Until recently, Niverville residents were barely aware of the existence of Opa’s Park. That all changed on October 10 when families, grandparents, park volunteers, and members of council converged on the space to celebrate its grand reopening.

Approximately 150 attendees showed up, bringing a spark of life the park hadn’t seen in decades, to witness the restoration firsthand and join in the festivities, including a hog roast, a bouncy castle, and a range of games and activities.

Opening the brief dedication ceremony was former Niverville resident Billie Fontaine and her mother Corinne, members of Sagkeeng First Nation. From the park’s newly installed sharing circle, surrounded by a native prairie garden, Fontaine offered up the Treaty 1 land recognition. 

Mayor Myron Dyck followed with some heartfelt thanks to Beth Downey, local volunteer and the project’s initiator, as well as the many other volunteers who worked alongside her throughout the last three years.

“We on council are but five people and we can get some things done with the time and effort that we have,” Dyck told those gathered. “But it is truly when volunteers and community champions participate in their community that not just good things get done, but great things get done.”

Opa’s Park underwent its original dedication ceremony decades earlier on this parcel of land donated by William and Anna Dyck. The couple were founders of Wm. Dyck & Sons, the local building supply store.

“Someone wanted to ensure that there was a place where people could meet, as we have today,” Dyck said. “I’m sure if [William and Anna] were here today, they’d be much more appreciative of it.”

For decades, Opa’s Park was well-used and loved by children and parents. But generational changes eventually left the park all but forgotten. Over time, the play structures deteriorated and the grounds became overgrown.

That’s when Downey stepped up with a renewed vision for the place. 

“People who are willing to hitch their wagon to a crazy scheme with you are so rare, and they are gold,” Downey told the crowd. She acknowledged the many people who came to plant, weed, build, landscape, and donate, whether financially or with in-kind support.

For Downey, though, a few notable people stand out, including Alexa Sawatzky and Emma Bergen, who invested much sweat equity and horticultural expertise.

Not to be overlooked, too, is town councillor Meghan Beasant.

“Meghan has been our faithful ride-or-die volunteer who has been here for everything every year, no matter what,” Downey said.

Opa’s Park is located adjacent to Roselawn Bay and Edelweiss Crescent. To the north of the park lies the Wm. Dyck & Sons lumberyard and the businesses of 10 Cedar Drive. Access to the park can be found along Roselawn Bay and the southernmost fence line of the 10 Cedar Drive parking lot.