THINGS UP Katie Longworth’s sewing and mending station was a popular stop during last weekend’s Fix-It Fair at the Legion. This year the Fix-It Fair featured as part of ‘Fix-It Month’ on Bowen, with Saturday’s main event supplemented by a series of smaller workshops focusing on different elements of the wide-ranging fixing realm. As always both the fixers and visitors came away happy with the work performed Check out Page 18 for more photos of the accomplishments! / Paola Qualizza photo
Passenger ferry lands dock support
A step forward on the proposed 2028 launch of an electric ferry connection between Bowen Island, the Sunshine Coast and the Lower Mainland was made at the April 13 Vancouver Parks Board meeting. That elected body supported a proposal to transition its Harbour Green Dock, located in Coal Harbour, into the downtown Vancouver base for CIRQL (formerly Greenline) Ferries for a passenger-only service linking that city, Gibsons and Bowen.
The board unanimously agreed to ask Vancouver city council to authorize staff to negotiate an agreement with CIRQL to upgrade the dock to support an initial two-vessel service Enhancements needed include a floating “charge barge” for the ferries, a publicly accessible viewing platform and short-term recreational boat moorage.
The parks board staff were also authorized to prepare a memorandum of understanding with the city confirming that ownership, operation, and maintenance responsibilities for Harbour Green Dock and supporting infrastructure be transferred from the parks board to the city.
Paul Hooson & Blair Hayashi carry a Humpback Whale puppet from Bowen Island Community School to the Whale Tales event at the Community Centre last weekend (left, Lisa Brougham photo). Also last weekend, Atom & Steve Elves were among the handy helpers at the Fix-It Fair (right, Paola Qualizza photo) Find out much more about both these stories inside the paper this week.
Friday, May22, 2026 6:30 pm CatesHillChapel 661 Carter Road
We hope to raiseaglass withyou in celebrationof community!
Scan theQRcode to RSVP by Monday,May 11 or emailusat info@bowenfoundation.com
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The Spurge scourge
KATHRYN THOMSON
Contributor
Spurge laurel is an invasive, tenacious, toxic plant that is invading Bowen forests and gardens everywhere. Happily, this noxious plant is no match for spurge hunters Dan Parke and Aaron Rabinovitch who leave no leaf unturned in their quest to seek out and destroy this sneaky spurge laurel
And sneaky it is, because its roots can spread underground, undetected for ages before it pops up everywhere and all at once
Notice Dan and Aaron’s safety goggles, gloves, and long sleeves this safety equipment is essential because every part of the spurge laurel is toxic and even cutting it can cause caustic
sap to spray and harm your skin and eyes
Note also the amazing heavy-duty sapling puller tool it grips tightly at the base of the laurel and removes the entire root ball to prevent regrowth. Who knew such a tool existed? You too can acquire one online, or, I hear, it can be borrowed through our very own Bowen Garden Society. This gives me hope that we may one day be (mostly) free of this nasty plant invader altogether
For now, you’ll find these well-armed and intrepid spurge hunters rooting out this unwelcome visitor along roadsides and in the forests, making this corner of the world a little safer for all our native species
Thank you Dan and Aaron for your service
Spring Bookfest around the corner
ANNA-MARIE ATHERTON
Friends of the BI Library Society
Book lovers – it’s almost time for the spring book sale! Friends of the Bowen Island Library Society (FOBILS) is pleased to announce the spring book sale will be held on Sunday, May 3 in the Library Annex from Noon to 4 pm
While the selection consists mainly of novels and children’s books, there is also a great selection of non-fiction to choose from Prices are again very attractive and cash, cheques and debit cards are accepted.
We are planning to have smaller sales throughout the year with the next one possibly in early fall and then another closer to Christmas.
All proceeds from the sale support our local library! Best seller author Kate Quinn comments in her latest novel ‘Astral Library’ – “Protect your local libraries Support them, fund them, use them. Libraries are beacons in the dark. Don’t let them go out!”
We can always use volunteers – for setup, during the sale or takedown. If you can spare an hour or two, please contact myself, Anna-Marie, by writing to bowenauntie@gmail.com or by phone at 604-947-0333.
Come to the sale on May 3 – you won’t be disappointed!
Celebrate Spring with
An Evening with Cpl. Brad Savage
JUDITH HEZEEN
Bowen Island Rotary Club
The room was unusually quiet Monday evening in Artisan Eats, and that silence said everything.
Bowen Island Rotary’s speaker series welcomed Cpl. Brad Savage, the commander of our local RCMP Detachment, for what was billed as a talk on Mental Health and Resiliency on April 13. What unfolded was something more intimate: a deeply personal account of one man’s journey through trauma, healing, and the hard-won understanding that resilience isn’t something you’re born with, it’s something you develop.
Brad grew up in an RCMP family and has served across Canada, from Cole Harbour, Nova Scotia to remote northern communities like Fort Good Hope and Fort Providence. He arrived on Bowen last September, drawn by a friend’s description of our island as deeply community-minded, exactly the environment where his philosophy of community-based policing could thrive.
But Monday night, Brad set aside the uniform and spoke as a human being.
He shared how traumatic events both on the job and in his personal life set him on a long journey of reckoning. Through the Canadian-based Wounded Warriors program, he began to understand the cumulative weight those experiences had carried in his life, and that he needed support to move forward. That journey led him to advocate
loudly for mental health awareness in policing on podcasts, with community groups, and now, with us
He spoke of the culture shift he has witnessed since joining the RCMP in 2009, and of his ongoing commitment to honest conversations and peer support. He credits meditation, mindfulness, and the practice of gratitude as pillars of his own resilience, alongside the steadfast support of Nicole and his children, who have walked every step of this journey with him.
Brad highlighted Save A Warrior, an American-based mental health service provider dedicated to trauma-exposed professionals, first responders, and their families
This program saved his life
Save A Warrior offers evidence-based interventions in combination with a supportive community to support recovery from post-trauma injuries. They rely on donations to continue their vital work If you’d like to learn more or contribute, reach out directly to Cpl. Savage - brad.savage@ saveawarrior.org
By the end of the evening, something had shifted in the room No one there will look at our local detachment the same way again. We won’t see the cop, we’ll see Brad: a neighbour, a father, a man of quiet courage who believes that wherever he serves becomes home.
We are lucky he chose ours
The Bowen Island Rotary Speakers Series meets every month For information on upcoming events see our calendar on bowenrotary.com
BI RCMP Cpl. Brad Savage speaks to the Rotary Club on Monday night.
Newborn Whale sighting on Bowen!
MICHAEL NANKIN
Contributor / Gymnaestrada Fan
On Sunday, April 12, a humpback whale was born It does not have a name yet; that will be determined when all the suggested names are sorted through and a decision is announced. What the whale does have is a job and a community of support.
The whale will be part of the Bowen Island Gymnastics Club’s performances this year in Richmond and Regina –and, if the gymnasts advance in their competition, the World Gymnaestrada in Portugal in 2027.
The performance, created by Lisa Brougham, program director and head coach, and coach Cedar Loates, featured 38 gymnastic performers and dancers ages 11 to 17,
along with their newborn friend who is a 15-foot puppet created by Liz Nankin, Paul Hooson, Blair Hayashi and Rose Marsolais
The puppet will share their gymnastic performance journey through the living waters of Howe Sound, Átl’ka7tsem. At Sunday’s fundraiser, “Whale Tales,” the humpback was accompanied by marine expert and photographer Tobin Sparling who gave an in-depth and engaging talk on the life of whales
Ongoing fundraising for these talented young athletes continues Donations can be made online at bowengymnastics.com And for further information you can write to bowengymnastics@gmail.com
If you have an idea for the whale’s name, please drop in to Phoenix Books during the month of April to record your suggestion.
Whales were the hot topic during ‘Whale Tales’ on Sunday, a fundraiser for the Gymnastics Club. Tobin Sparling (above, Lisa Brougham photo) spoke about his experiences documentating whales, while Liz Nankin and the team behind the puppet Humpback whale ensured the creature made a majestic debut (Basia Lieske photo, below). People can suggest a name for the whale until the end of the month.
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SKY is Reaching Further for an Age-friendly Bowen
KATHY PICHORA-FULLER
Seniors Keeping Young
SKY (Bowen Island Seniors Keeping Young Society) was founded in 1994 to promote healthy aging for older adults living on Bowen Island. In 2006, the province of British Columbia officially recognized Bowen as an agefriendly community and in 2009 the “Age-friendly Community Project Report” was submitted to the Bowen Island Municipal Council.
Age-friendly community initiatives begun two decades ago have shaped major changes on Bowen, including the 2024 opening of the Community Health Centre, the 2025 opening of the Bowen Island Community Centre, and the start of Snug Cove House construction. Bowen is a super-aged community, with over 25 per cent of the population being 65 years of age or older. In the 2021 census, half of those living on Bowen were 50-plus years of age.
Since 2021, many have celebrated their 80th birthday and many have begun planning future celebrations of 85th, 90th and 100th birthdays! It is time to acknowledge the remarkable achievements realized since age-friendly planning began on Bowen 20 years ago and to update age-friendly plans for the next 20 years.
SKY is collaborating with the Bowen Island Municipality (BIM) and the Bowen Island Community Health Centre,
the new Bowen Men’s Shed and a widening network of like-minded organizations and individuals who are poised to reach further for a more age-friendly Bowen. SKY received funding from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research for the 2025-26 “Reach For SKY” seminar series to mobilize knowledge on healthy aging and brain health
On April 7, SKY held the kick-off meeting for a new seminar series “Reach Further for SKY” , funded by a BIM Community Grant, that will shift the focus from the health of individuals to age-friendly community improvements to support healthy aging. On Monday, May 4, the first seminar will spotlight age-friendly natural environments on Bowen. And on June 15 the second seminar will explore age-friendly transportation options based on a report surveying approaches used across communities in B.C.
In the wake of the COVID pandemic, the membership of SKY dropped to about 30 people. Now, the membership in 2027 may grow to about 300. In February 2026, new knowledge and thinking about what it means to age well triggered SKY to update its bylaws. Membership is no longer defined by date-of-birth or having a primary residence on Bowen. Reframing aging as a process that unfolds throughout adulthood, SKY membership is now open to any person who supports the purpose of SKY to promote healthy aging for older people on Bowen.
Given increased longevity and the aging of the population, SKY is also rethinking how to scale its operations to
better meet the needs of a much larger membership on Bowen. The SKY membership year recently changed to be May 1 to April 30, the call for nominations for the SKY Board of Directors is now open, and SKY Annual General Meeting will be held on May 28.
It is a great time to join in reaching further for a more age-friendly Bowen. Information about these opportunities and activities can be found at our new website: www.skyonbowen.ca
Linda Hurlburt (SKY chair, left) & Julia McCaig (SKY administrator, right) at the Reach Further for SKY meeting at the Community Centre on April 7.
Ferry aiming for first sailings in 2028
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
Commissioners made supportive comments about the proposed new transportation option, calling it “a move in the right direction,” one that “brings something interesting and unique to Vancouver” and something that “creates regional transportation synergy.”
Next steps in Gibsons and Bowen
In an email to Coast Reporter, CIRQL’s chief executive officer Callum Campbell, said the company’s efforts related to the Gibsons Landing and Bowen Island docking sites will focus on advancing site-specific engineering and marine design work, completing permitting and regulatory efforts and refining operational modelling, including charging and scheduling integration.
“Subject to approvals and agreements, CIRQL would then proceed toward procurement and vessel order placement, with parallel infrastructure delivery at each site,” he wrote.
When asked how the company plans to pay for it all, the CEO declined to share updated project costs. “We remain funded at around 85 per cent, including the federal Clean Technology Investment Tax Credit, expected to offset approximately 30 per cent of eligible capital costs. We will not advance with any site until all sites are secured and we have sufficient funding to launch the entire project,” his statement read.
Sharing the space and revenues
According to a report on the parks board meeting’s agenda, the improved Harbour Green dock and the waterlot it is located on are to remain city property, but the improvements are to be paid for by the ferry service. A yet-to-be negotiated operating agreement for the facility is to see the city benefit from a revenue sharing arrangement with the ferry company.
That revenue potential caught the interest of board commissioner Tom Digby. His amendment to the report’s recommendation to include discussions about having those revenues shared by the city and the parks board was endorsed by the board.
“This park board needs the money,” he stated. He pointed out that with potentially hundreds of ferry passengers passing through Harbour Green Park once the service commences, parks board maintenance costs for infrastructure like washrooms and walkways will increase
A cut of future ferry fares could also be in store locally Campbell’s email stated similar revenue sharing arrangements can be considered across all three locations. “For Vancouver, we propose $1 per passenger, which helps to align all parties on building a ridership,” he wrote.
There was an opportunity for members of the public to provide comments on the proposal at the meeting. A representative of the Vancouver Rowing Club, which has a 140-year history of use of the Coal Harbour area, took to the microphone He asked for the opportunity to work with staff and the proponent to ensure that the club could continue safely using the area as it is redeveloped and once the service starts Board chair Laura Christensen asked staff to work with that group on its request.
Following the endorsement of the motions, Christensen stated, “I look forward to taking a ride to Bowen in 2028.”
SEYMOURBAYDRIVE
Sunny, southeastfacingproperties. Located a short walk from public golf course,the beach, andextensive trailnetwork
Everyisland haspeople who learn howtoreadit. They notice wherewater gathersinwinterand whereitdisappearsinsummer.Theyunderstand that aquiet wetareais rarely just awet area,and that acreek begins longbeforeit lookslikeone.Theyknowthatwhatseems ordinaryonthe surface maybe doingimportant work underneath Formanyyears,AlanWhiteheadhas been oneofthose people on Bowen.
Alan is afoundingmemberofthe BowenIsland Conservancy, along-time directorofthe BowenNature Club,and hasservedasVolunteerWarden of the Bowen Island Ecological Reservesince 1994. He alsoworkedclosely with the municipalityonwatershed, aquifer,and stream protection provisions that were incorporated into theLand UseBylaw.
Across his professional career,Alanworkedinterrestrial, riparian, freshwater, wetland,and coastalecology,along with watershedmanagement,ecological inventories,biodiversity conservation, environmentalimpactassessment, mitigation planning, and GIS-basedmapping.OnBowen, that knowledge hasbeenbroughttoverypractical work: reservestewardship,local planning,habitatobservation, and thelong, patienttaskofpayingattention to howthe island functions
That kind of attention hasshapedconservation work on Bowenfor years.
MINI
This week’sstar patient is Mini, the adorable little companion of our very ownDr. Scott Mathison! Mini came in for adental procedure and handled her visit like an absolute champ. Despite her tiny size, she showed big braveryevery step of the way—from her exam to recovery.Her sweet personality and those bright, curious eyes quickly won over the entire team. Dental care is so important forour furry friends, especially smalldogs like Mini, and we’re proud to help keep her happy,healthy, and smiling (with fresh, clean teeth!) Great job, Mini—you’re atiny patient with ahuge heart!
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Alan developed the FairyFen management plan, has spentdecades as warden of the Ecological Reserve, and contributed to Bowen’slong-termheron monitoring work, whichincludedtrackingnestsites and colony movements, recordingbreedingobservations,mappingsites and buffers, and sharinginformationwith residents,contractors, and localgovernment
On an island like this one,that wayofthinkingispractical. So much ecologicalvalue is tuckedintosmall places and ordinary-lookingground, and damage often beginsquietly: achangeindrainage, alossof cover, abreak in connection, agradual narrowingofwhat aplace cansupport.
Foryears,Alan’sworkhas helped keep attention on those relationships.Not in adramatic way. More often in the way good conservationusuallyhappens:through observation, mapping, field knowledge,local memory, andthe discipline of returningtothe same places over time.Through work that maynot be very visible to most residents,but helps the communitybetterunderstand the systemsitdepends on and what it stands to lose.
TheConservancydepends on science,but notscience sealedinside technical reports. It depends on sciencethat canbebroughtintolocal stewardship,local planning, and public understanding.Itdepends on peoplewho can connect ecologicalknowledge to the actual places where decisions getmade
Thenexttime youpassaquiet stream,amossy hollow, or apatch of forest that seems unremarkable,itis worth pausingalittlelonger—and consideringwhat that place is
connected to,and howour choicescan affect it.
Foryears,AlanWhiteheadhas helpedBowen read such places more carefully.
This is aseriesabout the scientistswho volunteer their expertiseand timewith the BowenIslandConservancy.They areour friendsand neighbours—and avital part of howwe care forthisisland.
This exceptional waterfront acreage awaits your dream islandescape. Situated in a quiet and private, off the beaten path partofBowen, this 5-acre parcel features approx. 500+ ft of foreshore and includes multiple potential build sites -all with stunning views/view potential towardsGambierIsland, the Sunshine Coast, and up Howe Sound.
This is one of Bowen’smost stunning, one-of-a-kind properties. This 5.8 acre property at the end of aquiet road has plenty of level and terraced places to play Wind-up the front driveway past a hugepond, flowing streams andpool to the main 3-story home with 2bedrooms, 2baths, with room to extend. Detached 2nd studio.
This charming Bluewater home is settled within apark-like half acre with manicured gardens andplenty of privacy.Three bedrooms, 1.5 baths, wellmaintained, with aworkshop in the basement below.Ona quiet street, and one back from waterfront -soquick and easy walkingdistance of King Edward Bay and Clipper beaches.
Peaceful and quiet, this mid-island home sits on averdant half acre, with aunique style centered around log posts throughout. Featuring one bedroom on the main and three bedrooms up above -itisthe perfect family house with room to work-fromhome for more than one family member.Outside boasts abeautiful backyard oasis.
Co-listed with Oakwyn Realty
This incredibly rare opportunity to secure apremier waterfront property on the sought after Arbutus Point Road. Situated on a0.95 acre lot, this property offers incredible frontage and the kind of setting that’sbecoming increasingly hard to find. Showings by appointment only Value in the land only.
Welcome to your own private oasis in the midst of popular and familyfriendly Deep Bay.This home has been renovated and updated, with two bedrooms above and two below,recreational spaces, agorgeous sundeck off the living room with acovered patio below, and plenty of storage. Downstairs has suite potential with separate access.
Riley’s Cidery seeks rezoning
ALEX KURIAL Editor
A rezoning application at Riley’s Cidery is seeking to solidify and expand commercial uses on the property
The application contains two requests for the Laura Road property on Bowen’s west side. One is for a permanent designation of cidery operation as an allowable use of the land. Riley’s currently operates under a Temporary Use Permit (TUP) in lieu of an official cidery zoning designation. The business is currently working under its second three-year TUP, which expires in December.
The second aim of the rezoning is for a new permanent element on the land: a 10-bedroom guest house. The application - submitted by two potential buyers of the property, which has been up for sale since last year - say that the guest house and its resulting agri-tourism would allow them to make the orchard portion of the land financially viable to maintain long-term. Two of the property’s five-acres are currently occupied by apple trees.
The rezoning is in its initial stages and on Monday it was council’s decision whether to send it to the Advisory Planning Commission (APC) and Parks, Environment and Climate Action Committee (PECAC) for recommendations Similar to feedback regarding a pair of recent rezoning applications in the neighbourhood, neighbours expressed views ranging from outright opposition to a desire to halt consideration until the current
Official Community Plan (OCP) review is complete. Several of the neighbours spoke during public comments or wrote letters to this effect, while both the current and prospective owners spoke in support of the application.
Council was largely supportive of the early recommendation to refer the application to the APC and PECAC, while acknowledging several details of the plan still need to be worked out, particularly surrounding water, sewage and conservation development.
“Local food and heritage varieties are important to me, and I think to the future of agriculture on Bowen and in the Islands Trust area,” said Coun. Sue Ellen Fast The orchard at Riley’s Cidery is home to more than 1,000 different varieties of apple.
“I see the existing orchard as a gene bank of heritage varieties that do well in different kinds of environmental conditions, which I think is really important as climate change comes down upon us,” said Fast “I recognize that the neighbours have concerns, but to me rural character includes farming and this orchard is a type of food production and supports agriculture beyond Bowen. To me it’s a biodiversity museum, a living museum.”
“I’m seeing this as a way to preserve the orchard. Hiring gardeners and people that are skilled and trained and know how to prune trees is expensive,” said Coun. Alison Morse.
And while supportive for now, mayor Andrew Leonard wondered about the appli-
Ladies Madrigal singers - and special guests - prepare for Spring concert
LORRAINE ASHDOWN Madz Alumni
There are a few annual “must sees” on Bowen Island and the Ladies Madrigal Singers - a.k.a The Madz - spring concert is indeed one of them.
The Ladies Madrigal singers first began circa 1995 under the direction of Alison Nixon. Eleanor Benson, now living in France, took over the direction of the Madrigal Singers circa 1994.
Lynn Williams became the director circa 2001 and she and the choir are still flourishing today.
To celebrate their longevity and continue the tradition, on Friday, April 24 at 7 pm at Cates Hill Chapel, Lynn Williams with accompanist Sheilagh Sparks and Nova Pon (flute), Laurie Beesting (record-
cation’s long-term prospects given its scope. “The only concern is that the application feels a little bit like trying to feed two birds with one stone The guest house goes one step further and is an unproven use,” said the mayor.
He said more information would be needed regarding water and wastewater - along with the overall business case for the guest house - while also highlighting future unknowns. “It comes at a time when we are in the middle of an OCP
er), Sophie Walters (violin), Leo Pedersen (guitar) along with Chris Corrigan, Davin Killy and Ivan Jensen (male chorus), and of course, the illimitable Madz, will bring you a heartwarming evening of engaging music.
The hospitable and charming Chris Corrigan will be the host.
We are so fortunate to have this long standing group of women and guests to lift our spirits and put lasting smiles on our faces.
Please note, the road to Cates Hill Chapel will be open to drivers. All physical tickets sold at Cates Pharmacy, or debit/credit at the door They are $25 for all and those under 9 years of age are free
Lynn and the Madz and all are looking forward to singing for you.
review, and there’s going to be an election in the fall as well. I’m concerned that if this larger rezoning fails because of that added use (guest house), then everything goes away,” said Leonard, adding it may end up being an easier path to pursue rezoning strictly for cidery use while exploring the guest house under an alternative method such as a TUP.
For now, the motion for the application to head to committee referral passed 6-1, with Coun. Alex Jurgensen opposed.
Shari Ulrich’s the“TRUSTME” series
allshows at 7:30 pm Tir-na-nOg Theatre Nevermissa thing, sign up for theUndercurrent newsletter!
VINTA April19
THEPAIRS May27
Marin June 17
Patenaude
ticketsattrustme.tickit.ca andPhoenix Books
Speedy support for Food Bank tourney
ALEX KURIAL Editor
The Bowen Food Bank is set for a big boost thanks to a friendly local baseball tournament.
The Food Bank Tournament is taking place this weekend at Snug Cove Field. Thought up by local Slo-Pitch player and owner of Phoenix Books, Jared Brown, the tournament is an expansion upon a traditional spring friendly game where Bowen players host a team from Vancouver. It’s now turned into a charity event, with the Bowen Food Bank chosen as the inaugural benefactor.
This time around, in addition to the usual duo, word spread to another Vancouver team as well as a squad over in Victoria Back home, the event generated so much local interest it became clear two Bowen teams would be necessary, bringing the competitor total to five.
Having grown quickly from a one-off game into a full Slo-Pitch weekend, Brown brought Jax Strong and Seanna Strubin aboard to help organize. Thanks to a surge of sponsors the original fundraising goal of $5,000 hoped for by Food Bank operator Margaret Gray was quickly smashed. As of Tuesday the group had raised approximately $6,500, with the number expected to rise throughout the week and via food and entertainment sales over the weekend. About 15 sponsors have come on
Double Digit Celebration
One of Bowen’s best known four-legged residents, Pasquale, celebrated his 10th birthday last week The local rescue, and 2024 Dog of the Year, spent part of his day celebrating with owner Darryl Deegan at the Bowen Beer & Wine Cellar. As is always the case, Pasquale was showered w/ affection by all who stopped in.
board so far, contributing either financially or with food and other supplies for the weekend.
“It feels amazing,” says Strong on how quickly support came in for the Food Bank. “It’s also such a fun way to fundraise. Everybody gets to get out before the season starts and play some ball and meet teams from other parts of B.C.”
“To know that it’s going to a local charity that’s going to help everybody feels great. We hope to keep raising that number higher and higher, but so far we’re pretty happy with what we’ve accomplished for sure,” says Strong The current total raised is already more than enough to supply fresh food for the Food Bank for a year
The first game takes place on Friday night at 5:30 pm, with action starting up again the next day at 9:30 am Saturday’s final game is at 5 pm, Sunday’s first game is 9:30 am, and the championship game is later that afternoon at 3 pm. There will be a hot dog and pop stand for fans with all proceeds from purchases over the weekend going to the Food Bank, plus a 50/50 draw which is also supporting the cause.
For those looking to keep the fun going the Legion is having a party on Saturday night with live music (from the band of one of the Vancouver players) and burger plates, starting at 7 pm Once again, all ticket and food sales will add up toward the Food Bank’s total. Party tickets can be purchased for $20 at the Legion leading up to Saturday night.
A Quiet Force behind the Conservancy’s Work
CONSERVANCY RECOGNIZES HELPERS DURING VOLUNTEER WEEK
BOWEN ISLAND CONSERVANCY
It’s easy to notice the public face of the Conservancy’s work: a community event, a stewardship project, a talk, an article, a fundraising appeal, a photo contest, a plan.
What is easier to miss is how much of that work is carried, shaped, and sustained by volunteers.
Across the Conservancy, volunteers contribute in all kinds of ways Some are out on the land, helping care for trails, habitats, and restoration sites. Others serve on committees, support communications and fundraising, help with events, offer scientific or technical knowledge, or take on the practical behind-the-scenes work that keeps projects moving.
Some help from time to time; oth-
ers have been showing up for years. Their contribution matters because caring for Bowen’s natural environment takes more than concern. It takes time, effort, judgement, persistence, and a willingness to help where help is needed
It takes people who care enough to give something of themselves to the work
Conservancy volunteers are one of the clearest examples of caring in action. They help protect places, strengthen community understanding, support better planning, and advance the everyday stewardship that helps biodiversity thrive on Bowen.
Their work is woven through nearly everything the Conservancy does
To all Conservancy volunteers, past and present: thank you. Your work matters, and this island is better for it.
Conservancy volunteers aid the organization’s efforts in many different ways, such as assisting with forage fish spawning at Sandy Beach. / BI Conservancy photos
John O’Donnell took a picture of this uniquely-coloured Sea Lion relaxing with friends on a dock in the King
BO WEN IS LA ND COMMUNITY CHOIR
SpringConcert
Saturday, May9th
2:00pm and 7:30pm CatesHill Chapel
Tickets forsaleat CATESPHARMACY (cash only) and at thedoor.
$25adults,$20 youth(12-18) free under 12
DirectorEllenMacIntoshandAccompanist
Sheilagh Sparks Featuringguestmusicians
SATURDAY, APRIL 25TH @BICSGYM
FLIGHT 1- 10AM-12PM
FLIGHT 2- 12PM-2PM
FLIGHT 3- 2PM-4:30PM
ADMISSION $10 PER PERSON |$25 PER FAMILY
CONCESSION AND BBQ ON SITE CASH ONLY
PLEASE COME SUPPORT BOWEN ISLAND GYMNASTS
An Island PacificSchool Bursary Fund BenefitConcert
with special guests: TheSchool of Rock
Saturday,May 9
BowenTheatre
Tickets: $30, kids under 12 by donation Doorsand BBQ by MillersMeatcraft 5:30PM Concert6:30PM -9:00PM
Edward Bay Area.
It wasanother fantastic installmentinthe Fix-It Fair’s historyonApril 11 as many itemscametothe RegenerativeBowen Island eventin need ofaid and left the Legion with anew leaseon life. Some of the day’sfixers included Kelly Paton(below, left)and Krista Hennebury& Anel Jordaan(below, right). Thenextday the firstofthree Fix-It Workshops washeld at the BowenPublic Library, hostedbyYvette Gabrielle with afocus on sewing (above,left).Thereare twomoreworkshops thismonth, the next one dedicatedtoelectrical repairs on April19followedbyahandmending workshoponApril 26. Registration details forboth can be found in the Calendar./KateLodge &Paola Qualizza photos
Places of Worship WelcomeYou
Sunday Worship 10:30 am Rev.Lorraine Ashdown www.biuc.ca |1122 Miller Road 778-688-2061
DROP-OFF Sunday Mass at 10:00 Sunday Worship10:00 www.cateshillchapel.com 604-947-4260 (661 Carter Rd.) office@cateshillchapel.com
HAYAM(Songofthe Sea)
BOWEN’SJEWISHCOMMUNITY
Shabbat Gatherings ~ Holidays
TheVaultexplores the world of DuddyKravitz
MICHAEL NANKIN BowenIslandFilm Society
“The Apprenticeship of DuddyKravitz”directedby Tedd Kotcheff and released in 1974, is one of those rare filmsthatcaptures both the thrilland tragedy of ambition
RichardDreyfuss, all nervous energy andyouthful arrogance,gives exhilaratinglife to Duddy, aMontreal kidwho believessuccess is hisbirthright and will grind himself,and everyone around him, into dusttoget it.Wesee Duddynot only as amanipulator,but as a boywho’s been told all his life that “a manwithoutland is nobody.”
Half acentury later, the filmfeels sharper than ever It’s portrait of unchecked greed, of aman who mistakes possession foridentity,echoesinaworld driven by self-promotion and hustle culture. Duddy’s relentlessstriving–oncea
WatchingDreyfuss charmhis waythrough a dozenmoral compromises,werecognizesomething disturbinglymodern: the conviction that successabsolves all sins.The film’s warningistimeless: that withoutcompassion, ambition curdles into isolation –yet,despiteall his manipulationsand compromises, we recognizea bit of Duddyinourselves, and, likeourselves,love and hatehim.
TheFilm Society’sVault series presents film from the past that speaktotoday. Screeningisat6:30 pm sharp on Tuesday, April21 at the Community Center Theatre. Presentedbythe BowenIsland Film Society, BowenMunicipalityand the Community Recreation Tickets at the door or online at theBowen Recreation website.
QUEEN OF CAPILANOFERRY
APR01, 2026 -MAR 31,2027
BOWEN ISLAND xcept Sundays xcept xcept
DEPART B 5:15 am ex 6:15 am ex 7:30 am ex 8:45 am 10:00am 11:15am 12:35pm 1:55 pm 3:15 pm 4:40 pm -exceptWednesdays 6:00 pm 7:15 pm 8:25 pm -exceptSaturdays 9:30 pm 10:30pm 11:30pm
DEPART HORSESHOEBAY 5:45 am except 6:50 am except 8:05 am 9:20 am -exceptWednesdays 10:35 am 11:55 am 1:10 pm 2:35 pm 3:55 pm 5:20 pm 6:35 pm 7:50 pm 8:55 pm -exceptSaturdays 10:00pm 11:00pm
Where’sthe ferry rightnow?- live updatesatwww.bowenferry.ca Schedulechanges on statutoryholidays. Stay up to date at www.bcferries.com
The Sounds of Springtime
JANET ROSS
BI Community Choir
They say it’s Spring! So, of course the Bowen Island Community Choir will be springing forth in full form for its annual spring concerts with a lively, romantic, and nostalgic program with hints of pop and jazz (think Sting, Buble, Midler) to match the mood and beauty of this season.
The choir, directed by Ellen MacIntosh and accompanied by Sheilagh Sparks, will be joined by guest musicians from Bowen’s rich talent pool, and performing at Cates Hill Chapel on Saturday, May 9, at 2 and 7:30 pm
Tickets (cash only) are available at Cates Pharmacy: $25 adults, $20 youth (12-18), free under 12. Also available at the door
You’ll be sure to recognize many tunes, and might be tempted to sing along, but please leave that to the choir - we’ve practiced for months and are eager to show off!
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Community Choir accompanist Sheilagh Sparks on piano
Trio of Trust Me shows on tap
SHARI ULRICH
Contributor
It’s not lost on me that naming a concert series “Trust Me” is presumptuous Taste in music is very subjective!
Though it has morphed over 10 years from it just being pals I’ve met over time as a performer. Now artists approach me hoping to share their music with Bowen Islanders, and I say yes to the music and performers who move and inspire me and who I feel confident you will love
This coming Sunday, April 19 that was the instrumental music of “Vinta”. This quartet of multi-instrumentalists and genuine scholars was forged through the pandemic, as they brought new intensity to old tunes, and grew new tunes from old sources
They are at the cutting edge of European traditional music in Canada, leading them to win Instrumental Group of the year at the Canadian Folk Music awards. Head to vintamusic.com and you will understand why I wanted to bring them to Bowen.
I’ve been hearing about them for some time now and was alerted that I might be able to lure them here, between Vancouver and Penticton and it worked! I think you will love them! Check out thepairsmusic.com
Then on June 17 will be Marin Patenaude Raised in rural Horsefly, BC, the younger sister of Juno Award-winning Pharis Romero (of Pharis and Jason Romero), she was raised on harmony and sawdust in a family band that played folk and country. I shared a stage with her recently along with a whole younger generation of artists and, cliché as it sounds, she blew me away. An exceptional songwriter, guitar player and singer with an utterly disarming and effervescent personality. To hear her is to love her Discover more at marinpatenaude.com
It’s always challenging to try to convey a musical experience with mere words. I hope you’ll trust me, check out their music, and do your heart and soul a favour and experience them in the comfort of your own “home”. We need music!
All shows are at Tir-na-nOg Theatre at 585 Rivendell Drive. Tickets are $30 at trustme. tickit.ca and at Phoenix Books with cash.
On May 27, the trio of “The Pairs” , twins Noelle Coughlin, Renee Coughlin and lifelong friend Hillary Watson based out of London, ON have become an international touring sensation.
Forget the Green Jacket, the real prize among Bowen’s elite golfers is the coveted Mustard Jacket - awarded each year to the best Men’s, Women’s and Youth golfer during the Bowen Masters Tournament (conveniently scheduled to sync up with its professional counterpart competition at Augusta National). This year it was Bruce Russell (left) who emerged as top finisher in the Men’s category, while Landon Purday (right) won the Junior event. Kathy Clarke captured her own vibrant coat in the Women’s competition. While much of the work is done at the Bowen Golf Course, there is also some fate involved as final tallies are calculated in part using the score from a random competitor in the pro tourney On that front, Rory McIlroy earned his second Green Jacket over the weekend, and has now won the Masters back-to-back years.
Arts Tour Guide hits mailboxes
LIZ NANKIN
Bowen Arts Tour
I was walking the Old Road the other day with my friend and artist Jean Bradbury, a walk we frequent and look forward to revisiting because it all has offerings to see.
We stop and lean in close to moss and flowers - water drops on everything. Photographs pile in our cells Jean archives and gets inspiration for all her work from these walks.
The joy of seeing a tiny mushroom cup and then the realization of her craft and talent onto her paintings - I witnessed the inspiration to her art.
The Bowen Arts Tour Guide Book is here. It is delivered into your mailboxes and an online copy is easily accessible on bowenartstour.com
Let your fingers start planning the tour page by page - a map of all 19 hubs with more than 145 artists sharing their talent and love of process with demos in some places and music, prose and literary readings. Discover artists you’ve never seen before on the island - revisit artists that you love - perhaps have already acquired
some of their work
The tour welcomes back artists from the previous two years and also welcomes a new group of multi-faceted artists to year three of tour experience. Artists have many jobs and may not realize how they influence through these layers of what their work does when they put it out in the world. When they launch from their studios, workshops or kitchen tables to a public forum - not knowing who is going see it, touch it, hear it, and what they are going to receive from the piece.
Artists are mentors - they teach us how to look at an experience And they make useful things for our bodies and brains. Artists are archivists with everything they make Within all the mediums - they may reference a situation, a part of nature, a feeling that may be fleeting. That moment creates culture and connects us to our humanity.
This two-day event is a celebration of new work It’s about looking at things in a new way.
Use the tour book hard copy or digitally Bowen is my home and yet there are so many streets I have never turned onto... trails and neighbourhoods to explore. The guide helps you navigate the neighbour-
hoods throughout the island... from home hubs to shop and gallery hubs to commercial hubs such as Tippy’s, Bowen Cider House, The Shed, and Riley’s Cidery. Journey in the neighbourhoods from east
side hubs to
to
and up to
Point and down to the Golf Course Spring is a time of looking at all the new growth and refreshment. See you in May.
Call or email to place your ad, Monday through Friday 8:30am to 4:30pm 236-889-6595 ahogan@glaciermedia.ca 236-889-6595 ahogan@lodestarmedia.ca
Call or email to place your ad, Monday through Friday 8:30am to 4:30pm 604-362-0586 •604-653-7851 classifieds@van.net
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
Friday, April 17 to Sunday, April 19
Mixed Slo-Pitch Tournament
Join us at Snug Cove Field to help raise money for the Food Bank and watch some ball! Full details on Page 15
Friday, April 17 (& other dates)
All’s Well at the Bowen Theatre
Bard on the Rock proudly presents this year’s offering of Shakespeare with ‘All’s Well’, written by the Bard and directed by Graham Ritchie Shows Apr. 17, 18, 24 & 25, all 7:15 pm start. Tickets $30 at eventbrite.ca
Saturday, April 18
French Connections at the Library
Drop in and join us to practice your conversational French, and get to know other French language learners on Bowen Island! Free, 10:30 to 11:30 am bipl.ca/French
Saturday, April 18
Our Natural Neighbours at the Library
Free, drop-in presentation by Will Husby in the “If You Love This Island” series. Starts 1 pm, more at bipl.ca/nature
Sunday, April 19
Nature Club Walk
Join the Bowen Nature Club for a Spring Soundwalk. Tune into the soundscapes of Bowen’s forests and wetlands Email bowennatureclub@gmail.com for registration and membership options. From 10 to 11:30 am.
Sunday, April 19
Fix-It Workshop at the Library
Electrical Repairs 101: Learn key safety principles and foundational repair skills, with the chance to troubleshoot and fix a lamp. 1 to 3 pm. Registration required: bipl.ca/fix
Sunday, April 19
Garden Club Open Garden
Growing & Propagating Rhododendrons with Everhard van Lidth de Jeude. 602 Collins Road, 2 to 4 pm. Members free or $5. Parking limited, please carpool if possible. Tuesday, April 21
Movie Night at Bowen Theatre
BowenIslandFilmSocietyisscreeningTheApprenticeship of Duddy Kravitz. Showtime 6:30 pm.
Wednesday, April 22 & Friday, April 24
SKY Walks
Seniors Keeping Young meeting at Killarney Lake picnic area Apr. 22 & Golf Course Apr. 24. Both start at 10:30 am
Thursday, April 23
Writers’ Feedback Group at the Library
Whether you’re a seasoned writer or just starting out, all ages and types of writer are welcome to share and give constructive feedback on each other’s writing in this positive and supportive environment. Free, runs 4:30 to 6 pm
Registration required – register at bipl.ca/write
Friday, April 24
Ladies Madrigal Concert
The ‘Madz’ singers perfrom at Cates Hill Chapel at 7 pm. Tickets sold at Cates Pharmacy, or debit/credit at the door $25 for all, under 9 years of age are free More on Page 14.
Sunday, April 26
Book Donation Morning at the Library
Friends of the Library welcome your donations of clean, good condition used books. They’re especially seeking novels and kids books From 10 am until bins full (Noon latest).
Sunday, April 26
Fix-It Workshop at the Library
Hand Mending 101: A hands on workshop to learn basic hand sewn patching and darning skills From 1 to 2:30 pm
Registration required: bipl.ca/fix
Sunday, April 26
Open Regenerative Food Garden
Join Emily van Lidth de Jeude to learn about growing your own food - what worked or didn’t, ethical chicken keeping, native species, climate change and more. Free, max 10 people, 2 to 4 pm Email wildfood@emilyartist.ca to register.
MONDAYS
Happy Mondays!
Meditations & Buddhist teachings on “Inspiring Solutions for Difficulties”. $12 per class or 5 week pass for $50. Everyone is welcome.” At Bowen Island Community Centre from 7 to 8 pm, thru May 4.
TUESDAYS
Bowen Celtic Music Group
All instruments and levels welcome We start out slow and can send out music in advance. Downstairs at Doc Morgan’s from 7 to 9 pm
WEDNESDAYS
Family Storytime at the Library
A free 30-minute drop-in program of stories, rhymes, and songs for children age 0-6 and their caregivers! From 10:30 to 11 am, families are welcome to stay after until 11:30 and socialize in the cozy Annex, read books, and hang out!
THURSDAYS
Thursday Art Group
Join the Thursday Art Group (TAG) at Collins Hall from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm to paint and create together. $30 per month or $10 drop-in. Info at shannonrondeau@shaw.ca
