On Friday June 19, 2009, Victoria A.M. Association (Victoria AM) and the Ogden Point Enhancement Society (OPES) jointly unveiled two projects: the ecological kiosk and town crier statue. These projects are an important part of the significant upgrades that Ogden Point, the gateway for so many visitors, has seen in the last year and a half.
As the gateway to Victoria for more than 450,000 cruise passengers, Ogden Point is an important site. Victoria AM and OPES are committed to assisting Greater Victoria Harbour Authority (GVHA) in its efforts to upgrade and beautify this critical port property. “GVHA is proud to partner with these organizations that are so committed to the enhancement of the property and the guest experience,” said Don Prittie, Chair of GVHA. “The ecological kiosk and town crier statues really add to the character and beauty of Ogden Point.”
Gordie Tupper from CHEK TV was our M.C. Tommy taught Gordie all those years ago so it was great to have that connection. The Honourable Ida Chong talked about the rich history of Ogden Point and Mayor Dean Fortin spoke about the impact of the Cruise Ship passengers to our local economy.
Victoria A.M. and the town crier statue
The town crier statue was created to honour the rich history and traditions of town criers around the world and in Victoria. Victoria AM had the statue made in the likeness of local town crier, former Vic High teacher, and all-around celebrity Tommy Mayne to recognize his significant contributions to the local and visiting populations of Greater Victoria.
“The Town Crier has been the heralder of town proclamations and news for centuries and is still used today in many municipalities,” said Louise Chabros, Victoria AM President. “While this statue is being dedicated to the Official and unofficial Town Crier of Vancouver Island, it is also dedicated to the residents of Victoria who promote this city as the Best Bloomin' City in Canada. There's a little Town Crier in us all.”
Local talent Armando Barbon, Studio 37, sculpted this life-sized statue. He donated the sculpture to Victoria AM, who are accepting donations to offset the cost of bronzing the statue.
With its stated goal of enhancing and supporting Tourism in Greater Victoria, Victoria AM is fulfilling its vision of making Ogden Point, as the gateway to Victoria, a wonderful place for the more than 500,000 cruise ship visitors. “The Town Crier statue will be a warm welcome to Victoria for visiting cruise ship,” Chabros said.
OPES and the ecological kiosk
As part of the enhancement and public use of the south shore of Ogden Point, the OPES with the cooperation of GVHA has now installed an ecological information kiosk near the entrance to the breakwater. The OPES designed and built the ecological kiosk to provide information on marine and terrestrial ecosystems on and around Vancouver Island. “The Society is pleased to dedicate our second kiosk at Ogden Point. The kiosk contains 12 panels that provide educational information on the ecology of Southern Vancouver Island,” said Society President Gerry Lutz.
Since the OPES formation in 1996, the Society has invested close to $750,000 to beautify and enhance the terminal at Ogden Point. The Society has been instrumental in establishing a park-like setting and walkway along the south shore and has continued to add improvements to the area for the enjoyment of local citizens and tourists.
“This addition to the property shows our commitment to supporting the enhancement and beautification of Victoria’s deep sea gateway,” Lutz added.
