By Michael Riley, Local Journalism Initiative reporter

The Fishing for Friends fishing derby is coming to Wollaston Township on Sept. 5 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., pairing youth aged
12 years and under with seniors aged 55 years and over. There is no entry fee. There are prizes for the largest Smallmouth Bass
($150), the Largest Largemouth Bass ($150) and the largest Pike ($200). Pre-registration on or before Sept. 4 at 4 p.m. at
Charlie's Task and Tackle, and a filet table is available at check-in from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. It's part of the Coe Hill Vim and
Valour seniors' program, affiliated with the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 581, in Coe Hill. For more information, call or text
organizer Fred Kursikowski at 226-751-4518. Kursikowski, the owner and operator of Charlie's Task and Tackle in Coe Hill,
and Wollaston CAO Jennifer Trumble, comment to The Bancroft Times on this inaugural fishing event.
Kursikowski told The Bancroft Times on Aug. 20 that this is the first year for the derby and it's part of a seniors' program
headed up between Wollaston and the Coe Hill Legion.
“I believe it is a grant funded program dedicated to the seniors in our communities. I am the owner of Charlie's Task and
Tackle, a tackle shop/minimal hardware supply located in Coe Hill and as such was approached by the township to assist in
coordinating the Sept. 5 event. There have been several inquiries thus far. It is too early to tell what the total registration might
be, seeing as this is weather dependent, and a first-time event of this nature. I may have a better feel for the interest after this
weekend,” he says.
Trumble told The Bancroft Times that Wollaston was pleased to be the recipient of the Province of Ontario's Seniors'
Community Grant, and through the township's Vim and Valour initiative, the funding supports opportunities for seniors to stay
active, build social connections, and remain engaged in the community.
“One of the highlights of the program is an Intergenerational Fishing Derby, which brings senior anglers and local youth
together for a day on Wollaston Lake. The event provides a wonderful opportunity for different generations to connect, share
knowledge and experiences, and enjoy the natural beauty of Wollaston Lake and the Coe Hill community. The township
gratefully acknowledges Mr. Kursikowski, a local business owner and Legion member, for his generous support in helping
facilitate the Fishing Derby and providing fish-filleting tables for participants. We would also like to thank Red Eagle
Campground for helping promote the event and for providing space for the filleting tables. Community partnerships such as
these play an important role in making local initiatives successful and accessible. The Fishing Derby is one of several activities
being offered through the Vim and Valour program. Current programming includes Tea and Trims, where seniors can enjoy a
complimentary haircut along with refreshments, conversation, and an opportunity to socialize in a welcoming environment.
Additional activities are also planned, including the Hot Dawgs and Hounds Registration Reception during the hunt. This
program allows Seniors to register their furry friends in case they go missing during this busy period in our area. Together,
these initiatives are designed to create meaningful opportunities for seniors to connect with one another, participate in
community life, and build relationships across generations,” she says. “The Township of Wollaston is grateful to the Province
of Ontario for its support through the Seniors Community Grant and to the local residents, businesses, organizations, and
volunteers whose contributions help bring these programs to life.”