The Grand Bahama Shipyard (GBS) has begun the labour portion of its commitment to help schools in west Grand Bahama.

Work completed this past weekend included painting the exterior of the Holmes Rock Primary School , the purchase and painting of picnic tables for children, gardening and a new sign for the school.

“What a blessed day it turned out to be. The weather skirted around the place and everyone was filled with so much joy and enthusiasm. Our apprentices and volunteers worked so diligently that more was accomplished than originally hoped for. Many thanks to all,” said Ed Pavey, director of Technical and Planning, who has been the group’s mentor for this event and has lead the apprentices with their coordination efforts.

Not finished yet, the apprentices are building bleachers for the playground and basketball courts, as well as working on new swing sets.

“It is imperative for our apprentices to understand the importance of giving back to their community,” said CEO and President of GBS, Carl Rotkirch.

“As part of the apprenticeship program at the shipyard, apprentices are required to assist with community service projects and we hope they learn to continue this practice in their own lives.”

Joining the apprentices and getting their hands dirty were Minister for Grand Bahama, Dr. Michael Darville; Chief Councilor for West Grand Bahama, Rosnewy Cooper; CEO and President of GBS, Carl Rotkirch and Vice President of GBS, Reuben Byrd, along with his wife Jacqueline Byrd and Mr. Ed Pavey’s wife, Cindy Pavey.

As part of its annual fishing tournament fundraisers, the shipyard has assisted schools and educational programs on the island for the last three years.

Last year, funds raised from the tournament were used to upgrade the playgrounds at Free Town and High Rock Primary schools as well as upgrade the schools’ education equipment and computer centres.

This year’s efforts will aid the West End schools in Grand Bahama as well as complete efforts already started at the Eight Mile Rock (EMR) track and sports field.

“At our first tournament, we raised just over $13,000, last year, we tripled that figure with $45,000 for the East End primary schools, and this year we have over $60,000 for improvements,” said Ed Pavey, GBS Tournament Director and Director of Technical and Planning.