The Exploration Place would like to engineer a solution to a problem they have been tracking.
The Little Prince needs some royal attendants so there can be public attendance. The small locomotive might look like a character out of The Little Engine That Could, but it is indeed a very real steam train and needs equally real drivers.
This summer's schedule for The Little Prince is so far set at a part-time rate because there are too few licensed engineers for this unique vehicle. It is one of the most popular attractions in the city, each summer.
Families, tourists, teenagers, seniors, it doesn't matter who you're talking about, going for a ride around Lheidli T'enneh Memorial Park is enjoyed by all walks of life. If more engineers could be sourced, more hours of operation could be scheduled.
"It's a lot of fun," said John Calogheros, facilities manager at Exploration Place and one of only three certified drivers for The Little Prince.
"You get to drive a 1912 steam train. Do you know who can say they have a license like that? Only me, Frank (Van Der Lans) and Nick (Chapman). It's a pretty exclusive group."
Calogheros would like to add at least two and maybe four more who can commit to a shift rotation up in the vintage driver's seat. The job favours those who are friendly with the public and being a good ambassador of local history.
The training involves a one-day class, some followup course work, the standard criminal record check for those working with the public, a couple of skill reviews (partly written, partly practical), and then 160 hours of riding along with a certified driver.
The training is free of charge for those who can volunteer the time to get the certification but the work after that is paid by the hour.
Anyone wanting information about getting Little Prince certified is asked to contact Calogheros by email at john.calogheros@theexplorationplace.com or call The Exploration Place at 250-562-1612.
The train is scheduled to run full-time in June as the summer gets rolling, then The Little Prince will operate on weekends and holidays unless more drivers can allow for more openings.
The Exploration Place is also offering all of last year's Little Prince membership holders another summer of riding the rails for no additional charge.
The wildfire conditions of 2018 caused the train to be closed more than expected so those pass-holders can have their free access renewed for this coming season. Contact operations and marketing manager Lisa Connor (lisa.connor@theexplorationplace.com) for that free renewal.
Those wishing to buy rides in bulk can purchase this year's punch-card for train trips around the park.
The Little Prince will be free of charge for all on Canada Day and National Aboriginal Day.
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