Come see South Maitland!

By Christy Marsters

The Fundy Tidal Interpretive Centre hosted a flood of visitors during the month of July, as hundreds flowed to the facility during an open house July 26.

Manager Anita Benedict said the open house was held to honour the many volunteers and supporters who helped develop South Maitland’s Caboose Museum, Observation Deck, 2.3 Kilometer trail along Ducks Unlimited Ponds and, finally, the Fundy Tidal Interpretive Centre - complete with a Visitor Information Centre and Gift Shop - over the last decade.

It took many volunteers and supports to put the East Hants park together. They all did a fantastic job and deserved recognition, Benedict said. “It was nice to be able to invite businesses and the community in, to see what we’re about … because, there are people around here who still do not know who we are or what we have to offer.”

During the July celebration, local artisans showcased artwork for 200 people, including dignitaries and community members, who turned out to mark the celebration. A barbeque and children’s games, including mud painting, a fish pond and sucker pull, were also held outside. All proceeds from the barbeque went to the Hants North Drama Club in support of their 2010 trip to Scotland. “It was a great day and we couldn’t have asked for better weather. I think it was the first sunny day in months,” Benedict said. “And I think this (Fundy Tidal Interpretive Centre) has given many people a new perspective on just what the area has to offer.”

Much to offer

The area has a rich history, an amazing group of talented artists, a truly fantastic bunch of businesses and a unique chance to view the world’s highest tides, Benedict said. “There’s also tidal bore rafting and we’re the only place in the world to offer it.”

The Tidal Bore fascinates people, Benedict noted. “It’s an amazing phenomenon and people are always coming in to ask us what it means and how it works … it’s hard at times to tell those from away how it works.” “What we want is for those people to come and experience for themselves,” Benedict said. “Yet, if visitors ask, we like to be prepared. There is a need and we are filling it.”

The centre is filling another need- student employment. The facility offers jobs close to home for four youth, Benedict said. Adding, “we help a lot of people.”

The Fundy Tidal Interpretive Centre is open daily, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., until August 29. Admittance costs $2.50 per person, $7.50 per family, or $5 for a season pass. For more information, see www.southmaitlandns.com