Chris Hunsley
Northern News Services

Tuktoyaktuk (Aug 01/05) - Mother Nature can try her best but there'll be no ruining this summer's fun.

A new play structure, installed between Mangilaluk school and Kitti Hall, June 27-28, has brought a whole new world of games and joy to the community and not just for those 12 and under.

"Barely anybody used to use the old playground," said 12-year-old Chelsea Raddi, "but this one's so colourful and fun it's really busy, even the older kids use it."

The community decided to replace the former structure made of pressure treated wood because it was deemed unsafe.

"This is a good example of government and industry working together to help the kids in the community," said Paul Hussey, economic development officer.

Donations from the private sector and GNWT covered the jungle gym's $108,740 price tag.

More savings occurred when the School of Community Government used the opportunity to train recreation workers from across the territory how to install playground equipment.

They then volunteered their time, along with a half a dozen residents, and put the structure up for free, said Hussey.

Complete with brightly coloured walking bridges, three slides, a climbing wall and spinning wheels, for Effie Gruben, there's only one thing missing.

"Lots of kids say they want to have swings," she said.

The fifth grader said there's plenty of fun to be had for now and she will continue to explore the new toy almost daily.

"I really like the bridge and the slide and spinning wheels that twirl around. You get dizzy, it's cool."