The smell of sizzling burgers and the sound of laughter filled the air as CUPE Local 726, in partnership with CUPE Saskatchewan, hosted a free community BBQ to shine a spotlight on the unsung heroes who keep Estevan running smoothly every day.
Rhonda Gillespie, a proud member of Local 726, shared the purpose behind the event, “We’re here to bring awareness to what Local 726 does for the community. We’re the municipal workers, the ones maintaining water and sewer systems, patching roads, keeping leisure facilities clean, and ensuring our parks and pools are safe and welcoming.”
The event wasn’t just about food, it was about faces. Workers from various departments, including leisure services custodians and lifeguards, came together to connect with the community they serve. Volunteers from Regina, including members of CUPE’s municipal employees steering committee, added their support, with President Sharon Schaffer and Secretary-Treasurer Tammy also in attendance.
“This is a thank-you to the community and a chance to show who we are,” Gillespie said. “Our members work hard behind the scenes, and while it’s often a thankless job, we appreciate everything they do to keep Estevan thriving.”
The BBQ served as a reminder that behind every clean park, repaired road, and safe swimming pool, there’s a dedicated team of workers making it happen. And today, Estevan had the chance to say thank you.