Groundbreaking Ceremony Celebrates the Beginning of Waase-yaa Park

Representatives from the Town of Saugeen Shores and Saugeen Ojibway Nation, including the Chippewas of Saugeen First Nation and the Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation, gathered on Tuesday, October 20 to celebrate the groundbreaking of Waase-yaa Park. Located on an archeological site west of the Summerside neighbourhood in Port Elgin, the park honours the history of the land while creating a space for reflection, learning, and connection. 

The ceremony started with a Pipe Ceremony and a Water Ceremony, followed by remarks from Chief Sonya Roote of Saugeen First Nation, Chief Veronica Smith of Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation, and Mayor Luke Charbonneau of the Town of Saugeen Shores. The event concluded with the official turning of the sod, marking the start of construction on the park. 

"Waase-yaa Park is the result of years of collaboration, learning, and relationship building," said Mayor Luke Charbonneau. "This park creates a lasting place where residents and visitors can learn about the history of this land, reflect on its significance, and continue building a future grounded in respect, understanding, and reconciliation. We are proud to work alongside Saugeen Ojibway Nation on a project that honours the past while creating opportunities for future generations." 

The park was designed in collaboration with Saugeen Ojibway Nation representatives and is intended to provide opportunities for learning about the history of the land, local Indigenous culture, and the enduring connection of Saugeen Ojibway Nation to the area. 

The name “Waase-yaa” means “it is bright” or “light, as in day,” reflecting the vision of the park as a place that encourages understanding, reflection, and a shared path forward. The park will include features that honour the story of the land, support educational programming, and create opportunities for ceremony, gathering, and quiet reflection. 

Waase-yaa Park is a Major Initiative in the Town of Saugeen Shores 2026 Business Plan (pg. 14) and one of several initiatives that demonstrate the ongoing relationship between the Town of Saugeen Shores and Saugeen Ojibway Nation communities. The project aligns with the Town’s commitment to truth and reconciliation and reflects years of collaboration, dialogue, and shared planning.