January 22, 2005 - Lagoon Society Breaks Ground for Sunshine Coast’s Iris Griffith Interpretive Centre

The Ruby Lake Lagoon Nature Reserve Society held their official ground breaking ceremony on Saturday January 22, for the building of the Iris Griffith Interpretive Centre. Named after local resident and well-known conservationist, the late Iris Griffith, the Centre will provide a world-class educational facility designed to help all ages enjoy, explore, learn and appreciate the natural wonders of British Columbia's Sunshine Coast.

The birth of the Iris Griffith Interpretive Centre would not have been possible without the support of a truly remarkable group of dedicated local residents and supporters. Now, with the help of $275,000 delivered by Western Economic Diversification Canada through the Softwood Industry Community Economic Adjustment Initiative and with grants from The Sunshine Coast Regional District, The Sunshine Coast Community Foundation and the McLean Foundation as well as many kind donations from throughout our community, the project is to become a reality.

"Funded through the federal softwood initiative, the new interpretive centre will attract nature lovers, as well as jobs and economic benefits from the increased tourism," said the Honourable Stephen Owen, Minister of Western Economic Diversification and Minister of State (Sport). "This project is an example of what can be achieved when government and communities work together to find local solutions for local challenges."

Iris Griffith’s husband, Billy, her daughter Maureen and grandson Michael all took part in the ceremony. Over forty people attended, including Ann Barker of the Sunshine Coast Community Foundation, John Rees Area A board representative on the Sunshine Coast Regional District, Bill Clarke from the Sunshine Coast Astronomy Club, Vel Anderson representing the BC provincial government and Bonnie Rivers from the Sunshine Coast Credit Union.

Speeches were given by Michael Jackson, president of the Lagoon Society, Aldo Cogrossi and Billy Griffith. A recognition plaque was presented by Al Mulholland of the Sunshine Coast Community Futures Development Corporation on behalf of Minister Stephen Owen along with a congratulatory letter. A cheque for $1000 was also kindly presented by Bonnie Rivers of the Sunshine Coast Credit Union Community Fund. The Ground Breaking Ceremony was performed by Anne Clemence, a lifelong friend of Iris Griffith and President of the Pender Harbour Wildlife Society.

The Softwood Industry Community Economic Adjustment Initiative was created to help forest-dependent communities whose economies were severely impacted by the U.S. softwood tariffs. In B.C., Western Economic Diversification Canada administers the program in partnership with the Community Futures Development Corporations.

The Softwood Industry Community Economic Adjustment Initiative is a national program funded with $110 million for 2003/2004. All projects must be fully completed by March 31, 2005. The Lagoon Society is very grateful to the generous contributions of the many private individuals, businesses, foundations, community groups, corporations, and government agencies that make up our many sponsors. We gratefully acknowledge the financial assistance of the Province of British Columbia.

Ruby Lake Lagoon Nature Reserve Society
RR#1 Site 20 C16
Madeira Park, BC, V0N 2H0
Phone/Fax: 604-883-9893
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