BRENDA GOUGH
News Contributor
Neighbours and friends in Errington are getting together on Saturday to celebrate the community and raise funds for the Errington War Memorial Hall.
The 45th annual Hi Neighbour Day August 16 offers something for everyone in the family and proceeds raised at the event pay for the repair and maintenance of the Errington War Memorial Hall.
Built as a memorial to those who died in World War 1, the hall opened its doors in March 1922 and continues to be maintained by a group of dedicated volunteers. A full day of activities is planned August 16 with everything from a soap box derby for zucchinis to the world’s smallest parade.
It kicks off with a pancake breakfast prepared by members of the Errington Volunteer Fire Department flipping flap jacks and frying up sausages from 8 a.m. until 10 a.m. From 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. there is an arts and crafts display which showcases the fine work done by Erringtonites of all ages.
At 11 a.m. crowds will gather in the community park for the 6th annual Greater Errington Zucchini Race on the ball field next to the farmers market. The soap box derby for zucchinis with wheels is sure to be entertaining as zucchinis race down the ramp to glory or grief.
Bob Herbison, who is one of the organizers of the annual fundraiser, said there is a new and improved ramp for the event.
“It now has room for four racers at once instead of two, as well there is a jump.”
He added there will now be a finish line tape to determine the winner instead of the longest distance achieved. Prizes will be awarded for the first squash car to cross the finish line and the most creative design.
Entrants will compete in youth and adult divisions, fuelling their entries with creativity to take home the prize for fastest and best in show.
You must bring your zucchini to the field at 10:30 a.m. if you want to race.
A special Errington Farmers Market from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. will feature music, fresh produce, local crafts and great food.The Hi Neighbour Parade reputed to be the worlds shortest will start at 12:30 p.m. making its way from the old Elementary School site on Grafton, around the corner and down Errington Road to the hall.
Herbison said there is always an eclectic mix of participants that take part in the parade.
“It’s anything goes," agreed Herbison. "Often there are people driving tractors and people with pick-ups and straw bails and kids in the back, kids riding tricycles and people on stilts... you name it."
Follow the parade down to the hall, have some lunch, served up by the ladies from the Hall Association, then relax and enjoy the hi-jinx on stage as the Variety Show takes over at 1:30 p.m. The afternoon will also feature a goods and services live and silent auction with something for everyone from homemade wine, to firewood or manure for your garden.
During the many goings-on in the hall, children can head down to the pre-school for activities or participate in outdoor games and activities at the ball field with a crew from the Regional District of Nanaimo's Parks & Recreation department.
The day winds up at 9 p.m. with an all-ages Hi Neighbour dance featuring the roots flavoured rock band The Matinée and special guest A.J. Woodworth.
Tickets for the dance are $20 and must be purchased in advance at Cranky Dog Music in Parksville, The Errington General Store, and Heaven on Earth in Qualicum Beach.