Batchelor Lake pancake breakfast a fun tribute
— photos by Heather Conn
About 40 hikers tromped out to Batchelor Lake (yes, it’s spelled that way, after a military surname) Sept. 20 to enjoy free pancakes, fresh blueberries picked by the cabin, and hot chocolate, thanks to the Tetrahedron Outdoors Club.
Convening at the second parking lot of Tetrahedron Provincial Park on B.C.’s Sunshine Coast, we divvied up the breakfast gear, from propane stove to canned evaporated milk and napkins, and carried it up in our respective packs, with Club member Victor Bonaguro overseeing the operation.
Within 40 minutes, we were at the cabin, able to admire the lake views and surrounding forest. In the park’s true volunteer tradition, people immediately pitched in to make pancakes, start a fire in the wood stove, collect and boil water, prepare outdoor seating areas, etc.
The event was one of three pancake breakfasts (tomorrow’s is at Edwards Lake), held to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the construction of the four cabins in what later became the park. Club members Victor and George Smith were two of the primary volunteers in 1987 who supervised the creation and placement of the cabins, trails, and firewood collection.
Some people present, who have lived on the Coast for 40 years, said it was their first time up to the cabin. We had a short spit of rain but only a few people crowded into the cabin for shelter.
Victor Bonaguro
Many thanks to George, Victor and others for such a fun event. The cabins and the park reflect what a committed group of volunteers can achieve. As cultural anthropologist Margaret Mead said: “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”
Tet Club members Sue Sleep and George Smith