February 23, 2016

TO TOWN WITH SMALL T O W N CHARM WELCOME OUR FRIENDLY SPECTACULAR NATURE AND

LADYSMITH Yellow Point & Cedar Official Visitor Guide

A VIEW TO SE A

Indulge in Small Town Charm Discover fresh air, fresh baking and other edible delights in historic downtown Ladysmith! Our charming town offers unique shopping, antique treasures, a beautiful beach, hilltop hikes, heritage buildings and, of course, award-winning cinnamon buns.

visit our website

VISITOR CENTRE 33 ROBERTS STREET 250 -245 -2112 TO U RIS M L ADYS MITH .C A

2 www.ladysmithchronicle.com

2016 Visitor Guide

Contents

Publisher Teresa McKinley publisher@ladysmithchronicle.com 940 Oyster Bay Drive, P.O. Box 400, Ladysmith, B.C., V9G 1A3 Phone: 250-245-2277 Fax: 250-245-2230 The Chronicle does its best to ensure content accuracy. The Chronicle is not endorsing any product or business contained within.

Photo credits: Craig Spence, Teresa McKinley Thank you to local photographers: Jackson Sarrasine: Light up photo, page 10 Edward McCrea: Jack Fisher carving photo, page 16 Andrew Leong: Crowd photo, page 8 Stacey Crossley: Bottom trail photo, page 20

www.tourismladysmith.ca

4. Welcome to Ladysmith 6. Festival Fun 8. Must-Dos 10. Fun Facts 12. Downtown and Beyond 14. Heritage and History 16. Arts and Culture 18. Live Music and Theatre 20. The Great Outdoors 21. Ladysmith Trail Map 22. Transfer Beach Park 24. Marine Tourism 26. Local Markets 28. Cedar and Yellow Point 29. Cedar/Yellow Point Map 30. Staying Here 32. Moving Here 34. Upcoming Events

3

Welcome to Ladysmith

Ladysmith is an ideal travel destination, a n d i t ’s e a s i l y accessible by land, air and sea.

Once you get here, you’ll discover friendly people, beautiful views, a rich history, unique shops and many opportunities for recreation and fun.

Driving

About 30 min utes south of Nanaimo and an hour north of Victoria, the entrance to Ladysmith is prominently set along the Trans-Canada Highway.

Arriving by Ferry

There is daily BC Ferries service between Tsawwassen and Victoria and also between Vancouver and Nanaimo.

Flying

The Nanaimo Airport is the thirdlargest airport on Vancouver Island and is located just five minutes away in Cassidy.

You can also find float plane flights into Nanaimo, and the Victoria Airport is only about an hour away.

Kayaking

The Ladysmith Maritime Society Community Marina is considered an access/ launch point for paddlers exploring B.C.’s coast through the BC Marine Trails Network.

Sailing

You can book moorage at four local marinas: the Ladysmith Marina, the Ladysmith Maritime Society Community M a r i n a , t h e Pa g e Point Inn Marina, and the Ladysmith Government Wharf.

4 www.ladysmithchronicle.com

250 924 4808

Denise Tutte & Gerry Beltgens VanIsleRealEstate@gmail.com

www.vanislerealestate.com

Vancouver Island’s First Choice in Real Estate since 1887 “Client’s interests First and Foremost” My great-great-grandfather said that over 100 years ago and it is still the cornerstone of our business philosophy today. A pioneer, scholar and man of great integrity, my greatgreat-grandfather Joseph Despard Pemberton was hired by the Hudson’s Bay Company laying out Victoria’s town site, surveying from Sooke to Nanaimo, thirty years later Pemberton left the Hudson’s Bay and offered his vast knowledge of the Island to the public - establishing a mortgage and

Denise Tutte

Gerry Beltgens

www.PembertonHolmes.com

www.tourismladysmith.ca

Freda Wiggs

property rental business in 1888. His vision was to found a business on “quite and strict commercial principles.”

Solid business principles and placing client interests above all else are the values that have been passed down from generation to generation and are not only embraced by our immediate family, but our extended family of over 300 realtors, property managers and insurance specialists.

Sue Daniels

- Michael P. Holmes, president and manager

Dianne Andrews

Lyndon Bzdel

Shirley Van Dyke

516 - 1st Avenue, Ladysmith 250 924 0113 www.PembertonHolmesLadysmith.com 5

Festival Fun LADYSMITH MARITIME FESTIVAL May 27-29 KID’S PIRATE DAY Saturday, June 4 www.lmsmarina.ca LADYSMITH DAYS Saturday and Sunday, July 30 & 31 www.ladysmithdays.com LIGHT UP THE NIGHT Saturday, August 27 www.artsontheavenue.ca/lightup ARTS ON THE AVENUE Sunday, August 28 www.artsontheavenue.ca LADYSMITH FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS Thursday, November 24 www.ladysmithfol.com OLD TYME CHRISTMAS Friday, December 2 See: Old Tyme Christmas & Candlelight Walk on Facebook 6 www.ladysmithchronicle.com

WHETHER YOU COME TO ENJOY A FESTIVAL, FAIR OR

THE UNSURPASSED NATURAL BEAUTY OF THE AREA YOU WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED!

Community Offices

Doug Routley, MLA

Nanaimo~North Cowichan

www.tourismladysmith.ca

PO Box 269 | 1 – 16 High Street Ladysmith, BC V9G 1A2 Telephone 250.245.9375 | Fax 250.245.8164

Unit 112 50 Tenth Street Nanaimo, BC V9R 6L1 Telephone 250.716.5221 | Fax 250.716.5222 www.dougroutley.ca

douglas.routley.mla@leg.bc.ca 7

Must Do’s

Shop ‘til you drop at one of our unique boutique shops.

Revisit the past at the Ladysmith Museum or Harbour Heritage Centre.

Be a beach bum and visit the jewel of Ladysmith, Transfer Beach.

Hit the water and explore the Ladysmith Harbour by paddleboard, kayak or boat.

Admire the arts by visiting the Ladysmith Waterfront Gallery, taking a tour or enjoying Arts on the Avenue.

Follow the heritage route and learn about Ladysmith’s mining and lumber past.

Join the crowd at one of our famous festivals.

Take a hike and enjoy Ladysmith’s 26 kilometres of beautiful trails.

Meet at a marina and chat with friendly boat owners, take a harbour tour, grab a meal or sit and watch the wildlife.

8 www.ladysmithchronicle.com

1020 First Ave, Ladysmith B.C. www.the49th.com

Your Family Owned & Operated Grocery Store Serving you since 1977 Wayne & Harmina 1977

Wayne & Harmina 2016

Men’s & Women’s footwear for healthy feet Natural fibre clothing Local, Global & Fair Trade products Tuesday to Saturday 10 am to 5 pm

539 - 1st Ave. Ladysmith 250-924-5452

Offering you a HUGE selection!

Whether home or away, Your “Live-Well” Pharmacist is always here to dispense great advice • Pharmacy Services • Cosmetics • Magazines • Pocket books

• • • •

Sunblock Sunglasses Giftware Greeting Cards

• • • •

Post Office Memory Cards Snacks & Drinks Home Healthcare

Come visit us today!

441 First Ave., Ladysmith

250-245-3113

Mon. to Fri. 9 to 8, Sat. 9 to 6, Sun. & Holidays 12 to 5 www.ladysmithpharmasave.com Locally Owned & Operated

www.tourismladysmith.ca

Herbs, Protein Powders, Vitamins, Quality Supplements, Quality Cosmetics & Makeup, Organic Dairy, Specialty Groceries, Bulk Foods and much, much more!

Ladysmith Health Food Store Mon-Sat 9 am-6 pm Closed Sundays 531 First Ave, Ladysmith 250-245-2123

9

Did you know?

•

The first inhabitants of what is now known as the Town of Ladysmith were the people of the Stz’uminus First Nation.

•

Coal baron James Dunsmuir founded a company town at Oyster Harbour in 1904. He named the town Ladysmith after the town of Ladysmith in South Africa after a siege was lifted there during the Boer War.

•

When Ladysmith was founded, many buildings were moved from nearby mining towns. They were dismantled and brought by railway cars to Ladysmith.

•

There was a 5 Cent Candy War in 1947 when The Wigwam in Ladysmith raised the price of a candy bar from 5 cents to 8 cents. Sixteen-year-old Parker Williams and his school chums were outraged. A parade was staged and everything,

• Ladysmith has become the

Light Up Capital of Vancouver Island thanks to its famous Fe s t i va l o f L i g h t s , w h i c h features more than 200,000 sparking lights. The official Light Up is always held the last Thursday in November.

•

At the Ladysmith Maritime Society Community Marina, you’ll find more than 85 purple martin nest boxes. Ladysmith is the largest purple martin colony on Vancouver Island and one of the three largest in B.C.

•

In 1951, Ladysmith oyster farmer John Malamos found 100 pearls in one crusty oyster.

•

During the Depression years, a local store held a live baby raffle, causing quite a stir. When the day of the draw arrived, a number of angry people showed up. They breathed a sigh of relief when the draw winner was given a baby kitten.

•

Ladysmith is located literally on the 49th Parallel!

•

Actress Pamela Anderson was Ladysmith’s Centennial Baby.

•

In 1987, Ladysmith was awarded the Grette Award for the most beautiful town on Vancouver Island.

•

In 2000, Ladysmith was named one of the 10 prettiest places to live in Canada by Harrowsmith’s Country Living magazine.

•

Ladysmith has built up quite a reputation for having an amazing selection of antiques and secondhand clothing and items. There are a number of funky consignment stores downtown, antiques dealers and a thrift store that supports health care in the community.

10 www.ladysmithchronicle.com

left coast fashions Left Coast Fashions features the best of West Coast sustainable style with a focus on local designs. Products include locally made clothing, jewelry, soaps and candles.

432 First Avenue, Ladysmith, BC

250.924.3380

“New & gently used books” 535 First Avenue Ladysmith, BC

250-245-4726

New & Gently Used Clothing, Toys, Games, Puzzles, Trains, Books, Crafts and Paints Strollers, Playpens, Baby Gates, Chairs, Potties & More!

Everything you need for gifts!!

New baby, grandchildren, birthdays or just because?

We have a huge assortment of items available.

Gift wrapping is also available.

We also carry NEW brand name items such as Melissa & Doug Toys, Tuffo - Muddy Buddy Rain Gear Mexx Clothing, Deux par Deux, Sophie la Giraffe Teething Toys Locally hand crafted items like purses, bibs, blankets and infant shoes by Rocks & Roots

Little Otters Den Children’s Wear & More 436 First Ave, Ladysmith

250-245-2042

Local family owned and operated

www.tourismladysmith.ca

t e e Sw ppe o h S • Kettle Corn • Fudge made in-store • Home Made Waffle Cones • Island Farms Ice Cream • Assorted British Candy • Dutch Licorice and more. . .

#1 - 32 High Street 250-924-8486 11

Downtown and Beyond

With its heritage buildings, friendly shopkeepers and unique boutique stores and eateries, Ladysmith’s downtown core exudes charm and warmth.

Spend some time exploring Ladysmith’s main street and surrounding area, and it won’t take very long to see why Ladysmith is such a popular destination.

Take a stroll down First Avenue and the surrounding streets, and you will find century-old buildings that have been carefully restored. Inside these buildings, you’ll discover knowledgeable, friendly shop owners and staff who are happy to help you find exactly what you’re looking for.

We’ve got books, clothing, a drug store, a computer store, pet food and supplies, home decor, a library, a kitchen store, antiques, consignment shops, a thrift store, eateries, a health food store, a meat shop, a post office, global and fair-trade goods, a flower shop, and much more.

There are many places to eat once you’ve worked up an appetite shopping.

Ladysmith boasts a wide variety of restaurants to suit every taste.

Enjoy a light meal at a coffee shop, gluten-free fare, award-winning cinnamon buns and cheesecake, ethnic cuisine, fish and chips, pints at an English pub-style restaurant and much more. Or if you’re more in the mood for a picnic, grab something to go from the grocery store and sit on one of the many benches on First Avenue and enjoy some people watching.

In south Ladysmith, make sure to stop at Coronation Mall on the Trans-Canada Highway. Here, you’ll find a variety of shops and services, including a major food store, a drug store, hairdressers and restaurants.

Hit the road and venture north of town, and you’ll find a variety of fine dining options, pubs, fast food and pizza to suit your mood and your schedule in Cassidy, Yellow Point and Cedar.

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Ladies new & slightly used • clothing • shoes, hats • handbags • scarves • jewellery • travel wear

Ph. 250-245-9717

High Quality • English Tack • apparel & boots • belts & purses • horse themed gifts 250-924-0666

• women’s clothing, sandals, accessories, jewellery • French Dressing • Espe • Renuar • Gilmour • Tribal • Skechers

250-245-7779

Come visit us at 411 First Avenue! www.tourismladysmith.ca

13

Celebrating the Past

Ladysmith’s interesting history and the community’s efforts to preserve the town’s heritage are a real draw for many people.

Ladysmith was originally known as Oyster Harbour. For thousands of years, the people of the Stz’uminus First Nation established fishing camps around the harbour and practised traditional food gathering techniques.

In 1898, coal baron James Dunsmuir founded the town we now know as Ladysmith as a community for the coal miners who worked in his collieries at Extension. The town grew quickly, and Ladysmith was incorporated in 1904.

There are many different ways to learn more about how Ladysmith became the town we know today.

Ladysmith Heritage Route Highlighting Ladysmith’s history of coal mining, forestry, rail and marine industry, the Heritage Route provides a link from the living heritage downtown to the working waterfront and Transfer Beach Park. Along the way, you’ll find interesting artifacts and historical buildings that take you back in time.

Ladysmith Museum The Ladysmith Museum can be found at 721 First Ave. and is open from May to the end of October. The museum acquired a unique handmade Art Williams bow, and while you step into the past, you can also do something that’s very current — find a geocache.

Harbour Heritage Centre Step back to the millennia, when the harbour was home to the people of the Stz’uminus First Nation. Discover what early life on the harbour was like at this exploratory, interactive centre at 610 Oyster Bay Dr. Ladysmith Archives Wa n t t o d i g d e e pe r i n t o Ladysmith’s past? You’ll have free access to thousands of photos, newspapers, maps and other documents at the Ladysmith Archives at Unit B 1115 First Ave., below Tim Hortons.

14 www.ladysmithchronicle.com

Forest Industry Forestry remains a major employer in the Ladysmith area, and there are opportunities for the visitor to see logging and milling operations in progress. You will often see log hauling trucks operating on Highway 1.

If you are fortunate, you may see a log barge unloading at the mouth of Ladysmith Harbour - don’t worry, it’s meant to be listing to dump its cargo into the ocean.

If you drive down Ludlow Road off Highway 1, you will be able to take a look at a log sorting yard in operation.

Pulp & Paper manufacture is also a major industry in the Cowichan Valley, so you will often see chip carriers on the highway.

Discover our Heritage

3 floors of antiques and collectables • appraisal services • buying & selling

One of Vancouver Island’s

LARGEST ANTIQUE MALLS

340 Trans-Canada Hwy, Ladysmith - Open Daily 10 - 5:30 www.postofficeantiquemall.com

250-245-7984

Ladysmith Museum ‘Ladies of Ladysmith’

Recognizing the contribution of women to our Town.

Open May to October Tuesday through Saturday 12 - 4 pm

721 First Avenue • 250-245-0423 ladysmithmuseum@shaw.ca

Ladysmith & District Historical Society 250-245-0100 www.ladysmithhistoricalsociety.ca

www.tourismladysmith.ca

15

Arts & Culture

Visit the Ladysmith area and you’ll discover quickly that we love to celebrate the arts — and we have good reason to.

We have many very talented and well-known Coast Salish artists, potters, sculptors, photographers, painters, glass artists and carvers in our midst, and there are many opportunities for them to showcase their work throughout the year. Here, you’ll discover a public art gallery and numerous art tours.

Ladysmith Waterfront Art Gallery Run by the dedicated volunteers of the Ladysmith Arts Council, this is the only public art gallery between Victoria and Nanaimo. The gallery presents thematic art shows every month and sells the work of local artisans in its gift shop. www.ladysmithwaterfrontgallery.com.

Ladysmith Spring Art Tour Take a self-guided tour of the studios of some of Ladysmith’s best-known artists April 22-24 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. www.ladysmithwaterfrontgallery.com/springartour Cedar Yellow Point Artisan Tour Artisans in Cedar and Yellow Point open the doors to their galleries, studios, gardens and farms for this self-guided tour all year round. www.cyartisans.com Arts on the Avenue This one-day arts festival in downtown Ladysmith is celebrating its 18th year August 28. More than 50 artists will line First Avenue under big white tents from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. www.artsontheavenue.ca Country Christmas Self-Guided Artisan Tour From November 24-27, the Cedar Yellow Point Artisan Association hosts a Christmas self-guided tour. It’s a chance to meet local artists, learn about how they make their art and purchase unique presents — for friends and family or for yourself. This year will be the 28th annual tour. www.cyartisans.com

16 www.ladysmithchronicle.com

MARY FOX POTTERY 321 - 3RD AVENUE LADYSMITH, BC

A TRULY INSPIRING STUDIO TO VISIT!

250-245-3778 www.maryfoxpottery.ca

• custom framing • local art • unique gifts

Bf A

Bayview Framing & Art 421 First Ave., Ladysmith, BC

250-245-0011

www.bayviewframing.ca

www.tourismladysmith.ca

USUAL STUDIO HOURS TUES - SAT 1 TO 5 PM OR BY CHANCE

17

Music and Theatre

Live music and theatre can give you goosebumps, make you laugh, make you cry and make you think. We are lucky to have abundant options in Ladysmith and Cedar to do all of those things while watching artists do what they love.

Ladysmith Little Theatre Each year, the talented people at Ladysmith Little Theatre present a selection of dramas, comedies and mysteries, as well as a family-friendly Christmas pantomime. www.ladysmiththeatre.com Yellow Point Drama Group The Yellow Point Drama Group, which presents a handful of plays at the Cedar Community Hall, is the second-oldest theatre group in B.C. www.yellowpointdramagroup.org Yellowpoint Christmas Spectacular The annual Yellowpoint Christmas Spectacular has become a real family tradition at the Cedar Community Hall each December. This marvelous dance and music extravaganza is produced by Ladysmith native Katy Bowen-Roberts. www.yellowpointchristmasspectacular.ca Where can you catch live music?

• In the Beantime Café www.beantime.ca • 49th Café www.facebook.com/the49thcafe • Sportsman Pub www.ladysmithinn.com • Fox & Hounds www.foxandhoundsladysmith.com • The Music Hall Food Company www.musichallfoodco.ca • Hardwick Hall Coffee House http://ladysmithunited.org/events. html • Concerts in the Park www.concertsinthepark.ca •Ladysmith Maritime Society Marine Welcome Centre www.lmsmarina.ca

18 www.ladysmithchronicle.com 18 www.ladysmithchronicle.com

Community Theatre at its finest.

Ladysmith Little Theatre 4985 Christie Rd Ladysmith, BC Box Office: Mon/Wed/Fri 1:00 - 3:00 pm

For Your One-Stop Shopping In Ladysmith . . .

• Fresh Produce • Fresh Meat • 850 items in store Always Lowest Guaranteed • Fresh Deli • Darrell’s Deals of the Week and •Starbucks

250-924-0658 Checkout our website to see what is currently playing www.ladysmiththeatre.ca

Ladysmith 370 Trans Canada Hwy (Coronation Mall) Store Hours: 7 am - 10 pm; 7 days a week

Dine In and Drive Thru May 5 - Sept 22 Cruise Nights 5:30 - 8:00 pm every Thursday

At A&W, we’re on a journey to source simple, great-tasting ingredients, farmed with care. We’re proud to have high standards when it comes to our food, and you can taste it in everything we serve. Find out how we’re taking steps to make a big difference. awguarantee.ca © 2014 A&W Trade Marks Limited Partnership

C14-0966_Guarantee_Handout_EN.indd 1

12615 Trans Canada Hwy., Ladysmith Client: Job name: Format: DoCket #: Posting:

A&W Guarantee Handout - EN C14-0966 None

outPut sCale: None Fonts: Retro, Franlin, Frisky

www.tourismladysmith.ca

10/31/14 10:40 AM

250-245-5213 trim: saFety: bleeD: PPi @ Final size:

7" x 4" None 7.25" x 4.25" None

ProoF #: Date:

5 10-31-2014 10:40 AM

Cyan magenta yellow black

19

Outdoor Adventure

There are many ways to enjoy the great outdoors and take advantage of Ladysmith’s gorgeous harbour setting and beautiful parks and trails.

You can find a brochure with detailed information about Ladysmith’s 26 kilometres of hiking and walking trails at the Ladysmith Chamber of Commerce office and Visitor Centre or view and download the brochure at http://ladysmith.ca/docs/ brochures-other-publications/parks-andtrails-brochure.pdf Holland Creek Trail This 5.8-kilometre trail winds along both sides of Holland Creek. Highlights along the route include Crystal Falls and the Colliery Dams.

You can access the trail at the dip on Dogwood Drive or at the corner of Sixth Avenue and Methuen Street.

Rotary Lookout Trail Leading to a spectacular view and perfect picnic place, this 1.2-kilometre trail is accessed near the log bridge at the top of the Holland Creek Trail.

Heart Lake Loop This is a challenging 6.4-kilometre hike that takes about two hours and rewards you with breathtaking views. Initially, the trail is very steep, but there are rest stations along the way. The trail is accessible from Davis Road Park or the Holland Creek Trail.

Stocking Lake Loop Intersecting with the Heart Lake Loop, the Stocking Lake Loop is a challenging 11.8-kilometre trail that takes you to Stocking Lake. The trail begins at Davis Road Park and takes about two hours and 40 minutes.

Marine Walk The kilometre-long trail starts at Transfer Beach and ambles through the trees to the waterfront.

Estuary Trail This is a short 10-minute walk along the edge of the Ladysmith Harbour that offers great views of the marine environment.

The trail can be accessed from a small parking lot at Kin Road.

Trans Canada Trail The 4.6-kilometre Ladysmith section of the Trans Canada Trail begins at the intersection of Chemainus and Davis roads and ends at the intersection of Christie and Strathcona roads.

More ways to get active: • Cycle the peaceful country roads in Cedar and Yellow Point.

• Play 18 holes at Cottonwood Golf Course just north of Ladysmith.

• Play 9 holes at the Par 3 Ladysmith Golf Club right in town.

• Swim laps, soak in the hot tub or hit the gym at the Frank Jameson Community Centre.

20 www.ladysmithchronicle.com

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250 924 4808

516 - 1st Ave., Ladysmith, BC VanIsleRealEstate@gmail.com

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21

Transfer Beach

If you ask people what they love about Ladysmith, many will have Transfer Beach Park at the top of their list.

Loca te d j u s t o f f t h e Trans-Canada Highway and a short walk from downtown Ladysmith, Transfer Beach Park is the perfect place to spend the day.

This beautiful 28.33acre park and the adjacent amphitheatre offer gorgeous views and tons of space to run around or enjoy a picnic, and they are home to many events such as the Ladysmith Farmers Market, Concerts in the Park or Ladysmith Days.

Transfer Beach is an ideal spot to launch a kayak, and you can rent kayaks and stand up paddleboards, book lessons and much more from Sealegs Kayaking and Marine Adventures right here.

Once you get out on the water, you’ll find the sheltered Ladysmith Harbour offers great opportunities to see herons, eagles, purple martins, seals and other wildlife or get a glimpse of working tugboats and log sorts.

Park Amenities • spraypark • playground • sheltered Kin Hut picnic area • beach volleyball court • off-leash dog park •horseshoe pitch •public washrooms •food concession • half basketball court

22 www.ladysmithchronicle.com

LADYSMITH PA R K S R E C R E AT I O N & C U LT U R E your source for active living

Rentals, Sales, Tours, Lessons

Kayaking, Kayak Sales Stand-up-paddleboards

Visit us for all your fitness, aquatic, arts & culture needs For more information: www.ladysmith.ca | p 250.245.6424 twitter.com/LadysmithPRC

www.facebook.com/LadysmithPRC

prc@ladysmith.ca

www.sealegskayaking.com Transfer Beach, Ladysmith 250.245.4096

GET MORE FOR YOUR MOORAGE. Whether you need a completely covered boathouse, or moorage for a month, the Ladysmith Marina has a place for your vessel. The marina is located in the heart of the beautiful Gulf Islands’ cruising grounds, with all the convenience of mid-Vancouver Island moorage.

Contact us today to find out more.

(250) 245-4521 901 Gladden Road ladysmithmarina.com

www.tourismladysmith.ca

Monthly moorage from

$8 25

PER FOOT

23

Marine Tourism

Fo r t h o u s a n d s o f years, the Ladysmith Harbour provided food for the people of the Stz’uminus First Nation.

Today, the warm waters of the protected harbour offer many opportunities to swim, kayak, sail and celebrate life by and on the water.

LMS Community Marina The Ladysmith Maritime Society (LMS) Community Marina, which can be accessed off Oyster Bay Drive, boasts an impressive Marine Welcome Centre and a bevy of activities.

Here, you’ll find a floating Maritime Museum, heritage vessels, nesting boxes for endangered purple martins, a café and, in the summer months, Dine on the Dock themed dinners, music, talks, harbour tours and special events. Each year, LMS celebrates Ladysmith’s maritime setting in festival fashion. This year, they host Maritime Heritage Day May 28 and Kids’ Pirate Day June 4.

Ladysmith Marina At Ladysmith Marina, accessible off Rocky Creek Road, you’ll discover state-of-the-art boathouses and the Ladysmith Yacht Club’s clubhouse. As well, a seasonal café offers delicious food.

Ladysmith Yacht Club Visit the Ladysmith Yacht Club at the Ladysmith Marina, and you’ll find cruising and racing programs, as well as social events and a welcoming reciprocal dock.

Ladysmith Government Wharf The Ladysmith Government Wharf off Rocky Creek Road offers a boat launch, overnight parking, laundry facilities, public washrooms and showers.

Page Point Marina A c c e s s i b l e o ff B re n to n Page Road at the north end of Ladysmith, Page Point Marina offers room rentals, laundry, showers, free wi-fi, a community barbecue and bonfire pit and more.

24 www.ladysmithchronicle.com

History and Hospitality

Come be a part of our marina community!

Maritime Festival!

May 28: 10am - 4pm

Come to the waterfront and enjoy Heritage Vessels, Museums, Harbour Tours, Oyster Bay Cafe, Music & more!

Kids’ Pirate Day! June 4: 10am - 4pm

Join Captain Jack & Crew for a day of FREE fun activities! Lots of Pirates, Crafts, Jumparound Bullhead Derby, Music, Food, and Face Painting!

plus Harbour Tours, Harbour Heritage Centre, Oyster Bay Cafe and Dine On The Dock events! for more information T: 250 245 1146 www.lmsmarina.ca

LADYSMITH COMMUNITY MARINA owned and operated by the Ladysmith Maritime Society since 1985

www.tourismladysmith.ca

25

Market Magic

Markets are wonderful places to find local food, beautiful hand-made products, meet friendly people, treat yourself to a snack or a meal and often listen to live music. In our area, we are lucky to have many markets to choose from.

Ladysmith Farmers Market Situated at the beautiful Transfer Beach Park, the Ladysmith Farmers Market runs Saturdays from 10 a.m.-2 p.m., June 18-September 17 and features vendors selling everything from local farm produce and baking to jams and jewelry.

Spring Market at the 49th A spring market, located at the 49th Parallel Grocery store at the corner of First Avenue and Symonds Street, runs April 12-June 7 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Cedar Farmers’ Market You’ll find more than 70 vendors in a grassy field next to the Crow and Gate Pub at 2313 Yellow Point Rd. Sundays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. from May to October. This is one of the region’s largest markets. There’s live local music every Saturday.

Cedar Swap Meet Every Sunday, there is a big swap meet at the Cedar Community Hall from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. You’ll find baking, tools, books, antiques and much more.

North Oyster Craft Market All year round, you can find a craft market at the North Oyster Community Centre.

Cassidy Farm Market On the side of the Trans-Canada Highway in Cassidy, you’ll find an array of fresh fruits and vegetables, baking, a deli and more. The market is open daily from spring to winter.

26 www.ladysmithchronicle.com

• Homemade Desserts • Rated Best Cheesecake on the Island • Homemade Bread • Soups and More • Breakfast the Old-Fashioned Way

Renee’s Soup & Sandwich

720 - 1st Ave. 250-245-4198 • Cozy Tudor Style Atmosphere • 16 Draft Beers • Traditional British Menu • Children Welcome • Open all day every day from 11:30 am

Fox & Hounds British Pub-Style Restaurant 11 High Street, Ladysmith www.foxandhoundsladysmith.com

250-924-1747

Weekly Specials Featuring Steak & Lobster

OPEN at

5Mon-Sat am to 4 pm

Breads, Fine Baking and Hearty Meals from scratch Gluten Free options Open for breakfast & lunch Tuesday to Friday 8 - 5 Saturday 8 - 4

541 First Avenue

250-924-8696

THE THE

WIGWAM

Proudly serving Nanaimo since 1977 1140 Trans Canada Hwy, South Nanaimo BoldKnightNan

www.boldknight.ca

250.754.6411 Closed Mondays Try our Pho Vietnamese Beef Noodle Soup Also available Vietnamese and Chinese Cuisine

Authentic Cantonese & Szechwan Cuisine Fresh Local Oysters Fully Licensed - Draft Beer

Fabulous Smorgasbord Thurs. - Sat., starts 5 pm

Daily Smorg at 5 pm

Open Daily Tues - Sat 11 am - 8 pm 438 First Ave., Ladysmith

Proudly serving Ladysmith since 1999

Menu online at www.thewigwam.ca

250-245-3263 112 High Street, Ladysmith (behind the Post Office formerly the bowling alley)

www.tourismladysmith.ca

27

See the Countryside

Just north of Ladysmith, Yellow Point and Cedar offer an opportunity to slow down a bit and take in pastoral scenes as you cruise the countryside.

You’ll find an array of artists’ studios and galleries, as well as several farms offering local products, as you explore this broad, forested peninsula.

Winding country roads will lead you to the village of Cedar, where you will find places to eat and shop.

This picturesque part of the Island also offers a wide range of hiking and walking trails and a great selection of parks.

While exploring the countryside, be sure to enjoy the wonderful selection of lodgings, restaurants and pubs found in this area.

AGRI-TOURISM As you explore Cedar and Yellow Point, you will find a variety of family-friendly activities that celebrate farming and rural life. Many farms are open seasonally and offer tours and gift shops.

• Kiwi Cove Lodge North of Ladysmith on Brenton Page Road, this 10-acre waterfront property produces kiwis and provides 12 guest rooms.

• Hazelwood Herb Farm More than 400 different herbs are cultivated and processed at this North Oyster farm.

• McNab’s Corn Maze Follow Yellow Point Road to discover the magic of McNab’s. There’s a large pick-your-own pumpkin patch and a seven-acre corn maze, which features a new theme each year. You’ll also be able to take a hay ride and pet friendly farm animals.

• Yellow Point Cranberries Nearby, you’ll find a family-owned and operated cranberry farm on Yellow Point Road that produces about 200,000 pounds of cranberries a year. More than 40 cranberry confections are produced and sold on site, and tours are held in September and October.

28 www.ladysmithchronicle.com

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Shopping Restaurants Museum

When in Ladysmith, stop by the Visitor Centre at 33 Roberts Street for a more detailed map of the downtown core and residential streets.

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29

Staying Here Is your “must-do” list longer than a day?

You can find a range of charming bed and breakfasts, a lodge, an inn, campsites and a motel in and around town.

Bed and Breakfasts Whether you are looking for seclusion and quiet in the woods or a stunning view of the ocean, our full complement of unique B&Bs is enough to keep you entertained and relaxed for many visits to come.

Stop by the Ladysmith Chamber of Commerce’s Visitor Centre at 33 Roberts St. to learn more about local B&Bs. You can also find helpful information through the Ladysmith and Area Accommodations Association by visiting www.ladysmith-bc-accommodations.com.

Motels, Inns and Lodges • Holiday House Motel 540 Esplanade, Ladysmith • Page Point Inn 4760 Brenton Page Rd., Ladysmith •Kiwi Cove Lodge 5130 Brenton Page Rd., Ladysmith Camping • Rondalyn Resort & RV Park 1350 Timberlands Rd., Ladysmith • Zuiderzee Campsites & Trailer Park Yellow Point Rd., Yellow Point • Mountainaire RV Park & Campsite 1092 Spruston Rd., Nanaimo • Living Forest Oceanside Campground and RV Park 6 Maki Rd., Nanaimo

30 www.ladysmithchronicle.com

Come &

Get Lost in the Maze

CAMP

• 7 acre maze • hayrides • farm animals • fire pits • groups welcome • fresh corn, veggies & pumpkins in season www.mcnabscornmaze.com

McNab’s

300 sites on 53 acres Book online LivingForest.com or call 250.755.1755

Corn Maze & Produce Farm

4613 Yellow Point Road Ladysmith, BC

250-245-0666

Fun for the Whole Family

Fa

Golf

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• Family Saturday & Sunday Only $28.

Must be accompanied by an Adult.

Maximum 3 juniors.

• 2 for 1 Golf Wednesdays • Men’s Golf Thursday 9 am • Women’s Golf Tuesday 10 am • Rentals available • Drop-Ins Always Welcome

Ladysmith Golf Club 380 Davis Rd. 250-245-7313 Just above Coronation Mall

www.tourismladysmith.ca

Sunday, Monday, Tuesday after 2 pm 18 holes with cart, burger and beer

$55

Wednesday Mens & Ladies Nite 9 holes, competitions, prizes and dinner

$55

Tuesday, Thursday Dinner Special

$12

Shots for Kids Diabetes Charity Golf Tourney Saturday, May 7 Call us to sign up Open for Lunch/Dinner Daily 11 am -7 pm Open to Everyone!

Call for reservations

Meetings, Weddings, Banquets

250-245-5157 1975 Haslam Road

next to Nanaimo Airport

www.cottonwoodgolfcourse.com

31

Moving Here

Was it love at first sight when you visited Ladysmith? There are many reasons to turn this love affair into a long-term relationship!

A combination of natural beauty and recreational opportunities, unique places to shop and dine, strong community spirit, friendly people and compelling heritage and culture makes Ladysmith an ideal place to live, work and play.

Moving to Ladysmith means access to four marinas, one of the best beaches in the mid-Island, abundant hiking and walking trails, outdoor playing fields, a skatepark, one of the top three artificial turf fields in B.C. and a community centre with services such as a pool, fitness centre and classes.

Ladysmith also provides a full spectrum of educational facilities from pre-school to senior secondary, and it is just a short drive to Vancouver Island University campuses in Nanaimo and Duncan.

You’ll find a Community Health Centre in Ladysmith, and we have independent and assisted living accommodation and services, as well as a licensed complex care facility.

BC Transit service links one part of town to the other and connects Ladysmith to Chemainus in the south, where riders can connect with a bus going to Duncan.

Helpful contacts • Ladysmith Chamber of Commerce 33 Roberts St. 250-245-2112 Here, you’ll discover a very helpful Ladysmith Relocation Guide.

• Welcome Wagon 250-245-0799 Once you’ve made the move, the Welcome Wagon provides free information and gifts to support newcomers.

• Ladysmith Newcomers Club 250-245-3319 This non-profit social club for people who are new to Ladysmith organizes walks, restaurant outings and more.

• Ladysmith City Hall 410 Esplanade 250-245-6400 Pick up an information package about garbage and recycling services.

32 www.ladysmithchronicle.com

Register Now Call to arrange a tour

• Pizza • Pasta • Ribs • Chicken • Donairs • Salad & Much More!

Affordable... Extraordinary

Try the Ultimate Ladysmith’s Favourite!

Pepperoni, Mushroom, Ham, Onions, Green Peppers, Shrimp, Black Olives, Tomatoes, Pineapple, Lean Ground Beef & Smoked Bacon.

OR

TWO ONE Roberts Street Pizza Hours 4 - 10 pm Sun - Tues; 4 - 11 pm Wed & Thurs; 4 - 1 am Fri & Sat

20 Roberts Street

Hotline 250-245-1119 www.tourismladysmith.ca

Preschool to Grade 7 Christian Values

Our school offers: • Safe & Caring Environment • K-7 French Program • P. E. Specialist Teacher • Preschool and Daycare • Before & After School Care

250-246-3191

9735 Elm St., Chemainus sjc@cisdv.ca.ca www.stjosephselem.ca 33

Upcoming Events

Tuesdays from April 12 - June 7: Spring Market at the 49th from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Every second Friday from May to September: Ladysmith Maritime Society (LMS) Dine on the Dock Every Saturday from June 18 - September 17: Ladysmith Farmers Market from 10 am-2 pm. at Transfer Beach (some exceptions) Every Sunday in July and August: Concerts in the Park at 6 p.m. at the Transfer Beach Amphitheatre Tuesday to Sunday in July and August: LMS Harbour Tours at 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. at the LMS Community Marina. June and September tours by request (call 250-245-1146) March 25: Easter Egg Hunt at Transfer Beach April 1-2: Ladysmith Home & Business Show at Aggie Hall 22-24: Ladysmith Spring Art Tour May 14: Tour de Rock Colour Run, Transfer Beach Amphitheatre 27-29: LMS Maritime Festival 29: Ladysmith Rotary Club Garden Tour, Show and Sale June 4: LMS Kid’s Pirate Day 18-19: Be a Hometown Tourist weekend July 1: Canada Day celebrations at Transfer Beach 10: Brits on the Beach car show at Transfer Beach Park 10 am-3 pm.

16: Gutbuster Run 30-31: Ladysmith Days at Aggie Hall, Transfer Beach and downtown TBA: Purple Martin Open House at the LMS Community Marina August 19: Rod Run, A&W to Chemainus 20: Show & Shine Car Show along First Avenue 27: Light up the Night 6:30-10:30 pm 28: Arts on the Avenue art show and sale on First Avenue 10 am-4 pm TBA: Berry Mania at Transfer Beach TBA: Tour de Rock Movie Night September 18: Terry Fox Run at Frank Jameson Community Centre 18: Tour de Rock Logger Sports, Transfer Beach Amphitheatre November 11: Remembrance Day Memorial Service RCL 171 24-27: Cedar Yellow Point Artisan Association’s Country Christmas Self-Guided Tour 24: Ladysmith Festival of Lights Light Up, First Avenue TBA: Cinnamon Bun Fun Run at the Frank Jameson Community Centre December 2: Old Tyme Christmas and Candlelight Walk in downtown Ladysmith TBA: Breakfast With Santa at Aggie Hall 10: Christmas Sail Past at Transfer Beach TBA: Christmas Festival of Choirs, Bethel/ St. Mary’s 18: Santa Claus Parade TBA: Celebration of Light, Eagles Hall January 1: Polar Bear Swim at Transfer Beach

34 www.ladysmithchronicle.com

Barry Clark Manager

Nanaimo Realty Ladysmith Branch

Greg Buchanan

410A First Avenue, Downtown Ladysmith 250-245-2252 www.royallepageladysmith.ca

Jan Christenson

Toni Gatland

Luke Kolk

Sue Perrey

Cyndi Beaulieu

John Booth

• We are the local experts within your community and surrounding areas.

Andrea Gueulette

• We provide the best professional services with integrity and accountability.

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inn and

marina

marina inn

sail

explore 877 860 6866 pagepointmarina.com 49* 00.615 N , 123* 49.388 W ladysmith bc

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