Telegraph Cove Rises From the Ashes
Message from Gordie and Marilyn Graham
In the early morning of December 31 we sadly sat and watched while the buildings at the far end of the boardwalk burned. We had no idea what was to come, and it came in a flood. There was a flood of support, well wishes and shared memories that were sent to us and to those who have called Telegraph Cove home. They came from our local communities, Vancouver Island, all across Canada and internationally. Because of this heartfelt support we decided to continue on and rebuild the Cove. In fact it became our responsibility to see that Telegraph Cove continues.
We continue to be grateful to the fire departments that did such a wonderful job of containing the fire. Fortunately none of the accommodation was damaged.
We are happy to report that we have the approvals required from the Ministry of Environment and Department of Fisheries and work has begun.
The first step is the careful removal of debris, followed by cleanup of the remaining structures.
Abernethy Contracting is in charge of organizing and scheduling the companies needed for this project.
Our insurance company has been tremendously supportive.
The environmental and engineering companies, worked quickly to assist with the proposal necessary for approval before the cleanup could begin. The government agencies were also sensitive to the urgency, responding as soon as was possible, ensuring the proposal met all the necessary requirements. They were aware as to how important this was to Telegraph Cove Resorts, North Island Tourism and all the businesses and individuals affected by this loss.
Hardy Bay Sawmills is busy milling the yellow cedar needed to replace the
boardwalk and docks.
Alert Bay Towing had just finished a job in Campbell River and were able to come directly to the Cove and start work. It was a beautiful sight to see the arrival of their barge and crane as they approached the harbour on March 6th.
When the cleanup is done, work will start on the dock area, Whale Watch Office, Bear Tours office, a new electrical distribution building and getting our sewage treatment plant operational.
All work will be done by North Island companies.
Telegraph Cove is an integral part of the North Island and very important to residents and businesses. We will work together to bring it back as soon as possible.
We will keep putting out information bulletins as work progresses and plans are formed for food service, gas sales etc.