History of the Parksville Lions Clubs Ventureland and Water Spray Park
The Ventureland playground was acquired by the Parksville Lions Club from the City ofParksville in 1985 in a state of poor condition. At that time with the City expanding therewas insufficient staff time to adequately maintain the Community Playground. The original playground consisted of 10 rides that were in serious need of
repair. Today the playground totals over 80 different features consisting of rides, slides, bridges, climbers, handicap wheel chair area, diggers, trucks, airplanes, teeter totters, swings, cable ride, kids merry-go-round, a new slide tower and even benches for Mom and Dad. Fund raisers by the Lions through bingos, local business contributions ,provincial government and City grants helped secure funds to build and remodel this popular playground. A direct access grant through BC Lotteries of $32,000.00 helped offset the cost of the new slide towers, glide riders, climbers and a tire swing. In 1991 the Water Spray Park was added, this again was designed and built by members of the Lions Club. There are 13 water jets that come alive at different intervals; kids enjoy waiting for their favorite one to come on. In the later part of May and June the playground and water park is a must stop destination for school bus tours. Buses have been recorded visiting Ventureland from as far away as Kelowna, Summerland, Penticton and lower mainland as well as communities from Campbell River to Victoria. Up to 21 -70 passenger buses have been recorded here in a single day
In 2004 the Parksville Lions with the City of Parksville and local businesses raised $65,000 for a large addition to the park that continues to be enjoyed by many children. In 2009 and 2010 the slides were repaired and a jungle gym attached through funds from the lions and BC Gaming grants
Playground maintenance is carried out by the members of the Lions Club, in cooperation with city staff. Each spring hundreds of volunteer hours are contributed by Club members repairing, painting and pressure washing to ensure the Park is safe and attractive for another season. If you were to construct this Playground today the value would exceed over $435,000.00. Last year an estimated 50,000 children and adults enjoyed the use of these facilities. The playground is featured in Information brochures and websites promoting this area's tourism and is considered one of the top family attractions in the mid-island. If you plan to bring your children or grandchildren, Beware, you may have a hard time getting them to leave.
