Canoes' journey to Anacla proves dangerous

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Rough waters at Cape Beale proved hazardous for six canoes travelling to Anacla to take part in opening celebrations for the House of Huu-ay-aht. One canoe flipped, and another swamped in the six- to eight-foot cross swells caused by tide change. Four young paddlers were taken to Bamfield Hospital for observation after showing signs of hypothermia. Some people were in the water for close to 20 minutes before being picked up by the Coast Guard and support boats.

Robert Dennis, Jeff Cook, and other support boat skippers were quick to respond to the rescue of the Mowachaht/Muchalaht paddlers after their canoe tipped just off the rocks at Cape Beale. Unbeknownst to the rescuers, however, paddlers for James Swan's canoe went into the water, swamped by a series of large waves.

Celebrations on the beach were subdued because of the incidents, and counsellors were quick to offer support to the shivering paddlers and their families.

Many people exhibited bravery and courage in rescuing the paddlers on July 14, and were publicly thanked and recognized at the House of Huu-ay-aht's opening ceremony the following night.