Over the years the Port Coquitlam and District Hunting and Fishing Club has proven to be a key supporter of Coquitlam SAR. “The Gun Club” as it is affectionately referred to by SAR personnel, is situated on the flank of Burke Mountain and is an ideal staging area for SAR operations on Burke or the surrounding forests. In fact, just last week the Gun Club again saw action as a command centre in the successful search for a missing hiker who went astray near Harper Road.
As new developments creep ever higher, more residents are enjoying the many recreational opportunities which Burke Mountain offers, occasionally finding themselves in need of help. Whenever Coquitlam SAR responds to tasks on Burke Mountain, members of the Gun Club have, quite literally, thrown open their gates to assist us. It helps that Gun Club members are themselves wilderness enthusiasts who understand backcountry emergencies, ensuring Coquitlam SAR never has to ask twice to use their facilities.
Talon Helicopter using the Gun Club for a landing zone
Given the long standing relationship with the Gun Club, it seemed natural that we should ask to use their clubhouse to host Coquitlam SAR’s 40th anniversary celebration, in 2012. The venue was perfect, accommodating not only dozens of past and present members and their families, but allowing the team to display its trucks and equipment and for Talon Helicopters to land its newest SAR helicopter. It was a great celebration of one of B.C.’s premier SAR teams, and the Gun Club figured prominently in the success.
40th Anniversary Dinner
The latest chapter in our ongoing relationship took place this week. With no fanfare, the members of the Gun Club donated $3400 to Coquitlam SAR. It was a sign of respect from one group of outdoor enthusiasts to another, knowing our mutual histories have been intertwined for the last 40 years and will continue to do so as long as people venture into the woods of Burke Mountain.
It is with sincere appreciation that we accept this donation from our friends and supporters at the Port Coquitlam and District Hunting and Fishing Club; may we all continue our work promoting safe enjoyment of the great outdoors.