Freighters
I live on West Gardner Road in Saltair. Today, the sea lions had a meeting about the freighters anchoring in Stuart Channel, near the entrance to Ladysmith Harbour.
They took a vote: “All those in favour of getting rid of the freighters, raise your right flipper.” The motion passed unanimously! — Allen M. Wood
LMS Eviction Notice!
I want to express appreciation for your writing about the current crisis surrounding the future of the Ladysmith Maritime Society Facility. Your writing is concise and objective. It accurately covers the situation with an unbiased tone. Thank you.
I began to consider a move to Vancouver Island in the years preceding Expo 86. At that Time, there were exciting plans to build a working wooden boat shipyard here in Ladysmith, in conjunction with a working steam railway museum. I wanted to be part of That, and I moved to the area from the mainland interior. Those grand plans never came to fruition. At that time, the facility, now known as LMS, was a rickety collection of rotting and broken docks run by a “Good Ol’ Boy” club. It was a dangerous mess, both in situation and politically.
LMS is now a facility considered by many, near and far, as the best public/transient marina north of Seattle. Ladysmith is nothing without its waterfront, and LMS is the jewel in that crown. In several ways, this marina is a catalyst that helps bond the entire community. This facility is the result of uncounted thousands hours of volunteer labour and love and commitment
by its members. We are horribly betrayed by those whose political agenda is clearly not to serve the local citizens nor consider their will. But, we will not go away.
- Fred Bailey, bc-bog-trotter.comGun Barrel Canyon Farms
Thank you so much, Marina, for the wonderful article of our farm in April’s addition. Loved Kerith Waddington’s interpretation and her wonderful writing style. She also made us feel at home and appreciated for what we do. Frankly, us farmers are having a hard time currently; we feel stuck between a rock and hard place. We didn’t tell our friends of the article and kept quiet about it.
Well, as soon as the magazine came out in print and into people’s mailboxes, we had numerous messages and calls from friends. Turns out your magazine is a special local “must have.” It is read from front to back. We were even approached in the parking lot of the grocery store. Imagine that! Thank you again, means the world to us and our farm.
- Deb Pawlyshynm, Gun Barrel Canyon FarmsLions Easter Egg Hunt
On Saturday April 8, the Ladysmith Lions Club held their annual Easter Egg Hunt. The popular event had been in hiatus for three years. Despite the soggy weather, the children were not discouraged and, with their family in tow, managed to collect all the mini chocolate eggs in record time.
The Ladysmith Lions would like to thank the families for braving the weather and attending the event. The Lions would also like to thank Save-OnFoods for donating the chocolate eggs. Also, a big shout out to the Ladysmith Fire Rescue Department for safely delivering the Easter Bunny, and to the Girl Guides and Path fi nders, and the Ladysmith Squadron #257 Cadets for assisting the Lions and the Easter Bunny.
See you next year!
— Allen McDermid, Ladysmith Lions
Letters to the editor on community topics and concerns are welcome. Opinions expressed here do not necessarily represent those of TAKE 5 and its affiliates. Please send letters to editor@ take5.ca or via Messenger on Facebook.
Public Meeting on future of Ladysmith Community Marina
Life on the water can be challenging, and these are proving to be challenging times for the Ladysmith Maritime Society. Recent actions by Coast Salish Development Corp and the Town of Ladysmith Municipal Council are putting the continuation of the Ladysmith Community Marina operations at risk with the LCM given a notice to vacate and remove all marina assets by the end of December 2023.
The public is invited to learn more about the issues at a Town Hall meeting on May 3 at the Ladysmith’s Agricultural Hall from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Many residents are stepping forward in support of an information and awareness campaign. Programs are being introduced at the grassroots level to promote Ladysmith Maritime Society’s continuing service to the community. Support groups are forming on Facebook and social media, with the “Friends of the Ladysmith Community Marina” among the most popular.
LMS is a non-profit society that has operated the Ladysmith Community Marina for nearly four decades. Dur-
ing those years, the marina has grown signi ficantly in size, popularity and visitor numbers. It has also amassed an impressive set of assets on Ladysmith’s waterfront. It boasts moorage for local boaters, visitors and live-aboards, a Welcome Centre, maritime training and learning programs, eco-sustainability activities and educational experiences. They host seasonal community celebrations, events and festivals and donate space to non-profits, including the local dragon-boat community and a disabled sailing program.
“We wish to work with the Stz’uminus First Nation transitioning from one waterfront stewardship body — Town of Ladysmith — to another. With this, we want to be the catalyst and partner in modern economic reconciliation while maintaining management of the Community Marina for the benefit of the
people,” says Kelly Daniels, LMS president.
“There are multiple dynamics in play right now. Our standing contract for management originally ran to 2029, but we’ve now received notice from the Town of Ladysmith in which they claim that they want us to vacate by the end of the year. Town Council released a statement that only partially tells the story of transition discussions to this point. We’re planning a public forum to hear what the community wants and to guide all parties in the best way forward,” Daniels says. “Partnership talks are vital to defi ne the future of Ladysmith’s waterfront. We have the experience and positive track record to continue the management of the Community Marina, and we wish to do this in collaboration with Stz’uminus leadership.”
The Town Hall to inform Ladysmith
and regional communities, stakeholders, user groups and promote informationsharing between all parties is an open house event. Admission is free. More information to follow on Facebook and lmsmarina.ca.
New equipment at FJCC
Ladysmith Parks, Recreation and Culture is “pumped” with the new upgraded strength training machines in the Frank Jameson Community Centre Fitness Centre.
Twelve new machines were recently installed, replacing the older machines that had reached the end of their lifespan.
“The new ergonomic machines are a big improvement, allowing for more individual adjustments and have a safer, more fluid motion,” says Tiffany Chapman, programmer of Health and Wellness for Ladysmith Parks, Recreation and Culture in charge of the change over. She started researching about two years ago to come up with the best fit for the general public that combined quality and came within the right price range.
The old machines were traded in to offset the price of $70,000. “A good deal compared to where we are in the cost of things these days,” says Chapman.
An exciting addition is a dip/chin-up assist machine, and a combined lat pull down and row machine, says Chapman, meaning patrons won’t have to wait, as they will have several options.
“We got a whole new set of weight plates, which has been awesome, because anybody that’s been a patron of this facility for a while knows that our weight plates were very old. And through COVID, with all that heavy cleaning, they started to get rusted. They defi nitely needed to be replaced.”
Response has been good, but there are learning curves.
“Some people were used to the old equipment, but we can support any of those little changes. Most people are quite grateful to have new equipment that’s up to date and isn’t going to break down as regularly.” She laughs.
“We defi nitely would’ve liked to get a couple more items, like our barbells replaced, but unfortunately, we maxed out with the machine, so we’ll have to do that in another opportunity.”
Also waiting for replacement some-
time in the future are the cardio machines. Lifespan for fitness equipment averages about 15 years says Chapman.
In 2022, the Fitness Centre had 22,992 total visits.
Chamber signs MOU over Ladysmith Railway Station
If the Ladysmith Chamber of Commerce has its way, the Ladysmith Railway Station could be their new home next year.
The Chamber announced at their AGM that they had recently signed a one-year Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Island Corridor Foundation.
“We will be meeting with contractors to see what we need to do to get it functional and renovated for our purpose and to see if it is feasible,” says Millie Stirling, Ladysmith Chamber of Commerce executive director.
“It’s just such a great opportunity. It ticks so many boxes.” Stirling says there is a lot of support for the project. “It’s in the very preliminary stage right now,” cautions Stirling, but she admits to being excited about the prospect of a new home for the Visitor Centre operated by
the Chamber.
“The Chamber has been searching unsuccessfully for space for several years now, so it’s timely as our lease runs out in 2024.”
Through the years, several people have put a lot of effort into preserving Ladysmith’s Railway Station. Just a few months ago, Bill Drysdale and Chuck Forrest received a Ladysmith Heritage Award for their work through the years in keeping the vandals at bay.
Also instrumental in saving the longvacant railway station is the Ladysmith & District Historical Society, which held work parties, removed graffiti, painted the interior, fi xed the windows and replaced the entrance door. When the LDHS held an MOU with the IRF, a new roof was installed and public meetings were held to explore community use for the space. A visitor centre, a mini museum, bike rentals and a coffeeshop were some of the uses identi fied.
Quentin Goodbody, president of the LDHS, congratulates the Chamber and looks forward to assisting in the project.
“The Historical Society is pleased to see the Chamber of Commerce in a
MOU with the ICF regarding the Heritage E&N Railway Station and looks forward to the prospect of the building serving an important community function again in the near future,” he says.
“The LDHS have done a great job getting it to where it’s at. It needs to have something done with so it doesn’t go like that again,” says Stirling.
“I’m pretty con fident we’re gonna be able to put this together. There’s a lot of support,” says Stirling.
Libraries get a boost
the Ministry of Municipal A ffairs recently announced a onetime $45-million funding injection for all 71 BC public libraries and organizations that deliver library services.
Public library users will benefit from modernized technology, enhanced programs and services, and better access to information through $45 million in provincial funding.
David Carson of Vancouver Island Regional Library says a signi ficant component of the $45 million Enhancement Grant did not go directly to public library systems and was awarded directly to library partners for their work on initiatives like electronic content licensing. “VIRL will benefit from many of these initiatives. The announced funding represents a $300,000 increase for VIRL in 2023 relative to 2022,” he says.
“Looking ahead, we will begin to strategize on how best to use these additional funds to contend with rising costs, and to benefit our patrons, communities and staff. It is too soon to speculate on how these funds may be deployed at the branch level.”
Carson says that it is also too early to discuss the possibility of a new branch opening in Cedar, an area that is projected to see signi ficant development and growth in the years ahead.
“Libraries benefit communities in so many ways, and we would look forward to discussions with local government part-
ners pending renewal of our Facilities Master Plan, later this year,” says Carson.
There are 250 library service locations provincewide.
Outrageous a big hit
A sold-out audience enthusiastically embraced the Outrageous Evening return.
The Ladysmith Downtown Business Association and the Ladysmith Chamber of Commerce at the Aggie Hall on April 15 co-hosted the lip-sync fundraiser.
Braiden Stevenson won the competition, Wild Poppy Bistro and Old Town Bakery took second, and Rod Alsop was third.
“We just wanted to do a fun event for the Community,” explained Millie Stirling, Chamber Executive Director. Cheri Mactier and John Surtees also attended. They were part of the original group that started the Outrageous Evenings 10 years ago.
“Brianne Mactier and Tylor Nelson had the vision for this event and did a brilliant job carrying it out,“ said Stirling.
Ladysmith Lions Sunflower Growing Contest
Ladysmith Lions 2nd Annual Mammoth Sun flower Growing Contest is back.
This free contest is open to children 4 to 7 and 8 to 12 years of age. The Lions encourage children to get involved in the environment to get a better understanding of what is involved in growing plants.
Contest registration begins on Saturday May 13th at Trans-
fer Beach at 11:30 till 2PM. Those registered will receive free Mammoth Sun flower seeds, donated by West Coast Seeds, as well as growing instructions.
Prizes will be awarded for the two age groups for the tallest plant, the widest and other categories. The Mammoth Sun flower Growing Contest judging will be done in October. The date is yet to be determined.
Festival grants
New Democrat MLA for Nanaimo-North Cowichan Doug Routley is announcing recipients of provincial funding to help make sure local fairs, festivals and other events continue throughout 2023 and 2024.
“As we emerge from the pandemic, our local festivals, fairs and events are key parts of thriving communities,” says Routley. “This is why our government is supporting events locally and throughout BC, which support our economy and build connection.”
In the Cowichan Valley, 17 events are receiving a total of almost $723,400 in funding, including $9400 for the Ladysmith Festival of Lights.
This investment into local events is part of the $30 million in one-time grants the province pledged for fairs, festivals and events to continue the recovery of a vibrant and strong tourism industry and support the arts industry in BC.
This builds upon the success of the BC Fairs, Festivals and Events Program funding in 2021, which provided one-time grants for events to safely return after facing the COVID-19 pandemic. These grants for 2023 will support a range of events in locations all over BC and associated event costs.
Water restrictions begin
Once again on May 1, water systems across the Cowichan Valley Regional District (CVRD) will collectively implement Stage 1 water restrictions in an effort to conserve water use on residential properties and ensure aquifers and lakes can withstand the increasingly dry summers.
“Last year, we formally introduced Stage 4 restrictions in yet another year of record low precipitation,” says Todd Etherington, manager of Utility Operations for the CVRD. “Based on feedback from residents and the business community, and the likelihood of needing to implement this heightened stage of restrictions again this summer, we’ve made several changes to
Stage 4 for 2023.”
Stage 4 prohibits all outdoor uses of potable water, with the exception of two-hour daily maximums for hand-watering and micro-drip irrigation of vegetable gardens and fruit trees, and one-hour daily limits for ornamental trees, shrubs and flower gardens. To prevent watering during the heat of the day and reduce peak demand, water times in all stages are before 9 a.m. or after 7 p.m. on your designated watering day as per the 2023 Water Use Restrictions table.
As in 2022, movement between water restriction stages in the Cowichan region will happen in sync with the provincial drought levels as determined by the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy.
“We’re incredibly fortunate in our region to have a high degree of collaboration between our local and regional governments, First Nations and improvement districts, allowing for a highly coordinated and effective approach to our summer water scarcity issues,” says Aaron Stone, chair of the CVRD. “Living a ‘new normal’ means using only as much water as we need and getting better at storing water so we have enough to support our ecosystems and economy.”
Water restrictions apply to all CVRD water systems.
Residents of other improvement districts and private water systems in the region are encouraged to follow regional water restrictions. Visit newnormalcowichan.ca to learn more about the updated stages of water use restrictions.
Tempting Providence
The Mercury Players present Tempting Providence at the Cedar Community Hall on May 5 at 7 pm and May 7 at 2pm.
This inventive comedy-drama will transport you back to a time when people struggled, even harder than today, to survive. You will meet the hard-working people of Daniel’s Harbour, an outport with a vast roadless community, whom Nurse Bennett must serve. Tempting Providence explores Bennett’s steely British resolve but also humour and compassion for all those Newfoundlanders she comes to know and care for. At the core of the play is the love story between her and her pragmatic husband, Angus. Purchase your tickets at Eventbrite.ca
Concert at Cedar Hall
Yellow Point Singers are presenting their Spring Concert “Blue Skies” on May 14, at 2 p.m. at Cedar Community Hall. Arrangements range from vocal jazz to classical and include songs by Mozart, Gordon Lightfoot, Stan Rogers, Oscar, local composers/arrangers and more. Tickets are $15 (12 and under free) at the door and from choir members. A great Mother’s Day afternoon spring treat!
Crimson Coast Dance Classic Tap with Live Jazz at the Port
Step in to On Foot, playing at the Port Theatre on May 20, at 7:30 pm. The show has dancers and musicians that create live improvisations, captivating rhythms and memorable melodies in collaboration with two of Vancouver Island’s best musicians, Ken Lister and Hans Verhoeven. Musical direction by Dan Reynolds (Vancouver). Tap artists — Danny Nielsen, Laura Donaldson, Elise McGrenera, Johnathan Morin, Veronica Simpson weave cool jazz numbers with the heat of their tapping feet.
Traditionally in a concert setting, tap dance is done to jazz music with each dancer calling a jazz standard and improvising to it. With a desire to expand past the con fi nements of working to jazz standards, Danny Nielsen and Noah Franche-Nolan collaborated to create original music and new takes on old standards. Tickets available at porttheatre.com. crimsoncoastdance.com.
Discovery Series at the Port
As David Warburton, executive director of the Port Theatre Society, states, “the Discovery Series is a journey to discover regional emerging artists from across Vancouver Island and the nearby Gulf Islands. This initiative began over the pandemic and eventually evolved into Discovery, which now celebrates its second season.”
The Series responds to a rising trend where artists seeking to advance their careers are often incentivized to leave Vancouver Island, especially from the smaller municipalities and towns, for the larger civic urban centres, when these opportunities for growth should also exist at home. Discovery provides opportunities for artists to make and perform their work in the place in which they are from and to ensure Nanaimo and the Central Vancouver Island region remains a viable and vibrant hub for the arts, according to Warburton.
Next up in the Discovery Series: Joshua and Frankie, May 31, at 7:30 p.m. Steeped in a diverse blend of artistic in fluences — from classic jazz to R&B to Broadway showtunes — Vancouver Island-based musician Joshua Holloway is creating a new sound for a new era. Vancouver Island-based indie singer-songwriter Frankie Bouchier from Sydney, Australia, weaves evocative stories with sound.
Together Josh and Frankie are building an exciting new work to premiere on the Port Theatre stage.
Tickets are available at the porttheatre.com.
The 23rd annual Rotary Garden Tour ready to blossom
BY KERITH WADDINGTON
When a plant produces volunteers in Geoff Moggridge’s garden, but it isn’t as spectacular as he would like, he takes them on a one-way trip to the mailbox — which isn’t as bad as being taken to the train station (for Yellowstone enthusiasts), but still.
Indeed, this Ladysmith resident and self-taught gardening enthusiast is selective about what makes the cut and what doesn’t in the botanical bounty that is his backyard. And this is one of the reasons his garden was chosen to be part of this year’s 23rd Annual Rotary Garden Tour in Ladysmith. The sheer array of flora to be found on his property at the
south end of town is head-spinning.
There are perennials, bulbs, grasses, flowering shrubs, evergreens and Japanese maples. They are kept company with trilliums, hellebores, Siberian iris, oriental and Asiatic lilies, chamaecyparis, cryptomeria, cedrus, rose of Sharon, hostas, perennial hibiscus, anemones, cacti, agave and much more.
It doesn’t end there. A water feature, courtyard, selective pieces of garden art and a large-model working train track adorned with — you guessed it — a train station provide multiple points of interest.
Moggridge admits that his garden, which he has been working on since relocating to Ladysmith three years ago, is a labour of love. “I don’t spend much
time sitting in the courtyard.” He laughs. “Pulling weeds is a full-time job.”
Asked why he incorporated a train track into his landscaping, Moggridge says he always wanted one as a child. That and the size of his yard in Ladysmith suddenly made it possible. He looks forward to adding “houses, vehicles and people” to the station scene in years to come.
And what is Moggridge hoping people take away with them after a visit to his garden?
“A recognition that it’s not just flowers but foliage textures and colours that provide ongoing interest and beauty throughout the year,” he says. “And, of course, that creativity and a sense of whimsy make your garden your own”.
There are a total of eight gardens on this year’s garden tour, according to Mary Mulrooney. Both long-time Rotarians and founding members of the event, which started in 1998, Mary and her husband, John, stress that it is one of the largest annual fundraisers for Rotary, which supports projects both locally and internationally.
It isn’t unusual for the tour to see upwards of 250 visitors during their oneday event, says Mulrooney.
In the past, tour-goers were treated to everything from small pocket gardens
Geoff Moggridge’s Garden is a part of this year’s Rotary Garden Tour.
(left)Tour organizer Mary Mulrooney with Geoff Moggridge.
on city lots to sprawling waterfront properties that encompass both sun-loving and shade plants. “It’s a day out for a lot of people, particularly if the weather is nice,” says Mulrooney. “Most of our visitors are gardeners themselves, and they enjoy seeing others’ ideas and being inspired.”
A visiting artist will be present at most of the stops this year, and there will be at least one Master Gardener on hand to answer people’s questions.
The self-guided tour runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on May 28. Tickets are $20 (advance) from any Rotarian or from Nancy’s or Salamander Books in Ladysmith. Otherwise, cost is $25 (day of) with tickets on sale at a table in the upper parking lot of Country Grocer (the 49th Parallel) in Ladysmith, starting at 9 a.m.
There is also a big ra ffle associated with the event. Watch for Rotarians selling tickets in the weeks ahead. And be sure to mark your calendars!
Ladysmith Saltair Garden Club plant sale
BY APRIL JOHNSTON
The calendar and meteorologists tell us the arrival of spring occurred on March 20. As I am writing this it still doesn’t feel completely like spring. Although the daffodils, magnolias, hyacinths and crocuses have just gone for it. Bumble, honey and mason bees too have braved the elements in search of pollen and nectar. And just like spring is inevitable, so is the annual Ladysmith Saltair Garden Club Plant Sale.
On Saturday, May 13, the plant sale will be taking over the Aggie Hall in Ladysmith. LS Garden Club volunteers will have set up.
Are you pining for a peony, phlox or primula? Or maybe you’re seeking a spirea, have your eye on an iris or tossing about for the right tomato! The offerings at this sale are bound to tempt you. The doors open at 9 a.m., and the sale continues until sellout.
Popular and favourites are the posey baskets created by club members especially for Mother’s Day gifting.
Other areas of interest are the raffle table with delightful and whimsical garden-related creations and a sales table of gently used gardening equipment and books.
The Cowichan Valley Master Gardeners will be at an information table to help you if you come prepared with a picture on
your phone, or if you bring a bit of a branch or leaf exhibiting your particular issue. Interaction at this type of event always fosters good will and connects kindred-spirited folks!
The Club’s 75 members come from Chemainus to Cedar. Started in 1949, the club has changed with the times and has a Facebook group site, “Ladysmith/Saltair Gardening Club”. It meets the third Thursday of each month, September through June, at the Ladymith Eagles Hall at 6:30 p.m. with guest speakers. Karlin Creed will be speaking on the healing powers of gardening at the May 18 meeting. Drop-in guests pay $5.
The plant sale, on the other hand, is free admission! Just be prepared to load up with quality additions for your garden.
Horticulturists
BY MICHAEL ABDELMESSEH
Spring is the season of new beginnings, and for gardeners, it is the time to get back to work in the garden. One of the essential tasks for any gardener is a spring garden cleanup. Properly cleaning up your garden in the spring is crucial for the health and beauty of your garden throughout the growing season.
If you don’t have the time, ability or desire to handle garden cleanup and maintenance on your own, hiring a trained, certified landscape horticulturist can be a smart choice. They have the expertise and experience to assess the overall health of your garden and provide customized solutions. They can also identify any issues that may not be visible to the untrained eye, such as pest infestations or nutrient deficiencies in the soil. Moreover, a professional can also help you plan for the longterm health and beauty of your garden. They can provide guid-
ance on plant selection, garden design and ongoing maintenance to ensure that your garden thrives year after year. By enlisting the help of a professional Red Seal Endorsed Landscape Horticulturist, you can give your garden the care and attention it needs to reach its full potential and ensure that your garden not only looks beautiful but is also sustainable and environmentally responsible. A well-maintained garden can signi ficantly increase the curb appeal of your home, making it more attractive to potential buyers and adding to its overall value.
For more about Certified Red Seal Landscape Horticulturists visit: red-seal.ca/eng/trades/l.1ndsc.1p.2h.4rt.3c.5lt.5r.3st. shtml.
Michael Abdelmesseh is the Red Seal Endorsed Landscape Horticulturist (RSE) founder of Into the Garden Inc., a familyowned and operated landscaping and pond services business beautifying lawns, gardens and ponds in the Cowichan Valley (www.intothegarden.ca; 250-466-9339; info@intothegarden.
The value of community gardens
BY FRAN BAFARO MASTER GARDENER
Food is a basic human need and is essential for all people. Access to healthy, affordable food can be a challenge for many. The Town of Ladysmith is fortunate that two organizations, the Ladysmith Community Gardens and Kiwi Cove Community Garden, have goals and resources to help address local food security issues.
On the corner of Second Avenue and High Street sits the Ladysmith Community Gardens (LCG). Built on town property and established in 2011, it is a beautiful space created for people who desire to grow food but lack their own natural space in an urban environment.
Twenty-seven raised garden beds, a shed, a gazebo and a pergola, along with a picnic table and benches, create the landscape of the gardens. Fruit trees, several di fferent berry bushes, fruitbearing vines and herb garden fill the corner lot. The garden beds are tended by gardeners from 24 families and the community non-profit organizations: Born Healthy; Ladysmith Family and Friends Society (LaFF); and Community Link. The gardeners pay, manage and
maintain their own beds. Depending on seasonal growing conditions, gardeners can grow and harvest a considerable amount of produce for their families and organizations.
During the growing season, the LCG is frequented by people of all ages. They come to check out what’s growing, talk to the gardeners, have a picnic lunch and children play in the sand pile. It has become a genuine community garden space for all.
The LCG agrees to keep up the garden to park standards, and in return, the Town of Ladysmith provides the space, soil, water and maintenance of the property. Garden beds are regularly renovated and repaired with lumber donated by Saw Mill Direct.
A waiting list for garden beds and a desire to meet the needs of town residents has spurred the LCG’s volunteer board to look towards future expansion for a second community gardens space.
Kiwi Cove Community Garden was established in 2006 on a plot of donated land on Kiwi Cove Lodge property. Over the years, the garden bed has grown and is currently 1,280 square feet in size. The garden produces food for the growing community of Ladysmith with the philosophy “to grow as much useful food as possible, for as many people as possible, and do it responsibly,” using sustainable gardening practices.
In the 2021 and 2022 gardening seasons, approximately 4000 pounds of produce were grown and harvested each year. They grow “virtually everything” and “yields vary from year to year.” All of it goes to the Ladysmith Food Bank.
The garden is maintained by volunteers. Over the years, there have been as few as four volunteers and as many as 15
in a season. Volunteers are a vital resource to the success of the garden, and more are always welcome.
The addition of supplies donated yearly by Dinter’s Nursery and West Coast Seeds help keep the vegetable plants growing. Over the last several years, donations from local charitable organizations help alleviate major expenses.
Future plans for the Kiwi Cove Community garden include developing the gardens as a community learning resource that teaches gardening skills while continually addressing food security issues.
Food security is a problem with no easy solution. One way to address it is with food production. The community of Ladysmith is fortunate to have two local organizations supported by dedicated volunteers and generous donors tackling it. They grow food in two distinctly different community gardens with the same overall goal of providing healthy food for citizens in the Town of Ladysmith.
Certi fied master gardeners are volunteers who provide education to home gardeners using current, science-based horticultural knowledge that exempli fies environmentally-responsible practices and stewardship.
Certified Vancouver Island master gardeners are volunteers who provide education to the home gardener using current, science-based horticultural knowledge that exemplifies environmentally responsible practices and stewardship.
Ladysmith Community Gardens
RDN Area A Cedar, South Wellington, Cassidy & Yellow Point Hospital Board
As director, I sit on the board for the Nanaimo Regional Hospital District (NRHD). The NRHD provides capital funding to Island Health for local health facilities and generally pays 40 per cent of capital costs. Although only RDN communities contribute fi nancially to the NRHD, Nanaimo Regional General Hospital is a tertiary hospital that provides specialized services to all communities north of the Malahat.
The RDN has one of the fastest growing and oldest populations in BC. Beyond the RDN, the population and complexity of medical needs across the entire central and north island is growing. Our aging facilities and the growing and aging population put pressures on our health care system that undermine the standard of care. Further, some cardiac and cancer care services are not available north of the Malahat. This means patients who have had heart attacks or cancer have trouble getting the care they need when they need it. Patients and families need to travel to Victoria for some treatments.
There is also a signi ficant shortage of long-term care beds in the region and long waitlists leading to seniors being hospitalized instead of receiving more appropriate care in facilities dedicated to their needs. The lack of long-term care beds increases the pressure on
families who fi nd themselves caring for their children and their parents at the same time.
Recognizing the health care needs of this community, the NRHD committed to moving forward five key health care projects: a new patient tower, a cardiac catheterization lab, a high acuity unit, a cancer centre and a new long-term care home. Gratefully, the BC government approved a 12-bed high acuity unit to support the new intensive care unit currently being built at Nanaimo Regional General Hospital. The cancer centre is in the planning phase, but provincial funding has not yet been secured. Working to achieve funding for these important projects is a primary goal of the current RDN Board, but we will need the community and the province to get behind these projects to make them a reality.
Financial Plan
The fi nal general services fi nancial plan is as follows: The Area A tax increase is seven per cent, which will be $48 for the average priced home. Among the electoral areas, Area A has the second lowest increase. Further, Area A has one of the lowest tax rates among all electoral areas — only higher than two other areas. This is because we have very few services and amenities out here. If you want more services and amenities, you’ll pay more taxes. If you live in an area with additional services (e.g., sewer), then you will pay more taxes for that service. Also, this does not include taxes for the hospital,
schools, RCMP, improvement districts and so on.
Parks and Trails
The Area A Parks, Recreation and Culture Commission is working towards two park locations. The intent is for a tot park in Cedar and a playground in Cassidy. Finding a suitable property for the Cassidy playground is proving di fficult but remains a priority. Neither are approved yet.
I also await the report on the feasibility and cost estimates of the Morden Colliery Regional Trail expected in May. As this trail is a regional trail, the costs will be shared by the whole region and based largely on population.
As always, I would love to hear your thoughts; my contact information is 250-268-7359 or jessica.stanley@rdn. bc.ca.
CVRD Area H North Oyster/ Diamond
I would like to express my gratitude, and the gratitude of our community by recognizing all volunteers that step up and serve Area H each year. It is a long list, and I know I’m sure to miss somebody or some group. Please let me know so I can include you next time. I hope you will take a minute to read their names. And, if you recognize a name, reach out and say thanks. AND, all groups are looking for membership — let me know if you are interested and I’ll connect you.
Alternate Director: Barry Marcotte
North Oyster Volunteer Fire Department (18):
Brodie Abma, Justin Dault (Lieutenant), Sandy David, Trevor Fritzel, Nadine Johnson Beaudoin, Tony Marcotte (Deputy Chief), Jared Marshall, Bruce McKenzie (Captain), Brian Mowbray, Nigel Ramer, Florian Schulz (Fire Chief), Andrew Scruton, Colby Sedola, Isabel Smith, Benjamin Soer (Lieutenant), Fiona Steeves (Lieutenant), Ron Strazza, Stephen Wisely (Captain) Advisory Planning Commission (6): Mike Fall (Chair), Chris Gerrand (Vice Chair), Alison Heikes, John Ed-
wards, Doug Hoare, Ione Brown Parks Advisory Commission (6): Ross Shepherd (Chair), Royan Viggers (Secretary), Brian Brown, Valerie Bresnahan, Joanne Spilsbury, Roger Giffen Area H Representative to Ladysmith Parks, Recreation and Culture Advisory Committee:
Pamela Walker
Yellow Point Trail Steering Committee: Yellow Point Ecological Society, Nikki Toxopeus and Pamela Walker, Ministry of Transportation, Operations Manager, Bryce Pirrozinni, RDN Area A Director, Jessica Stanley, CVRD Area H Director, Ben Maartman
The many groups that serve to make our community the best it can be:
Diamond Improvement District, Nanaimo-Cedar Farmers’ Institute, North Oyster and Area Historical Society, North Oyster-Diamond Ratepayers Association, North Oyster Parents Advisory Committee, Vancouver Island Water Watch Coalition, Yellow Point Ecological Society
In closing: There are so many people that are just good neighbours. These are the folks that help with the little things before they become big things. Together, it’s what makes the Diamond/North Oyster the best place to live.
Little known facts of Area H (from 2022 consultant report on Internet coverage)
Roads in the Area H add up to 70.7 kilometres and serve 1169 premises, which respectively are 3.2 per cent of the premises and 4.1 per cent of the roads in the CVRD.
ben.maartman@cvrd.bc.ca 250-510-5930
Sail Past launches boating season
BY MARINA SACHT
For many boat owners, a sail past signals the launch of boating season. The tradition began about 200 years ago in England and is a ceremony of respecting the commander-in-charge, an “inspection” and blessing of the boat. But this tradition, embraced by the Ladysmith Yacht Club (LYC), has grown into much more.
Indeed, the Ladysmith Sail Past is now considered one of the largest in the province, as it encompasses a shore component that includes a fleet parade, bagpiper, food truck, face painting and
entertainment at Transfer Beach Park.
On May 6 at 1 p.m., participating vessels will assemble on the water at Ladysmith Marina. Following the commodore’s salute and the faith representative blessing of the fleet, the flotilla will motor out of the harbour towards Transfer Beach. A bagpiper will arrive around 1:30–1:45 as the flotilla gathers in front of the beach. The boats will sound their horns simultaneously before heading to Jane Gourlay Park in Saltair and then home.
Watch the parade from Transfer Beach, starting at 1:15 p.m., and take in some of the entertainment the yacht club provides. For details, call 604-910-2435 or visit ladysmithyc.bc.ca.
With the Sail Past, the Ladysmith Heritage Boat Festival and all the other events happening at the Ladysmith Community Marina, this is a chance to come out and celebrate boating here, according to LYC members Richard and Diane Kinar.
“We will have face painters for the kids, and music performer David Hart will entertain. The “Don’t Bannock” food truck is new and it’s a much longer
route this year, so more people will be able to see the boats,” says Diane.
Last year, over 30 boats participated, and organizers hope to have even more boats attend this year. NDP MP for Nanaimo-Ladysmith Lisa Marie Barron will be in the lead boat.
“Traditionally, Sail Past is the start of the boating season for yacht clubs worldwide,” explains Diane. “We invite members from the executive of our neighbouring yacht clubs to come as well.”
Also attending will be the Ladysmith RCM-SAR boat, and the Ladysmith Maritime Society’s fleet of restored heritage boats will be following.
“It’s the club’s way of giving back to the community.”
The LYC is moored at the Ladysmith Marina, owned by the Oak Bay Marine Group. One of the main benefits of belonging to a yacht club is access to reciprocal moorage. New to boating, the Kinars joined for the camaraderie and learning opportunities from other members.
“It’s the opportunity to network and get to know people with either a similar interest or experience boating in different areas. As we’re coming out of the pandemic, we’re getting people back into wanting to be together, which is beautiful,” says Diane. “As well, there are discounts available that can add up to cover the cost of membership,” adds Richard.
The Sail Past is a way of galvanizing entities together to celebrate the waterfront’s importance. The number of pleasure boats leaving and coming each every day is impressive.
“And with the controversy brewing over the future of the Ladysmith Community Marina, this may help galvanize how important all of this boating activity is to the town and the business community,” says Richard.
“At this difficult time, it’s really important that we celebrate our waterfront heritage. We’re the northern entrance to the Southern Gulf Islands. Pleasure boating is worth billions of dollars to the BC economy, and we have the best coastal boating in the world here. And we shouldn’t ignore it; we should embrace it. That’s what the Transfer Beach celebration is all about: celebrating Ladysmith’s waterfront heritage and how important it is to the community.”
Ladysmith Heritage Boat Festival
The Ladysmith Maritime Society’s annual Heritage Boat Festival is back. This year, the focus is on “working boats.”
The event is set for Sunday, May 28, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Heritage Boat Parade will pass by Transfer Beach Park at 10:30 a.m. Locals and visitors will have the viewing pleasure of seeing these magnificent, restored boats pass by with a local announcer describing the history of each before they head back to the Ladysmith Community Marina. There you can see the boats and vessels from noon to 3 p.m.
The show’s big star is Dorothy, a beautiful 125-year-old 30foot sailboat that LMS volunteers have lovingly restored. This boat is an essential marine artifact representing an era of boat-
building where aesthetics and speed were valued. Dorothy is one of the Paci fic Coast’s oldest surviving boats and will be launched the day before.
Dorothy is owned by the Maritime Museum of BC and will be moored at LMS under a project partnership agreement between both organizations.
This family-friendly event features lots of displays, music, local artists and free harbour tours on the Maritimer. The organizers invite you to come to celebrate our maritime heritage!
The Ladysmith Maritime Society is a non-profit charitable organization that has been in operation since 1985.
Remember that Kids’ Pirate Day is June 3. For more information, visit lmsmarina.ca or phone 250-245-1146.
Team Forces of Nature: The Inside Passage
BY PAUL GREY BC MARINE TRAILS
The Forces of Nature is an eight-man team of six veterans and two civilians on a challenge starting May 1 to paddle ap-
proximately 2000 kilometres from Anacortes, Washington, to Skagway, Alaska. Their unsupported expedition has been in planning for four years. The cause they are raising funds for is The Not Forgotten charity, whose programs these team members have personally benefited from. Since 1920, this charity has supported wounded and disabled veterans to enhance their physical and mental well-being and con fidence, which, in turn, helps provide the foundations of a normal life with their families and friends. The team hopes the completion of this 90100-day challenge will be an inspiration to other veterans with personal injuries or disabilities.
If you happen to be on Saltspring or Thetis Island in early May, you might see the team pass by en route, in three Kirton Inuk doubles and two single kayaks, accompanied in certain places by BC Marine Trails members. Overnight stops are planned according to average daily distances, weather and other factors. You will be able to track the team through their website and the BC Marine Trails Facebook.
Back in 2022, the BC Marine Trails (BCMT) assisted the Forces of Nature team with route and trip planning. The team soon ran into a fairly serious problem. Shipping kayaks from the United Kingdom to Washington State was very cost heavy. Starting in 2021, the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in signi ficant cargo delays, and the world was at a crawl into the next year. The cost of shipping boats to the United States approached the cost of buying boats there! We were pleased to help the team with locating camping spots and discussing the potential obstacles along the route.
The team Skipper, Cayle Royce, was seriously injured in Af-
ghanistan when he stepped on an IED in 2012 and lost his legs above the knees. But this Inside Passage trip is not his fi rst adventure. He’s rowed across the Atlantic twice, skippering one team, and putting in 95 days at sea in a rowboat. He’s the fi rst person with an amputation to row an ocean more than once.
Neil Heritage, second-in-command, also has two above-knee amputations. Neil was deployed in Bosnia and lost his legs during a suicide bomb attack. He rowed across the Atlantic in 51 days and has successfully climbed the Matterhorn.
These guys are all amazing athletes and have worked hard to raise considerable funds for their challenge. The eight-man team’s preparation has not been easy. Other team members have a variety of injuries from head wounds to PTSD and viralinduced paralysis. Fortunately, one of the team members is a medical doctor, so they are in good hands. Talking a little more personally to Cayle, he states his challenges are more on land than in a kayak. Walking on uneven terrain with heavy loads will be a considerable challenge.
Because they cannot fit their prosthetic legs into the kayaks, they paddle in short prosthetics called Stubbies. This essentially puts them at knee height for the duration of the trip and allows them to enter and exit a kayak without getting hooked or caught up on anything.
Inside the kayak cockpit itself, Cayle has modi fied his Rockpool Taran. Initially, we suggested a locally built kayak from one of our world-class manufacturers in BC, like Seaward and Delta Kayaks that are popularly used by paddlers and guides. But with the modi fications needed, the work had to be done in the UK. Neil will also be modifying a single Kirton C-trek 18. Both men have created a steering plate for their craft to use the rudder because the standard pedals are unreachable.
The Inside Passage route will take the team past some extraordinary coastline and into interesting rural communities.
To support Team Forces of Nature we sent letters to many coastal First Nations, introducing the team. They come to BC respectfully and hope to visit locations where First Nation’s history is displayed and shared.
Recently, BC Marine Trails was nominated for an award for its reconciliation work. We have engaged over 30 First Nations on the BC coast over the past several years, sharing site data and working on visitor guidelines for conduct while travelling through territories.
Search online for Team Forces of Nature: The Inside Passage to read more about their lives and goals. The BC Marine Trails board and volunteers wish them the very best.
BY NIKKI TOXOPEUS
BY GORDON JOHNSON
