cALEB NICKERSON
MUNICIPALITY OF PONTIAC
Oct. 12-14, 2019
Over the long weekend, Luskville Falls Park was packed with . . .
visitors and locals alike, as the annual Pontiac Country Fair got underway.
Municipality of Pontiac Mayor Joanne Labadie was stationed at the municipal booth and greeted visitors with fresh apples to snack on. She said that the event is a collaboration with the municipality and the National Capital Commission, who manage Gatineau Park, and by extension, the Luskville Falls Park.
Every year they celebrate the fall rhapsody, the fall colours, and they do that in many areas throughout the national capital region, for the past, I believe it’s five years,” she said. “They’ve been using Luskville Falls as a portal to the park to celebrate the fall colours.”
She said that while the NCC handles the tents and site, the municipality manages the fair, including all the vendors and entertainment. She said the event always draws a large crowd and is an excellent way to showcase the region to those from the city.
“Every year, weather depending, it brings upwards of 7,000 people to the municipality of Pontiac, so it’s a really good draw and our businesses really get to showcase what they’re doing,” she said.
Over by the old farm property, the Pontiac Equestrian Association was holding a skills competition. Riders of all ages had to traverse an obstacle course, demonstrating their horsesmanship and bond with the animal.
The group’s secretary, Carole Savard, was timekeeper and said that their turnout of 12 riders was less than they usually had. The cold, damp weather likely didn’t have a positive impact on attendance, but those that participated were enthusiastic nonetheless.
She explained that the riders need to guide their mounts with as subtle instructions as possible, which becomes easier the longer horse and rider have been together.
The group’s next event will be a Halloween poker run on Oct. 26.
