YARMOUTH - The annual dumping day event at the Yarmouth Lighthouse is scheduled for the first day of the lobster season, starting at 5 a.m.
Dumping day refers to the start of the LFA 33/34 season when lobster fishermen “dump” their traps.
The community event has become a popular way of showing support to the fishing industry, with participants bringing their flashlights to the lighthouse on the morning of dumping day. As the long parade of boats, loaded heavily with traps, depart Yarmouth Harbour, people wave their lights in support. Many of the captains toot their horns in return.
Hot drinks and muffins will be available for a donation to the Friends of the Yarmouth Light.
Memberships to the Friends of the Yarmouth Lighthouse society and items from the gift shop will be available on a cash purchase basis.
A blessing of the fleet will be delivered on VHS radio channel 68 by Reverend Bill Newell and the broadcast is also heard over Y95 CJLS radio. Depending on the weather, part of the event may be visible on a live webcam at www.novascotiawebcams.com
It will take at least half an hour for the Yarmouth Harbour lobster fishing fleet (approximately 115) to leave for the fishing grounds at 6 a.m.
The Nov. 27 start of the season has been postponed due to forecasted winds. The send off at Cape Forchue will coincide with the day the season starts on.