The Canadian Power and Sail Squadron is a volunteer organization dedicated to safe boating. Founded in Windsor, Ont. in 1938, this year the organization is celebrating 75 years of recreational boating education.
To mark the occasion, special anniversary flags are travelling across Canada. The flag arrived in Gibsons on Monday, Sept. 16, and was welcomed by Sunshine Coast officers and members at a reception at the Blackfish Pub.
Commodore Jack Adams addressed the gathering and said that the 76th year will soon be in action locally with a boating basics course on Saturday, Sept. 28, boating essentials on Oct. 1 and maritime radio on Nov. 28.
Adams introduced squadron training officer Al Tsuji who said that the courses are increasingly important for the safety of recreational boaters. Because of the progressive elimination of government services over recent years, boaters need to be more self-reliant and develop the knowledge and skills to cope with any situation that might arise on the water.
He said that the government issued PCOC is insufficient, and that boaters who plan to be active in Sunshine Coast waters need to have the boating essentials and Maritime radio courses.
Registration is available by contacting Al at 604-886-0450 or email [email protected].
On Tuesday the flag was carried onward through Sechelt and Madeira Park to the Earl's Cove ferry terminal where it was handed over to Vancouver Island North District Commander Peter Bolton to continue its journey to Powell River and Vancouver Island.
- Submitted
