Quesnel and area seniors can now sign up for Rotary’s annual Seniors’ Trek to Barkerville, slated for Wednesday, Sept. 2. Rotarian Ron Paull reports that signup sheets are available at the Quesnel Seniors’ Centre and the Golden Centre starting today, Aug. 12 on a first come, first served basis until all 110 seats on two charter busses are spoken for.
“We recently unearthed an old Observer clipping noting that our first Rotary Seniors’ Trek to Barkerville was held way back in 1964, so we figure this one will be our 51st annual,” Paull exclaimed.
Following an hour of fun and fellowship on the Cariboo Waggon Road, the entourage will be treated to lunch in Barkerville and seats at the famed Theatre Royal. After the show, everyone will have time to enjoy tea and sweets in Barkerville’s restaurants while poking about the shops and displays. Of course, the usual loaf of sourdough bread from Goldfields Bakery will be high on many a shopper’s list. The day will be capped off with the annual group photo in front of St. Savior’s Church. The buses are scheduled to arrive back in the Gold Pan City around 4:30 p.m.
Quesnel Rotary Club president Debbie Wiens is hoping to accompany the seniors on their outing.
“Our club has been hosting local seniors to Barkerville for more than 50 years and this continues as a wonderful way for us to recognize and honour the contributions our seniors have made to the betterment of our community.”
Paull says this annual outing for our local seniors is the most enjoyable and rewarding aspect of his Rotary service. He encourages seniors 65+ who wish to participate in the trip to sign up as soon as possible.
“Our club is committed to continuing this annual outing for our seniors. Our charity fund, with assistance from a Province of British Columbia gaming grant pays most of the bills for the outing, but the charter bus company, Barkerville Town, Barkerville restaurants and Theatre Royal all give us a break, which we truly appreciate,” Paull said.
He can be contacted at 250-992-8994, or any Rotarian can direct enquiries to organizing committee members.