Nearly 100 years of golfing tradition is in a holding pattern in Port Alice and North Island golfers are hoping a cash injection can get them back on the greens more often.
The Port Alice Golf Club is seeking $25,000 to restore electrical power abruptly cut off in March 2019 when the adjacent mill and power source lapsed into receivership.
The lack of power has presented numerous challenges, impairing the club’s ability to function effectively, explained Kysa Sutton Moretto, the fundraising and social coordinator for the Port Alice Golf Club, a non-profit volunteer organization that provides free junior golf membership to all children in Port Alice.
“We can’t have proper functions. We can’t use the kitchen properly. There’s no hot water, no lighting, and no heat. We can’t make ice out there. We have to use a generator to power the club, which is costly,” Moretto said.
Funding would allow a greater number of events and activities, particularly during the winter, when recreational options for are limited, Moretto emphasized. The club is the community’s sole remaining recreational facility, following the closure of the arena, curling club, and skating club.
To raise funds, the club has adopted several strategies.
“Right now we’re running a raffle where tickets are $5 each. The top price is a half-day fishing charter. The second prize is a cord of firewood, and third prize is two photos donated by a local photographer,” Moretto said.
Generous contributions have also been received from local organizations such as the Port Alice Arena Society and the Port Hardy Rotary Club, as well as individual supporters like Jerry Smith. Additionally, the club has organized fundraising tournaments, including the notable “power up the club” event.
Moreover, they have diligently pursued grant opportunities, such as the Mount Waddington Regional District tourism grant, which offers the potential to secure $5,000 in funding. Another forthcoming event is a tournament scheduled for August, introduced by Moretto and Russell Murray, a member of the Port Alice Golf Club.
The club has been operational since 1928.
“It’s 94 years old right now. I just hope to see a vibrant club with lots of members and a place for people to come out and enjoy the outdoors and enjoy the history. We’re looking to be recognized as a heritage site in the future as well, and to be able to keep that history alive and a place for all age groups and all abilities to come out and play and enjoy our beautiful golf course,” Murray said.
You can also make a donation to the golf course’s GoFundMe page, or by cheque mailed to PO Box 460, Port Alice BC, V0N 2N0.
READ MORE: Village of Port Alice presents its 2023-2027 financial plan to the public