Tofino residents are starting to come together to begin the healing process after five people died during a whale-watching accident this weekend.
Dozens of people from the small sea-side town attended a potluck dinner at the community hall Monday night.
Residents have been trying to cope with the loss of five British tourists after the Leviathan II they were on sank near Plover Reefs Sunday.
Several homes opened up their doors to some of the survivors.
READ MORE: A day of heartbreak and heroism in Tofino
The mayor asked media to stay outside the potluck to give people the opportunity to grieve.
Minister of State for Emergency Preparedness Naomi Yamamoto attended the event, Tweeting:
People at last night’s potluck told Global News members of the Ahousat First Nation got on stage and received a long, heartfelt standing ovation.
Many of them were the first to arrive on scene when the accident happened, helping to rescue people from the boat.
WATCH: An extended interview with fishermen Ken Lucas and Clarence Smith, who were first on the scene of the Tofino whale watching accident.
B.C. Premier Christy Clark spoke in Tofino Tuesday afternoon, praising the efforts of the First Nations. Clark says she will nominate the mayor of Tofino and the Chief of the Ahousaht First Nation for a citizen award for their quick actions.
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