Camping In Ontario Update Newsletter June 2019 September 2013 | Page 15

15 | september 2013 A Day in the Life of Sherkston Shores I am envious of all who get to experience the campground tours — I normally stay behind to ensure all is running smoothly with Convention so I miss out (insert sad face). That is one of the reasons I look forward to camp school every year; it provides me with both an opportunity to learn new methods of campground operation and to see and experience one of our fantastic parks. My camp experience took place during the August long weekend — John O’Brien wanted me to experience Sherkston Shores in all its glory! While I am Portuguese, you may find it hard to believe I have never been to Sherkston Shores which seems to attract a large population of flag-waving, soccer-playing, Portuguese families. I was also immediately struck by the vastness of the property and when you are on a golf cart, it may not seem as large as it really is — I didn’t have a golf cart. I didn’t start as early as most campgrounds start. At 9 AM, I was given an overview and was able to experience some transient camping check in which was quiet and fun. All fees had already been collected and all the packages were ready so I was a pro in no time with advising on quiet times and garbage drop off areas. After a tasty lunch in the restaurant, I was off to some security detail with John and Cherie down on the beach. Wow — a beach you can drive on is something I had never experienced and certainly provides its own benefits and challenges. Stopping once or twice to check volumes of music playing and ages of golf cart drivers, we proceeded to the next task as all seemed to be in check. Over the course of my two working days, I assisted with decorating for a pirate-themed owners’ event which is right up my alley! There is a lot of thought and effort that goes into these events and clearly the regulars enjoy them. I also experienced “cabin” check-ins which vary depending on whether the camper is renting from a seasonal owner or from Sherkston directly — I was impressed that the service was offered on behalf of the owners! It is amazing the patience required when dealing with fairly unreasonable demands (like wanting to be moved on a sold-out long weekend or reimbursed because wildlife was present) and that is why we offer lots of customer service training at Convention because even the most patient person will get a twitch when dealing with “demanding” customers. To round out my experience, I joined a crew on rounds to check on and repair rentals and worked (really, I just observed) at the front access gate (which is staffed 24-hours a day). I am pleased to report no tremendous “long weekend” emergencies which, of course, must have been due to my fantastic assistance (LOL). I rounded out the weekend by staying a few nights with my family. It is more educational to be able to experience both the operational side and the customer perspective of a campground. On a property the size of Sherkston, you can expect more challenges and benefits but with a staff as close-knit as theirs and with the great training programs, Sherkston has honed their craft, but continues to look at ways of improving. I would like to send a great big thank you to all the staff for all their guidance, patience and sense of humour. A special thanks to Cherie Moskalyk and John O’Brien for their countless hours, great lunches and dissemination of knowledge and experience. Submitted by Guida Williamson, Camping In Ontario  ■ Camping In Ontario staff often hear campers ask Where can I see photos of the campgrounds? Grab their attention as they flip through the directory and show off your park. Add-a-picture costs $205 + HST An eighth page ad starts at $490! Contact Alexandra Anderson to discuss your advertising options for the 2014 Camping In Ontario directory at 1-877-672-2226 or [email protected] Deadline for 2014 ad insertion and artwork is October 18, 2013.