On Saturday, eight teams participated in the third ever treasure hunt organised by the Groupe l’île-du-Grand-Calumet.
Upon arrival, teams were given a kit containing materials for all tasks and their first clue. The clues led participants to seven destinations throughout the island where they would have to complete tasks, find items or answer questions.
Event organiser Guylaine La Salle explained that the event is a mix of The Amazing Race, a treasure . . .
hunt and an escape room. The escape room element comes in with participants being awarded a joker card that allows them one free phone call if they are stuck.
“This is our first year doing it. We really enjoyed ourselves. And we were discussing if it was to happen again next year, we’re definitely participating,” said event participant Tammy Dumouchel from team “Clearview Crew”.
The event was sponsored by André Fortin and CHIP FM. Fortin’s office provided $500 in prize money. CHIP provided $200 and played along in the treasure hunt, having participants listen for a question live on the radio, and releasing the answer on-air an hour later.
The Groupe l’île-du-Grand-Calumet was founded in 2017. Its mission, according to La Salle, is to give love to heritage, tourist and cultural sites on Calumet Island.
The money raised from this event will go towards their “Honour Our Roots” initiative, where they will honour the nearly 2,000 people who were laid to rest in the Old Cemetery but no longer have grave-stones. The group is working towards a gazebo and a plaque commemorating Calumet Island residents that came before them and the group will continue to hold fundraisers throughout the year.
Eva Baldi
Calumet Island June 3, 2023
