Provincial 4-H Camp Opens for Season

The provincial 4-H camp welcomes 4-H members for the summer on Sunday, July 3.

Two hundred and forty youth between the ages of 9 and 15 will spend part of their summer at Camp Rankin on Cape Breton Island.

"For 33 years Camp Rankin has provided a positive educational program and a memorable camping experience for 4-H youth from across the province," said Chris d'Entremont, Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries. "The camp offers 4-H members a broad spectrum of skill-building opportunities."

Robin MacIntosh is the camp director for 2005. She has a background in business and is a seasoned camper.

"I'm looking forward to a wonderful summer with the counsellors and 4-H members," she said. "I want to keep the program fresh so that the youth keep coming back year after year."

Ms. MacIntosh plans on maintaining 4-H camping traditions that are popular with the campers and will ensure they have a safe and fun-filled summer.

"I'm excited about working with Amy Lee Kouwenburg, the assistant director. I know we'll make a great team," said Ms. MacIntosh. "Amy is strongly rooted in 4-H traditions, while I bring my administrative experience to the camp."

Camp counsellors with several years of 4-H experience will lead youth through traditional activities and assist Ms. MacIntosh. Camp Rankin campers learn drama, art, nature, first aid, hiking, swimming, and canoeing. Participants often make lasting friendships while acquiring leadership and healthy-living skills.

Built in 1972 as a centennial project of the Richmond County 4-H leader's council, Camp Rankin is located on about 24 hectares (60 acres) of land at Cape George, near St. Peter's.