As a couple hundred people took their seat on the newly installed Muskoka granite amphitheatre-style seating in Gull Lake Rotary Park, the inspiration for the project was honoured.
Dave Reid, chair of the Rotary Club of Gravenhurst, credited Norm Rippon with coming up with the idea for the “Rotary Rocks the Barge” project.
“If you knew norm, he was one of the most passionate people you ever met,” said Reid. “You know the phrase in for a penny in for a pound? He was in for 10 pounds.”
Rippon passed away in July 2023 at the age of 96.
“He will never be able to sit in the seats but, believe me, he’s watching out for us,” added Reid.
The seating fits close to 500 people and faces the barge that sits on Gull Lake.
The idea was pitched to Gravenhurst council in Feb. 2022 as a way to celebrate the Rotary Club of Gravenhurst’s 85th anniversary and added needed seating on the hill in the park that bares their name.
Powcon Inc. started work on the project earlier this year.
“It’s been a lot of work over the past few years, but it’s been a real passion project for us,” said Reid.
He added that over $430,000 was raised by the community for the project. Reid pointed out they will be installing a “recognition rock” later this year honouring everyone who donated $1,000 or more. He added Rippon’s name will be etched at the top, noting he donated $50,000 prior to his passing.
Gravenhurst’s Mayor Heidi Lorenz, along with all of the town’s councillors and many staff members, were on hand for the unveiling.
“It’s time to celebrate,” she said.
Lorenz echoed Reid saying how the competition of this project is yet another reminder of how lucky we are to call Gravenhurst home.
“This iconic spot is already the site of so many memories for people in Gravenhurst and now for generations this seating will become a part of new memories,” she continued.
The first event featuring the new seating will be this Sunday when Motown Mania takes to the stage as the first act of the 2024 Music on the Barge season.
