It was a gala affair a long time coming on Thetis Island Saturday.
The community officially ushered in a new era with the grand opening of the expanded and renovated Forbes Hall.
The program featured the unveiling of a large art installation created by Coast Salish artist Maynard Johnny Jr. that graces the front of the building.
‘Lee Mu’xutun Shhwuee’u Talu – Guardian, we welcome you all’ was designed in the Spirit of Reconciliation and serves as a bridge to the gap between the neighbouring Penelakut Island and Thetis Island communities. Penelakut dancers and drummers performed at the ceremony.
The official ribbon cutting was conducted by Johnny, Cowichan Valley Regional District director Lynne Smith and Thetis youth Ella Kasting.
The $2 million expansion project was funded primarily by community donations, with reduced costs from volunteer labour. It features numerous amenities not previously available to islanders.