🌱A grassroots transformation: turning plans into community action

At Whistler Sailing, our club is constantly evolving - not just with the rhythm of the seasons and our sailing programs, but through the energy and effort of everyone who pitches in to shape it. One of our latest transformations is a perfect example of that spirit: the creation of a brand-new grassy area at the north end of the site.

From deck plans to a greener vision

Originally, this area was intended to become a deck - a structured space to host an outdoor classroom to expand our usable site footprint. But as the team reviewed the layout, a new idea took hold. With plenty of open sky and sun exposure, why not turn this into a green space?

It takes a village (and a shovel)

Once the vision shifted, so did the workload. This wasn’t just a landscaping project - it was a full-on community effort. We kicked things off with support from two local high school classes, each with 25 students. Over two sessions lasting two hours each, these 50 students contributed a combined 100 hours of labour moving soil, levelling the ground, and preparing the site for sod. With wheelbarrows, rakes, and plenty of teamwork, they transformed a rough patch of land into a level canvas ready to grow.

Then came the delivery of fresh sod - even that was an adventure. Due to access challenges on our site, the rolls of grass had to be barged across Alta Lake, adding a layer of logistical fun to the project. Once they arrived, volunteers, staff, and sailors jumped in to unroll, align, and set the grass in place. It was a big task, but made joyful by the energy and enthusiasm of everyone involved.

Thank you team!

We can’t thank our helpers enough. Whether you moved a roll of sod, steered a wheelbarrow, levelled the soil, or simply stopped by to lend encouragement - you made this happen. These projects remind us that Whistler Sailing isn’t just about the wind in our sails, but the people who show up to lift together.

Phase 2 – let’s keep going!

Now that the grass is in and the area is looking fantastic, we’re excited to begin Phase 2:

• Finishing the dock boards

• Stencilling the names of our supporters onto the new space

These finishing touches will not only wrap up the project but help us celebrate the people and partners who keep our programs strong.

Interested in helping out? We’d love to have you join the crew. Whether you can swing a hammer, hold a stencil, or lend a hand in any other way, reach out - every bit helps us grow, quite literally. Contact us to get involved, and come down to the club to see the new green space for yourself. It’s a great reminder of what we can accomplish together. Whistler Sailing – Powered by wind, community, and a whole lot of heart.