November 7, 2002: The Fraser River Port Authority made a $4,000 contribution towards the Fraser River Discovery Centre’s educational programs at an annual fundraising gala for the Centre held on October 24, 2002, an event attended by Mayor Helen Sparkes, MP Paul Forseth and other community leaders. The Port Authority’s President and CEO, Captain Allen Domaas, presented the cheque to the Discovery Centre’s Chair, Lucille Johnstone, citing the enormous value of the Centre’s work to promote public awareness of the Fraser River among Lower Mainland residents.

“We believe the Centre’s dedication to promoting public awareness of the Fraser River is vital to its environmental health and to the strength of waterborne commerce,” said Domaas. “And since education is best done with the young, who are the next generation of stewards, we’re donating money for the Centre’s educational programs for school-aged children.” Captain Domaas also praised the Centre’s volunteers for their role as ambassadors of the river.

The $4,000 came from the proceeds of harbour tours which were sponsored by the Port Authority during this summer’s FraserFest.

The Fraser River Discovery Centre, located at Westminster Quay, is open daily (except Mondays) from 9 to 4 and offers exciting displays as well as a resource centre, meeting facilities, and a theatre. The Centre also offers educational programs for grades 3 to 5.

The Fraser River Port Authority has a mandate to promote waterborne commerce and trade within Fraser River Port, which extends along the main arm of the lower Fraser River, from the mouth at Sandheads to Kanaka Creek and Pitt Lake. More than 22 million tonnes of cargo move through Fraser River Port terminals each year, creating more than 10,700 local jobs.