When the Qualicum Beach Museum threw open its doors to officially kick off the summer season Saturday, they had a very special guest on hand.
That guest, made of yellow cedar, was a new statue of the famed Qualicum Beach hermit, Guisseppe Roat.
The statue was carved by Qualicum Beach artist Francois Mongeau, whose evocative mural graces a large wall in the Civic Centre.
The ceremony was kicked off by Len Mustard, the official town crier for the Town of Qualicum Beach, who noted the museum is currently working on a major oral history project, which will see elderly long-time residents recorded and their memories stored for future generations.
He praised the deidcation of museum volunteers who give countless hours as custodians of the town’s history.
Also taking to the podium was Qualicum Beach mayor Teunis Westbroek, who noted that as Qualicum Beach celebrates its 100th birthday, the museum is also marking its 30th anniversary at the site.