Quyon Waterfront Revitalisation Project from Pontiac Journal

Life long volunteer gets community Revitalisation under way.

Kate Aley

Quyon – Rolly Bernier was never someone to ‘blow his own trumpet’, much preferring to play guitar on stage. But on February 12th 2011, Bernier was called up on stage to be honoured as a lifelong volunteer at a banquet held at the Quyon Lions Club hall.

“He just won’t, he can’t say no; it’s not in his vocabulary,” related Betty Kennedy, MC for the evening. “He’s someone we think represents the best of us.”

Quyon Lions Club president Glen Leach described Bernier’s 20 years of involvement from parades, parties, and playing Santa Claus. Charlene Graham of the Quyon Lionettes made Bernier an honorary member. Plaques were presented by Eddie McCann of the Municipality of Pontiac , MNA Charlotte L’Ecuyer and Gerry Phillippe for MP Laurence Cannon.

Bill Hamilton, owner of Mountainview Turf Farms and a long time volunteer himself, brought the room to another focus of the evening: a renewed call to government and community to show support for the exciting developments planned for the waterfront area of Quyon dubbed the Waterfront Revitalization Project. “Based on current costs, Phase One will cost 1.3 to 1.5 million. We as a group are committed to raising half the Municipalities share, and our funds now stand at $30 000 tonight.”

Improvements to the dock area will coincide with the new ferry project. A historic boardwalk with information signs, benches and lights will lead visitors to the entirely rebuilt Lions Club, which will serve as a function room and community centre as well. An enlarged and refurbished children’s playground by the new building will be named after Bernier.