| Port Authority Ready for FraserFest Fun |
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July 13, 2007: The Fraser River Port Authority is excited to once again participate in the festivities of FraserFest 2007 with communities from all over the Lower Mainland. The fun takes place on the New Westminster Quay boardwalk, July 20-22, 2007 where visitors will have the chance to stroll the boardwalk, enjoy marine exhibits and displays, or hop on a replica of an historic paddlewheeler for a river tour.
"I always look forward to FraserFest," said the enthusiastic Allen Domaas, President and CEO of the Fraser River Port Authority. "We are proud to be a part of the river's rich history and to support these fun and educational activities for the entire family."
Among the plethora of activities offered, free model boat building, a family favourite, is being presented by the Port Authority at their tent. Boat building is offered between 11 am and 3 pm on Saturday and Sunday. Back for their second year in a row, on Saturday only, aspiring boat builders can take inspiration from the adjacent Marine Modellers Association from Burnaby, who will be floating their boats from 10 am to 4 pm.
Another popular attraction is the Port Authority's harbour tours. Visitors are invited to explore the river aboard a paddlewheeler. Hourly tours take place between 10 am and 4 pm on Saturday and Sunday, rain or shine. Tickets can be purchased on the dock during FraserFest with proceeds going to educational programs in the community.
Arts and crafts abound over at the Arts Council of New Westminster's craft tent, always a big hit. This year's creature craft is "Shelly" the snail of the Fraser. Local artists, proudly supported by the Port Authority, will be on hand to help kids to build, mold, and shape their very own FraserFest memento.
"We're really pleased that the Port Authority is sponsoring our craft booth again this year," said Andrée St. Martin, Executive Director of the Arts Council of New Westminster. "Their support means we are able to provide a free, fun activity for all."
A crowd pleaser and a great close to the festivities, the grand finale of FraserFest 2007 will be a workboat parade along the river in front of the New Westminster Quay, featuring many of the Fraser River's working vessels. These vessels play a vital role in moving cargo and ships through Fraser River Port. Come cheer them on as they parade, 3 pm on Sunday, led by the Port Authority's patrol vessel, Port Fraser.