SLDA Business Member Profiles

Established in 1985, The Whalers Restaurant and Gift Shop has been a staple for tourists, travelers, and locals for almost four decades. Located at the heart of Red Bay's historic site, The Whaler's Restaurant has played a significant role in the town's development alongside the UNESCO heritage site. Operating annually from mid-May to October 1st, this establishment caters to over 100 bus tours and welcomes thousands of visitors each season. Owned and managed by Clarus and Marilyn Bridle, with a yearly staff of up to 12 employees, The Whaler's Restaurant is a well-known business in the area.

Their locally-inspired menu features breakfast, light lunches, flavorful chowder, and more. Notably, they are renowned for their award-winning fish 'n chips, recognized as the best in Atlantic Canada by a popular magazine. Additionally, The Whalers boasts an extensive gift shop, offering souvenirs from the Red Bay and Labrador Straits region.

When visiting the famous interpretation center in the historic Basque town of Red Bay, take a short stroll across the courtyard to experience the warm hospitality, inviting ambiance, and delectable cuisine at The Whalers Restaurant.

(709) 920-2156 | manager@redbaywhalers.ca | http://www.redbaywhalers.ca/home/

Thomas Coastal Construction Inc. is a true family business with a professional staff and a friendly crew. Working both sides of the Quebec/Labrador border, they can meet all your construction needs.

Thomas Coastal Construction Inc. can take on any job big or small, from commercial complexes to residential spaces, they have left their mark across the region. With customer satisfaction being their top priority, they take pride in their workmanship and strive to exceed your expectations at every turn.

If you're looking for some quality renovations or you want to build your dream home, call Merlin, Kerry or Jimmy for a quote at 709- 987-1013.

From basements to baseboards, sheds to shingles and everything in between, connect with
Thomas Coastal Construction Inc.
709-987-1013
thomasconstruction3@hotmail.com

Agnes Pike, a successful entrepreneur and a trailblazer in community economic development in southern Labrador, is embarking on the next chapter of her life. Being an advocate and a fighter for community betterment and advancement, you may say she's hanging up her boxing gloves.

Born in L'Anse Au Diable with twelve siblings, Agnes Pike always strived for improvement, especially within herself. A young Agnes Cabot would walk and sometimes run from L'Anse Au Diable to the Catholic school in West St. Modeste, where she pursued her education as far as the times allowed in 1958.

At the age of 17, Agnes married Pat Pike and raised a family of five children over the next decade. During this period, she initiated a nursery in West St. Modeste with the support of a teacher Matthew Pike, establishing a voluntary nursery and preschool. With assistance from the government, Agnes, along with Laura Jackson and Stella Fowler, expanded this initiative to other communities in the region.

During this time, Ms. Pike began her extensive service to her community and Southern Labrador. She played key roles in organizations such as the Memorial Extension Service, the Southern Labrador Development Association (SLDA), the Zone Board (later the West St. Modeste council), and the International Grenfell Association (IGA), where she served for 21 years.

She also made significant contributions to the local fishing industry, serving as a manager and buyer for companies like H.B. Nickerson and Sons, Earle's Fisheries, and H.B. Dawe. Agnes supported her brother, Pat Cabot, in launching the Northern Fisheries in L'Anse au Loup, the first fresh fish buying establishment in Labrador. Prior to this, only dried and salted fish were traded. During her tenure at H.B. Dawe, Agnes also pioneered markets for capelin, another first for Labrador. Agnes and Pat Pike were strong advocates for what is now the Labrador Fishermen's Union Shrimp Company Ltd. (LFUSC).

Regarded as one of the province's most dedicated volunteers, Ms. Pike has been a vocal advocate on various issues, including health, education, municipal and regional development, always remaining a steadfast fighter and cherished friend to residents from L'Anse au Clair to Red Bay and beyond. In 1990, the Pike family established the Ocean View Resort in West St. Modeste. That same year, the motel and lounge opened, followed by cabins and a restaurant. The establishment provided services to travelers, tourists, salmon fishermen, and the general public, offering valuable employment opportunities after the decline of the cod fishery. In addition to her significant accomplishments in business and community service, Agnes Pike has been a council member in her hometown since 1977 and was elected mayor in 1986.

With over four decades of municipal service, Agnes has played a crucial role in supporting local businesses, enhancing major infrastructure, and advocating for development. As she prepares to sell her business in August of this year, and celebrates a milestone birthday, her energy and determination foreshadow more remarkable achievements ahead.

The Southern Labrador Development Association (SLDA) extends best wishes to Agnes for her future endeavors and expresses gratitude for decades of service.