Spots are still available for the inaugural B.C. Spearfishing Summit hosted by Tofino Resort + Marina on Saturday, April 23. Tickets are $40/person, and all proceeds go to support the Nuu-Chah-Nulth Youth Warrior Leadership Program, a local society that combines traditional and mainstream leadership and wellness teachings to build capability, cultural pride and confidence in Nuu-Chah-Nulth First Nations youth.
The B.C. Spearfishing Summit is a grassroots, one-day event that unites an engaging roster of speakers focusing on four important pillars: education, safety, sustainability and respect.
“We are excited to bring together the province’s incredible spearfishing and cold-water freediving community here in Tofino,” said Willie Mitchell, managing partner of Tofino Resort + Marina, in a press release.
“With better access to equipment and instruction, the sport’s popularity continues to grow rapidly, the Summit offers a chance to examine important facets including responsibility under the water, and sustainability of the Clayoquot Sound watershed while also demonstrating respect and support for our Indigenous communities,” said Mitchell.
The Summit starts at 3 p.m. in the resort’s courtyard, with educational speakers from Spearfishing Canada, the Tla-o-qui-aht and Ahousaht First Nations, Ucluelet Aquarium, the Department of Fisheries and Oceans and Bottom Dwellers Freediving. Topics covered include equipment education, sustainable harvesting, respectfully accessing traditional lands and waters, licensing and regulations.
Following the educational talks, the evening shifts to entertainment at 7 p.m. with live music from Kalilah Haasatuk Rampanen and Kieran Campbell, complimentary beverages and draw prizes. To learn more, visit tofinoresortandmarina.com.
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nora.omalley@westerlynews.ca
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