Marine Expo Organisers Donate To Deliverance
As a result of the success of the Marine Expo, The St. George’s Foundation received a donation towards restoration of an east end historical attraction – the full size replica of the early Bermuda ship, “The Deliverance”.
The Deliverance was one of two ships built by the stranded travelers of the “Sea Venture” which was shipwrecked in Bermuda waters in 1609
Together with the second ship “The Patience”, the travelers completed their journey to Jamestown, Virginia in 1610 just in time to save starving settlers.
This 50 year old tourist attraction – a reminder of a small piece of Bermuda’s Maritime history – was on display at the first annual St. George’s Marine Expo 1 May 2016.
Over 2,500 people attended the Expo to enjoy a family friendly annual event that honors history, celebrates sport, embraces technology and recognizes the opportunities in Bermuda’s maritime environment.
Proceeds earned from the event were donated to the St. George’s Foundation to aid in the extensive repair of the Deliverance due to constant wear and tear, including major damage sustained during the 2014 hurricane season.
Peter Frith of the St. George’s Foundation said, “We were thrilled to be asked by the Marine Expo Committee to be included as one of the lead attractions for the Marine Expo and must give thanks to the Bermuda Economic Development Corporation [BEDC] and the sponsors for this generous donation.
“Our restoration Team of David Chew, Michaela Mobley, & Keon Kirby, along with the Volunteers from Markel Bermuda Ltd., who were organized by the Centre on Philanthropy, worked tirelessly to prepare and brighten up the ship for the big day. And Foundation Staff of Debbie Loader and Alison Correia, in costume, manned the decks throughout the day.”
[L-R] Henry Hayward, St. George’s Foundation Board Member; Mark Soares, Owner Convict Bay Boatyard; Peter Frith, General Manager, St. George’s Foundation; Michaela Mobley, Restoration Volunteer; Jermaine Simons, Sales Manager RUBiS; David Chew, Restoration Volunteer; Erica Smith, BEDC Executive Director; Ray Lambert, BEDC Economic Development Officer, SGEEZ.
The Expo provided attendees with a variety of free and paid events that included land and water experiences. There were over 50 vendors that participated in the Expo ranging from boat dealers, marine accessories and service providers, Government & Environmental Agencies, water sport organizations, food art and children’s activity vendors.
Tours were conducted by the BIOS Research Vessel Ocean Explorer, “taster” sailing for kids was available through the Endeavor programme and rides on the Wildcat were offered by K.S. Watersports.
The America’s Cup sailors were also on hand for a race, autograph signings and to interact with the public. Other activities included RC sail boat, cars and motor boat races.
Slideshow of the St. George’s Marine Expo
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BEDC Economic Development Officer for St. George’s and Marine Expo Committee Member Ray Lambert, commented, “We are pleased with the turnout of the first annual Marine Expo. The community and business owners came out in support of this event and as a result we were able to give back to a worthwhile historical landmark.
“The Deliverance is part of Bermuda’s maritime history and it was fitting to be able to host the EXPO in the Town of St. George highlighting this history and to support the Deliverance to ensure that this history continues to be celebrated. We want to take this opportunity to thank all our sponsors again for making this event a reality.”
Jermaine Simons, Sales Manager of RUBis Energy Bermuda Ltd., stated: “As the lead sponsor, we were extremely pleased with the organization of everyone involved with helping to make the St. George’s Marine Expo a success.
“One of the aims of the Expo was to honour the maritime history of Bermuda. The Deliverance represents a key turning point of our maritime history.
“We feel that it is important that generations of Bermudians and visitors should be able to imagine life in the 17th century. RUBiS is very proud to assist such a memorable replica of our past.”
Congratulation on the success of this event, may there be more in the years to come:-)