MANITOULIN—Whitefish River First Nation (WRFN) and Wiikwemkoong Unceded Territory received search and rescue vessels this past summer through the Indigenous Community Boat Volunteer Program, funded by the Minister of Fisheries and Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard.
“The 2021 Stanley 26’ x 9’6 Search and Rescue vessel was built by Connor Industries in Parry Sound and was procured through the Indigenous Community Boat Volunteer Program funded by the Minister of Fisheries and Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard,” said WRFN Economic Development Officer Stuart Wilson. “They were delivered to the community in the summer of 2023. The vessel represents a significant step forward in enhancing search and rescue capabilities within the WRFN.”
“Over the past months, the WRFN Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary (CCGA) has diligently trained its members, ensuring they are prepared to undertake vital search and rescue operations,” continued Mr. Wilson. “With a goal to commence full operational duties by summer 2024, the team is eager to serve the community and surrounding areas, bolstering safety and security on the water.”
As part of its community engagement for the project, WRFN held a naming contest for the vessel and former The Expositor graphic designer Brianna McGregor provided the winning entry— Naadmaage Jiimaan. “That means ‘Helping Each Other Boat,” explained Ms. McGregor. “I was proud to be able to provide a culturally appropriate name for the boat.”
“The name beautifully encapsulates the essence of unity and mutual assistance, reflecting our shared commitment to community well-being and safety,” said Mr. Stuart. “The naming of ‘Helping Each Other Boat’ symbolizes unity, resilience and the unwavering commitment of the WRFN and its auxiliary team to safeguarding lives and ensuring the well-being of all who traverse these waters.”
“WRFN CCGA is always looking for new members to join in our mission to ensure the safety of our community on the water,” continued Mr. Stuart. Community members interested in becoming part of the team can contact Mr. Stuart for more information at edo@whitefishriver.ca or by telephone at 705-285-4335 extension 2216.
Wiikwemkoong is also planning to hold a naming contest for their new search and rescue vessel, noted Wiikwemkoong Ogimaa Rachel Manitowabi, who added that a number of issues had delayed the process but that she anticipates things will be moving to that end very soon.
“It’s an exciting opportunity to improve safety on the water,” she noted. Wiikwemkoong has always been a maritime community closely linked to the water.
