CORAL HARBOUR - The Hamlet of Coral Harbour spared little expense for its Hamlet Day celebrations this past month, and the result was an extremely popular and successful event.

Elizabeth Ningeongan couldn't believe her family's luck in winning a raffle for a brandnew ATV during Hamlet Day celebrations in Coral Harbour this past month. - photo courtesy of Rob Hedley

The celebrations were held during a three-day period, with municipal employees being allowed to join the festivities each afternoon.

The event featured numerous games and fun-filled activities, and culminated with a giant raffle draw.

Senior administrative officer Rob Hedley said the hamlet decided to purchase a new ATV as a retirement gift for longtime employee Davidee Natakok, who retired after more than 30 years of service with the hamlet.

He said the recreation committee then came up with the idea of buying another ATV, and offering it as a prize in the giant raffle draw.

The raffle tickets sold for $10 each or three for $25.

"We had a really large turnout for most of the events this year, which was great to see," said Hedley.

"We decided to get the ATV for Davidee (Natakok) not only because of his years of service with the hamlet, but because he was such an excellent employee during that time.

"Our rec co-ordinator, Casey Paniyuk, and the recreation committee did a splendid job organizing and running this year's events.

"We had a bit of trouble getting enough volunteers, but that's the same story everywhere right now."

Coral has been flexing some financial muscle the past year in an effort to offer more attractions and activities for local residents.

The hamlet increased spending on a number of activities this past year, and launched a big money senior men's hockey tournament it hopes will grow to be one of the biggest in Nunavut.

"The way we look at it, we're not in any type of deficit recovery or anything like that, so now's the time to do what we can so everyone can really enjoy themselves a few times a year, courtesy of the hamlet," said Hedley.

"Even though we're a relatively small community, the people have a real desire to see big events being held here.

"As long as the budget allows it, and we spend within our limits, it's a real pleasure to do these things.

"And we've been supported in our efforts by Calm Air, Kivalliq Air, the Northern store and our Co-op."