14th Annual Pioneer Skiers Reunion

On September 7, 2006, many of Greater Vancouver’s skiers from the 1930's, 40's, and 50's met at Hollyburn Ski Lodge, First Lake, for their 14th Annual Pioneer Skiers Reunion. Included among the attendees were West Vancouver-Capilano MLA Ralph Sultan, Jim Graham, who built a cabin on "the Ridge" in 1931, Naomi Wilson McInnes, who placed well in several ski races during the 1930's and '40's, Bob Forrest, 93, who as a Boy Scout, made his first trip up Hollyburn in the 1920's, and Fred Burfield, who ran Hollyburn Ski Lodge from 1946 to 1984. Catherine Rockandel was the Master of Ceremonies.

Councillor Jean Ferguson officially welcomed the pioneers. In her remarks, Councillor Ferguson recognized the importance of Hollyburn Ski Lodge to the community-at-large. Josie Chuback from DWV, told the gathering about the 2006 Cultural Capital grant that has provided funding for many arts and culture events and projects, including the Hollyburn Ski Lodge Restoration Feasibility Study that began in early August. Robert Smith and Fred Sverre, representing Donald Luxton and Associates, announced that restoration of the venerable ski lodge was indeed feasible, information that was enthusiastically received by all those present.