The Port Alberni community is coming together to help the Alberni District Fall Fair recover from what could be arson.
According to the Port Alberni Fire Department, in the last six months, three suspicious fires have occurred at or near the fairgrounds. The last one destroyed two of their volunteer-built horse barns and scorched the rest.
Mike Owens is the Port Alberni Fire Chief. He says the fire department is trying to figure out what—or who—caused the blaze.
“Investigators are reviewing the physical evidence as well as any surveillance cameras in the area in an effort to try and determine what exactly the cause was,” he told CTV News.
But as of now, there’s no suspect and no motive.
The iconic fair has been running since 1947. It is a much-loved community event that celebrates its 75th anniversary this year.
Fall Fair chairman Scott Green told the Alberni Valley News that the barns went up through community support thirty years ago. Countless hours and hands helped to build them, including his own. After they burned within hours, the community was on hand to help.
The property was cleaned up within days, and a number of business people started offering financial help before the news had even gotten out.
Chris Dods of Coastal Bridge & Construction brought in equipment. The See Group and Berry Trucking both donated containers and hauling.
“I’m really surprised,” Green told the Alberni Valley News. He’d thought the barns wouldn’t be rebuilt as they were too old to be insured.
While they may not be rebuilt again this year, next year is looking hopeful.
Great Central Timber Milling has donated lumber to rebuild the horse ring and repair the two barns that survived the fire.
Other groups and volunteers have approached the Fall Fair board to offer help.
The Fall Fair is hosting a night market fundraiser for July 22nd at the fairgrounds. They’ll use the money to rebuild.
“There’s going to be vendors, music and some food!” says Green
Do you want a booth at the night market? Call Carol Brown at 250-731-6994.
