The people of Granthams Landing are looking for a little help to stay afloat.
The Granthams group is holding a fundraiser on Nov. 10 starting at 5:30 p.m. at the Blackfish Pub in Gibsons to raise money to fix the historic Granthams wharf, which is in great need of repair.
"It's a pressing concern that we replace the float structure soon," said Granthams' resident Mark Giltrow.
The community in Granthams has maintained and operated the local wharf since 1961 when it was offered to them for $1, with the stipulation they take care of it.
"We [Granthams' residents] have been bringing our own wood down there and banging it in for years, and that has worked well, but this is the first time we have had to straddle replacement," Giltrow said.
He said Granthams' residents give money toward wharf maintenance every year, but the cost of a new float structure far exceeds what anyone can give.
"If we actually had someone do it, it would probably cost about $20,000 for their labour, wood and hardware. We plan to do the labour, which we think will cut the cost in half, and if we can get the lumber donated, that will probably take off another $5,000, so we're expecting the cost to be around $5,000," he said.
He hopes to raise a large chunk of that money through the upcoming fundraiser at the Blackfish Pub. For $15, attendees can get a drink and a burger and bid on silent auction items donated by local businesses and community members. There will also be a raffle offering a chance to win round trip airfare for two from Sechelt to Vancouver with Harbour Air.
Granthams Wharf is a historic site, originally built by the Union Steamship Company in the 1920s. It has since been used by residents and visitors for recreation, fishing tournaments and occasional moorage of boats.
If you would like to help restore this landmark, you can purchase tickets at the door for the Nov. 10 event. For more information, contact Giltrow at 604-886-8710 or see the Granthams' blog at granthamslanding.blogspot.com.
