ENTER IF YOU DARE! Full-scale frights are coming to the Integrated Health Haunted House experience this Halloween, in collaboration with Island Pacific School. Dr. Nic Lendvoy has been hard at work decorating the centre along with his trusty helpers, kids Woods and Dru. The Haunted House is roaring to life next weekend, and you can read all about it inside on Page 7! / Alex Kurial photo
ALEX KURIAL Editor
Debate continued at council this week regarding the future of one Island resident.
Bowen’s local cougar, which was first confirmed to be on the island last July, has been a consistent subject in community discourse since arriving. While those 15 months haven’t resulted in any serious incidents between the cougar and humans, the big cat’s presence has left many human residents unsettled.
“It is out of place on our apex predator-free, small, highly-populated Island,” said Bruce Russell, speaking on behalf of Concerned Citizens for the Removal of the Cougar, during a delegation to council on Monday “It does not belong here and should be in a habitat in which cougars are the norm and it can possibly find a mate.”
Russell pointed to a petition printed in the Undercurrent in August which collected 229 signatures asking for the cougar’s removal. He added the group was also willing to cover the costs of doing so
AllCouncilmeetingsareopen tothepublictoattendin personorelectronically,unless notedotherwise
October 20, 2025 1:00 pm CommitteeoftheWhole Meeting
October 27,2025 1:00pm RegularCouncilMeeting
Pursuant to Section224 of theCommunity Charter, BowenIsland Municipal Council intends to adopt abylaw exemptingfromproperty taxation fortwo years (2026-2027) thelands and improvementsorboththat areowned or heldbycharitableorother not forprofitorganizations or used or occupied by theMunicipality and that Council considersare used fora purposethat is directly relatedtothe purposes of theCorporation. Theproperties being considered at theCouncil meetingofOctober 27, 2025, and theestimated totalproperty taxesthat wouldotherwise be imposed if they were not exempt are:
Seymour BayFoundation(BowenIslandGolfAss'n)
BayFoundation(BowenIslandGolfAss'n)3795.005
Total Assessed Value
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
Specifically on Monday, Russell explained the supporters of removing the cougar want the municipality (BIM) to write a letter to the Conservation Officer Service (COS) asking the provincial body to relocate the animal.
“Our futile, ignored efforts for the humane removal of the cougar suggest that - in the opinion of the COS and Council - the safety of the cougar is more important than that of us residents and visitors. Which is totally wrong, hence this further appeal to council that they do the proper thing and send the requested letter to the Conservation Officer,” said Russell. His delegation was backed by public comments and letters echoing the same calls.
The cougar enjoys plenty of support as well though, evidenced by a contrasting collection of letters and public comments asking to leave the animal alone. These included a counter-petition in favour of coexistence with the cougar which also claims signatures in the hundreds.
Mayor Andrew Leonard reiterated that the COS has jurisdiction over wildlife in B.C. and municipalities aren’t legislated to move or remove wild animals The COS position since the cougar’s arrival has focused on education about how to co-exist safely with this animal The organization has been consistent in saying the cougar has demonstrated normal behaviour for its species, such as sustaining itself on a diet of local wildlife including Bowen’s abundant deer population, since arriving on the island.
Speaking in February, COS inspector Simon Gravel said “Our assessment of the presence of this threat… and the perception of fear that the residents may have – it has to be acknowledged that maybe there’s a gap there. If I have a cougar in my backyard I can be alarmed, I can have some fear and concern. But the assessment of a conservation officer needs to determine what the presence of this cougar really represents in terms of risk and public safety threat.”
On whether relocation was being contemplated, “This is not a threshold that we are even close to, or have any reason to believe that we will reach anytime soon,” said Gravel at the time. Without an incident since, the COS position on the topic remains the same.
Chief administrative officer Kirn Dhillon explained that successful relocation of a cougar is extremely rare, citing a stat that nearly all attempts (99.8%) result in the animal’s death.
This can even occur after a cougar is moved to a new area, as an existing cougar may see the newcomer as a threat to its territory and engage it in a fight.
“Even a letter from the municipality asking for the cougar’s removal, if it’s not tied to a specific incident… that alone wouldn’t be enough for the COS to act,” said Dhillon. The CAO added that although rare, cougars and bears have been present on Bowen Island in the past
While dealing with the cougar is beyond municipal authority, Leonard reflected on what BIM could do to reassure residents “It feels as if there’s a role for the municipality to act as a convener so that residents - from whatever viewpoint - can have their perspectives heard and fielded by the appropriate authorities in the appropriate way.”
“Our position as a municipality is to hold the spaces where we can have those perspectives heard, respond to them in the most evidenced-based ways that we can, and to continue to communicate with COS so that they can enforce wildlife as per their jurisdiction,” said Leonard.
The mayor suggested inviting the COS and cougar experts to the island to speak with community members would be a good idea. Parks and Environment manager Carla Skuce added conservation group WildSafeBC could return for more information sessions, and classes on bear spray training could become available in the near future.
TheCommunityGrantsprogramisintendedtoassistandencourage BowenIslandcommunitygroupsandorganizationswithinthetermsofthe CommunityCharter
BowenIslandcommunitygroupsandorganizationsaredefinedasthose wherethemajorityofthemembersresidewithintheMunicipality Communitygroupsandorganizationsmayapplyfora CommunityGrant.
Applicationscloseat4:00pmonFriday,October31, 2025.
UsetheQRCodetoapplyorvisit: bowenislandmunicipality.ca/community-grants/
The Conservation Officer Service website has many safety tips on how to live with Cougars. These are can be found on the municipal website as well, along with a video Q&A about Cougars with WildSafeBC. / WildSafeBC photo
OpenburningisonceagainpermittedafterOctober15,2025,butburnpermit proceduresonBowenIslandhavechanged.
Themostsignificantchangetotheprocessisthatyounowneedtoassess whetheryourpropertyiseligibleforopenburningbeforestartingthe applicationprocess
Todothis,usetheBowMaptoolonourwebsitetolocateyourproperty,and thenusethemeasuringtooltoverifythatyourchosenburnlocationmeetsthe requireddistancesetbacks.
MetroVancouverrequiresthattheburnlocationbeatleast100metresfrom buildingsonneighbouringpropertiesand500metresfromthepropertylines ofhospitals,schools,andcommunitycarefacilities
Ifyourburnlocationdoesnotmeetthesetbackrequirements,youare ineligibleforaburnpermitandshouldnotapply
Furtherinformation,includinglinkstoBowMap, canbefoundbyusingtheQRCodeorvisiting: bowenislandmunicipality.ca/burn-permits/
Questions?CallBowenIslandFireRescueat604947-9324
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TheUndercurrent is amember of theNational NewsMedia Council of Canada, which is an independentorganization establishedtodeal withacceptable journalisticpractices and ethical behaviour.Ifyou have concerns about editorial content, please emaileditor@ bowenislandundercurrent.com or call604-947-2442. If youare not satisfied withthe response and wishtofile a formal complaint, visit the websiteatmediacouncil.ca or call toll-free 1-844-877-1163 foradditional information.
Sheila Arlene Letson
March25, 1931 -October 11,2025
Sheila Letson died comfortablyinher belovedHornbyIslandhomelistening to thebirds andwatchingthe weatherplayout over LambertChannel andthe VancouverIslandmountains beyond.Withfamilyather side,supported by friendsand guided by thewonderful Hornby Island health community,Mom died with love anddignity.The eldest of 3children, Sheila wasbornatthe height of the Great Depression in NorthVancouver to teacher/principalGordonBennett and Louise Bennett (nee Storey). Sheila grew up swimming in theCapilanoRiver and spententiresummers with herpaternalgrandparentsonGabriolaIsland. Together theseexperiences forged herlovefor thewestcoast andher devotion to nurturingmulti-generationalfamilyconnections.Whenher mother became ill forseveral yearsduringher teens, Sheila learnedinshort orderhow to sewher ownclothes,knitand cook forher father andsiblings. Thesecaringskillshoned outofnecessity eventually formed thebedrock forraising herfourchildrenand were keyinher mother figure rolestosomanypeoplethroughouther lifetime Sheila married herhighschool love John Harry Leroy Letson in 1953,and together they raised theirchildreninNorth Vancouver, spending anyfreetimein theirtreasured second home “Camp” at King Edward Bay, BowenIsland. Sheila wasanenthusiasticboard member of thePacific NorthwestDistrictofthe UnitarianUniversalists in the1970’sand 80’s.The featherinSheila’svolunteer cap wasspearheadingthe fundraisingcampaignthatenabled thepurchaseofthe current NorthShore Unitarian’schurch. Allthisindustrywas deliveredwithsharp practicality, awickedsense of humour,her famous freshbread andendless knitting projects
Upon John’s earlyretirementin1976, they eventually movedfulltimetotheir BowenIslandhomeand leaned into island life.In2004theyleftBowen Island and settled on Hornby in thehouse herfatherbuilt in theearly 1960’s.Sheila’s Hornby rootsran deep andthe family feelssofortunate to honour herwishtodie there. Mom’spaternalgreat grandfatherwas an earlysettler building andfarming thepropertythatisnow referred to as Westview Farm.Her storieswereendless, oneofwhich relatedHornbyislanders celebratingthe endofWWIIwitha bonfire on ShingleSpitbeach
Mom, Gran,AuntieShe,She-She,Sheilawillberememberedfor hercompassion, love of games, hermagic mixofthriftand stunning generosity,the decadesof riotous,delicious dinnerparties deliveredwithease. Shealsoknewhow to dig herheelsin. Shewas aforce.Thank youtoHornbyLocum Dr McDermott,Dr Froehnerand theMAiDteam, to caregiverCelia forhelping us with thelastfew days,and to dear Hailey foryourweekly visits with Mom. Sheadoredyour companyand your Olliestories.Sheilaispredeceased by herhusband John, and herbrother John Bennett. Sheila is survived by hersisterJoy,her children Leanne,Sally,(Peter),John, Mary (Cameron),and herfourgrandchildren:Sara (Mike),Jeremy(Bailey), Charlieand Joeand hergreat granddaughterShayla. A celebrationoflifewillbeheldearly in 2026.Inlieuofflowers,pleaseconsidera donation to DyingWithDignity Canada
JUDITH GEDYE
Bowen Island Municipality Councillor
I had not put an ad in the Undercurrent, but people came. They remembered it was the first Saturday of the month, however, I must emphasize next month my Open House will be the SECOND Saturday, November 8, at 3 pm.
Since it is Bowen, the birthday party on the first would probably welcome you, but they may not want to talk politics!
Our discussion started with a comment about the amount we pay for garbage collection. Bowen pays ~$500 more than Quesnel. Not knowing much about Quesnel, except that they have a mixed industrial and residential tax base, they might deliver their own service instead of contracting out. The municipality (BIM) not invest directly in staff or equipment.
Also, “tipping fees” in Vancouver are rising rapidly. We’ve run out of landfill sites and ship our waste far into the interior, possibly to Quesnel paradoxically. We have ferry fees and extra salary when there are long waits from overloads and cancellations
We pay for Bowen Waste to manage the Recycling Depot, where they accept a broad range of waste and share profits with local charities The proponent suggested a “user-pay” system. There were comments that the previous decal system resulted in dumping in parks, with neighbours, and on the boat. Businesses with significantly more garbage than a single person who puts out one can every four to six weeks must pay for any extra cans
And there was mention of on-Island composting. Interestingly, that was part of the submission of the Garden Club delegation to the Official Community Plan (OCP) Steering Committee last week
There was a comment that the air-conditioning at the Community Centre was too cold. The system is large and complex and individual spaces are difficult to adjust to meet specific requests. We’re working on it.
The next topic was “Development Cost Charges” and how Bowen does not collect them to help pay for infrastructure for new developments, with the effect of taxpayers subsidizing developers. The Province legislates what can be collected, but, historically, Bowen has not added such costs to local developers.
There was mention at the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) that changes to these charges were coming, but in an effort to encourage affordable housing, I doubt these will be a significant source of income There was a question about a news article about a “tiny homes on wheels” workshop at UBCM. Islands Trust trustees for Gabriola have been leading this initiative, working with the Nanaimo Regional District building inspector they are suggesting ways to regularize this form of housing. These are not seasonal recreation vehicles, nor trailer parks with permanent pads, but using manufactured-house specifications they have suggestions for building code amendments
Also, they are working closely with provincial health to develop guidelines for safe water and sewage designs, referencing advanced technology for composting toilets One participant described a sewage treatment plant in France that used a small land base, had no odours and generated potable water.
Another asked if the discharge pipe for Snug Cove sewage had been replaced (don’t know). Grey water recycling was mentioned, but Vancouver Coast Health remains unsatisfied with allowing such use. There was a brief mention of rainwater collection as a priority for new construction.
Next we discussed three recent surveys seeking our input. First, BIM’s budget survey had a deadline of October 7, however if you have concerns or suggestions please send those to our Chief Financial Officer (kwatson@bimbc.ca)
Second, the Islands Trust wants comments about their new draft Policy Statement at https://islandstrust.bc.ca/ programs/islands-2050/ - Trust Council hopes to finish this work well before next October’s election You can simply check boxes or there’s space for more complex answers. If you get interrupted, you can come/go easily without losing the work you’ve completed.
Third were comments on the “What We Heard” report of the consultants who conducted a community survey for the OCP Amendment process. The consultants did revise their summary in preparation for their workshop with the Steering Committee on October 6. That workshop illustrated the considerable work still to be done before we have a revised OCP.
I reported on an October 3 meeting hosted by BIM in our theatre space (which had been transformed into a conference space with a large rectangular table for elected people, gallery seating for multiple NGOs, and the large screen for
visuals), of the Atl’ka7tsem/Howe Sound Biosphere Region project. About 50 people from every community around the Sound attended.
Sadly, a much loved Chief of the Squamish Nation, Bill Williams, recently died and the newly elected Squamish Nation council, who were scheduled to describe their recent forestry agreement with the Province, was unable to attend. The provincial representatives for that same agreement were behind BCGEU picket lines, so they too were unable to attend. The elected officials and NGOs who did attend, updated us about a huge range of projects ongoing and planned.
The water quality of Grafton Lake and other catchment areas on Bowen was another topic. The list of contaminants in Grafton is concerning, but it was emphasized that the quantity is miniscule, is not considered a health risk, and the new Water Treatment Plant is working effectively for many of the chemicals listed.
The question of how to keep people from swimming in Grafton was raised – fencing, monitoring, bylaws and enforcement, posting counter-information on social media that it is not a tourist attraction were suggested. There have been recent delegations to council about protecting catchment areas and septic drainage concerns and an Islandwide watershed management plan has been suggested. There was budget allocated last year to create a Grafton Lake Environmental Plan.
Finally, there were concerns about a hydro-carbon spill or fire retardant chemicals entering the lake and other aquifers, and a question whether there was any emergency planning for such an event. Neither councillor at this Open House knew of any specific plans, but our Emergency Support Service, Neighbourhood Emergency Response Program and volunteer firefighters have all been training extensively for emergencies – which includes identifying risks and forms of mitigation.
That was it for one hour on a sunny Saturday Please remember I’ll host the November Open House on the 8th at 3 pm at Collins Hall. Everyone welcome.
ALEX KURIAL Editor
A Halloween classic is returning to the island in full swing next week as the Haunted House gets set to open its doors.
The spooky season staple is back even bigger thanks to a collaboration between the Integrated Health Centre and Island Pacific School (IPS).
“We started with a very basic pumpkin carving contest six years ago and every year the event has been growing with more activities and decorations for people to enjoy,” explains Dr. Nic Lendvoy who works at Integrated Health. “For the first time last year we converted half of the clinic into a walk-through Haunted House and had our staff man the different rooms as people came through.”
The initial run a success, the entire clinic is now being converted into a labyrinth of frights thanks to the help of some local students. “I connected with IPS teacher Adrian van Lidth de Jeude who jumped at the idea to join forces We came up with a Bowen Haunts Past theme for this year and each room in the clinic will reflect a different part of the island,” says Lendvoy
Themes such as BC ‘Scary’s’ (Ferries), ‘Crypt’ (Crippen) Park and the ‘Hurt’ (Hearth) Art Gallery will all reflect popular island landmarks “Even the infamous Beast of Bowen will be making its return,” teases Lendvoy.
The idea was supported by the Bowen Island Community Foundation. Officially titled ‘Woods & Dru’s Halloween SPARK (Spooky Props And Resources for Kids) - named for Nic’s children - the Foundation provided a grant to cover costumes and decorations for kids contributing to the Haunted House. Lendvoy says the Foundation’s efforts helps “bring kids together to create, perform, and share their love of spooky season while reviving Bowen’s tradition of community haunted houses and
Halloween celebrations.”
The Haunted House will run two nights on Saturday, Oct. 25 and Sunday, Oct. 26. Both evenings will begin with a Kids version of the activity from 4 to 6 pm before the scary dial turns up for Teens and Adults from 6 to 8 pm
“We’ll make it fun and engaging with activities and prizes to get them through it,” says Lendvoy of the earlier family friendly event. “In the evening we’re ramping it up for the braver kids, teens and adults who want more scare for their fare.”
“Actors will be engaging with the visitors but not touching them It may be loud at times and you’ll definitely leave with a better appreciation for Bowen’s darker side,” adds Lendvoy.
And pumpkin carvers need not fear (at least not until they entertheHauntedHouse).ThetraditionalCarveUpTheCove will be accepting pumpkin carvings for display on the same weekend as the Haunted House. Pumpkins can be dropped off at the centre Friday to Sunday with winners announced during the week. Participants are welcome to bring their pumpkins home for display during the week leading up to Halloween as well. Integrated Health will also be donating pumpkins to Bowen Island Community School for kids to carve.
“Events like this are an important part of keeping our island’s traditions alive They give kids a chance to express their creativity, use their imagination, and be part of something bigger than themselves,” says Lendvoy on the role the Haunted House and pumpkin carving play in Bowen’s Halloween landscape.
“For the community, it’s about passing on those shared experiences that make Bowen special where everyone comes together to build, decorate, and celebrate. These traditions connect generations, spark creativity, and remind us of the joy that comes from creating something magical together.”
BOWEN ISLAND RCMP
There were 98 files in September:
Bowen Island RCMP conducted proactive traffic enforcement 38 times including but not limited to:
- Impaired driving (Roadblocks)
- Speed via Radar and Laser
- U-Turn (Ferry Lineup)
Other calls for service:
1 False Alarm – Business
3 Animal Calls – Injured or deceased deers, assist SPCA
1 Assault – Charges recommended
6 Assist Public – Neighbour disputes, landlord/tenant disputes, lost hikers
9 Assist other Agencies – Assisted Bowen Island Fire Department, Emergency Health Services, RNC, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Conservation, Vancouver Police Department
9 Check Wellbeings – Intoxicated people, requests by family, doctors
1 Disturbance – Damage to business property
2 Domestics – Family related and Intimate Partner disputes
4 Liquor Acts – Bar walks, no violations
1 Impaired – Intoxicated driver crashed car. Impaired driving charges forwarded
1 Vehicle Collision – Minor hit and run. Ticket issued
8 Bylaw – Ferry lineup infractions, noise complaints, parking
10 Property – Lost wallets, BC drivers licences, licence plates, car keys Found headphones, cellphones
5 Suspicious Circumstances – Suspicious noises, vehicles, texts, air tag
1 Theft – Owner left rug in lobby. Gone after 20 minutes
6 Traffic – Erratic drivers, No Insurance, Bylaw Enforcement
Police Monthly Message:
October is spooky season. With that comes decreased visibility earlier and earlier in the day. Police are recommended that pedestrians wear bright clothing and carry a flashlight (not just phones) on Bowen roads. Cyclists are continued to be reminded to have working front and rear lights.
AMessagefrom Canada’s news publishers
To the Government of Canada, Canada’ssovereignty and economy is under threat from abroad. Morethan ever,Canadiansmust be free to decide our owncountry’sfuture.
Astrong, plural and free newsmedia is an essential ingredient to our democracy: ahealthy industry that serves andisbeholden to Canadians, not foreign tech giants.
Our Canadian publications have always stood for astrong and independent Canada.
Weapplaud the Government of Canada’sambition to build Canada strong, andcommitmentinthe forthcoming Budget toBuy Canadian.
Last year,our federal government including agencies and Crown corporationsspent over $100 million on advertising. Most of it went to U.S.Big Tech.1
Why arewefunding American techmonopolies that extract tens of billionsayear out of Canada largely untaxed at the expense of local journalism and culture, and whose platforms have become vectors for division and disinformation?
Unlike them, we areaccountable to Canadians and legally liable forwhat we publish. Our professionaljournalists chase the truth, not algorithms.Weproducereliable, trustworthy information, not clickbait and AI slop.
Let’sreinvest our ad dollars in Canada. In Budget 2025, the Government of Canada should follow Ontario’s lead andset aside aminimum of 25% of its advertising budgets forCanadian news media.
At no additionalcost to taxpayers, the government can support local jobs while getting itsmessage out in abrand safe environment. Far fewer Canadians trust ads on Facebook andInstagram than those publishedbyCanadian newsmedia.2
Buying Canadian advertising in Canadian newsmedia is both the right andsmart thing to do.
Respectfully,
Canada’snews publishers
The Bowen Island Health Centre Foundation is proud to announce the release of its first annual Progress Report 2024-25, marking an impactful year for the Bowen Island Community Health Centre, which the Foundation operates The Health Centre has dramatically improved health care access for Bowen Islanders since opening its doors in April 2024, thanks to the generous contributions of more than 500 donors and strong partnerships with the BC Ministry of Health and Vancouver Coastal Health Authority.
Since opening, the Health Centre has matched more than 2,100 patients with a family practitioner and delivered 15,000-plus appointments. It has expanded the integrated care team to include four family physicians, a nurse practitioner, a registered nurse and three community health coordinators. The Centre has also welcomed new services and tenants, including LifeLabs, Bowen Island Dental and The Gym on Bowen, further enhancing community quality of life, health and wellness.
Says Health Centre executive director Sue McIntyre: “As a long-time resident, I know how vital on-island care is I’m grateful to work with such a dedicated team focused on supporting our community’s health.”
Adds Foundation president Cheryl Shkurhan: “This Progress Report is a testament to the vision, generosity and hard work of our entire community. Together, we are building a healthier, more resilient Bowen Island with health care and support close to home. The future is bright, and we look forward to continuing this journey with our community partners and supporters.”
The Foundation’s annual report highlights a commitment to responsive, quality care, ongoing recruitment and deepening community partnerships Looking to the future, the Health Centre leadership team is now focused on expanding services and strengthening the integrated care model that has already made a meaningful difference in the lives of Islanders.
For more information or to read the full progress report, visit https://bowenhealthfoundation.com/
About the Bowen Island Health Centre Foundation:
The Foundation is a community-governed non-profit supporting accessible, quality healthcare services delivered on-island to meet Bowen’s unique needs.
The Health Centre employs a multi-disciplinary team providing integrated primary and urgent care in a welcoming environment.
The Bowen Island Community Health Centre at 1037 Miller Road / BICHC photo
union announces a “major strike escalation.”
One of two B.C. public sector unions on strike right now says talks with the provincial government remain stalled.
The Professional Employees Association which represents 1,800 licensed professionals in B.C. such as engineers, foresters, lawyers and geoscientists says it returned to the bargaining table on Tuesday.
“Talks broke down quickly after the government failed to table a revised general wage offer or any new monetary proposals,” the union said Wednesday.
The government is offering a 3.5 per cent wage increase over two years.
“The PEA maintains that government licensed professionals deserve a fair deal and the B.C. government needs to value their expertise,” said the union.
About 1,000 PEA members are currently on strike, a figure that is expected to climb to all 1,800 on Thursday when the
In addition to the PEA, 25,000 members of the B.C. General Employees’ Union are walking the picket lines. The unions have been coordinating their strike action, but are negotiating with the government separately
The BCGEU strike has impacted liquor distribution in B.C. and all Service BC locations
The BCGEU says the province has offered it a five per cent wage increase over the next two years. The union is asking for eight per cent over the same period Those two sides have not spoken in weeks.
Finance Minister Brenda Bailey said in a video statement over the weekend that the government can’t agree to a deal that makes service delivery too expensive to maintain.
The strike has now dragged on for seven weeks, although the unions have been gradually escalating their job action, so many workers have not been off the job for that entire time.
Negotiations for a new contract broke off in July The job action started on Sept 2.
Bowen Island Heritage Preservation Association
Dear Bowen,
Thank you to the Apple pickers, students from Island Discovery Learning Community, the Low Hanging Fruit group, Grafton gardens, Bowen Island Heritage Preservation Association (BIHPA) board members, and the Pie Bakers of 50 pies to sell.
And the Board members joined by Allie, Anne and Rosie, the five bakers that entered the pie competition, Carol, Cam, Mo, Theresa, and Ben, and the Pie Judges for the Pie contest - Martin, Connie, Judi and Arthur
Thanks to all the volunteers that showed up to set up the Orchard and take down, all the stalwart Islanders and visitors that braved the damp conditions to celebrate the music by the Celtic band, purchase pies (they were gone in 30 minutes),
visit the Museum, purchase apples collected from all over the island, and enjoy fresh pressed apple juice - thanks to Florrie and Doug for their press.
Thanks to everyone who visited the apple display, the farmer market vendors and Metro display
Thank you to our sponsors, The Legion, The Ruddy, and Phoenix for supporting us
Thanks to Riley’s Cidery, Bowen Cider House, Bowen Flower Shop, the Knick Knack Nook and Judi G. for donating contest gifts and private orchards that provided more of the ever important apples
And huge thanks to the Metro Vancouver staff Kristian, Rich and Aaron for their help with making our first Applefest back in the Orchard in five years such a lovely success and a wonderful day.
Cheers from the BIPHA Board:
- Helen, Suzan, Deb, Arthur, Pernille, Theresa, Robert & Daphne
And Sarah from afar
Next year 2026 will be Bowen Heritage’s 50th Year!
Marine piling underway, July16, 2025
TheWoodfibreLNG siteistaking shape.Onland,crews are progressing on foundations afterplacing the pipe rack modules.Offshore, piling hasbegun forthe first permanent supports forthe floating storage tank —amajor step in marine construction.
Allmarine work is supportedbymarine mammal observers and hydroacousticmonitoring.These safeguards pausework if underwater sound nears regulatory limits or if marine mammals enterexclusionzones.
We’reproud to be building the world’sfirst net zero LNG exportfacility safely,responsibly,and under the oversightof the Sḵwxwú7meshÚxwumixw (Squamish Nation) —follow us to see how it’s taking shape righthereinSquamish.
Dear Residentsand Businesses of Bowen Island,
Over the course of the summerReunion BB ProductionsInc. has filmedscenes for the Amazon series “Every Year After”onBowen Island. This new television series is based on a book called “Every Summer After”byCanadian writer,Carley Fortune.Itisa romantic-comedy setin‘cottagecountry’.
Wethank youfor your patience and cooperationduring this work on BowenIsland.We enjoyed speaking with those of youwho arefamiliar with thebook and meeting so many who areinterested in watching theshow when it comes out. Bowen Island is averyspecial place andits charm and beauty will makethis television show apopular must-watchand destinationfor fans of thestory.
During the summerof2026 you can watch “Every Year After”onAmazonPrime.
From theCast and crew of “Every Summer After”thankyou!
BOWEN ISLAND CONSERVANCY
PHOTO BY DYLAN LEIFSO
Near LighthousePoint by Snug Cove,a mother harboursealheavedherself onto a sun-warmedrockwith her pupastwo kayakersdrifted past in quiet water. Dylanremembersthe momentwithhis mom:“It wasa beautiful moment, onethat Ihavenever experiencedbefore andwould dearly hopeotherscan experience as itwas just so special.”
Harbourseals areour mostabundant year-round residentmarine mammals on Nexwlélexwm/Bowen Island. At lowtide you cansee them hauledouton rockstorest and warm after hoursincold water, to give birth,and to nursetheir young. From the QueenofCapilano you canoftenspot them alongDormanPoint, and you’ll seeothers huntingand watchingpeople in Deep Bay and sheltered covesacrossthe island.
Haul-out sitesmatter. In June andJuly seals haulout dailytomolt,sheddingtheir oldfur and growingafresh coat.Individuals oftenshowstrongloyaltytospecific sites, returningtothe same few haul-outs through the years.
Their diet mirrors Bowen’smarine biodiversity.Seals feed opportunisticallyon crabsand amix of localfish —chum, pink, and coho salmon, Pacific herring,northern
anchovy, shiner perch, and sand lance whateverismostabundantatthe time.
They arebuilt to hunt.Excellenteyesighthelps at the surfaceand in dim water. In murkywater,their ultra-sensitivewhiskers read tinywater movements created by swimmingfish and caneven detectacrab’sshellfromthe rocks. They canstaydownfor minutes and divenear 100 metres, quicklytwistingand turningto catch fleeingfish
Here,Bigg’skillerwhales(formerly called transientorcas) are their onlynatural predator,focusingmostlyoninexperiencedpups or distracted mothers. Human-causedrisks include boat strikes, harassment that forces sealsoff haul-outs, habitatdegradation, loss of prey,and entanglement in fishing gear. If youmeetseals on their haulouts, do what Dylandid. Keep yourdistance. Move quietly.Let them rest.Encounters stay special when we showrespect
This is amonthly series of photographs submittedfor theBowen Island Conservancy’sBowen Biodiversity Photo Contest. Checkout this year’s submissions and winnersathttps://bowenislandconservancy.org/biodiversity/2025-photocontest-winners/
TheBowen Island Conservancyisa land trustand registeredcharity that worksto protectand preservethe island’s natural environment—from endangeredcoastal bluffs to inland lakes, wetlands,and fens.
QUEEN OF CAPILANO FERRY NEW SCHEDULE MAY 15 -MARCH 23 2026
BOWEN ISLANDUNITED CHURCH
| 1122
Worship 10:30 am
Road 778-688-2061 OFFICE HOURSWEDNESDAY10-4ORBYAPPOINTMENT
Contact
CATES HILL CHAPEL www.cateshillchapel.com 604-947-4260 (661Carter Rd.)
Sunday Worship10:00 Sunday Mass at10:00
Contact aryana.rayne@gmail.com •www.shirathayam.ca
DEPART BOWENISLAND 5:15 am -exceptSundays 6:15 am 7:30 am 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 5:45am 6:50am 8:05am 9:20am-exceptWednesdays 10:35 am 11:55 am 1:10pm 2:35pm 3:55pm 5:20pm 6:35pm 7:50pm 8:55pm- except Saturdays 10:00pm 11:00pm
Where’sthe ferry rightnow?- liveupdatesatwww.bowenferry.ca Schedule changesonstatutory holidays. Stay up to date at www.bcferries.com
NICK LABA
North Shore News
As cold and wet weather settles into the West Coast, a local film fest is bringing big stoke for the upcoming ski season.
Coast Mountain Film Festival is back for its third year, with two nights of screenings: Tuesday, Nov. 4 at Centennial Theatre in North Van and Tuesday, Nov. 11 at Rio Theatre in Vancouver
The festival is bringing together worldclass ski films, amazing prizes and an audience that lives for snow, said event organizer Matt Blair, general manager for Vancouver Is Awesome and former publisher of the North Shore News and Bowen Island Undercurrent.
“Whether you’re a die-hard powder hound or someone who simply loves the mountain culture that makes our region so vibrant, this year’s lineup is set to deliver unforgettable nights on the big screen,” he said.
On opening night, the event kicks off at 7:30 pm with a showcase that includes local filmmaker Joey Kraft, who was behind the acclaimed 2024 film The Harvest.
Headlining the evening is the anticipated new project from the Armada team, Ornada.
The footage captures foremost freeskiers hitting locations ranging from untouched peaks in
Alaska and British Columbia to city streets and terrain parks that have helped shape the sport.
Athletes in the film include Tanner Hall, Henrik Harlaut and Sammy Carlson.
At the Rio the following week is the Vancouver premiere of After the Snowfall, from Matchstick Productions, at 7 pm
The film is set to take viewers around the globe, from huge powder days in Japan to sunny pond skims in California, from Whistler’s iconic peaks to Norway’s Lyngen Alps
After the Snowfall features a lineup including Mark Amba, Michelle Parker, Nico Porteous and Jess Hotter
With just two showcase evenings this year, Blair said tickets will move fast.
“Whether you’re drawn to the boundary-pushing artistry of Ornada or the soulful storytelling of After the Snowfall – or better yet, both – these nights are designed to bring the mountains to the city in unforgettable fashion,” he said.
“So wax your skis, call your crew, and mark your calendars. The Coast Mountain Film Festival is back, and the stoke is real,” Blair said.
Coast Mountain Film Festival Night 1Tuesday, Nov. 4 at 7:30 pm. Centennial Theatre, North Vancouver Tickets via Showpass
Coast Mountain Film Festival Night 2 - Tuesday, Nov. 11 at 7 pm Rio Theatre, Vancouver Tickets via the Rio website.
Check
bowenislandundercurrent.co
Call or email to place your ad, Monday through Friday 8:30am to 4:30pm 236-889-6595
Call or email to place your ad, Monday through Friday 8:30am to 4:30pm 604-362-0586 •604-653-7851
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Friday, October 17 (& other dates)
Rough Crossing at the Bowen Theatre Theatre On The Isle is very pleased to present this fastpaced oceanic comedy! Directed by Calder Stewart, set in the 1930s it follows the desperate efforts of two playwright/ directors to pull their wayward cast and composer together and deliver a smash hit musical by the time their ocean liner crosses the Atlantic. Shows also Oct. 18, 24 & 25 All shows start at 7:30 pm, tickets $25 and available on Eventbrite.
Saturday, October 18
Dive Against Debris
Operation Snug Cove is aiming to clean up debris from the sea floor. Divers and shore crew volunteers are still needed to help out in the water and on land From 9:30 am to Noon, write underwaterangel@hotmail.com for more.
Saturday, October 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! From 10:30 to 11:30 am. bipl.ca/French
Saturday, October 18
Garden Club Speaker Series
Selecting Plants For a Changing Environment by Laura Doheny, Hunter’s Garden Vancouver Store Manager. Laura will be speaking on selecting plants for a changing environment. 1 pm at Collins Hall, doors open at 12:30. Free for members and $5 for non-members
Sunday, October 19
Nature Club Hike
Take a leisurely hike along the mid section of Bowen’s Cross-Island Trail with naturalist Alan Whitehead. Email
bowennatureclub@gmail.com to register. 9:30 am to Noon.
Sunday, October 19
Book Donation Mornings
Friends of the Library are looking for your gently loved books. 10 am to Noon, more at bipl.ca/guidelines
Sunday, October 19
Grief Circle
Finding Your Anchor: Remembering Who You Are - a supportive Grief Circle for ages 19+. Facilitated by Ruta Yawney, registered clinical counsellor and fellow in guided imagery and music. At Collins Hall from 2 to 4 pm $95/sliding scale. Registration required, write to ruta@rutayawney.com
Tuesday, October 21
SKY Trek
Seniors Keeping Young is heading to Steveston. Meeting 8:15 am at ferry terminal. Register at skyonbowen.ca
Wednesday, October 22 & Friday, October 24
SKY Walks
Seniors Keeping Young meets at Quarry Park on Oct. 22 & Mount Gardner Connector Trail on Oct. 24. Both 10:30 am
Thursday, October 23
Community Non-Fiction Bookswap
Got a nonfiction book collecting dust? Trade it in for something new-to-you! Just bring a book you’ve already enjoyed and pick up someone else’s favourite. Bring it wrapped with a few words describing the book and enjoy a fun way to share some wine, tea and recommended reads! 6 pm start, please register at sweatthetechniquestudio.com
Thursday, October 23 & Friday, October 24
Halloween Events with Bowen Rec
Back to back events leading up to Halloween! A Halloween Dance on Thursday night Oct. 23 from 6:30 to 8:30 pm at the Community Centre (Grades 5-7) and Pro-D Day Camp Haunted House from 9 am to 4 pm on Friday, Oct. 24, also at the Community Centre. Visit Bowen Rec website to register.
Friday, October 24
Pro-D Day STEAM Club at the Library
Learn new skills, make something new! We’ll explore a new STEAM activity every session, with time to practice and explore science, arts & technology 10:30 am to Noon in the Library Annex Ages 6-10. Please register at: bipl.ca/steam The STEAM Club is also looking for teen volunteers. Gain employment skills, work with kids and earn 5+ volunteer hours this fall. Register at bipl.ca/teens
Saturday, October 25
Bowen Food Resilience Workshops
Lasagna Beds and Fruit Tree Guilds Workshop at Grafton Gardens from 1 to 3 pm Help your fruit trees thrive from the soil up Hands-on, rain or shine (cancelled only for monsoons). Dress for gardening. Fee: By Donation. Register at bowenfoodresilience@gmail.com
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! Starts 10:30 am in the Library Annex. Families are welcome to stay in the Annex until 11:30 am to socialize, read books and hang out!
THURSDAYS
TAG Gatherings
Thursday Art Group is at Collins Hall from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm. We’re a self-directed group of artists working in different mediums at different levels, so come join us. Membership is $30 per month, or $10 drop-in, newcomers first drop-in free. More info at shannonondeau@shaw.ca
FRIDAYS
Baby Connections at Family Place
A free drop-in program for families with babies 0-12 months. Runs from 11 am to 1 pm. Chat with other new parents while enjoying some tea, coffee & treats. For more infocontactcoordinator@bowenislandfamilyplace.com
BOWENISLANDMEMORIALGARDEN
AGMOct 30,202507:00 PM Join Zoom Meeting
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82823759788? pwd=E9zbq3Tz6DLsO3oi3aEnNY1KxYD6SA.1 MeetingID: 82823759788
