THE RECORD

June 12, 1996

BACK TO THE EGG

Suzanne Trevis

The Gold River Kinsmen obtained their charter in March of 1967. Less than six months later they began a tradition that, while undergoing some changes, has been the largest annual community event in Gold River for the past 29 years. Gold River Days.

The first Gold River Days took place August 24 thru 26, 1967, in celebration of the towns second birthday. All things considered, it was one heck of a bash. Dignitaries in attendance included MP Tom Barnett and wife, and MLA Dr. McDiarmid.

Activities that first year included a fishing derby. Organized by Kin John Healy it lasted from Friday morning 'til Sunday afternoon and attracted more than 50 entries. Mr. Marshall Bell, a resident of the area since 1954, won the trophy with a 42.4 lb. salmon. Second Place went to Mr. Stan Smart with a 40 lb. fish.

They also managed a parade and while small, it represented nearly all local activities, businesses and, of course, children. The local RCMP Officer led the march, followed by guides and brownies. Children in costumes with gaily decorated bikes, baby carriages and wagons were followed by the Kin Float, the Home Oil treasure/candy pickup, the Tahsis Logging Division Float, the Gold River Beauty Salon and Gold River Taxi.

The Gold River Inn (Chalet) entered a convertible complete with Miss Jaycee of Campbell River, Camy Naphan. Not to be outdone the Fire Department had their own "Miss" Firefighter and a representation of the Gold River Hospital, a doll house on wheels!

The Kinsmen also sponsored West Coast Shows, the same company that comes through today, to bring in more than 10 rides, games of chance and refreshment stands. A big hit with the children.

Kin Jerry Jack and his father, Ben, served up succulent plates of baked salmon, cooked the old way over two large pits. Everyone agreed the meal was spectacular and disappeared much too soon.

One unadvertised event caused quite a stir when skydivers, Dick Hahn and Ron Dionne thrilled spectators with a "jump" into town.

And to round off the night, the dance, with Al Dickson and his band from Courtenay. The dance was held in the elementary school gym, as the community centre at that time was rather small and the high school was still a few months away from completion.

It was a roaring success. This small community, only two years old, was full of spirit and camaraderie. The following year the celebration grew to include community tug-of-wars, native dancers, and a pancake breakfast. The skydivers became a "planned" event. Floats that year garnered more individual entries including a giant shoe, constructed by one family with six children and friends, to represent "The Old Lady Who Lived In A Shoe". There was also a fireworks display.

In later years things changed some. Activities moved from the centre of town, when they built Larch Place, to the Arena, till they built the pool, to their present location at Heber Field. Less involvement from the community saw the loss of the parade. The fishing derby and carnival became separate events and the celebration eventually combined with Logger Sports and the date moved from August to June to better accommodate residents vacationing during the hot months of summer.

There were some rough times but through it all the Kinsmen have managed to put together some kind of celebration, every year. The weekend of Logger Sports, now known again as Gold River Days, has become an opportunity for ex Gold Riverites to return and catch up with old friends and neighbours.

I miss the celebrations we had as children. Getting dressed up, watching or taking part in the parade. Catching the "jewels" and candies being tossed from floats or being sprayed by the fire truck. Staying up late to watch the fireworks. There was the "closeness" of a small community that we seem to lack in some areas now.

I'm pleased to see that in the last few years things have begun picking up again. This years celebrations include a vintage car display, horseback riding and a dunk tank (you better watch it, Dave!). There is an inflatabounce for the kids plus many more activities for young and old. And of course there are still the logger sports, the beer garden and the dance.

So come on out Saturday, June 15. Bring your kids, your parents and your Uncle Fred and show your community spirit.