Once again, Powell River residents came together and supported one another and its newcomers. Volunteerism remained a vital component of the city’s identity with locals giving freely of their time and money to many events, festivals and social causes.
Powell River region celebrated many anniversaries in 2017. Kicking things off, Tla’amin Nation observed one year of becoming a modern, self-governing nation within Canada on April 5.
After capturing the attention of Powell River residents for 59 days, Hɛhɛwšɩn (The Way Forward) Reconciliation Canoe Journey Project continued with a blessing of the finished canoe before it was carried into the water at Willingdon Beach. The first dip of the paddles into the ocean and presentation of the canoe to Tla’amin Nation in mid-November signified a continuation rather than a completion.
Powell River’s Fall Fair returned for its 85th anniversary and Powell River Italian Community Club celebrated 80 years. Village of Cranberry marked 75 years since incorporation, during which time the area has gone through many transitions, including its amalgamation with Powell River, Westview and Wildwood in 1955. Powell River Farmers' Market turned 30 and a party was held at the market to coincide with Canada Day on July 1.
In keeping with the theme of treasuring the town’s history, the 5,000 square foot dance floor in Townsite’s Dwight Hall was replaced with high-gloss, first-grade eastern maple, the same material and quality as the 1927 original floor, giving the grand old ballroom a new shine.
Living in Powell River's unmatched natural surroundings, it only makes sense that outdoor events are a big part of the community calendar.
The 24th annual Marathon Shuffle along Sunshine Coast Trail drew hundreds of hikers and runners from Powell River, Vancouver Island and the Lower Mainland at the end of April. The 29-kilometre event began at Malaspina Road and followed the trail to Powell Lake Marina.
BC Bike Race made a stop in Powell River once again, with more than 600 mountain bikers returning to compete in the world-famous event. Competitors including local riders Wendy Cocksedge, her brother Graham and their friend Nia Wegner, rolled through town July 7 and 8, rode through local forest trails and camped at Willingdon Beach during the two-day leg of the 10th annual edition of the race.
Thousands turned out in mid-July to take in Powell River Logger Sports, which enjoyed another successful showing at Willingdon Beach. The event made its return in 2016 after an 11-year absence. In 2017, it once again thrilled spectators who viewed chainsaw carving and championship competitions in multiple events. Lumberjacks from around BC, across Canada and the United States, and as far away as New Zealand entered the competition.
Rock climbing remained a popular activity within the region and the climbing community celebrated a decision to begin the protection of a notable site. Named after local climber Rob Higgins, Higgyland began to increase in popularity as a climbing area in the late 1980s.
The death of Campbell River-based documentary filmmaker Twyla Roscovich weighed heavy on the minds of many Powell River residents who knew her. Roscovich was known for her passion and integrity as an activist and film documentarian, and also through her grandmother Ruby, whose environmental efforts in Powell River have been well documented.
Powell River resident Geraldine Braak had a special year in 2017. The Order of Canada recipient’s story was one of 50 included in a book honouring some of Canada's most well-known citizens. Powell River Public Library renamed its audiobook collection in Braak's honour and unveiled a plaque commemorating her years of service as an advocate and voice for blind and disabled people locally and across Canada.
No community recap of the year would be complete without noting the new location of Powell River Public Library, which had its grand opening on July 22. The bright, central space at 100-6975 Alberni Street quickly became a hub of community activities and events, a meeting place for all ages and another fine example of community success in 2017.
