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March 2005 Sod Turned on French Fort Cove Eco-Centre
"At first, dreams seem impossible, then improbable, and eventually inevitable." -- Christopher Reeve During the official sod-turning ceremony on March 18th Brian Jones, the chair of French Fort Cove Eco-Centre Inc. and backbone behind the project, quoted the late Christopher Reeve to sum up the journey so far. The Eco-Centre is an exciting project full of promise for the Miramichi. Open year-round, the landmark tourist attraction's interactive displays will showcase Miramichi's history and culture. Visitors will learn about the river, flora and fauna, heritage and historic events such as the Miramichi Fire.
Although the Eco-Centre will be a strong draw for tourists to the region,
it was built for the people of Miramichi and remains true to its original intention. Not only will the displays help educate
future generations of Miramichiers about their history and heritage but the building will also provide a new home for the
local Curling Club. "The park is utilised by thousands of local people each year. French Fort
Cove was developed for the community. It is yours," Jones said. It was a building for the tractor that started this project back in 2001.
On February 9th, 2005, Premier Bernard Lord announced an additional $500,000 toward the French Fort Cove Eco-Centre, which
was the final piece necessary to complete Phase I or building.
"Our strong volunteer base is an asset we should all be proud of," said
John McKay, Mayor of Miramichi, as he acknowledged the tremendous effort of volunteers who worked days, months and years to
develop this great contribution to the community. McKay added that although Miramichiers have had a difficult year, they
are taking it in stride and moving on to the next project. "There are too many positive projects coming up for us to list them all
here, and that’s a good problem to have. Tourism is an important element in our rebirth and rebuilding," McKay said.
The French Fort Cove Eco-Centre project is made possible through the financial
support of federal, provincial and municipal governments, and through fundraising and donations from the Rotary Club, Weyerhaeuser
and an event organised by Susan Butler, as well as the tireless efforts of French Fort Cove Eco-Centre Inc.(Brian Jones, Bill
Barry, Bill Prince, Ken Walls, Pat Diotte, Mike McCoombs, Deputy-Mayor Paul Dawson, Councillor Ned Manderson and Councillor
Brian King), French Fort Cove Development Commission (Jim Comeau, Jim Hayter, Bill Kern, Stephen Clark, Clayton Merrithew,
Jim Saunders, Gerald Smith and Councillor Wendy Chadwick) and countless community volunteers.
Construction will start as soon as possible and weekly updates will be
available on the progress. They plan to be open in the fall and will be prepared for all winter activities at the Cove. As
the building progresses, planning moves on to the Display Phase. Both seasonal and permanent displays will be located in the
Eco-Centre.
French Fort Cove Eco-Centre Inc. thanks the community for their tremendous
support. The Newcastle Rotary Club and the Chatham Rotary Club have played a major role. But more volunteers and help are
needed. If you would like to become a donor or partner in this exciting community project please contact the French Fort Cove
office at (506) 623-2074.
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