During the recent annual general meeting in Sechelt at Pebbles Restaurant, commander Jack Adams reported that safe boating courses were delivered to 52 Sunshine Coasters, and that co-operation with Gibsons Yacht Club produced six well-attended gatherings with guest speakers on boating environment, technology and sea-going experiences.
He noted that the combined membership of the two organizations totals more than 250 boating enthusiasts, and there is a mutually beneficial interest in boating education, safety and practical experience.
He also reported that this all-volunteer squadron now has 10 registered instructors and six registered examiners for Transport Canada authorized courses, as well as six officers who are certified to perform recreational vessel courtesy checks to ensure that operators have the required safety equipment on board and are not at risk of incurring a hefty fine if found deficient by policing patrols.
Officers were elected to serve through to April 2016, which will take this squadron into the 50th year since it was awarded its charter by Canadian Power Squadrons (CPS).
Notably, several officers are continuing their service, including Adams, who is now beginning his third year as commander. The swearing-in ceremony was conducted by Guy Cooper representing the Pacific Mainland Division of CPS.
Upcoming is National Safe Boating Week, starting on Saturday, May 16, when trailer boaters can receive their courtesy check in front of The Bitter End Boaters Exchange on Seamount in Gibsons, as well as at Gibsons Marina.
