Parksville Lions Club members were in Community Park Thursday as part of the city’s public works open house to promote the next extension of their Ventureland Playground.
The club purchases and operates the playground equipment, which they donate to the city once installed and they are now fundraising for nine pieces of GreenGym outdoor exercise equipment.
Lion Duane Round said the nine pieces include 14 fitness stations and provide 56 different exercises and though it is a “senior’s fitness” package, it will be suitable for all ages.
The total cost is estimated at $66,000 of which the Lions are donating or have secured $24,000 and they are looking for other contributions and partners for the rest.
The pieces are similar to indoor gym equipment but more robust, weatherproof and colourful. They use body weight for resistance, keeping it simple and more like a playground than an intimidating gym.
They will be installed on the beach side of the water park where parents can work out and still watch their children.
The equipment will be scattered among the trees which will not be disturbed, or can be moved without damage.