Anyone who walks the Three Bridges path will have seen the WMPG Memorial Bench in a peaceful beautiful setting overlooking the 3 Bridges Pond. You may have wondered about this bench and how it came to be.
The WMPG is Craig Bay’s Wednesday Morning Project Group – a group of Craig Bay men and women who work on numerous projects in Craig Bay on a volunteer basis, helping to keep our strata fees down.
The WMPG evolved from the Arbutus Grove Gardening Group which started up in the late 1990’s. The CLC adopted WMPG in its present form in February 2007. Working together, the members enjoy fellowship, exercise (aka WORK) and meeting others from across the community. They top off a busy morning over a cup of coffee and some sweet treats. Another list of volunteers (Craig Bay Ladies) generously provide goodies and coffee for a rest break at the end of a 2-hour Wednesday morning session….that’s when the kibitzing starts!!
Working side-by-side helps to build strong relationships, and when someone passes away, there is grief and a feeling of loss. In 2012 an idea was raised within WMPG of commemorating some of those that passed. A WMPG memorial bench had strong support and was endorsed by CLC.
The WMPG Memorial Bench was built by Randy Morris and Graeme Hardy and was placed on Manfred’s concrete pad, on the island next to the 3 Bridges path on Sept 26, 2012. On November 14, 2018, the WMPG gathered at the Bench to dedicate the latest three additions: John Schulz, Derek Oldham and Roley Rhodes. Bruce Laurie brought his kilt and bagpipes and ended the dedication gathering with the playing of Amazing Grace from across the pond. It was a moving experience.
WMPG has responsibility for maintaining the bench, using its volunteers and its funds. Our Memorial Bench Fund exists through donations from our members and the community. Should you wish to donate to the fund, you can leave an envelope with Allison in the Beach Club office, indicating WMPG memorial Bench Fund. You can also continue your “THANKS” when passing by a crew at work on Wednesday mornings – it is always appreciated.
~ WMPG
