On March 20 -24 the GOABC held their annual general meeting in beautiful Kelowna, British Columbia on the shore of Okanagan Lake. The meeting kicked off with a Board meeting on the 20th followed by a guest dinner and members social night. The Annual General Meeting was held on Thursday the 21st with internal committee meetings, elections, internal protocols, and presentations.
Friday morning the day began with a breakfast sponsored by Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation followed with a day of meetings hosting government officials representing several different agencies. Lively discussions regarding decisions and protocols of the Environmental Appeal Board, Conservation Officer Services, Parks, Indigenous Relations, the Wildlife Act, and Wildlife Regulations followed by a robust question and answer period for all agencies and personnel from the members of GOABC. The evening activities followed the theme of “Rockin’ it Old School’. Much fun was had trying to guess who was dressed as Sammy Hagar, Hulk Hogan and is that Don Johnson or Elton John!? A great time was had by all as the evening entertainment family-oriented games, fun music and activities.
Saturday morning 35 members and guests headed to Kelowna and District Fish and Game Club for a round or two of trap and outdoor camaraderie. The shoot was sponsored by Safari Club International represented by SCI Executive Secretary Mike Crawford and SCI Guide and Outfitter Liaison Scott Talbott. The advanced shooters kept a close eye on who hit and missed birds but more importantly the opportunity for some shooters who had never shouldered a shotgun had the opportunity to learn how to shoot and enjoy the game of trap. Many thanks to the several professional instructors and range officers who helped make the morning safe and enjoyable.
Upon the conclusion of the shooting event the shooters met up with the other attendees who attended a wine tasting tour at a local barbeque restaurant and tap house. All enjoyed excellent samples of outstanding barbeque and all the fixins chased with a sample of the local brew. A good time was had by all!
The evening found all attending the awards presentation, it is always an honor to recognize those outstanding contributors in our ranks, the Lady of the Year Award was received by Ms. Brenda Gibson, the Frank Stewart Memorial Award was awarded to Mr. Ray Jackson, and the Guide of the Year award went to Jake Robinson. The Ultimate B. C. Mountain Hunter Auction was fantastically successful with bidders purchasing several premier hunts. The notable auctioneer and rodeo announcer Keith Dinwoodie did an excellent job of auctioning and entertaining the crowd. Many thanks to GOABC for inviting SCI to participate in yet another productive, valuable, and greatly successful convention.
