GORE BAY—With this year’s edition of the Gore Bay Harbour Day’s celebrations marking its 10th anniversary, town council has given its support to transferring funds from the previous Summerfest reserve fund to alleviate any possible shortfalls in funds to host the event this year.
“There will again be a full schedule of events and entertainment for the 10th anniversary of the Harbour Days this year,” said Gore Bay Mayor Ron Lane at a council meeting last week. He pointed out the event had to be cancelled for two years due to the pandemic or it would be marking its 12th anniversary this year.
“There is always lots of good music and fun for the whole family,” said Mayor Lane.
Mayor Lane explained, “most of the Harbour Days events are funded through private donations and sponsorships.”
Mayor Lane explained that previously, the town hosted a Summerfest event at Smith’s Park every year prior to the Harbour Days celebrations. “Summerfest continued until about 2011-2012, and there is still a Summerfest reserve on hand. The committee would like approval to access the reserve funds from Summerfest to help fund Harbour Days this year.”
“Summerfest was a very successful event as well, and they always had great bands,” said Councillor Ken Blodgett.
While it was a very good event, Mayor Lane pointed out the event was geared towards adults. “Harbour Days is more inclusive and has broader family appeal. At some time in the future maybe we could look at having another Summerfest celebration in the summer or fall.”
Mayor Lane pointed out hiring lead bands for these types of celebrations can run into as much as $4,000 along with providing accommodations for band members.
There is about $11,000 in the Summerfest reserve funds. Council agreed to have the Summerfest reserve funds transferred to the Harbour Days funds to cover any shortfalls this year and rename it Harbour Days reserve funds.
