Whether it’s a prize trout or a big find at a garage sale, you can help celebrate Lake Cowichan’s 75th anniversary by reeling in something special next month.
As part of the lead-up to celebrations later this summer, a fishing derby is planned for the weekend of May 18 and 19, with a massive community garage sale scheduled for the following Saturday.
The fishing derby will take place in Cowichan and Bear lakes, with a big cash award for the angler who brings in the biggest eligible fish.
“We are thrilled to be able to host this fun fishing event with a grand prize of $1,000 for the largest cutthroat or rainbow trout caught, not exceeding 50 cm,” commented Paul Jordan, chair of the Town of Lake Cowichan’s 75th Anniversary Society. “Second place prize is $500 and third place is $250. We wanted this to be a family event, so we have also included prizes in the kids category as well.”
The Cowichan Lake Marina is offering free boat launching for participants, and the Riverside Inn will host the awards banquet on Sunday evening, derby coordinator Grant Treger added.
Registration tickets are limited to around 200, and local fishing regulations apply. Proceeds will go to the Cowichan Lake Salmonoid Enhancement Society and Hatchery.
To purchase a ticket, contact Treger at 1-778-429-2901, 1-506-461-4952, or pinesmoke@live.ca
The community garage sale will take place on May 25 at Ts’uubaa-asatx square, next door to the Cowichan Lake Library on Renfrew Avenue. The Town of Lake Cowichan and neighbouring communities have stepped up to contribute items for the sale, with proceeds going toward fundraising efforts for 75th anniversary celebrations.
It will go beyond just a garage sale, with a concession, loonie and toonie tables, and live entertainment featuring Jan Matthews in Overdrive.
“We hosted two drop-off Saturdays on weekends, and last Saturday was the second of the two,” said garage sale coordinator Laurie Johnson. “In a short period of a few hours, we had over 20 pickup-truck loads arrive, plus individuals dropping off items. And that’s just one of the drop off days.
“We now have an incredible amount of household items, furniture, lawn and garden, toys, tools, sporting goods, and wow, so much more.”
Drop-offs are still being accepted. To make arrangements, contact Johnson at 250-710-0098
This event is one of many being hosted throughout the year by the Town of Lake Cowichan 75th Anniversary Committee. For more information on this and other upcoming events leading up the Town of Lake Cowichan 75th Anniversary Celebration on August 16-18, visit the website at www.75andbeyond.com