Come for the fundraiser, stay for the carnage as Alair Homes and VMAC Solutions partner again to raise money for the Nanaimo Child Development Centre. (File Photo/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By Alex Rawnsley

gourds-away

Pumpkin cannons primed and ready to fire at explosive Nanaimo fundraiser

Nov 4, 2023 | 6:55 AM

NANAIMO — Pumpkins beware…your days are numbered.

Alair Homes, in partnership with VMAC Solutions and a host of sponsors are holding the 4th annual Great Pumpkin Toss at Meadow Creek Community Park, behind East Wellington Fire Hall, on Saturday, Nov. 4

The event runs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and sees two, giant compressor-powered cannons blast pumpkins to smithereens.

“We’re just going to try and hit the targets as far as we can this year,” organizer Kat Scott said. “We have gotten smaller pumpkins this year…so we’re hoping that with the smaller pumpkins that w’ell be able to launch them further this year.”

The Pumpkin Slay-Alair can send a pumpkin from 0 to 60 kilometres per hour in a split second. (File Photo/NanaimoNewsNOW)

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Pumpkins are launched from the Pumpkin Slay-Alair and VMAC’s Gourdon Blamsay into a neighbouring farmer’s field.

Specific pressures, firing capacities and construction of both cannons are a closely guarded secret, however Scott said both are built and maintained to the latest standards and specifications to ensure safety.

Most pumpkins travel around 350 to 400 feet in several pieces.

After the final pumpkins are punted down field, the farm’s animals come into the paddock for a feast, ensuring nothing goes to waste.

In addition to the cannons firing roughly every minute, a pumpkin toss, pumpkin bowling and bouncy castles will keep people entertained.

Pizza and hot dogs available on site as well will keep the crowd fed.

All money raised from the event goes to support the Nanaimo Child Development Centre.

“It’s important for Alair and VMAC to ensure all of the programs continue for all the children that are in need in the local community here in Nanaimo.”

Immediately following the event, work will begin on the annual Guy Fawkes bonfire which will take place at the same site into Saturday night.

Distance is the goal of the Gourdon Blamsay as it fires out leftover Halloween pumpkins. (File Photo/NanaimoNewsNOW)

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