Ramara, Ont. / Oct. 23, 2026 – The Township of Ramara, in partnership with the Atherley Community Centre Board and local businesses, has completed the installation of a new armour stone wall along the beachfront at Atherley Community Park.

“This project is a great example of what can be accomplished when community volunteers, local businesses and the Township work together,” said Mayor Basil Clarke. “The Atherley Community Centre Board has shown tremendous dedication to improving this park, and we're grateful to everyone who contributed their time, materials and resources to help bring this project to life.”

The project was first proposed by the Atherley Community Centre Board as part of its ongoing efforts to improve Atherley Community Park. Originally planned for 2025, the work was delayed due to the impacts of the spring ice storm and changes in contractor availability.

At its Sept. 14, 2026, meeting, Ramara Township Council approved proceeding with the project and authorized up to $15,000 to support its completion. This included the use of Township staff time, equipment and materials required to prepare the site, install the armour stone and complete the necessary restoration work.

“The Board has been working toward this improvement for quite some time, and it's rewarding to finally see it come together,” said Steve Hinton, Chair of the Atherley Community Centre Board. “Atherley Community Park is a special place for our community, and we're proud to be part of making it even better. We appreciate the support of Council, Township staff and the local businesses who helped make this possible.”

The project was supported by contributions from local businesses, including donated armour stone and gravel required for the installation. These contributions, together with the Township's coordination, equipment and installation work, helped bring the project to completion.

“We're proud to contribute the armour stone for a project that will benefit the community for years to come,” said Steve Andrews, Quarry Superintendent, Bot Aggregates Limited. “It's important to us to give back to the communities where we live and work, and we're pleased to have played a role in improving this waterfront space.”

“Supporting local projects like this is something we're always happy to be part of,” said Ron Graham, Amrize Plant Manager. “By working together and contributing what we can, we can help make a positive difference in the places our community enjoys.”

In addition to enhancing the park's waterfront, it is anticipated the armour stone wall will help deter geese from accessing the beach. The stones have been strategically positioned to create the appearance of a continuous barrier when viewed from the water. While adult geese can cross the stones, the design is intended to make it more difficult for geese with young goslings to move from the water onto the beach, deterring them from locating at the area. The wall also incorporates gaps and offsets to maintain public access, accommodate accessibility needs and allow for ongoing park maintenance.

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Media Contact:
Melissa Gowanlock
Manager of Communications & Community Experience
705-484-5374 ext. 322
mgowanlock@ramara.ca