Media Release
Wiarton, ON – On Saturday, April 20, 2024, the Wiarton Propeller Club’s 75th Anniversary Gala Dinner & Dance took off with a performance by Midnight Blue that had everyone on their feet. The event, held at the Wiarton Propeller Club, was a night to remember, filled with music, dance, and celebration.
The weekend started with a heartwarming gesture as Julianne Hull, President of the Wiarton Propeller Club, presented Jenny Bell, coach of the Bluewater Ballistix under 15 girls volleyball team, with a $1,000 team sponsorship grant for their upcoming provincials tournament in Ottawa on April 24-27, 2024.
Special guests included fourteen members of Captain Harold Miller’s family. Their presence was a heartfelt tribute as they attended the unveiling ceremony of his portrait, which will hang on the stage for years to come. Captain Harold Miller’s generous donation of the land to the Wiarton Propeller Club on March 13, 1969, remains a cornerstone of our history and community spirit. Seven guests from the Given family also attended and shared stories.
The Gala kicked off at 4:00 p.m. with a cocktail reception where guests mingled and shared memories of sailing. Chef Andy Mackey served a delicious Roast Beef Dinner with all the Fixin’s at 5:00 p.m., and volunteers from the Lions Club, Optimist Club, local girls volleyball team, and the Wiarton Propeller Club helped make the event a success.
At 6:30 p.m., Paul White’s theme story “BATTLING GEORGIAN BAY & OTHER FOES” captivated the audience with tales of sailing ships in the Wiarton area. A balloon archway provided a backdrop for families to capture commemorative photos.
Midnight Blue, with Special Guest Pete Myles, took the stage and had the crowd dancing all night long. Fiddler, Brooklyn Hewton, played while Marg Miller called a couple of square dances, adding to the fun-filled evening.
President Julianne Hull expressed her gratitude, saying, “An unforgettable evening at our 75th Gala! Chef Andy’s feast and Optimist Club’s pies were delightful. Thanks, Jackie and volunteers!”
For more information about the Wiarton Propeller Club Gala Dinner & Dance, please visit www.wiartonpropellerclub.ca or contact Julianne Hull at contact@wiartonpropellerclub.ca
About the Wiarton Propeller Club
Founded in 1949 by local sailors and their families, the Wiarton Propeller Club has a rich history of community engagement and support. Initially established to celebrate the return and departure of sailors with dinners, the club quickly became a hub of activity in Wiarton.
During times when the men were away at sea, the women took charge of fundraising for the community and the maintenance of the club’s building. Over the years, the building, initially a club room, was expanded to include a dance hall and underwent continuous renovations. The club also became a focal point for community groups and events, including the famous Wiarton Willie festivities.
The Wiarton Propeller Club aims to promote sports, recreation, healthcare support, community services, and charitable causes in the Town of South Bruce Peninsula. Additionally, the club raises funds for charitable organizations, fosters an appreciation for boating and sailing, provides social and recreational opportunities for seniors and youth, offers enjoyable facilities for members and guests, assists individuals with disabilities, and operates and supports youth programs that encourage personal development and community pride.
