Service Award Recipient 1986
Gordon McBean has been a member of the outdoor program committee for at least six years starting in 1979. He chaired the committee for years, 1982-1984. He has been an excellent trip leader with an innovative approach, particularly with the “family” type of outings – cycling, skiing, “Breakfast in the Park” on Mother’s Day for three years, camping, hiking, and major trips to Riding Mountain, the Gunflint ski trips, etc. Gordon plans his trips well, providing an educational experience along with the recreational outing. His wife, Janice, is very supportive, with their children forming the ideal family group on a trip.
Gordon has organized a number of excellent workshops for the Manitoba Naturalists Society. His organizing ability again shows – the workshops are well-presented with suitable exhibits of equipment, and the backup of well-informed speakers, films, slides, etc. This has resulted in better trained leaders of the MNS and the community generally.
In the last two or three years he has been very active in the Manitoba Nordic Ski scene. He has become a ski patroller, and has taken and instructed tour-leading workshops. In addition, he has taught courses in winter camping in a local night school program.
With all his many interests and commitments, Gordon has also found time to be a contributor for the MNS Bulletin, and to stand willing to assist as required in the A.V. area, the Annual General Meeting, etc.