There are a few things that are always consistent at the annual Saint John Dragon Boat Festival in support of St. Joseph’s Hospital Foundation; the enthusiastic volunteers, the friendly competition with organizations and companies, and the support from New Brunswick Southern Railway (NBSR).

On Saturday, August 27th, 2016, the train traveled between Harbour Station in Saint John, NB and Renforth Wharf in Rothesay three times during the day, allowing visitors to enjoy and partake in the festival experience. The train carries approximately 200 people each trip and raised funds for St. Joseph’s Hospital Foundation charging $10 for adults and $7 for children (return trip).

Aaron, Keating, NBSR Manager of Car Hire and Administration says, “The Dragon Boat race has been a great annual event on our calendar for the past 7 years.  We’re pleased to support the dedicated care that St. Joseph’s provides to so many in our community."

The Dragon Boat Festival is a fundraising project of St. Joseph’s Hospital Foundation, with the goal of raising money for the future purchase of equipment, research, and education to better the care of their patients. This year’s fundraising goals were for the “Little Things” essential to enhance the comfort and care of their patients including a fetal heart Doppler, radiolucent x-ray chair, and an eye tonometer. St. Joseph’s Hospital Foundation has raised $194,000 and counting from the Dragon Boat event.

Laurie Flood, executive director of St. Joseph’s hospital is thrilled with their partnership with NBSR. “The partnership is all encompassing. They provide an opportunity for individuals young and old to experience train travel. It really has become an important part of the celebration."

Through the contribution of New Brunswick Southern Railway, patrons could further lend their support to St. Joseph’s Hospital Foundation and enjoy transportation throughout the day.