“The Fraser River is such an important part of our everyday life and is a chance for families and communities to celebrate our good fortune attributed to the working river,” said Captain Allen Domaas, President and CEO of the Fraser River Port Authority. “We’re proud of our river, and we want everyone else to be – that’s why we make our activities at FraserFest affordable, fun, and educational.”

The Fraser River Port Authority is sponsoring many events at FraserFest 2005, including fascinating tours of the harbour aboard the paddlewheeler MV Native.  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.

One of the festival’s most appealing events for children is the free model boat building at the Port Authority’s tent at the west end of the festival site, between 11 am and 3 pm on Saturday and Sunday.  Each year, thousands of aspiring shipbuilders come to build their own wooden boats and learn about the Port, its vessels, and their cargoes.

The Fraser River Discovery Centre is hosting a new “Commerce on the Fraser” exhibit, sponsored by the Fraser River Port Authority with materials provided by the Vancouver Maritime Museum.  The exhibit will be open during FraserFest, as well as a scavenger hunt for kids.  The Port Authority is also a sponsor of the Arts Council of New Westminster craft booth.