On a cold blustery day in 2007, a big part of the Okanagan’s marine heritage, the CN Tug 6, was moved from Kelowna to the Penticton shoreline — things did not go as planned.
But on June 5 everything fell into place.
The weather, lake conditions, availability of volunteers and boats to move and turn the tug boat around to bring it closer to shore for easier access all came together. It went exactly where the SS Sicamous Society hoped it would reside.
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The society announced on June 18 it was thanking everyone who contributed to the project, including the City of Penticton boat crew, the Trademark crew who operated a 500 horsepower barge, as well as Randy Gallagher, Brian Wyatt and most of the crew from the city’s Fire Department Rescue.
As a result of the efforts, the society said it will now be able to construct a sturdy pier to Tug 6, which will allow safe access for volunteers and streamline the transfer of supplies and equipment on board.
The society also said it will soon be able to start cleaning, painting and making the vessel safe for viewing — not to mention the small mechanical crew that is working on re-starting its engine.
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The SS Sicamous Marine Heritage Society said it relies heavily on the volunteers and financial support of Penticton’s citizens and businesses to restore and maintain the vessels in the park. The society said it is obligated to educate the public, particularly the next generation, about marine heritage in the Okanagan.
The CN Tug 6 and other ships in the SS Sicamous Society’s care can be found at 1099 Lakeshore Dr. west on the shoreline in Penticton.
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