A Different Kind of “Petting Zoo!”

Sunny South News Photo Courtesy of Dennis’ Dirtworx

By Nerissa McNaughton
For the News

On June 8 in the Coaldale Sportsplex from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., get up close to some mighty machines and learn more about the equipment that services the Town and builds our communities. It’s the second annual Big Truck Petting Zoo and there is fun to be had for the whole family.

Terry May, Director of Operational Services, Town of Coaldale, says, “There will be a free BBQ put on by Dennis’ Dirtworx, games put on by the Coaldale Library, balloons for the kids handed out by Town council, a vehicle extrication demonstration by the Coaldale & District Fire department at 1:00 pm, a chance for guests to get up close and in some of the equipment they see around Town, and an opportunity for residents and staff to mingle at this extremely fun event.”

He continues, noting why it’s important for the community to come out and enjoy the petting zoo, “It is an opportunity for the community to meet the people who work tirelessly each day to make Coaldale the great place that it is. The second annual event has expanded to include many other service providers and partners that enable the Town to operate. Also, it’s a fun event for families to come out, enjoy some good food, learn about and be able to climb in some of the big equipment that will be there.”

What kind of equipment? Well, that is an exciting list! May is happy to share what will be on site: 

• Public Works:  grader, loader, snow plow, garbage truck, dump truck, backhoe

• Utilities: hydro vac truck, flusher unit

• Recreation: Zamboni

• Parks: tool cat, skid steer and mower

• RCMP: quads

• Fire Department: Quint aerial truck

• EMS: ambulance

• Palliser: school bus

• Handi ride: Handi bus

• GFL Environmental: garbage trucks

• Dennis’ Dirtworx: dozer, excavator, rock truck, and cattle liner

• Ground Breakers Construction: asphalt paver

• Fortis: aerial bucket truck

• ATCO: excavator

• Canadian Military: this will be a surprise! 

Kaley Jensma, Human Resources/Payroll Administrator, Dennis’ Dirtworx, is also happy to welcome everyone to the big event.

“We are so excited to be joining the Town of Coaldale again for the second annual Big Truck Petting Zoo,” says Jensma. “This event is such a great way for our small community to come together and learn new and interesting facts while enjoying some yummy food. Make sure to stop by the tents to meet some of the Dennis’ Dirtworx crew while enjoying a free hamburger or hot dog.”

Mark your calendar for June 8 and come out to enjoy the event. It truly takes a village to make a town run smoothly; learn about the people and the equipment that make Coaldale such a great place to live.