In today's world it is a blessing to share community with like minded people.
Thank you for your contributions.
Trudi Luethy
Thank you for this story of a true citizen - a person who enhances the experiences of others without feeling a need to reveal his identity. Thank you for your wonderful contribution to our neighbourhood.
The wonderful efforts of this person provide a calming counterbalance to the craziness that frequently sweeps through the village!