UPDATED: Due to inclement weather warnings, the location of the Recreation Showcase has changed to the L25 building.

Original: 

If free food and a bouncy castle don’t call your name, then one of the many clubs and activities may be offering a shout out at the Recreational Showcase today (Thursday, Aug. 24).

The event, hosted by the Sports and Recreational Centre is in partnership with the FMRC, which is providing “Dinner on Us.” Sports and Recreation Coordinator Andy Depner said more than 300 people attended the free family event last year.

More than a dozen groups and activities are included in the open registration from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. behind the General Strange Hall (GHS) near the tennis courts.
Point your arrow toward joining the Archery Club, which is also aiming for volunteers. Sharpen your skills at woodworking and tune up your engine to shoot and hit your target of work-life balance. There are many sports and recreational programs run on base for both adults and youth.

“If there is a club or program that you don’t want to be involved with, that’s fine. But, if there is a club or program that you’re not involved in because you didn’t know about it, then that’s on us.”

Depner said the Recreational Showcase is a fun event to ensure everyone in the Shilo defence community knows the options for recreation.

“We’re showcasing the recreational options available to any military member, family member, and anyone from the community to show what they can get involved in.”
The recreational department always welcomes suggestions for new clubs or activities, which can be dropped off in the suggestion box in the GSH lobby.
A plethora of activities will be on display, including a trail club for hikers and backpackers, a wood hobby club, a gun club, an auto club for car enthusiasts, an archery club, minor hockey, scouts, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, karate and cadets.

“We are hoping to roll out a new speed skating program this year. It’s still in the planning stage for October,” the sport and recreational coordinator said. “The hope is also that we will be able to run a learn to skate program [for both adults and youth].

Various Club members will be available at the event to chat with and answer questions. Registration fees for each activity differ depending on the club.
“I would love for people to know more about the Archery Club. Right now, they meet twice a week,” he said, adding that they use an indoor location for club activities and run the program all year. The Archery Club will have displays and live-action to try out at the event.

Depner pointed out the Trail Club is stepping forward into action after a pandemic hibernation.

“They do some really cool stuff, like mountain adventure hikes and bikes. They do some overnights and one-day hikes,” he said, mentioning the club even went to the West Coast Trail in B.C. for a trip and to the desert in Carberry.

The Auto Club and Wood Hobby Club are probably the oldest on the base, he said, with Scouts Canada celebrating the 75 anniversary this year.
“The Auto Club has three or four bays. They have a paint booth and a sanding booth. So you can go there and use their facilities and tools. They offer drop-in as well as membership.”

“The MRC is going to be [at the Showcase] with all the programs they offer,” Depner said. “And dinner is on us.”
Barbecued hot dogs and beverages will be supplied.

“We are looking to show Shilo the opportunities available, grab a free meal and have some fun.”