Laughter, dancing and community spirit filled the Carman Active Living Centre on Saturday night as 118 guests came together for an evening of fun in support of local conservation efforts.
The Boyne River Keepers’ “An Elegant Ladies’ Evening,” held April 25, raised funds for the group’s Birds of the Boyne Project.
The semi-formal event featured wine and appetizers, with catering provided by Tracy Bernard, along with live music and an interactive belly dancing performance by Winnipeg-based dancer Kevla, which had guests on their feet, sharing laughs and joining in throughout the evening. Music was provided by Nathan Strange of Carman.
Members of the Carman-Dufferin Fire Department volunteered their time to serve appetizers, while Royal Bank staff assisted by selling tickets at the door.
Organizers also hosted a silent auction and raffle, with guests contributing through bids and ticket purchases toward conservation initiatives focused on protecting bird habitats along the Boyne River.
During the program, Boyne River Keepers member Steve Doell spoke about the inspiration behind the Birds of the Boyne Project, which stems from a 1995 ecological report documenting the area’s biodiversity.
“In one observation session, they recorded 127 plant species, 13 mammal species and more than 90 species of birds along the Boyne River,” Doell said. “There is an abundance of nature stories to tell along this trail, and that’s really what inspired us to share those stories with the community.”
Doell said the group is working to install interpretive signage at Ryall Park this summer, highlighting local bird species, along with a mobile-friendly website that will allow visitors to access information through QR codes placed along the river pathway.
“It’s about helping people build a renewed connection with the land and discover the incredible diversity we have right here in Carman,” he said.
The project will feature locally created content, including writing, photography and artwork, and is expected to grow over time into a broader digital field guide highlighting the natural diversity found along the Boyne River.
The Boyne River Keepers group works to preserve and enhance the local watershed through environmental stewardship, education and wildlife protection. Initiatives like Birds of the Boyne aim to connect residents and visitors alike with the environment through both education and interactive experiences.
Saturday’s turnout reflected strong community support for those efforts, with guests enjoying a lively night out while contributing to a cause closely tied to the region’s natural environment.
As the evening wrapped up, organizers shared that the fundraiser would mark the final ladies’ night hosted by the Boyne River Keepers, with the event set to continue under new leadership.
The group announced they are passing the torch to the Carman Wellness Centre, where future events will be coordinated by Lisa Lehmann. Organizers thanked attendees for their support over the past several years, noting how much they had enjoyed bringing the community together, and expressed confidence the tradition would carry on.
They also acknowledged the continued support of volunteers, including the Carman-Dufferin Fire Department and Royal Bank staff, who helped make the evening possible.
Funds raised from the event will go directly toward ongoing work within the Birds of the Boyne Project.
