MHSS Newsletter Spring 2024

COMMUNITY

Ahousaht U13 boys win JANT tournament with

6-0 record

Bulldozers. Untouchables. The 6-0 Team.

Coach Luke Swan Jr. and his U13 Ahousaht Guardians boys basketball team made the long journey home from Nisga’a North, Terrace, B.C. and the 2024 Junior All Native Tournament as undefeated champions.

“Last year we placed third and I think that lit a spark under their feet to work hard,” said Swan Jr. “As soon as September came around and we were able to get gym spots, everybody was right into tune for practice and getting into shape.”

“Our focus was being able to run for a long time,” continued the coach. “It was all running. Even right down to the last wire, we were running in the water, running on the beach, rain or shine, running a couple steep hills.”

And while the JANT 2024 Championship banner will add sparkle to the rafters of the Maaqtusiis Gymnasium, it might be winning the title of Most Sportsmanlike Team that emulates.

“The Ahousaht way is always with ʔiisaak, you know respect. That’s what we taught in the gym too,” said Swan Jr. “It’s bigger than basketball. The main thing is giving them that opportunity to keep building on their young lives, giving them new tools, giving them new friends and to learn all the time from their mistakes.”

Story by Nora O’Malley for the Ha-Shilth-Sa Newspaper (April 2, 2024)

Ahousaht Guardians celebrate winning the U13 division on March 22 in Terrace, B.C. (ProRez Studios photos)

way to go Ahousaht guardians!!!!

The young Ahousaht Guardians bested a field of 24 teams, handily outscoring each opponent en route to a blowout 66-37 final game against Greenville, one of the host nations.

“I can go on all day and brag about these boys and how they did as a team and individuals, but the biggest thing being respect. They played with all the teachings from home and practice, like helping each other up whether it’s your opponent or teammate that falls,” said Swan Jr.

The tournament MVP went to Louie Thomas, All-Stars went to Louis Frank and Vaughn Robinson, Jordan Francis claimed Most Inspirational Player and Ben Charlie brought back the award for Most Sportsmanlike Player.

On March 27 the community of Ahousaht gathered for a meal in the gym to celebrate the young basketball champions.

“Thanks to everybody for their support, and to all the people here not just in Ahousaht, but from all over that supported our teams, getting them to Terrace,” said Swan Jr. “Going forward, part of our goal is to build up the programs so nobody gets left behind. I spend so much time on council and this is one hundred times more rewarding when you can actually be part of change in our youth’s lives.”

A quick, couple days after returning home, Swan Jr. says he was already getting messages from all the boys asking, ‘Are we going to the gym at five?’

“We will continue through the summer,” he assured.

Louie Thomas, MVP

Jordan Francis, Most Inspirational

Ben Charlie, Most Sportsmanlike

Louis Frank & Vaugh Robinson (no pic), All-Stars

Ahousaht women return to All Natives

It’s been about four years since Ahousaht women laced up for a game at the All Natives. Maaqtusiis Ravens team manager Courtenay Louie said they were welcomed back with big cheers. “When we were walking in for the Opening, you go and shake the hands of the Chiefs and everything, and they were really excited that we were back. That was pretty cool,” said Louie. The Ravens were one of seventeen senior women’s teams at the 64th annual All Native Basketball Tournament in Prince Rupert, B.C. on Feb. 11 to Feb. 18.

“It’s impressive that the women’s division was the biggest division this year. They are also implementing a Master’s next year. The tournament is growing substantially. It’s eight days of basketball, from 8a.m. to 10:30 p.m.,” she said.

The majority of the Ravens are under 25.

“I’m hoping that we all stick together. A lot of the teams that go far are teams that play together a lot for a number of years, so I’m hoping to keep the squad together.”

Ahous Adventures win Indigenous tourism award

Three cheers for the Ahous Adventures team! From the back row: Richard, left, Tony, Dave, Joel, Euguene, Cole with Hannah, Brent, Hiishka (Alex) and Wh?aala (Savannah) in the front. (Ben Glassco photo);

Below: All decked out for the Feb. 29 red carpet in Ottawa, Wha?aala, centre, accepts the New Operator award for Ahous Adventures. (ITCA photo)

Ahous Adventures was honoured at the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) Gala Dinner and awards ceremony in Ottawa on Feb. 29.

The Ahousaht-owned eco and adventure tour company won the award for ‘New Operator or Business that Launched a New Experience’. This award recognizes a new operator or business that launched a new Indigenous tourism experience in the 2023 operating year. Ahous Adventures was launched in May 2023 Wha?aala (Savannah Rose) representing Ahous Adventures accepted the award, while MP Gord Johns, Ahous Adventures General Manager Corene Inouye and Tourism Tofino’s Jody Kirk were there to celebrate.

The award is on display at Ahous Adventures (368 Main Street) if anyone wants to take a photo with it! Congrats to the team, we are so proud!

Island Indigenous Food Gathering

On March 21, Ahousaht hosted an Island Indigenous Food Gathering event at Maht Mahs, Tseshaht First Nation’s gym, in Port Alberni. Clockwise from left: Traditional foods for the feast were provided by local harvesters from Ahousaht, Tla-o-qui-aht, Hesquiaht, and Haida Gwaii; Nitanis Desjarlais co-facilitated the food trade event; Eulachon or “Candlefish” are a significant food source and also a valuable trade commodity because the little fish are so oily they are flammable when dried! (Rachel Marie Dickens photos)

‘We won’t have the opportunity to do this forever’: Documentation project preserves Ahousaht elders’ teachings

Above: Ahousaht elder Cliff Atleo talks to Maquinna at the Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge; Elder Ron Hamilton (Haa’yuups) sits down with Maquinna. (Jaiden George photos)

Story by Nora O’Malley for the Ha-Shilth-Sa Newspaper (March 8, 2024)

Ahousaht Tyee Ha’wilth Maquinna (Lewis George) and grandson Ṕiʔačit (Jaiden George) are preserving the history and knowledge of their people by video recording extensive interviews with elders.

In early spring 2023 they launched the project with the late elder Harold Little-mit and have since sat down with 15 others. They have about eight more Ahousaht elders left to go on record with, offering up priceless “Haahuupa” (continuous teaching with care) about Ahousaht culture, history, and the region.

“They are really generous with what they share,” said Jaiden, a future Ahousaht hereditary chief, who is a graduate of the Emily Carr University of Art + Design bachelor of fine arts and photography program.

While Jaiden takes care of the camera work, lighting and audio for each interview, Maquinna facilitates the conversation with a list of one hundred questions at the ready. Each elder begins by introducing themselves in Ahousaht language and then Maquinna delves into a range of topics

from family lineage, territorial boundaries and cultural practices, to life growing up in the village, boat names and harvesting traditional materials.

Besides the session with sisters Greta and Winnie Charlie, the interviews are conducted one person at a time.

“We go as long as the person is comfortable going,” said Jaiden. “The longest interview we’ve had has been with Ron Hamilton. That took place over the course of five days total, each one of those being five-hour days. We have about twenty-five hours of footage. His interview is actually my favourite. He’s incredible.”

“The first day we sat down with him we got through about three questions because his answers are about two hours long,” continued Jaiden, adding that Hamilton had a circular way of answering questions.

AHOUSAHT-OTSOSAHT WAR

To date, the project has captured historical information going back about five generations. In the 1800s, Ahousaht went to war with Otsosaht, a group that lived on the outer beaches of Flores Island.

“I would say it’s the largest event that’s happened in our recent history outside of colonization,” said Jaiden.

Maquinna shared that the war between Ahousaht and Otsosaht lasted over 13 years.

“This little baby was born when the war started and when the war ended the little baby girl was a young lady, so they were figuring about 13 years that the war took place,” said Maquinna.

The Otsosaht repeatedly refused to grant Ahousaht access to salmon-bearing rivers through marriage dowries, which led the growing nation, disrespected and left without adequate food security, to declare war on the Otsosaht.

“The war went on and on and many, many people were killed,” said Maquinna.

Ultimately, Ahousaht conquered Otsosaht, and the neighbouring tribes of Manhousaht and Keltsmaht amalgamated with Ahousaht.

“The people of Otoosaht fled all the way down to Neah Bay, Washington,” said Maquinna. “During the canoe journeys we had people who were original Otsosahts and they were wanting to know how we felt about them. I sent a message back, I said, ‘The war has been over for a long time. You guys should come home.’ And I invited them back to where their original lands were.”

To read the full article, visit: https://hashilthsa. com/news/2024-03-08/we-wont-haveopportunity-do-forever-documentation-projectpreserves-ahousaht-elders

Ḥaw̓iiḥ turn to Ancestors for help after young woman brutally assaulted

Village of Maaqtusiis, Flores Island, B.C. (May 21, 2024) — ʕaḥuusʔatḥ Ḥaw̓iiḥ (Ahousaht Hereditary Chiefs) are calling on the Ancestors and the Creator for support and guidance days after the neardeath assault of a young Ahousaht woman by the hands of her boyfriend.

On Thursday, May 16, on the beach in front of the Thunderbird Hall in Maaqtusiis, ʕaḥuusʔatḥ elder

Dave Frank led the community through a powerful ceremony that involved feeding a bottle of vodka and a pill box of Fentanyl to a sacred fire. Each rock that was placed around the fire represented the Ancestors and the ceremony was set-up to face the Creator.

“We want to put stop to this. We’re doing this ceremony to beat alcohol. Alcohol is really, really hurting our people. We’re feeding the Ancestors alcohol so the alcohol will stop feeding off our people,” said Frank.

Hašeʔukmis (Richard George) expressed his deep sorrow.

“There is a disease of alcoholism and drugs in our community. We need to be courageous and walk forward as a Nation. We need to own up to what we have done wrong,” said Hašeʔukmis. Ikaatius (Tyson Atleo) begged the Creator for help.

“Hear our humble petition today. Please, please take care of our people. Please show us the right way forward,” Ikaatius called into the fire. “We can’t do this without you. Come and support us. Come and give us love. Come and show our people how to love one another.”

Hašeʔukmis said there are 1,500 cases of domestic violence reported every year in Ahousaht, yet

only 30 to 50 go through with prosecution. “We need to bring this to reality, it’s not to shame or to single anyone out,” he said.

ʕaḥuusʔatḥ Ḥaw̓iiḥ have declared a mental health and wellness state of emergency in Maaqtusiis. Going forward, they plan to remove any community member that illegally traffics alchohol and drugs.

HONOURING OUR ANCIENT ONES

Clockwise from top left: This muyahpulthim (curtain) represents one of the many treasures that come from John Keitlah’s hupaqwiinum (treasure box). It was gifted to him from the family house 12 years ago. This piece was created by Ooootah (Kurt John); This chair is an invitation to the spirits of the children who didn’t make it home to join former students, their families and community during today’s gathering. The items placed in the chair by community members are so they can feel connected to the children. It was created by George John; Elder and former student Cody Gus is gifted a shawl by ha’wiih (hereditary leaders) on behalf of ʕaahuusʔath (Ahousaht) First Nation to honour his time here with us. He is the last living former student of Ahousaht Indian Residential School. (Steller’s Jay Media photos)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

‘We are still standing’: ʕaahuusʔath (Ahousaht) First Nation shares knowledge gathered from Phase 1 of residential school research and scanning Focus on resilience andstrengthofancestors, honouring allchildrenpastandpresent (Ahousaht, BC - April 10, 2024) Today, the ʔah

muut (Honouring Our Ancient Ones) project team shared knowledge gathered from the first phase of research and scanning with former students, families and the general public on ʕaahuusʔath (Ahousaht) First Nation haahuułi (territory) on Flores Island, BC.

At this gathering, a number of speakers addressed the archival and archaeological research, fieldwork and oral history gathering that took place over the last three years in the search for missing children at two former residential school sites: Ahousaht Indian Residential School in Maaqtusiis (Flores Island) and Christie Indian Residential School (Meares Island). The Christie Indian Residential School was one of the last to close in BC

There were no figures offered regarding the number of potential unmarked graves at the gathering. It was a difficult decision, but one that was made as a team. It is important to remember that each figure is a child, and ʕaahuusʔath (Ahousaht) First Nation would like to honour those children and their families.

“The experiences of the warriors (children who a ended these institutions) and their courage have strengthened the ʕaahuusʔath (Ahousaht) community,” said Angus Campbell, Elected Councillor of ʕaahuusʔath (Ahousaht) First Nation “Despite the reign of the residential schools, we are still here. Today, we share the stories and shared experiences of those who survived residential school so future generations will know about what happened here.”

The project’s process includes four main mandates: identifying as many children as possible by name, where they went when they were taken from their families, who is missing from the research and using this information as a catalyst for healing.

“Our work is focused on finding evidence to support the truth of the former students that a ended these schools,” said Anne Atleo, ʔahʔiiḥčp ʔukʷił ʔiqḥmuut (Honouring Our Ancient Ones) Residential School Research Project Manager. “These are shared experiences of those

that tried to break us. There were many broken hearts and broken spirits. But our ancestors persevered. They survived residential school and it’s important we acknowledge their truths and identify missing children.”

Though the project team extensively reviewed thousands of archival documents, it is hard work that is exacerbated by the difficulty in accessing complete and relevant records, as well as the condition of the documents and vague language, such as referring to students by a number rather than their name.

Fieldwork and scanning during Phase 1 noted likely and potential unmarked graves on both former residential school sites, as well as Ahousaht cemetery. Clusters of “unknown” features in these areas merit further research.

“The next phase of this project includes not only further research and scanning but capacity building for Ahousaht members so this important work can continue to be community-led and community-driven,” said Anne Atleo. “But, in order to provide thorough and meaningful answers to our people and the public about what happened at these residential schools, we require ongoing support and funding from the institutions that put them in place ”

The federal government and religious organizations established and operated two residential schools on our haahuułi (territory) without consent. The intergenerational trauma experienced by many of our friends, families and loved ones is due to the devastating legacy of these institutions. The federal government and religious organizations must provide ongoing resources and funding to aid in the search for missing children as well as mental health and cultural support for our people.

This is only the beginning and it has been hard for former students, the ʔ

muut (Honouring Our Ancient Ones) project team and the community. But the work is not done. There are many stories to be told and truths to uncover about the warriors who a ended these institutions.

“Our ancestors, former students and community members - we are not survivors, we are thrivers, fighters and warriors,” said Anne Atleo. “We are able to stand up and say ‘I’m strong.’”

(Honouring Our Ancient Ones)

Above: Anne Atleo, Residential School Research Project Manager, addresses the media during the April 10 gathering at the Thunderbird Hall. The team members supporting the project include: archaeologist Erin Willows at Millennia Research, Archival Researcher Patti Burridge, geophysicist Peter Takacs at GeoScan and Oral History expert Barb Atleo.

Beside: This ‘From the Heart’ diagram represents the essence of the Residential School Research Project.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

We have moved!

We recently moved our MHSS Tofino office from The Shore Pier up to Campbell Street as you come into town. Now you can find us at 564A 564 Campbell Street.

New Hot Springs short-term rental

Cermaq Canada is donating to MHSS and ʕaaḥuusʔath a turn-key, floating living quarters, which we plan to put up at the Hot Springs where the InnChanter used to be.

“People lucky enough to book that will be able to use the Hot Springs in the night and in the morning before anyone gets there,” says Hašeʔukmis (Richard George).

The new venture will also create a couple more jobs for our musčim, and our hope is for the six-person short-term rental to be up and running for this season.

Lone Cone Trail reopening

We’re going to be opening up Lone Cone Trail around July 1. Please tell folks to come book their reservations at the new MHSS office on Campbell Street or at Ahous Adventures. The reopening includes a kiosk at the new dock on Meares Island, staffed by a Guardian to ensure visitor safety.

STEWARDSHIP

MHSS hosted an Indigenous Guardian Exchange with the QENTOL, YEN (WSANEC Marine Guardian) on March 10 to March 12. We shared knowledge of Kwaqmis harvesting, stream restoration, salmon hatchery, tourism compliance, safety, and cultural resources protection. (Ayumi Nakamura photo)

Spring update from the MHSS Stewardship Team

Hypoxia Monitoring in Ahousaht Territory

We were successful in our application for the Climate Ready BC Seafood grant! This grant will help support a hypoxia monitoring project in the Hahoulthee.

Hypoxia (i.e. oxygen deficiency) is a growing concern in marine environments worldwide, as climate change may increase the occurrence of hypoxic conditions.

We will be working with the Ocean Modelling and Predictions group at DFO to:

1) enhance a hypoxia monitoring program, 2) augment an existing oceanographic model with comprehensive data and 3) use the data collected to assess impacts to seafood species of importance to the musčim. This will help safeguard Ahousaht’s marine ecosystems and access to traditional seafood resources.

Juvenile Salmon Monitoring: Sea Lice

We are once again working with Cedar Coast Field Station to examine wild juvenile salmon and sea lice infestation levels this spring.

The goal is to assess wild juvenile salmon health and to interpret some of the causes for annual variability in sea lice abundance. The target species for this assessment is Chum. We capture the juvenile salmon using a beach seine at five sites across Bedwell sound, then measure them and search for and identify any sea lice on the fish.

Juvenile Salmon Monitoring: Bedwell River Out-migration Assessment

We are working alongside Uu-a-thluk Fisheries to conduct the Bedwell River Out-migration Assessment for this spring. The goal is to better understand the health and distribution of out-migrating Chinook fry and smolts. This will help determine if Chinook recovery and production is limited by fish health during the early life stages of these fish.

We are working with Uu-a-thluk to collect data on the diet, growth, and distribution of Chinook in the Bedwell estuary. Uu-a-thluk is working with Ahousaht Fisheries and Ha’oom Fisheries Society to conduct a population assessment on the Bedwell River using a rotary-screw trap (RST).

Training

Sea Lice Workshop May 9-10

Hosted by Salmon Coast Society, the MHSS Stewardship Guardians and Biologists participated in a Sea Lice Training Workshop. At the workshop, MHSS Stewardship learned how to safely catch and handle juvenile salmon in order to identify sea lice and monitor for other indicators of health.

Oceanographic Monitoring with Redd Fish and Ocean Networks Canada May 27-29

Hosted by Ocean Networks Canada, the MHSS Stewardship Team will be participating in oceanographic monitoring training alongside Redd Fish Restoration Society. At the workshop, MHSS Stewardship will be learning how to use a CTD (an instrument that measures conductivity, temperature, and density) along with other oceanographic equipment.

Baby Salmon Release Day

Over 13,000 Chum babies were released up Bedwell River on May 6. The release day was a team effort between a dozen students from Maaqtusiis Secondary School, MHSS Stewardship, Ahousaht Fisheries, Uu-a-thluk and Tofino Salmon Enhancement Society. (Kurt John photos)

STAFF PROFILE

OLLIE CHARLIE

Mu-haht

(Mu-haht is a Whaling Chief’s name passed down from his grandfather’s grandfather)

Onsite Operations Manager

Tofino Wilderness Resort

Tell us a bit about yourself.

I was born in Port Alberni Hospital to my mom Genevieve and my father late Edgar Charlie (he was the Chief before me). We come from high profile families on both sides. We became advisors and singers for Maquinna on my mother’s side through my grandfather. He was the real high profile guy - he was one of the high society secret society members.

You took on role of onsite operations manger at the end of March to replace Ed. Tell us about your background and experience.

I fit in there pretty easy. I ran the fuel bar in the Ahousaht that belongs to MHSS. I ran that, you know ordering the fuel and running the gas jockeys. I also worked at the Tillicum Village Resort in Seattle where we were housing five hundred to six hundred people per tour. It was on an island called Blake Island. It was a place where tourists would come learn about Pacific Northwest Indigenous people. My dad has roots down there - that’s how we found work down there. We’re dual citizenship. I worked there for maybe seventeen or eighteen years, just working my way up the ladder, from sweeping the floors to running the crew.

Will running the Tofino Wilderness Resort be similar to Tillicum? It’s the same thing, you know we’re going to be organizing our staff to accommodate if we’re...

...going through retreats or tourism. We’ll have to get them ready either way for a huge amount of people to come in. We just have to make sure everybody is on the same page. That’s the key. We have to make sure everybody is on the same page and we know what we’re working for an who we are working for.

Tell me about the team it takes to run the lodge.

People who are determined. It’ll go two ways, either if we go through health and wellness we’ll have to have workers there that will help people and then if we go through tourism we will need people that are gonna want to work 13 hours a day.

What challenges have you come across so far?

The weather. We will find out this summer how it’s going to be with fires and stuff. I think that’s one of the big things is the weather and the water. We depend on the water to sometimes run our hydro there. We’re testing to see how much water we use a day now and if we’re going to move over to diesel. We are working on getting our main hydroline over there. That’ll take a lot of weight off our shoulders once that gets in there.

The main hydroline from Meares?

I think we’re going to splice in from Meares to the line that goes to Ahousaht.

What’s it like working in Quait Bay?

It’s a really peaceful place there. People love it there. It’s a far cry from the pavement of city life.

Any words of wisdom you’d like to share with the community? I don’t know if I have any wisdom. (Ollie starts laughing).

Come on, you must!

We’re taught not to brag. All of us Chiefs are brought up and taught not to brag. People should know who you are by your actions.

This venture that’s going on is not for the Chiefs, it’s for the people. It’s for wellness, and if not, it’ll be for tourism where we can have employment.

Anything else you’d like to share?

My wife is my queen and my computer. We’ve been together... it’ll be twenty-three years this August first. We have three kids, twenty-two-nineteen and fourteen, two boys and one girl. My wifes’ name is Ramona and her native name is “Queet-na”.

We met in Victoria, randomly way back in early 2000. I’m really thankful for her for looking after me. You don’t know you take things for granted if you’re hurt or missing something.

JOB POSTINGS

Ahous Business Corp PO Box 1245 Tofino BC V0R2Z0 www.MHSSahousaht.ca

Ahous Fuel Stop & Wild Side Trail Guest Services

Position Overview

Job Title: Fuel Jockey (two positions available)

Hours of Work: Full Time

Place of Work: Ahous Fuel Stop in Ahousaht

Reports to: Fuel Station Manager

Wage: $18.50/hr

Ahous Business Corporation is in search of an enthusiastic, friendly Fuel Station Attendant responsible for providing prompt, courteous and knowledgeable service to clients and customers. The Attendant’s primary responsibility is to provide fuel service and ens ure the fuel area is safe, clean and free of debris. In addition, the successful candidate should be able to give accurate information to hikers and guests seeking to visit the Wild Side Trail. Competence in dealing with questions and giving information as well as a customer -oriented approach is essential. The goal is to make hikers and visitors feel comfortable and welcomed while visiting in our territory.

Other duties will include lifting/ moving of boxes, removal of debris from steps and porch area, janitorial duties and other duties as assigned, including providing directions and answering questions about the Wild Side Trail to guests and visitors.

Ahous Business Corp and MHSS operate a wide range of services and projects within Ahousaht Hahoulthee, creating opportunities for advancement for the right candidates.

Qualifications:

● Must be at least 15 years of age.

● High school education preferred.

● Must be able to frequently lift 10 pounds and occasionally lift up to 30 pounds.

● Familiarity with use of VHF

● Proficient in English (oral and written)

● Strong work ethic, dependable, trustworthy, and motivated to responsibly show up for various shifts in a reliable, consistent and timely manner.

● Healthy lifestyle

Ahous Business Corp PO Box 1245 Tofino BC V0R2Z0

www.MHSSahousaht.ca

● Very reliable

● Work on call if necessary

Requirements:

● WHMIS Certificate an asset

● First Aid Certificate an asset

● Excellent customer service skills

● Effective communication skills

● Able to work with team or independently

● Comfortable with working longer days (up to 10 hours)

● Sufficient knowledge of the Wild Side Trail and surrounding areas to comfortably provide information and accurate directions (orientation will be provided)

● Must be willing to learn, self -motivated and be comfortable working in a fast -paced and demanding environment.

● Professional appearance and attitude.

Application Details

Please email a resume and two references to: Anna Atleo at (info@mhssahousaht.ca) or drop it off at ABC/MHSS office in Tofino . Only successful candidates will be contacted for an interview.

Posting Date

Closing Date April 23 2024

Open until filled

Maaqutusiis Hahoulthee Stewardship Society & Ahous Business Corp PO Box 1245 Tofino BC V0R2Z0 www.MHSSahousaht.ca

Ahous Hakuum - Water Taxi Vessel Operator

Position Overview

Job Title: Ahous Hakuum Water Taxi Captain

Hours of Work: On- call (1 day a week as required)

Place of Work: Maaqutusiis & Ahousaht Hahoulthee

Reports to: Assistant General Manager

Wage: $22/hr

Job Overview:

Ahous Business Corporation is hiring an experienced Small Vessel Captain to join our team and lead our water taxi operations on the MV Ahous Hakuum. The ideal candidate will be responsible for ensuring the safety, comfort and timely transportation of passengers while adhering to all maritime regulations and upholding the safety and operating protocols of the Ahous Business Corporation.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Safe Navigation: Safely operate and navigate small passenger vessels in various weather conditions, ensuring the well-being of passengers, crew and the vessel.

2. Customer Service: Provide exceptional customer service to passengers, addressing inquiries, ensuring comfort, and maintaining a positive experience throughout the journey.

3. Schedule Adherence: Execute water taxi schedules promptly, considering weather conditions, safety protocols, and passenger requirements.

4. Vessel Maintenance: Oversee and conduct routine maintenance checks on vessels, reporting any issues promptly, and ensuring compliance with safety standards.

5. Emergency Response: Demonstrate proficiency in emergency procedures, including evacuation protocols, first aid, and communication with relevant authorities in case of emergencies.

6. Communication: Maintain clear and effective communication with passengers, crew members and onshore staff, providing updates and ensuring a smooth operation.

7. Navigation Planning: Plan and execute efficient and safe navigation routes, considering tidal conditions, navigation hazards, and other relevant factors.

Maaqutusiis Hahoulthee Stewardship Society & Ahous Business Corp PO Box 1245 Tofino BC V0R2Z0

www.MHSSahousaht.ca

8. Compliance: ensure strict adherence to all maritime regulations, safety guidelines, and company policies to maintain a high standard of safety and professionalism.

Qualifications:

● Knowledge of Ahousaht waters and navigational challenges of the area

● Transport Canada Small Vessel Operator Proficiency (SVOP)

● Marine Emergency Duties A -3 (MED A-3)

● Radio Operators Certificate Marine (ROC-M)

● Basic Marine First Aid

● Minimum 2 years experience as a small vessel captain

● Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

● Strong navigation and seamanship skills

● Healthy lifestyle

● Very reliable

● Strong work ethic, dependable, trustworthy, and motivated to responsibly show up for various shifts in a reliable, consistent and timely manner.

● Work on call if necessary

● Professional appearance and attitude.

Application Details

Please email a resume and two references to: Anna Atleo at (info@mhssahousaht.ca) or drop it off at ABC/MHSS office in Tofino . Only successful candidates will be contacted for an interview.

Posting Date

April 23 2024

Closing Date

Open until filled

Ahous Business Corp

PO Box 1245 Tofino BC V0R2Z0 www.MHSSahousaht.ca

Summer Student Position: Ahous Fuel Stop & Wild Side Guest Services

Position Overview

Job Title: Fuel Station & Wild Side Trail Guest Services Student

Hours of Work: Estimated 40 hour work week for July and August. Part time hours available for May, June and September.

Place of Work: Ahous Fuel Stop in Ahousaht

Reports to: Fuel Station Manager

Wage: $18/hr

Ahous Business Corp is looking for an outgoing individual with strong communications skills to help welcome Wild Side Trail visitors and other duties at the Ahous Fuel Stop. The ideal candidate will have a friendly and easy -going personality while also being very perceptive and disciplined. You should be able to give accurate information to hikers and visitors alike that are entering onto the trail. Competence in dealing with questions and giving information as well as customer-oriented approach is essential. The goal is to make hikers and visitors feel comfortable and welcomed while visiting in our territory.

Other duties will include dispensing fuel, collecting payments, lifting/ moving of boxes, removal of debris from steps and porch area, janitorial duties and other duties as assigned, including providing directions and answering questions about the Wild Side Trail to guests and visitors.

Responsibilities:

• Greet and welcome guests to Walk the Wildside Trail.

• Answer questions, address complaints and give suitable information.

• Collecting permit fees from hikers and visitors

• Assist and provide permits to guests and visitors of Walk the Wildside Trail.

• Distributing maps and providing appropriate directions.

• Prepare and distribute merchandise.

• Communicate effectively in person, in writing, by radio, and by telephone with various customers, co-workers and managers.

• Be resourceful and proactive in problem solving and finding information for visitors

• Maintain a clean, well-organized workspace, and responsibly keep permits, forms, maps, and a variety of miscellaneous kiosk supplies well stocks.

• May perform similar duties and special projects as per request

Ahous Business Corp

PO Box 1245 Tofino BC V0R2Z0

www.MHSSahousaht.ca

• Assist with regular fuel station duties, including selling of fuel, cleaning and tidying of the shop and dock area

Key Requirements:

• Sufficient knowledge of the trail and surrounding areas to comfortably provide information and accurate directions (orientation will be provided)

• Must be willing to learn, self -motivated and be comfortable working in a technically demanding environment.

• Professional appearance and attitude.

• Proficient in basic math skills, collecting money and reconciling fees to permits issued.

• Must know how to work the cash register and calculator.

• Familiarity with office machines (e.g. printer, computer laptop, telephone, vhf etc.)

• Proficient in English (oral and written)

• Strong work ethic, dependable, trustworthy, and motivated to responsibly show up for various shifts in a reliable, consistent and timely manner.

Application Details

• Please email a resume and two references to: Anna Atleo at ( info@mhssahousaht.ca) or drop it off at either the Fuel Stop or ABC/MHSS office (Attention: Anna Atleo) in Tofino. Only successful candidates will be contacted for an interview.

Posting Date

April 23 2024

Closing Date

Open until filled