As we reflect on the past year, Mount Polley is proud to have been a part of a wide array of events and initiatives that brought our community closer, highlighted our shared values, and celebrated our local culture and spirit. Here’s a look back at some of the 2023 events and the contributions we made to the community of Williams Lake and the surrounding areas.
Interior Indoor Rodeo Association
In May, Mount Polley sponsored a bucking shoot at the Interior Indoor Rodeo. This event not only brought large-scale community exposure but also stood out as the premier event of the season.
Mining for Miracles Charity BBQ (May 16th & 18th and May 30th & June 1st)
Held on-site at Mount Polley, our “Thrill of the Grill” Charity BBQ was a heartwarming success, raising $12,000 for Mining for Miracles, which directly supports the BC Children’s Hospital Foundation. The generosity of our employees and suppliers was truly touching, and we were thrilled to see our community come together over burgers, chips, and a pop for this meaningful cause.
Heavy Metal Rocks
We continued our commitment to education and local youth by donating to the Heavy Metal Rocks program, which offers Grade 11 and 12 students a firsthand experience in machinery operation within a safe environment. Members of Mount Polley’s staff volunteered their time at this event and intend to support the 2024 planning committee, supporting Mount Polley’s dedication to fostering the next generation of industry professionals.
Mount Polley Fishing Derby (May 20-22)
The Mount Polley Fishing Derby, hosted on the scenic shores of Quesnel Lake, was a resounding success with over 300 participants and 350 attendees, creating an electric atmosphere. The event was not just a display of competitive spirit, but also a celebration of community, with participants of all ages showcasing their fishing prowess. The highlight was a significant charitable contribution, raising $19,400 in funds that Mount Polley donated to the Likely and District Chamber of Commerce for a new playground at Cedar Point Park.
Big Lake Fishing Derby (June 2-4)
Supporting neighboring communities, we were delighted to sponsor the adult first prize at the Big Lake Fishing Derby, a much-anticipated annual event that brings together anglers and families.
Mine Rescue 2023 (June 16-17)
Our Mount Polley Mine Rescue Team excelled at the 65th Annual Provincial Mine Rescue Competition, earning first place in Ropes and Overall First Aid in Zones. Mount Polley was proud to be a contributing sponsor. The competition was held in Williams Lake and banquet guests enjoyed the traditional song and drum performance of Sky Moses of Williams Lake First Nation.
Mount Polley extends its thanks and congratulations to Mine Rescue Team.
National Indigenous Peoples Day (June 21)
Mount Polley participated in the National Indigenous Peoples Day celebrations on June 21st, organized by the Northern Shuswap Tribal Council, including entering our decorated truck in the parade and our booth with kids’ games and prizes. The day was an invitation to all to celebrate the rich culture of our Indigenous communities.
Mount Polley Stampede Float & Williams Lake Stampede (June 29 – July 3)
Williams Lake Stampede Weekend was a time of creativity and community spirit including the float we built from scratch for the parade. The involvement of Mount Polley’s kids and families made this event particularly special. Mount Polley was a Deputy Groomer Sponsor at the Williams Lake Stampede and hopes to enhance our involvement next year.
Performances in the Park (Thursdays in July & August)
As a Platinum Sponsor of Performances in the Park, we were proud to support the arts and provide entertainment to the community throughout the summer. The concerts, held every Thursday in July and August, celebrate the vibrant culture of our area.
Mount Polley Golf Tournament (July 2023)
Our company golf tournament at Coyote Rock Golf Course was a day of friendly competition and community bonding. The event underscored our appreciation for our valued suppliers and contractors, whose support and sponsorships made this event a success.
WLFN Speaking Our Truth Competition Pow Wow (September 8-10)
Mount Polley was honoured to stand alongside the #Williams Lake First Nation as a proud sponsor of the 2023 Speaking Our Truth Competition PowWow.
At Mount Polley, we recognize the importance of Indigenous cultural revitalization and look forward to future celebrations that showcase the richness of Indigenous traditions.
National Truth and Reconciliation Day (September 30)
On September 30th, Mount Polley marked National Truth and Reconciliation Day by joining the observance at Williams Lake Stampede Grounds, with a two-minute silence to reflect on the day’s deep meaning. Our Safety Coordinator, Sam Bergman, served as a volunteer first aider during the ceremonies. The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation coincides with the Orange Shirt Day, a movement which honours the lost Indigenous children and survivors of residential schools. This movement is especially meaningful to us because Orange Shirt Day originated right here in our local community of Williams Lake, BC. Our Mount Polley mine staff proudly wear orange shirts to show support for this important cause.
Holiday Fundraiser for Williams Lake Seniors Village (December)
The holiday season was a time of giving back, and we are proud to have raised $6,000 through hot chocolate sales for the Williams Lake Seniors Village Comfort and Recreation Funds. Our staff’s involvement, including volunteering at the care home, reflects our spirit of community caring and support.
Christmas Festivities (December)
From our Christmas parties, catered by local businesses, to the Kids Christmas Party, the festive season was a time of warmth and family. The success of events like the toy drive, with all toys donated to the Child Development Center, and the canned good drive for the Salvation Army, demonstrated the holiday spirit of the Mount Polley family.
As we look to the year ahead, we’re filled with gratitude for the memories we’ve made and the successes we’ve shared. Here’s to a safe, healthy and happy 2024.