Every spring, some 60 seasonal student employees start working at Presqu’ile Provincial Park. They might be doing maintenance, educational programs, working at the gate or the store. Park visitors are so fortunate to have these cheerful and enthusiastic young people helping to make each visit to Presqu’ile a success.

The Friends of Presqu’ile want to recognize the achievements of the students and to encourage their continuing education. Towards that end, we started a bursary program almost 10 years ago. There are two bursaries available, a $1,000 Student Bursary and a $3,000 J. Beverlie Cook Career Bursary.

Student Bursary Winner – Eve Hilwerda

The Student Bursary recipient can be nominated by a peer, a park visitor, or a supervisor for their excellent service to the park and its visitors. This year’s recipient, Eve Hilwerda, was nominated by her supervisor. Eve has spent five seasons working in the park taking on greater responsibilities over the years. This year, Eve is the Student Maintenance Leader, organizing and managing the grass cutting and trimming throughout the park. According to her supervisor, Eve is always going above and beyond to make sure park visitors can enjoy Presqu’ile’s natural beauty. Eve will be continuing her studies at Trent University this fall.

Career Bursary Winner – Ava Moskaluk

Ava is in her third year with the Discovery Program. This year, she has taken on the role of Parks Program Educator. Ava has been responsible for creating and delivering programs while also providing direction to the summer students. Among the new programs created were campfire programs, evening programs and a brand-new Guided Hike. Ava enjoys offering great customer service to park visitors, answering questions and sharing her knowledge about the park and its cultural history.

Ava is an honour student in her final year of the Fish and Wildlife Technician program at Fleming College; she will be transferring to Trent University upon her graduation to pursue a degree in Environmental Science. Her goal is to become a park naturalist. The $3,000 Career Bursary will help her continue to pursue those lofty goals.

PHOTO: 2025 Bursary Winners – from left - Ava Moskaluk and Eve Hilwerda