Williams Lake, B.C. – There’s a special party planned for Williams Lake this Saturday and the entire community is invited.

West Fraser is celebrating its 60th anniversary with activities penciled in for between noon and 4pm at the Cariboo Memorial Complex.

“We’ve got a complimentary barbecue and some entertainment,” says Dave Walgren, general manager of West Fraser’s plywood plant. “We’ve also got free swimming and skating and some displays that shows people what we do here in town.”

He says the company started in Quesnel back in 1955 before expanding to Williams Lake two years later.

“We’re pretty proud of the fact that we’ve been around that period of time. It’s a time to celebrate with the community, not just our employees.”

Between its sawmill and plywood plant, he estimates they employ about 600 people in town – a number not lost on Williams Lake Mayor Walt Cobb.

“They’ve been a long time employer and a great community booster,” he says. “I congratulate them on 60 years and we’re looking forward to another 60 years.”

Walgren says the company is planning more celebrations in different communities including Quesnel, from 1-5pm September 26, at West Fraser Timber Park.