Jeff Forsyth relaxes on his new commemorative bench during the dedication ceremonies.
By Kathy Rowe
Something very special took place along our Port Union Waterfront Trail on Saturday October 11. Jeff Forsyth, CCRA’s formidable past president, was presented with a commemorative park bench in his honour.
This was on Thanksgiving weekend, and how fitting was that! Thirty invited guests gave thanks to Jeff for his 40 plus years of volunteerism and dedication to the Centennial community.
The bench, which is the first bench on the north side of the trail just west of the underpass, was installed at CCRA’s request. It is the community association’s way of honouring such an extraordinary volunteer. Here is the inscription on the plaque: Jeff Forsyth. A dedicated leader who shaped the Centennial Community and brought this trail to life. Thank You, CCRA, 2025.
More than 75 years ago, CCRA’s founding president, Bill Dempsey, put forward his many plans for the community named Centennial. Bill’s most ambitious vision was to create a way that would allow residents to have access to the waterfront. This vision was supported over the years by politicians, engaged residents and CCRA leaders.
Jeff Forsyth, who held the role of CCRA president for 14 years between 1982 and 2015, was a key player in the creation of the waterfront trail. Over several years Jeff gave countless hours of his time to the Waterfront Trail Committee in order to bring an accessible trail to our community and beyond.
His efforts and the efforts of others involved with this enormous project cannot be overstated. Its beauty is witnessed and enjoyed daily by wildlife, walkers and bike riders from all over. Even out-of-area GO train riders have remarked on the picturesque beauty of the trail to their friends in Centennial.
The unveiling of Jeff’s well-deserved bench was a beautiful event. Warm-hearted speeches were given by past presidents MP Jennifer McKelvie and Gay Cowbourne as well as members of Jeff’s family.
Certificates of recognition signed by Mark Carney and Gary Anandasangaree were presented to Jeff by MP Jennifer McKelvie and Daniel Baskar (G. Anandasangaree’s representative). MPP Vijay Thanigasalam also spoke of Jeff’s important contributions to the community.
It was a cool breezy morning, but the clouds parted just in time for the speeches and presentations. As the event came to a close, all attendees were given a single long-stemmed rose and a celebration cupcake to take home.
Many thanks to CCRA event coordinator Karen Dias who took great care with all of the details for this memorable event. I also wish to thank Mike McCabe who photographed the celebration.
I encourage residents to visit Jeff’s new bench while walking along the trail. Please take the time to rest there, enjoy the peaceful view and read the plaque. As you do this, I hope you will quietly thank Jeff for his efforts, which made the Port Union Waterfront Trail the jewel of Centennial’s crown.
