Some unexpected support for the Brant Festival has organizers optimistic about the future of the event. During the opening night gala March 31 at the Parksville Community and Conference Centre, organizers received a cheque from Ministry of Forests Lands and Natural Resource Operations for $4,400.
Tim Clermont of the Nature Trust said the amount was a nice surprise. He said they were expecting some money for the Brant Festival from the Ministry, but not that much.
“We thought we were going to get $2,500 … but they added another $,900.”
He said the money will help continue to keep the festival going and added some new support has also come from the local business community.
“Two local businesses really stepped up to support the Brant Wildlife Festival,” stated Clermont.
He said Fran Piper of Uptown Framing and Gallery in Qualicum Beach donated her labour and has agreed to be the official supplier of frames for the Brant limited edition prints which were part of the live auction at the Thursday night gala.
He added that Smashin’ Glass and Anything Art Co. in Parksville is flying the Brant wildlife festival banners in the store.
Deez bar and grill will have a drink special where money raised will go towards the festival from the Big Day Birding gathering next Saturday.
During the gala, a new sign was unveiled that will be placed at Rathtrevor Provincial Park in Parksville.
The sign is one of five that will be placed in various provincial parks in the local area. The signs were commissioned by the Mount Arrowsmith Biosphere Reserve.
The Brant Wildlife Festival continues until April 10 with all kinds of free activities planned.
The Fish Hatchery Tour is April 3 and 5, from 12 to 2 p.m. and April 7 from 10 a.m. to noon at the Marion Baker Hatchery in French Creek. For more information please call 250-752-3203.
A Legacy of Nature at the Parksville Library is on April 5 from 3 to 4 p.m. John Keller and Steve Godfrey will explore the role of The Nature Trust of BC in conserving local areas for future generations.
The much anticipated eagle release at the North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre in Errington is on April 7. From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. learn about local birds and wildlife and see a rehabilitated eagle released. Come for lunch, see glove trained birds and many wildlife and environmental booths. An eagle will be released by Kim Relcalma-Clutsei at 2 p.m. Entrance is by donation.
Family Day on the Farm at Nanoose Edibles is April 9 from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Bring the whole family for a tour, and enjoy treats and kids’ activities.
Life Among Birds at the Craig Park Heritage Museum is April 10 at 7:30 p.m. Dr. Rob Butler will present the latest bird research from around the world.