It was a big night at Ponoka Fish and Game Club’s awards banquet and wildlife dinner on Feb. 2 at the Kinsmen Community Centre. The tables were full of hunters and their friends as they filled their stomachs with bison, venison, pheasant, fish, moose, mule deer, elk as well as pork and beef.
“It was a good hunting season this year so there was a full variety of meat,” said treasurer and public relations officer Robert Greene.
For the whole evening guests had a chance to participate in a silent auction. A row of tables stretching across the hall showcased items from camouflage hats and tents to gift baskets and a wine kit. There was also a draw to win a coveted custom made knife donated and made by Harold Dootson of Ponoka.
After dinner, 18 awards were handed out to hunters with the best game.
It was Ray Abt’s, a member of the Fish and Game Club, first time receiving an award and by the end of the night had three awards under his belt for his walleye, whitefish and typical mule deer.
“I’m happy with the awards,” he said. “It’s some recognition from the club and I like that.”
Greene enjoyed seeing the plaques being handed out to the winners and believes the awards are an encouragement to hunters.
“It’s an opportunity for those that hunt to see who receives the awards,” he said. “They’re interested to see whose game won.”
The Moon Dogs continued to entertain the guests throughout the night by displaying their talent through their upbeat music.
The banquet is for presenting the awards but Greene finds the event also serves to boost the club itself.
“It gives everyone an idea of what we do and is a good promotion for the club,” he said. “It’s surprising how many members join because of events like this.”
Greene was pleased with the banquet and observed that everyone had a good time.
“We really thank everyone for coming and participating,” he said. “There were a lot of compliments on the food, awards and entertainment. Overall it went really well, we had a good crowd and a lot of people enjoyed themselves.”