Gilmour Reserve a forgotten gem
Destination Gilmour encouraging locals to use the park
Community advocates are throwing out a challenge to Waihi residents to spend more time at the park. Rae Waterhouse is among those who have formed a new group to facilitate more events at Gilmour Reserve, which they say is underutilised by locals.
With a serene lake where waterfowl glide and preen, sculptures by local artists, landscaped grounds, a playground, an historic memorial for early miners, walks, blossoming cherry trees and a stage for outdoor entertainment, Gilmour Reserve should be busy, says Rae of Destination Gilmour.
“Destination Gilmour want to firmly entrench in the local psyche for people to come and enjoy the lake,” says Rae.
“Instead of having to leave town, we want to give something back to our local people with free events in a torrid year for everybody.
“I reckon it’s a tragedy that we have this glorious venue that doesn’t get used a lot and folks need to take ownership of it.
“It’s a jewel.”
On the day the HaurakiCoromandel Post visited to take a walk with Rae, a group of senior trampers arrived to enjoy lunch at the lakeside after walking the Pit Rim Walkway, and had travelled all the way from Pukekohe.
“It’s the second time we’ve been
here,” said Annette Teague. “It’s a lovely spot.”
Frances Gibbon commented on the crescent shaped wooden chair where the dozen members of the
group were able to all sit and eat their packed lunches.
“It’s very sociable, I love this chair,” she said.
Sadly, there was evidence of
vandalism at the reserve. The Destination Gilmour group is reporting it to the Hauraki District Council.
The group is working with local
Hauraki
musicians to plan events that bring the community together during summer.
Already planned is a Miners Picnic on November 8, a Nostalgia Picnic on February 14 with Groove DJS, and a Teddy Bears and Dolls tentatively planned for March 14 at which the group hopes to have Steampunk groups from Thames and elsewhere.
“We would love to hear from other local musicians/performers who might like to join in the fun and showcase their talent,” says Rae.