Every spring, some 60 seasonal employees start working at Presqu’ile Provincial Park. They might be doing maintenance, educational programs, working at the gate or the store. Park visitors are so fortunate to have these cheerful and enthusiastic young people helping to make each visit to Presqu’ile a success.

The Friends of Presqu’ile want to recognize the achievements of the students and to encourage their continuing education. Towards that end, we started a bursary program almost 10 years ago. There are two bursaries available, a $1,000 Student Bursary and a $3,000 Career Bursary.

Student Bursary – Ava Trefiak

The Student Bursary recipient is nominated by a peer, a park visitor, or a supervisor for their excellent service to the park and its visitors. This year's recipient is Ava Trefiak, who has worked in the Discovery Program for the past three years. Ava was nominated by a supervisor for her exceptional performance in the interpretation of nature at the Discovery Program. In addition to her entertaining evening program presentations, Ava developed a Medicinal Plant Hike using her background as a member of Alderville First Nation. She has worked to connect the park to the local First Nation communities using both her personal experience and her studies at the University of Guelph where she is studying Indigenous Science and Practice.

Heartiest congratulations, Ava. We wish you continued success in your studies.

Career Bursary – Jack Anstead

The Career Bursary, renamed in honour of former Board Chair and Life Member, Beverlie Cook, is awarded to a student who plans to pursue a career in the Parks system. This is a rigorous self-nomination that delves into the student's grades and work performance.

The 2024 Career Bursary was awarded to Jack Anstead. Jack began working at the park in 2023 as part of the Maintenance Team. In 2024, he successfully trained to become a Park Warden. He has shown remarkable maturity, leadership, a positive attitude and customer service skills in this often-challenging position, according to his supervisor. In addition, Jack is an excellent student. He is pursuing a concurrent Honours BA in History with a Bachelor of Education at Brock University. He hopes to one day be able to educate park visitors about the rich natural and cultural heritage of our province and its parks, while promoting the conservation of our parks so people can enjoy them for generations to come.

Well done, Jack! We hope you have another great year.