The Wolverine Nordic & Mountain Society, in partnership with the Tumbler Ridge Public Library, is excited to welcome back a popular event that has been on hiatus since 2019 before Covid cast its shadow: Itchy Feet, a travel series of adventure stories told by locals.
The first presentation saw 68 people attend, the topic “Tracking the world’s oldest art and other African adventures” by none other than Dr. Charles Helm, which was received with wild enthusiasm.
March 1 will see the next topic by new(ish) resident Jarbas Noronha, who has an incredible tale to share about his journey from Brazil to Alaska on his bicycle.
This program is certainly not new—you can check out the ceiling of the medical clinic if you’d like to see the evidence of its longevity and the global reach of topics that have been covered. According to Charles, it was started nearly 30 years ago by Paul Jurgens. And it’s longevity shows that Tumbler Ridge is home to very well-travelled and worldly people! From glamping in humid jungle forests to sailing adventures in arctic waters, from backpacking dozens of countries in Europe to luxury cruise ship relaxing, Itchy Feet has a travel story for just about anyone to get the inspiration to find a new change of scenery and a fresh perspective on our own little corner of Earth.
The program format is simple and engaging. A presenter with an experience to share spends about 45 minutes or so presenting a slideshow of their photos and recounting stories of their travel adventure, and then answers questions from the audience.
Even if you have never travelled, or have no interest in going to these places yourself, it’s an interesting way to gain new perspectives and find out what is going on in the world from someone who has actually been there and experienced it – the food, scenery, smells, challenges, frustrations, and plot twists – it’s much more informative than your average travel brochure, that’s for sure!
The series will continue through to April with more topics ranging from The Nass Valley and Graham Island to Romania, to kayaking the Nile river in Egypt.
After a break for summer fun, Itchy Feet is set to start up again when the weather turns cold, likely late next fall.
If you’re interested in presenting your own adventure, message contact@wnms.ca to propose a topic.
