Backpacker Buzz

Previously in Backpacker Buzz, we mentioned our new partnership with the The Robert Bateman's Get To Know Program.  The program is based on the philosophy that “caring begins with knowing our neighbours of other species” and every year, a contest is held to promote learning about plants and wildlife though writing, photgraphy or art.  Lisa Grey-Dreaper, Manager for HI-Penticton went to the awards.  This is the lo-down from the day.

The Get to Know awards event held June 11th at scenic Summerhill Pyramid Winery was an event I will not soon forget. Not only did I get to spend the afternoon chatting with the talented young winners of the Get to Know Contest, local environmentalists, a wide array of talented artists, and chat one-on-one with Robert Bateman; I was also able to sample all of the new varieties of Summerhill Organic Wines (featuring one-of-a-kind labels created by Robert Bateman) while taking in the breathtaking views from the deck of the winery.

Robert Bateman gave a fantastic talk to the group explaining the importance of turning off the electronics and getting outdoors to see all that surrounds us in nature. He encouraged everyone in attendance (over 600 people!) to take one hour each week to walk around their own yards and neighborhoods to explore the tiniest of creatures that inhabit the earth.

A few of the winners told the story of how they came across their ideas for their entries. My favourite entry was by eight year old Kaitlin.  She literally walked out her front door the same day she learned about the contest and saw a ladybug sitting on a dandelion, snapped a shot with her digital camera, and won!

I managed to interrupt a planned TV interview and land a few minutes of "chat time" with Robert Bateman.  He was very interested in the Hostel programs offered at each propertxy and encouraged me to get our guests involved in day trips and hikes with the local outdoors clubs.

I was also fortunate to meet Ron Hall, a First Nations environmentalist and artist from the Osoyoos Indian Band. Ron has been working in conjunction with the Government of Canada to preserve many of the rare plants and reptiles found only on the lands surrounding and owned by the Osoyoos Indian Band. Since then, I have had the opportunity to tour some of the protected areas to see much of the work that has been to maintain the natural beauty and ensure the safety of the endangered plants and wildlife.

The winning pieces can be viewed at www.gettoknow.ca

Images: 
Nature Friend 
Winners of the Art Category
Lisa and Robert Bateman