On Thursday, June 26, under a mix of sun and cloud and favourable weather conditions, twenty-seven members of the Planning Committee of the Fiftieth Anniversary AGM Committee and Sub-Committees enjoyed a two-hour, mid-day cruise on the scenic Miramichi aboard the Max-Aitken. Committee Chair Dale MacRae organized the event as a gesture of appreciation to everyone who had worked for the past two years and contributed to the great success of the event held on May 13 and 14. Approximately forty people had been invited, including NBSRT President Rodd Campbell, who kindly made a day-trip to Miramichi to be with the group and enjoy the outing.
Once everyone had settled comfortably on the upper deck of the Max Aitken, during Dale’s welcome remarks he commented that it was a committee gathering without the necessity of minutes or work and simply a time for everyone to relax and enjoy themselves, which they certainly did. Peter Gadd, official branch photographer of the AGM, continued in his role during this committee wrap-up gathering, capturing plenty of snapshots for viewing and reflection, afterwards.
A buffet style picnic lunch of assorted sandwiches, vegetable and fruit trays was provided for all to enjoy, along with a selection of chips and bars. It was an abundance of choices for the modest sum of five-dollars per person. Azade provided onboard beverage service, whereby anyone could purchase water, soft drinks etc., as per personal preferences.
When everyone had their lunch in hand, they dined al fresco, chatted, and enjoyed many light moments of laughter, as they appreciated the panoramic view provided from the upper deck. Following lunch, the comradery continued as everyone mixed and mingled and enjoyed the remainer of the two-hour cruise, before returning to the dock at Ritchie Wharf. Prior to arrival at the return destination, Dale conducted a draw for a fine soft sided backpack insulated cooler, perfect for hiking or any outdoor pursuit, and the excited lucky winner was Lynn Carney.
Sincere thanks from everyone to MARTA member Azade Hache, owner and captain of the Max Aitken, who very generously provided his boat in-kind to the group. Committee members also wish to extend tremendous gratitude to Dale, who stepped-up and served as chairperson of the committee for the past two years. This was a huge initiative to undertake and true-to-form, he utilized his insightful and stellar organizational skills to ensure the NBSRT Fiftieth Anniversary AGM would be a tremendously enjoyable and long memorable event for everyone who attended. Given the feedback received from the record-breaking number of people from all ten branches of NBSRT who attended, the AGM was definitely a historic event which ticked all of the boxes of a great time had by all.
