A Model Hafnfirðingur

A new viewpoint at the top of Helgafell was formally inaugurated yesterday in the presence of a large crowd. Credit for the project goes to the Rotary Club of Hafnarfjörður in collaboration with Rio Tinto Alcan, the engineering firm Mannvit, and other good partners. The Mayor of Hafnarfjörður, Rósa Guðbjartsdóttir, was present at the inauguration and took the opportunity to present Rúnar Pálsson with an award for his contribution to Helgafell.

^{New viewpoint at Helgafell officially inaugurated}

Rúnar Pálsson received the new title and award „Hafnarfjörður's Role Model“ at the top of Helgafell. Rúnar goes up the mountain almost daily, whether on foot, by bike or running. For 22 years, he has looked after the guest book on Helgafell and now has a considerable collection of them in his garage. It is estimated that Rúnar now has around 150 books, containing all sorts of lovely messages from visitors and passers-by from all over the world. The idea for a guestbook in the area and the project as a whole was originally his, and the project has followed him all these years. During the summer, Rúnar takes one or more guestbooks up the mountain, as they are quickly filled when there is a lot of traffic. The books fill up slowly over the winter, but traffic on the mountain has still become incredibly busy all year round, as the 'gymnasium' Helgafell suits people of all ages, shapes, sizes and nationalities.

^{Rúnar Pálsson writes here in „his own guestbook“ at the top of Helgafell.}  

Thank you for your selfless contribution to the community.

With this award to Rúnar, the health town of Hafnarfjörður wishes to express its sincere thanks for his selfless contribution, which is a great example to others. An individual initiative that benefits the entire community. Simply setting up a storage space for the guestbook and installing the first copy is not a given, but to follow through with one's project and its implementation for 22 years is both inspiring and commendable. With this contribution and encouragement, the Municipality of Hafnarfjörður wishes to lend its support to the project. „On this beautiful day and on this wonderful occasion, we would like to thank Rúnar for his selfless contribution to the community. At the same time, we would also like to thank the Rotary Club of Hafnarfjörður and everyone involved in the installation of this magnificent information board for their contribution and initiative. It is the individuals, clubs and businesses that make a town unique. We in Hafnarfjörður are blessed with people who care about their community and the environment, and for that, we are extremely grateful.“ said Rósa Guðbjartsdóttir after the consecration on the top of Helgafell yesterday.  

^{A new viewpoint and guestbook at Helgavöllur, with the beautiful Fjord in the background.}

More pictures can be found on Hafnarfjörður's Facebook page