Engines roar and smiles soar at Port Perry's Touch-a-Truck Event

DARRYL KNIGHT The Standard

SCUGOG: The Port Perry Fairgrounds were filled with excitement, on Friday, July 11th, as sirens wailed, horns blared, and laughter echoed through the air, during the annual Touch-a-Truck event, presented by Brass Inc. The free, family-friendly gathering drew hundreds of families, for an up-close look at an impressive array of trucks and heavy equipment.

The event supported Big Brothers Big Sisters of North Durham, with donations collected at the entrance, to help fund mentoring programs for local children and youth.

"We are so grateful to be part of this amazing community event," said Jackie Granger, Executive Director of Big Brothers Big Sisters of North Durham. "Every donation helps us match more young people with mentors, who can make a lasting impact in their lives. It's heartwarming to see so many families come together to support what we do."

Visitors explored fire engines, dump trucks, snow plows, tractors, police cruisers, and utility vehicles. For many children, the chance to climb into the driver's seat was a dream come true.

"I'm going to be a truck driver when I grow up!" shouted six-year-old Mason, proudly gripping the steering wheel of a front-end loader. Around him, dozens of other children clambered into vehicles, pushed buttons, and tried out sirens and horns, much to the delight of parents and organizers alike.

"It's the joy on their faces which makes it all worthwhile," said event organizer Iain Cooper. "Touch-a-Truck is about more than just big machines. It's about sparking imagination, inspiring young minds, and bringing people together."

Emergency service members and public works staff were also on hand, offering demonstrations, answering questions, and handing out stickers to enthusiastic young visitors. The informal setting allowed families to connect with the people behind the vehicles which keep the community safe and running year-round.

"Events like this create lasting memories," explained Mr. Cooper. "It's about kids discovering new dreams and parents getting the chance to engage with their community in a really unique way."

Ms. Granger echoed that sentiment, noting the importance of community involvement. "When we work together like this, everyone benefits. Families leave smiling, kids go home inspired, and our organization gains the support it needs to keep changing lives."

As the sun dipped below the horizon, the sounds of children laughing and horns honking continued to echo across the fairgrounds, a testament to the event's enduring appeal. "We're already thinking about how to make next year even bigger," Mr. Cooper added. "The community support has been incredible, and we can't wait to build on that."