TELEGRAPH COVE - Tourists and locals alike enjoyed the festivities at Telegraph Cove's Centennial Celebration Saturday.
The day started off with a vigorous hike that included rope-aided trails and muddy embankments after a morning shower.
Once participants had changed into a dry set of clothes, they gathered in the Whale Interpretive Centre to hear stories of the Cove from past to present. Some of the speakers included Dave Ogawa, who presented the history of the Japanese in Telegraph Cove, and Ingrid and Lydia Ziggiotti, who were born and raised in the Cove. They discussed the small and isolated nature of the town of only three families.
"We all considered ourselves to be kind of like cousins," Ingrid said.
"Everyone was so trusting and so trusted," Lydia added. "Growing up that way, you always knew everybody. You had to be confident."
Jim Borrowman of Stubbs Whale Watching and Howard Pattinson of Tide Rip Grizzly Tours discussed what drew tourists to the area year after year.
"Lots of space, all kinds of wildlife, and it's safe," said Pattinson, comparing the Cove to the hustle of city life.
"Telegraph Cove…we just love it here," he finished.
Later, owner Gordie Graham held a salmon barbecue on the boardwalk, and participants were entertained by the Eccleston Band from Victoria.
On Sunday, a brunch closed the celebrations and participants were able to explore the Cove further by kayaking or whale watching on the Lukwa and Gukimi.