An inmate serving a life sentence at a federal prison on Vancouver Island has died while in custody, according to Correctional Service Canada.
In a media release, the agency said Christopher Michael Tyler died on March 4th at William Head Institution in Metchosin.
He was 63 years old and his death is believed to have been from natural causes.
Tyler had been serving a life sentence since September 26th, 1994 for second-degree murder.
He was also convicted of two counts of dangerous operation of a motor vehicle, possession of property obtained by crime, driving while impaired and unlawfully at large.
He has been eligible for day parole since September 11th, 2001 and for full parole since September 11th, 2004.
According to Brenda Kanzig, assistant warden management services at William Head Institution, Tyler never applied for either.
Tyler died this week after serving nearly 32 years in custody.
As in all cases involving the death of an inmate, Correctional Service Canada said it will review the circumstances surrounding the death. Police and the BC Coroners Service have also been notified, as required by policy.
William Head Institution is a minimum-security federal correctional facility located in Metchosin on Vancouver Island that houses male offenders, including many serving life sentences.
Looking for something fun to do this weekend, Victoria?
From creative workshops and live performances to film screenings and fascinating local history, there’s plenty happening around the city over the next few days.
With several events celebrating International Women’s Day, it’s also a great opportunity to support local artists, hear inspiring stories and connect with the community.
Whether you’re hoping to try something new, enjoy a night out or simply explore what’s happening around Greater Victoria, there are plenty of events worth adding to your weekend plans.
Here 9 things to do in and around Victoria this weekend—March 7th and 8th:
Celebrate International Women’s Day with flowers, creativity and a little well-deserved self-care!
Mayfair Shopping Centre is hosting aWomen’s Day Floral Workshop in partnership with Bespoke Blossoms in Centre Court on Saturday, March 7th from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Create your own stunning floral arrangement to take home with expert guidance from Bespoke’s floral designers, the perfect way to show yourself some love this International Women’s Day.
While spots have filled up, those interested can contactMayfair on Instagram to be added to the waitlist.
Where: Mayfair Shopping Centre – Centre Court, 3147 Douglas Street
In March, as we recognize International Women’s Day, the Centre of the Universe invites you to explore the remarkable contributions women have made to our understanding of the universe.
Women have shaped our understanding of the universe for centuries, often while facing barriers that kept them out of observatories, universities and even the history books.
This talk explores the stories of the astronomers whose discoveries revealed the scale of the cosmos, uncovered dark matter and expanded our search for other worlds and how their legacy continues to influence astronomy today.
Kulea Culture Society presents a special night on International Women’s Day, featuring stories, music, poetry and performance.
This year’s event, Who is Your (S)hero?, brings together four socially engaged women from our community who will share the stories of female heroes who have inspired them.
Following their stories, a lineup of talented women performers will take the stage to share their creativity, wit and artistry.
This is a night to honour and celebrate the invaluable contributions of women from all walks of life.
The Fresh Ink Festival is a celebration of bold, original theatre by local playwrights.
Across six evenings, audiences will experience eight short plays, each offering a distinct voice, style and perspective—from heartfelt and humorous to provocative and unexpected.
This festival is dedicated to developing and sharing new work, with each play being written by a local playwright and brought to life by local artists.
Celebrate International Women’s Day, with the Old Cemeteries Society (OCS) and Emily Carr Chronicles, at a special event in Ross Bay Cemetery on March 8th.
This year, Yvonne Van Ruskenveld of the Old Cemeteries Society (OCS) and Marilyn Jones of Emily Carr Chronicles are co-presenting two 90-minute tours featuring Eight Remarkable Women Resting in Ross Bay Cemetery.
There will be two 90-minute tours, visiting the graves of eight women who led very different lives, all with fascinating stories to tell including Emily Carr, Sophie Pemberton, Josephine Crease, Hannah Maynard, Jane Anne Nesbitt, Martha McNeill and Lottie Bowron.
No reservations are needed—tickets are $5 available inside the gate at the cemetery.
Power, pleasure, and confidence are lighting up the stage this International Women’s Day at View Royal’s Elements Casino, and you’re invited to join the celebration.
On Sunday, March 8th, Cheesecake Burlesque Revue’s Lipstick & Liberation brings a cheeky and dazzling tribute to femininity in all its forms.
Don’t miss this unforgettable night of empowering women through sweet and spicy performances—tickets are available now for $51.72here. This event is 19+.
Where: Elements Casino Victoria, 1708 Island Highway
Get ready to taste your way around the world while making a difference, Victoria!
Beacon Community Services is hosting a new fundraising event to shine a light on food insecurity in Greater Victoria this March.
Beacon Bits is a global tasting event happening on March 26th at 6:30 p.m. at Victoria Scottish Community Centre. Here, attendees will gather to make a lasting impact while raising money for those facing food insecurity in our community.
World-renowned local magician Jason Verners will also be performing, while CHEK News 6 p.m. anchor Paul Haysom will emcee the evening.
This culinary journey takes guests around the globe, featuring tastings from chefs, caterers, and food trucks across Greater Victoria.
Each tasting will exhibit flavours inspired by a different region around the world, including Indigenous from Songhees Catering, Mexican from Adriana’s Whole Enchilada, Colombian from Macondo Food Truck, Greek from Greek on the Street Food Truck, Scottish from Island Culinary Services, Spanish from Alunt Foods, Syrian from Syriana’s, and Indian from Sizzling Tandoor + Kinu.
The evening is a cocktail-style event designed for mingling, sampling, and connecting over great food for a meaningful cause.
Tickets start at $200 per person, with bundle options also available including six tickets for $1,100 and 10 tickets for $1,750.
Proceeds from ticket sales go directly towards delivering meals and expanding food access for youth, families, and seniors across Greater Victoria through Beacon Community Services programs.
Don’t miss this evening of incredible food, community connection, and impact. Support your community while helping raise awareness for food insecurity in Greater Victoria—get your tickets here.
The Port Theatre Society in Nanaimo has opted to cancel an upcoming show due to the controversial content of the headlining comedian.
On March 21st, the theatre was to host a show featuring Canadian-born comedian Ben Bankas, who is now based out of Austin, Texas.
Many find his jokes to be offensive, as a number of them are racially charged.
In one of his jokes that surfaced online this week, Bankas says, “I’m trying to get used to America… obviously Canada doesn’t really have Mexican people, they don’t really have Black people—I know it sounds like paradise.”
The post was made in an effort to demonstrate that Bankas’ comedy is problematic in nature.
“It distresses me that humour or speech that promotes hatred to any group is allowed,” said one commenter. “What kind of society is this that we are in?”
However others said they believe that by cancelling the show, the Port Theatre Society was engaging in censorship.
Other Bankas jokes refer to Winnipeg as an “Indigenous zombie apocalypse” and he has a joke in which he infers he wishes more people died in last year’s Lapu Lapu Festival tragedy in Vancouver.
The Port Theatre Society released an announcement saying the Bankas event was cancelled following a comprehensive review of their policies, which included adherence to the BC Human Rights Code, as well as the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
“As the operator of the Port Theatre, the Society has a duty to provide a safe environment to staff, volunteers, patrons, artists and members of the community,” wrote the Port Theatre Society in a media release.
“After an extensive internal and external review of safety, operational and legal factors, the Society determined proceeding with the rental [to Bankas] would be inconsistent with those obligations.”
The society added that although this show was cancelled, they remain committed to upholding freedom of expression, so long as it is within the bounds of the law.
The review conducted by the society came after a Nanaimo city council meeting in which the Bankas show was discussed.
During the February 23rd meeting, city council voted in favour of having the Port Theatre Society conduct the policy review, rather than having the show cancelled by their hands.
As of this publication, Bankas’ is still scheduled to appear in Campbell River at the Tidemark Theatre on March 22nd.
He is also still slated to perform in Kelowna, Lethbridge, Calgary and Niagara Falls on his “I Said What I Said” tour.
The Vancouver Canucks made several roster changes ahead of the NHL’s trade deadline on Friday, moving a pair of depth forwards while also adding a player off waivers as the struggling team continues to reshape its lineup.
Vancouver traded centre David Kampf to the Washington Capitals and winger Lukas Reichel to the Boston Bruins, receiving sixth-round draft picks in both deals.
“We would like to thank both David and Lukas for their time with the organization,” said Vancouver Canucks General Manager Patrik Allvin.
“David provided us some depth down the middle was also a good penalty killer. Lukas put in the work at both the NHL and AHL level and we wish them both the best with their new teams.”
The additional picks provide Vancouver with a total of 10 selections in the 2026 NHL Entry Draft.
The team also claimed centre Curtis Douglas off waivers from the Tampa Bay Lightning.
Kampf, a 31-year-old Czech centre and pending unrestricted free agent, appeared in 38 games for Vancouver this season, recording two goals and six points before being dealt to Washington.
Reichel, a 23-year-old German winger, saw limited action with the Canucks this season, posting one assist in 14 NHL games.
He spent more time with the AHL’s Abbotsford Canucks, where he had six goals and seven assists in 23 games. Reichel also represented Germany at the 2026 Winter Olympics, tallying two goals and an assist in five games.
In a separate move Friday, Vancouver claimed Douglas off waivers from the Tampa Bay Lightning. The 26-year-old forward from Oakville, Ont., is in his first NHL season and has two assists along with 92 penalty minutes.
Notably, the Canucks did not trade pending unrestricted free agents Evander Kane or Teddy Blueger, despite earlier indications the team could move expiring contracts before the deadline.
The moves come during a difficult season for Vancouver. The club has struggled at the bottom of the NHL standings for much of the year and has posted one of the worst records in the league.
Through the season, Vancouver has also endured significant struggles defensively, allowing far more goals than it has scored.
With the trade deadline now passed, the Canucks appear focused on evaluating younger players and adjusting their roster as they prepare for the final stretch of the season.
If you’re in need of a way to keep the kids busy, curious and entertained while school is out, we’ve got you covered.
From hands-on workshops and creative camps to nature storytimes, museum exhibits and community events, the city is packed with activities designed to spark imagination and encourage exploration.
Whether you’re looking for a fun afternoon outing or planning a full week of adventures, there’s an activity on this list for you.
Here are 11 spring break activities happening in and around Greater Victoria:
Experience the wonders of the natural world through the eyes of photographers around the globe at the 61st annual Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition at the Royal BC Museum.
This iconic exhibit from London’s Natural History Museum returns to Victoria, offering stunning photography that showcases the planet’s breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife and powerful moments from the natural world.
From ocean creatures to jungle dwellers, this 2026 collection promises to leave you in awe, highlighting the beauty and fragility of nature.
Head to G R Pearkes Recreation Centre for a specially priced drop-in skate session to support kidsFUNd in helping low-income Saanich families participate in camps, lessons, social activities and more.
Single admission with skate rentals included is $3.50, and family admission with skate rentals included is $10.
All admission proceeds benefit kidsFUNd directly.
Where: G R Pearkes Recreation Centre, 3100 Tillicum Road
When: Saturday, March 14th – 1:30 p.m. to 2:45 p.m.
Every day from March 15th to 21st for a delightful story and activity in Indigo’s kids activity corner.
They’ll be hosting events at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. daily during this time frame. Click here for the various activities to book your spot.
Please note: there is a $5 reservation fee required for each event. The reservation fee will be returned to you in the form of a $5 gift card on the day of the event. No reservations are required for parents or guardians.
Where: Indigo Mayfair, 3147 Douglas Street
When: Sunday, March 15th to Saturday, March 21st – various times
The Art Gallery of Greater Victoria (AGGV) wants to welcome you to March Family Sunday!
Through the art of Simranpreet Anand, Emily Carr and Dana Claxton, you are invited to explore through art making how you can show others what has meaning to you and what you care about, including things and ideas such as personal identity, family history and the environment.
Play with pixelation to make a picture of your favourite food or belongings, help to build a sculpture using strips of recycled fabrics and paint a postcard inspired by excerpts from Emily Carr’s journals.
Entry is included with museum admission.
Where: Art Gallery of Greater Victoria, 1040 Moss Street
Another unique opportunity will be taking place at the AGGV this spring break!
Explore the current exhibitions and the AGGV’s permanent collection, led by the gallery’s fun and engaging studio instructor team.
Building on the works and ideas discovered in the gallery, campers will experiment with a variety of mediums and processes to create their own works of art.
The Greater Victoria Public Library (GVPL) is hosting free nature-themed storytime at Swan Lake!
Join the library for fun-filled stories, songs, rhymes and puppets for young children ages one to five and their families, followed by 30 minutes of social time and free play.
Take part in a specially priced drop-in swimming session to support kidsFUNd in helping low-income Saanich families participate in camps, lessons, social activities, and more.
Single admission is $3.50, and family admission is $10.
All admission proceeds benefit kidsFUNd directly.
Where: Saanich Commonwealth Place, 4636 Elk Lake Drive
The Sidney Museum is celebrating the 20th anniversary of its LEGO Brick Exhibition, running now through April 6th, which showcases a wide variety of fan-favourite displays from over the years.
Admission by donation.
Where: The Sidney Museum and Archives, 2423 Beacon Avenue
When: Monday to Sunday – 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Know of a spring break event that should be added to the list? Let us know in the comment section below or email us at info@victoriabuzz.com.
North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP are continuing efforts to locate a woman who was reported missing earlier this year.
Police say Rosemarie Harry was reported missing on February 4th, but was last seen several days earlier on January 28th.
Since receiving the report, investigators say they have undertaken extensive steps in an effort to find her. Officers have conducted numerous interviews and canvassed businesses and residences throughout the Duncan area in search of CCTV footage that could help determine her movements.
Investigators have also searched several areas of interest as part of the ongoing investigation.
On February 13th, local search and rescue teams, including Swift Water Rescue, carried out an extensive search in the area. RCMP Air Services has also been deployed to assist.
The investigation is currently being led by the RCMP’s General Investigation Section with assistance from Indigenous Police Services, Investigative Support Services and front-line officers.
Police say they continue to follow up on information and tips related to the case.
Anyone with information about the whereabouts of Rosemarie Harry is asked to contact the North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP at (250) 748-5522.
A group of volunteers clearing invasive ivy from Portage Park (GVGT)
In late February, the Greater Victoria Green Team (GVGT) partnered with the Town of View Royal to clear a massive amount of invasive species out of Portage Park.
The local group brought together youth and many other community members at Portage Park and for two days removed many invasive plants from the area.
The group says that the immediate goal for this environmental action was to free trees and native plants from invasive ivy.
On day one, 25 students from Grades 6 and 7 at Shoreline Community Middle School came out and contributed.
These students spent the morning learning about invasive plants, the importance of stewardship and caring for natural spaces in their own community.
The following day, over 50 community members of all ages came out to contribute, including seniors and young families.
“Activities like this show that stewardship is really about people,” said Sara Schwartz, program manager with the GVGT.
“When community members come together, they are not just improving a park. They are building friendships, discovering what it means to belong and realizing that we are part of nature, not separate from it.”
Together, over the course of the two days, the youth and community members removed 19 cubic metres of invasive plants—approximately 118 bathtubs-full.
In addition to learning and making an impact, many community members who participated noted that the initiative allowed them to connect with new people over their shared values of environmental protection.
“Working in close proximity to others facilitated easy conversations,” said Robin Granewall, one of the volunteers at the event.
“I believe fostering young participants lays the groundwork for perpetual involvement. Also, what a great antidote to our digital world.”
Now that Portage Park has received some love from the GVGT, the group now looks ahead to continue their momentum throughout March and into Earth Month in April.
To learn more and sign up for upcoming activities visit the GVGT website.
The Independent Investigations Office (IIO) of BC determined that a man arrested by VicPD officers on New Year’s Day was not seriously injured enough for oversight investigation.
The IIO investigation determined that the incident’s sequence of events began with a call to police shortly after 5:30 p.m. on January 1st.
VicPD attended the scene in the 800 block of Johnson Street for a possible assault and reports of a man running into traffic.
When officers arrived, they utilized a police dog to apprehend and arrest a suspect.
During the altercation with the police dog, the man suffered an injury and was subsequently taken to hospital for treatment.
Because the man was injured during the police incident, the IIO were notified and launched an investigation to determine if police action, or inaction, contributed to the man suffering injuries.
However, first the IIO is tasked with determining if injuries sustained during a police interaction meet the threshold of “serious harm.”
Serious harm is defined by the Police Act as “an injury that may result in death, may cause serious disfigurement or may cause substantial loss or impairment of mobility of the body as a whole or of the function of any limb or organ.”
According to the IIO, the man’s injuries did not meet the threshold for serious harm.
Because his injuries did not meet this benchmark, the case has been concluded.
Editor’s note: This article previously stated that VicPD officers had been cleared of wrongdoing in this matter. Because the IIO only clears police officers of wrongdoing if the harm done to an individual meets the “serious harm” benchmark, the investigation was never fulsome enough to clear anyone of wrongdoing.
The Town of Comox has announced a land acquisition of approximately 2.6-hectares that will be used for a new public park and green space.
This new park will be named the “Newson Family Nature Park,” and will be located at 1413 Balmoral Avenue. The Town will take possession of the property on March 1st.
A stone masonry base with an anchor and plaque to honour the Newson/Fairbairn family history will be placed where the property’s house stood upon the demolition of the home.
The Newson family has deep ties to the region that goes back for four generations.
The Town also noted that a labyrinth monument will be installed on the property, some of the dahlia gardens will be preserved, memorial trees will be planted and dedicated benches will be implemented.
“Parks and open spaces are an important part of our community,” said Comox Mayor Nicole Minions.
“We know this property will be a space for people to gather and enjoy the outdoors in a place that preserves the family’s legacy.”
Mayor Minions noted that the park’s location will provide adjacent access to Brooklyn Creek, Macdonald Wood and Mack Laing.
Richelle Newson also commented on the park being named after her kin, saying that the land on which the park will stand will preserve her family’s legacy appropriately.
“Both of our parents, George and Kella-Lee Newson, embodied a spirit of caring, generosity, and service to our family and wider community,” said Newson.
“For generations before us, this land has been a welcoming and meaningful place of gathering and a safe harbour for all. We are grateful to the partnership and collaboration of the Town of Comox to ensure that this land will be enjoyed and preserved for all the people of the Comox Valley for years to come.”
The new Newson park was bought using $3.84 million in previously collected Development Cost Charges (DCCs) meant to help the Town expand its parkland. The purchase will have no implication on residents or property taxes.
The Town says that over the next six months, the property will be closed to the public while the home’s structure is demolished.
The public can anticipate gaining access to the new park in the fall.
A former VicPD special constable has been sentenced to a year in jail after being convicted of luring a 15-year-old girl he met while working at a summer hockey camp in Port Alberni.
In a decision released February 6th, Provincial Court Judge Lamperon sentenced Foster Chadwick Martin to one year in jail followed by 18 months of probation.
Martin, who was 20-years-old at the time of the offence, had been working as an on-ice assistant coach at the West Coast Hockey Prep Camp in July 2020 when he began communicating with a 15-year-old participant through social media.
Following a multi-day trial, the court found that Martin used Instagram and Snapchat to message the teen and arranged to meet her at the Alberni Valley Multiplex with the intention of her performing oral sex on him.
The judge said the Crown proved the child luring charge beyond a reasonable doubt, but the court was not satisfied that sexual activity actually occurred. Martin had originally faced four charges including sexual assault, sexual touching and extortion but was acquitted of those offences.
According to the ruling, Martin’s communication with the teen began shortly after she attended the hockey camp in July 2020 and escalated into sexual messages about a week later.
The judge found the offence particularly serious because Martin abused a position of trust connected to his coaching role.
“But for his position he would not have come to know [the victim] and would not have obtained her contact information,” the judge wrote.
The court also heard that the victim experienced significant psychological harm, including anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, self-harm and two suicide attempts in the years following the incident. She also stopped playing hockey after the events.
At sentencing, the Crown sought a custodial sentence of 12 to 18 months, while the defence argued the sentence should be served in the community under a conditional sentence order.
Judge Lamperon rejected that request, saying jail was necessary to emphasize denunciation and deterrence in offences involving children.
“It is quite rare that courts impose conditional sentence orders where an offender commits a sexual offence against a child,” the judge wrote.
While Martin had no prior criminal record, was relatively young at the time of the offence and was assessed as a low risk to reoffend, the court found those factors did not outweigh the seriousness of the crime.
Martin had previously worked as a special constable with VicPD before his arrest in 2022. The court noted the conviction will likely prevent him from pursuing his goal of becoming a police officer.
In addition to jail time and probation, the court ordered a no-contact order with the victim, a 10-year weapons prohibition, DNA collection and registration on the national sex offender registry for 20 years.
With the NHL tradedeadline looming the Vancouver Canucks have trade forward Connar Garland to the Columbus Blue Jackets for two draft picks.
The Canucks will receive a second and a third-round draft pick, according to TSN Hockey Insider Pierre LeBrun.
“We really appreciate all that Conor has done for the hockey club and want to thank him for his five years in Vancouver,” said Allvin.
“A play driver and strong competitor, he was a key contributor on the ice. Collecting two more draft picks aligns really well with our vision moving forward and will help us in our rebuild.”
The Columbus Blue Jackets sit one point behind the Boston Bruins for the second Wild Card spot in the Eastern Conference playoff race.
Garland has recorded seven goals and 19 assists in 50 games for the last-place Vancouver Canucks during the 2025–26 season. It marks his sixth year with Vancouver and ninth in the NHL.
The winger is in the final season of an eight-year, $36 million contract with a $6 million cap hit and is set to become an unrestricted free agent at the end of the season.
Earlier today, the Canucks acquired defenceman Jack Thompson from the San Jose Sharks in exchange for defenceman Jett Woo.
“Jett was a key part of our AHL championship winning team and we would like to thank him for all that he has done for the Canucks organization,” said Allvin.
“Bringing in Jack will add to our organizational depth on the blueline, and we look forward to working with him in Abbotsford.”
Thompson, 23, has appeared in 42 games for the San Jose Barracuda (AHL) in 2025.26, posting 12 points (3-9-12), 12 penalty minutes, and a +13 plus/minus ranking.
The 6’1”, 189lbs defenceman has appeared in 34 career NHL games, split between the Tampa Bay Lightning and Sharks, posting 10 points (4-6-10) and 10 penalty minutes.
On Wednesday, the Canucks traded veteran defenceman Tyler Myers to the Dallas Stars in exchange for two future draft picks.
Vancouver receive a second-round pick in 2027 and a fourth-round pick in 2029 as part of the deal.
The Canucks also retained 50% of Myers’ $3 million cap hit through next season.
The additional picks provide Vancouver with a total of eight selections in the 2026 NHL Entry Draft, and nine selections in the 2028 NHL Entry Draft.
Home sales across the Victoria region picked up in February compared to the previous month, though activity remained below the levels seen a year ago.
New data from the Victoria Real Estate Board shows 465 properties sold in February, representing an 11.9% decrease from the 528 sales recorded in February 2025. However, sales rose 37.2% compared to January, signalling renewed activity heading toward the spring market.
Sales declined across both major housing categories compared to last year. Condominium sales fell 19.8% year over year with 154 units sold, while single-family home sales dropped 12% with 206 properties sold.
Victoria Real Estate Board Chair Fergus Kyne said February’s market showed clear improvement compared to the slower start to the year.
“February’s sales definitely picked up the pace compared with sales from the previous month,” Kyne said.
“Though our sales numbers are lower than they were in 2025, with an over 35% increase month over month and a very healthy amount of inventory currently available, it will be interesting to see how our spring market unfolds in the upcoming months.”
Inventory levels also continued to rise across the region. At the end of February there were 2,903 active listings on the Multiple Listing Service, an increase of 10.6% from January and 10.4% higher than the 2,630 listings available in February 2025.
According to Kyne, increased activity in February helped stabilize the market after it had recently been sitting between balanced and buyer-friendly conditions.
“When the market is in balance, it means excellent opportunities exist for buyers and sellers,” he said.
“If you’ve been waiting for the spring to start your home sale or search, now is a great time to connect with a local Victoria REALTOR® to start planning.”
Prices edged down slightly compared to last year but climbed from January levels.
The benchmark price for a single-family home in Victoria’s core reached $1,307,400 in February, a 0.9% decrease from February 2025, but up from $1,265,500 in January.
Meanwhile, the benchmark price for a condominium stood at $545,600, down 0.7% year over year but up from $537,800 the previous month.
Friday is packed with culture, comedy, music and sass across Victoria!
From bold new plays and globe-spanning tunes to high-energy burlesque and laughs with some of Vancouver Island’s top female comedians, there’s something for every kind of night out.
Without further ado, here are 5 things to do in and around Victoria this Friday, March 6th:
The Fresh Ink Festival is a celebration of bold, original theatre by local playwrights.
Across six evenings, audiences will experience eight short plays, each offering a distinct voice, style and perspective—from heartfelt and humorous to provocative and unexpected.
This festival is dedicated to developing and sharing new work, with each play being written by a local playwright and brought to life by local artists.
Carl reimagines jazz fusion by weaving Brazilian and Latin textures into his band’s signature energy and virtuosity.
Arrangements in this latest album, “Claude,” have developed a more emotional and introspective dimension. The recordings were inspired by two significant life events: the fire that destroyed his apartment in 2023 and the death of his father in 2024.
From these traumatic experiences emerged music that interweaves nostalgia and the joy of remembering, expressed in a revitalized musical language blending elements of contemporary jazz, indie pop and current English fusion.
OK, DOPE and Foxy Box are proud to present GIRLS NIGHT!
This evening of stand-up comedy features some of Vancouver Island’s best female comedians hosted by Alex Forman, and headlined by Alannah Brittany who has performed for Just For Laughs Vancouver, Big Laughs Comedy Fest and SiriusXM’s Top Comic.
Come catch a laugh live at the Mint and win some prizes from Victoria’s own Foxy Box!
Cheesecake Burlesque Revue and Peers Victoria are hosting their 13th Hot Pink! event at the Belfry Theatre this Friday.
This night of sass, humour, and sparkling entertainment is the key fundraiser for Peers Victoria, while also celebrating two major milestones—20 years of Cheesecake Burlesque and 30 years of Peers Victoria.
Hot Pink! will feature the performers of Cheesecake Burlesque Revue, delivering cheeky, high-energy dances that audiences won’t be able to help but shimmy along to.
Celebrate three decades of genre-defying music with The Paperboys at The Coda!
Led by Mexican-Canadian Tom Landa, this globe-touring sextet blends Celtic reels, Mexican folk, New Orleans brass, bluegrass and more into an unforgettable live experience.
For their 30th Anniversary tour, the band will perform a special show featuring guest alumni and a retrospective of their 11 studio recordings—including their Juno Award-winning album Molinos.
Don’t miss this Canadian treasure bringing a night of eclectic rhythms, singalongs, and world-spanning grooves—grab your tickets here for $30!
Frances Kelsey Secondary School had a small gun scare earlier today after a student was seen in the school’s parking lot holding what appeared to be a handgun.
It turned out that what the student was holding was not, in fact, a real handgun, but rather a toy cap gun with the orange tip removed, according to Frances Kelsey principal Kevin van der Linden.
In an email to parents, van der Linden informed parents that the student had been located and it was determined that some students were conducting a “mock arrest.”
The school’s principal also noted that Shawnigan Lake RCMP had been notified and are taking the matter seriously.
Though the school claims police were involved, Shawnigan Lake RCMP spokesperson Corporal Alex Bérubé told Victoria Buzz that nothing has come across his desk on the matter.
The school also told parents that an internal review would be conducted as part of a process to ensure student and staff safety.
One concerned parent told Victoria Buzz they are not happy with how the matter was handled, especially given the recent school shooting in BC.
“The ‘secrecy’ and ‘hushing’ by the faculty is ludicrous — parents have the right to know when there [sic] children are in danger,” said the concerned parent.
“Given recent events in Tumbler Ridge you would think a situation such as this would be taken more seriously by the faculty and the School District.”
A spokesperson from School District 79 told Victoria Buzz that the matter is being taken seriously, and assures parents that police did attend the school following the incident.
“It was unacceptable,” said Jeff Rowan, Assistant Superintendent of Grade 8-12 and Communications.
Rendering of approved development on Yates and Cook (City of Victoria)
Victoria city council approved a development application for a new mixed-use building on the corner of Yates and Cook Streets that would add 175 rental units to the city’s stock.
The property located at 1101 Yates Street would consist of two buildings—at six storeys and 19 storeys tall—built overtop of a shared underground parkade.
The ground floor would be intended for retail or restaurant use, licensed childcare as well as conference and commercial office spaces.
This application to the City is unique because it was made in partnership with the BC General Employees’ Union (BCGEU) and its affiliated non-profit housing organization, Affordable BC Housing Society.
The BCGEU’s housing society is intended to be the long-term owner and operator of the 175 residential rental units with 20% of units to be secured as below-market rental units and 20% as accessible dwelling units.
As of October of last year, the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) has determined that median market rents in Victoria are as follows:
Studio $1,318
One-bedrooms $1,620
Two-bedrooms $1,980
Three bedrooms $3,300
BCGEU’s commitment to making 20% of the 175 units below market housing means that 35 units would have to be below the CMHC median prices.
Victoria’s council gave a unanimous green light to the project during the weekly committee of the whole meeting before moving on to budgetary matters.
See renderings of the building below:
Rendering of approved development on Yates and Cook (City of Victoria)Rendering of approved development on Yates and Cook (City of Victoria)Lot for approved development on Yates and Cook (City of Victoria)
This week, the BC Teachers’ Federation (BCTF) announced that its members have ratified a new four-year collective agreement with the BC Public School Employers’ Association (BCPSEA).
BCTF members voted 91% in favour of ratifying this agreement which covers 52,000 teachers and other educators like school psychologists who work across the province in the K–12 public education system.
This agreement comes on the heels of nearly one-year’s worth of negotiations. The teachers’ union fought for improved classroom conditions, strengthened mental health supports for kids, fair wages and for the recruitment and retention of new teachers.
Teachers covered by the BCTF will receive a wage increase of 3% per year for the next four years. The lower end of the pay grid will also get a pay bump to attract new teachers and additional support staff will be funded through the BCPSEA.
Furthermore, elementary teachers will be allocated additional prep time and there will be special allowances made available for psychologists and Indigenous language teachers.
“This agreement is proof of what’s possible when teachers fight for their students,” said Carole Gordon, president of BCTF.
“We pushed for improvements to learning conditions, and this agreement includes commitments to add counsellors, learning assistance teachers, and special education resource teachers in schools across the province.”
Gordon added that this was just one small step forward for teachers in BC. She noted that as classrooms become more complex, more investment is needed to provide an adequate education to the coming generations.
The new collective agreement will come into effect retroactively for July 1st, 2025, and will remain in effect through until June 30th, 2029.
A new Korean BBQ restaurant is preparing to open its doors in Victoria, taking over the former MeeT location at the busy corner of Blanshard Street and Hillside Avenue.
OX Korean BBQ will begin a soft opening by reservation in mid-March through the rest of the month, offering guests a modern tabletop grilling experience where diners cook premium meats right at their tables.
The restaurant replaces MeeT on Blanshard, the Vancouver-based plant-forward restaurant that closed last summer after nearly three years in Victoria.
(Ox Korean BBQ)
The new concept has been months in the making. Renovations began in September and wrapped up earlier this month, transforming the space into a 126-seat dining room across 25 tables designed specifically for Korean BBQ.
Each of the restaurant’s tables is equipped with its own gas grill and ventilation hood, allowing guests to grill meats at their table while keeping the dining room comfortable.
The project is led by directors Ian Lee, Eric Moon, John Kim, and Eric Na, along with head chef Kuma Woo and executive sous chefs Dean Kim and Brian Nguyen.
The front-of-house team is managed by Sasha Dmytiieva.
Moon is also behind Victoria Pocha on Yates Street, a Korean fusion restaurant known for dishes like jokbal, spicy rice cakes, and army stew.
According to the team behind OX Korean BBQ, bringing Korean BBQ to Victoria was about more than introducing a new restaurant concept.
“Korean cuisine is not just food — it’s culture, community, and connection,” the team said. “Around the grill, friends, families, and couples share laughter, conversation, and memories.”
Guests can expect premium meats as part of an extensive BBQ course menu, along with traditional Korean dishes such as galbitang (beef short rib soup), house-made naengmyeon cold noodles, and traditional Korean pot rice — a dish the team says is being introduced to Victoria for the first time.
The team also travelled to Korea multiple times during the buildout to source furniture, dishware, and décor while studying Korean culinary traditions to help shape the menu and dining experience.
The soft opening will run by reservation only from mid-March through the end of the month, with seating available from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and again from 4 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
The restaurant has already seen strong early interest, with reservations nearly full for the first week.
(Delta Hotels by Marriott Victoria Ocean Pointe Resort)
Looking for a summer job, Victoria?
Delta Hotels by Marriott Victoria Ocean Pointe Resort is kicking off its biggest seasonal hiring spree of the year, offering multiple opportunities to work at its hotel and on-site restaurant, LURE.
Roles range from restaurant hosts to room attendants and club lounge attendants, alongside eight other positions as the hotel gears up for the busy spring and summer months.
Seasonal roles are open for applications now, with multiple positions starting this spring or summer and wrapping up on September 30th or October 31st, depending on the role.
Delta Victoria Ocean Pointe Resort is looking for people who love making guests feel welcome and who want to work alongside a team that makes showing up actually enjoyable.
If you’re after a workplace that’s diverse, people-first, and one where you genuinely feel like you fit in, this might be the perfect place for you.
Here are the 11 open positions:
Bell Attendant – Full Time, Seasonal – $21.72/h
Club Lounge Attendant – Part Time, Seasonal – $25.10/h
Front Desk Agent – Part Time, Seasonal – $25.34/h
Room Attendant – Full Time, Seasonal – $26.41/h
Food Runner – Part Time, Seasonal – $20.72/h
Banquet Server – Part Time, Permanent – $19.71/h
Host – Full Time, Permanent – $21.72/h
Bartender – Part Time, Seasonal – $21.24/h
Server – Part Time, Seasonal – $19.90/h
Coffee Barista – Full Time, Permanent – $21.26/h
Club Lounge Attendant – Part Time, Seasonal AND Part Time, Permanent – $25.10/h
Beyond the hourly wages, employees receive a comprehensive rewards package that highlights the hotel’s commitment to supporting their team members’ physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
Benefits include extended health and dental benefits, enhanced mental health coverage, free access to onsite fitness facilities, employer matched pension contributions, and more.
Team members are also welcome to enjoy hotel, spa, food, and beverage discounts at Marriott locations worldwide.
Whether you’re looking to spend your summer by the Inner Harbour or build lasting experience in the hospitality industry, this is a great opportunity to join a team that genuinely invests in its people.
The BC Lions and the City of Langford are inviting fans of all ages to kick off the pre-season with a party this May.
The celebration takes place over the May long weekend from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday, May 22nd at Starlight Stadium before the Lions’ first pre-season game in Langford, where they take on the Edmonton Elks at Starlight Stadium.
Two local musical acts will take the stage during the event, country/rock band Born Reckless along with opener Jaxxee.
Alongside the live performances, attendees can enjoy a DJ, outdoor games and the chance to meet the players and get autographs.
“Events like this give community members the opportunity to experience professional football close to home, while reinforcing our commitment to activating Starlight Stadium as a venue for high-performance sport and major events that benefit our community,” said Scott Goodmanson, Mayor of Langford.
Fans who secure tickets to the May 23rd game on Saturday can also purchase an add-on ticket to the Friday event for $15.00.
Season ticket holders will be able to get their tickets beginning March 10th, while the general public can grab theirs starting March 31st.
For fans eager to kick off the Lions’ pre-season, this party is the perfect way to celebrate another season of football before the team hits the field.
With the NHL trade deadline looming on Friday, the Vancouver Canucks have become one of the most talked-about teams on the rumour mill.
The club has already started reshaping its roster and could make additional moves before the deadline as management weighs whether to move veteran players for future assets.
The Canucks were back in action Wednesday night at Rogers Arena, continuing a season that has not gone according to plan.
With just over a month left in the regular season, the team remains on the outside of the Western Conference playoff picture by a long shot and could look to the trade market to continue building toward the future.
As of Thursday morning, Vancouver sits outside a playoff spot with the lowest point total in the league at 43. The next closest team has 53 points.
Because of that, several Canucks players have surfaced in trade speculation ahead of the deadline.
Players linked to trade chatter:
Conor Garland
Garland has been one of the most frequently mentioned Canucks in trade rumours this past week. The winger has produced solid offensive numbers this season and could be attractive to contenders looking to add scoring depth for a playoff run.
Reports indicate the New York Islanders and Washington Capitals are among teams believed to have interest in the winger.
Evander Kane
The veteran power forward is another name appearing in speculation. Kane’s physical style and ability to score in big moments often make him a popular target for playoff teams seeking toughness and secondary offence.
The Canucks would likely need to retain part of Kane’s $5.125-million salary if a trade happens, with only one retention spot remaining after the Myers deal. The Colorado Avalanche and Dallas Stars were initially linked to Kane, while TSN’s Chris Johnston reported the Carolina Hurricanes and Tampa Bay Lightning have also shown interest.
Kane has also been connected to the Los Angeles Kings. The winger is a pending unrestricted free agent at the end of the season.
Teddy Blueger
Blueger has drawn interest as a reliable defensive centre who can win faceoffs and contribute on the penalty kill. Depth centres are often valuable additions for teams preparing for the postseason.
While no teams have been mentioned, Blueger has also surfaced in rumours.
Jake DeBrusk
DeBrusk has also surfaced in trade discussions. The winger has been known for his ability to generate offence and could be appealing to clubs looking for a boost on the wing.
DeBrusk could benefit from a change of scenery, something he hinted at earlier this week when he stated his game would not benefit a rebuilding team. Reports suggest the Canucks haven’t received much trade interest in the winger, who is in the second year of a seven-year deal worth $5.5 million annually.
David Kampf
Kampf is another depth centre who could draw attention from contenders looking to strengthen their bottom six. The Canucks might be able to secure another draft pick.
Lukas Reichel
The young forward joined Vancouver earlier this season and has been mentioned in speculation as teams explore potential hockey trades.
Drew O’Connor
O’Connor’s size and two-way game could make him an intriguing option for teams looking to add versatility down the lineup.
Surprisingly, he leads the Canucks with 14 goals this season and has been one of the few players exceeding expectations. The 27-year-old has been linked to the New York Islanders by Stefen Rosner. O’Connor is in the first year of a two-year contract worth $2.5 million annually and has a 12-team no-trade list.
Elias Pettersson
Perhaps the most surprising name to surface in rumours has been star forward Elias Pettersson. While a trade involving the franchise centre is considered unlikely before the deadline, analysts say rival teams are closely monitoring Vancouver’s long-term plans.
Several teams, including the Hurricanes, Kings and Red Wings, have reportedly called about Pettersson. However, due to his poor play, multiple reports suggest a trade before the deadline is unlikely, with Vancouver unwilling to retain salary on his contract.
Nils Höglander
The young winger has also been mentioned in speculation as teams look for players who can contribute offensively while still having room to develop.
Vancouver has already completed several trades since late October as the organization continues adjusting its roster.
On October 24th, the Canucks acquired forward Lukas Reichel from the Chicago Blackhawks in exchange for a 2027 fourth-round pick.
In December, Vancouver made one of the most shocking moves of the season when it traded captain Quinn Hughes to the Minnesota Wild in a blockbuster deal that brought Marco Rossi, Liam Öhgren, Zeev Buium and a 2026 first-round pick to Vancouver.
Most recently, veteran defenceman Tyler Myers was dealt to the Dallas Stars earlier this week, with Vancouver receiving a 2027 second-round pick and a 2029 fourth-round pick while retaining half of Myers’ salary.
With the deadline fast approaching, the Canucks could still be involved in additional deals as teams around the league look to strengthen their rosters for the playoffs.
Nanaimo RCMP have launched an investigation into a stabbing that resulted from a confrontation turned aggressive this week.
The stabbing reportedly occurred shortly after 1 p.m. on Wednesday, March 4th, near a central Nanaimo motel in the 900-block of Terminal Avenue North.
Police say they responded to a reported disturbance involving multiple people in the area.
One man suffered a single stab wound during the altercation, received prompt medical attention from paramedics and is expected to fully recover.
According to police, a suspect was located and arrested near the scene shortly after the confrontation had dissipated.
The knife alleged to have been used in the incident was also recovered nearby.
Investigators say they have spoken with several witnesses and are working to determine the full sequence of events.
“Based on the information gathered so far, this appears to be an isolated incident with no indication of any further risk to the public,” said R/Cst Gary O’Brien of the Nanaimo RCMP.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Nanaimo RCMP at (250) 754‑2345.
Grand Prize winner in annual photography competition: Herring Spawn (Jeremy Mathieu)
Every year, a phenomenon occurs off Vancouver Island’s coastline that draws the attention of naturalists and wildlife enthusiasts from around the globe—the herring spawn.
Between late February and early April, the coastline of the Salish Sea comes alive as one of the ocean’s most ecologically significant fish, the Pacific herring, begin their annual reproductive cycle.
Herring have returned to nearshore waters in massive numbers and have already begun to lay eggs and release milt, or sperm.
The milt is what transforms the surrounding waters into the iconic milky turquoise blue colour.
Coinciding with the herring spawn, this time of year frequently brings large colonies of birds, bald eagles and sea lions to the region—all of whom are linked to the Pacific herring in the coastal food chain.
As humans are also connected to herring and have relied on them as a food source on BC’s coast since time immemorial, there are a great number of fishing boats in the area during the spawning season.
The bulk of the herring spawn takes place from Comox to just south of Nanaimo.
Because Parksville and Qualicum Beach lie between these two regions, the area’s French Creek can often be viewed as centre stage for the spawn.
The herring spawn also takes place along the western coast of Vancouver Island with Ucluelet, Tofino and the Clayoquot Sound area often having their waters taken over by the fish this time of year.
See some photos of the annual Pacific Herring spawn below:
Stubbs Island (IMAWG/DFO)Nuchatlitz (IMAWG/DFO)Whitesand Cove Herring Spawn (IMAWG/DFO)
A new gravity-defying attraction is coming to the Malahat SkyWalk this spring, giving visitors the chance to step out over Vancouver Island like never before.
The popular tourism destination has unveiled renderings of ‘The Overhang,’ an enclosed glass cube that will extend beyond the edge of the SkyWalk’s spiral tower.
Once complete, the structure will allow visitors to stand inside a transparent cube suspended hundreds of feet above sea level.
The attraction is scheduled to open during the Victoria Day long weekend, May 16th to 18th.
According to Malahat SkyWalk, the cube will extend about seven-feet beyond the summit edge of the site’s 10-storey spiral tower.
From inside the glass structure, visitors will be surrounded by panoramic views of Vancouver Island’s coastal rainforest, mountain ranges and the Saanich Inlet.
(Malahat Skywalk)
Suspended approximately 820 feet above sea level, the experience is designed to create the sensation of floating in mid-air, with glass walls, ceiling and floor providing unobstructed views in every direction.
“It’s an exciting year for Malahat SkyWalk as we prepare to celebrate our fifth anniversary, welcome our one millionth guest and launch The Overhang, our most significant innovation since opening,” said general manager Nathan Bird in a statement.
The glass cube will be supported by a steel frame and constructed using multiple layers of structural glass designed to meet strict safety standards. The walls and ceiling will be roughly 36-millimetres thick, while the base will measure about 60-millimetres thick.
The project was developed with BC-based engineering firm Aspect, which also designed the SkyWalk’s distinctive corkscrew spiral tower.
Malahat SkyWalk says the new feature will also be fully accessible, allowing visitors of all abilities to experience the lookout.
(Malahat Skywalk)
Located along the Malahat Highway north of Victoria, the Malahat SkyWalk opened in 2021 and has since welcomed thousands of visitors from around the world.
Guests begin their visit along a raised ‘TreeWalk’ through arbutus and Douglas-fir forest before spiralling up the tower for sweeping views of southern Vancouver Island.
With the addition of The Overhang later this spring, the SkyWalk hopes to offer visitors an even more dramatic perspective of the west coast landscape.
As Port Alberni RCMP continue their search for 69-year-old William Kim Donovan, video is now sought to help determine where he may have disappeared to.
Donovan was first reported missing one week ago by his family on February 25th. He was last seen at around 8 a.m. that morning in the 2100-block of Rita Road, in the Cameron Heights area.
Police describe Donovan as Caucasian, standing 6’1” tall, with a slim build, short grey hair, a clean shaven face and light hazel eyes.
He was last seen wearing a black coat and brown boots.
After a week of being missing, Port Alberni RCMP are seeking the community’s assistance in the form of video—door cam and dash cam footage—-from the Cameron Heights area in the early morning hours before sunrise.
Anyone with video from this area on February 25th, is being asked to contact Port Alberni RCMP at (250) 723-2424.
A man originally from Esquimalt has now been charged with second-degree murder in connection with the death of 43-year-old Jessica Cunningham.
Last year, Cunningham’s disappearance, and the discovery of human remains in her home drew significant public attention.
The Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) says 48-year-old Mylie Barron has been charged with one count of second-degree murder in the homicide of Cunningham.
Cunningham was reported missing in the summer of 2025 after she was last seen in June and reported missing in July.
On August 26th, 2025, Ridge Meadows RCMP attended a residence in the 22800 block of Gillis Place in Maple Ridge as part of the ongoing missing person investigation when investigators discovered what appeared to be human remains inside the home.
The discovery prompted IHIT to take over the investigation.
Investigators worked alongside Ridge Meadows RCMP, the Integrated Forensic Identification Services and the BC Coroners Service as they continued to gather evidence.
The following day, Barron was charged with indignity to human remains in relation to the case and has remained in custody since that time.
According to his Facebook account, Barron is originally from Esquimalt.
Court records show Barron has entered a guilty plea to the indignity to human remains charge and is scheduled to be sentenced on March 5th.
IHIT says investigators continued examining the circumstances surrounding Cunningham’s death and gathered further evidence that led to a recommendation for an additional charge.
On March 3rd, Barron was formally charged with second-degree murder.
Police say Barron and Cunningham were in a relationship and had been living together at the Gillis Place residence at the time of the investigation.
“As with all of our investigations, it was important for IHIT investigators to continue to uncover the truth of what happened,” said IHIT Sgt. Freda Fong.
“This was a tragic case and the details have been hard to hear. Our thoughts are with Ms. Cunningham’s family and friends during this difficult time.”
The consensus from sleep experts across the country is that BC’s decision to switch to permanent daylight saving time is a mistake.
This decision was announced on Monday, March 2nd, and has had many feeling confused, upset or relieved.
Dr. Michael Pollock, a psychology instructor at Camosun College, says that the decision to stop changing our clocks twice a year was welcomed by himself and his colleagues, but he wishes that BC had opted to be on permanent standard time.
“Sleep experts are happy to get rid of the transition, but are not happy with what the choice was to have permanent,” Dr. Pollock told Victoria Buzz.
“For years they’ve been saying standard time was the way to go—that daylight saving time was only meant for the summer, it wasn’t meant to be used in the winter.”
He noted that having full-time daylight saving time will create all sorts of problems for British Columbians—specifically for their circadian clock.
Dr. Pollock describes the circadian clock as a part of the brain that is essentially, a little molecular clock that keeps track of what time of day it is.
“Even if you’re in a cave all day with no queues of whether it’s day or night, you’ll still get up and go to sleep in roughly 24-hour periods,” he explained.
According to Dr. Pollock, if daylight time is employed year-round, it will mean our sunlight will always be delayed an hour when compared to standard time.
“We’ll have artificially darkened mornings and without that sunlight early, our brains will be thinking we should be sleeping in and staying up later,” said Dr. Pollock.
“Each day we’ll be fighting an uphill battle, all winter long.”
Why daylight time over standard
The short answer to why BC chose daylight time over standard time is that sleep experts are not sure.
Even when the Province announced the change, Dr. Pollock noted that a source cited in the BC press release was actively against being on permanent daylight time.
“It’s a little ironic, in the press release that the government shared on their website, they shared one link to back up the health effects that they chose for why to go to daylight saving time permanent,” he said.
“If you click on that link, it’s to a Stanford medical report, it actually says the opposite—it says that going to standard permanent time is the better option.”
As of this publication, this cited Stanford study that refutes BC’s move to permanent daylight time remains a part of the press release.
(From Stanford Medicine)
Dr. Pollock predicts that this “permanent” change to daylight time will not last, and gave two examples of daylight time being made permanent and quickly repealed.
In the United States, in 1974, President Richard Nixon passed a law that made daylight time permanent, but the policy only lasted a short time.
“They only made it through one winter because people complained so much about going to work and school in the dark that they got rid of it,” said Dr. Pollock.
“The other time was in Russia in 2014, they also tried having daylight saving time all year round and the people complained so much that even the Russian government listened and changed it to standard time year-round.”
The impacts of the switch will not begin to be felt until after the first week of November, when the time would typically be shifted one hour backwards, allowing for additional sleep.
Why was daylight time established in the first place
In the early 1900s, daylight time was first conceived in England to allow people to take advantage of the longer days, but didn’t come into effect until later.
“It wasn’t until [the First World War]… the allies and Germans both adopted the daylight saving time, not for recreational purposes, but because back then it was really expensive to save energy,” said Dr. Pollock. “Back then it was really expensive for lighting in the evenings.”
He added that the reasons daylight time was established do not impact today’s society due to innovative measures like the LED lightbulb that save drastically on power costs.
Trade relations has also been a driving force in keeping the status quo of switching between daylight and standard time.
Former premier John Horgan had proposed a permanent switch to standard time during his time in power, but he would not pull the trigger on this policy until California, Washington and Oregon showed an interest in making the change.
Dr. Pollock theorizes that with trade relations soured between the US and Canada, Premier David Eby made the decision to finish what Horgan started, but chose daylight time over standard in the process.
Thursday might be a weekday, but that doesn’t mean there’s nothing going on around Victoria!
From a virtual reality gaming showdown to a live performance from one of Canada’s top R&B artists, there are a few fun ways to get out of the house tomorrow.
Here are a 5 things happening in and around Victoria on Thursday, March 5th:
Wander through thousands of colourful spring blooms inside the indoor garden display that runs through March. It’s a great way to soak up some early spring vibes.
Where: The Butchart Gardens, 800 Benvenuto Avenue, Brentwood Bay
When: Thursday, March 5th – open daily during garden hours
Grab a coffee and take a sunset walk around the Inner Harbour or through Beacon Hill Park. With spring around the corner, evenings are starting to feel longer and warmer.
One of Canada’s most celebrated R&B and soul artists is bringing her powerhouse vocals to Victoria for a night of unforgettable live music.
Known as “Canada’s Queen of R&B,” the Juno-winning singer has built a reputation for electrifying performances packed with soul, passion and chart-topping hits.
She’ll be joined by special guests Raquel RA Brown and Caleb Hart, making this a must-see show for fans of Canadian music.
Where: Capital Ballroom, 858 Yates Street
When: Thursday, March 5 – doors 7 p.m., show 7:45 p.m.
BC’s Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport announced on Tuesday, March 3rd that the FIFA World Cup 2026 is just 100 days away from making its mark on Vancouver.
For this year’s World Cup, a total of 104 matches will be played across 16 host cities in North America—Vancouver being one of two Canadian cities chosen to host matches.
Vancouver will host seven of these matches at BC Place. These scheduled matches include five lower-stakes, group-stage matches and two high-stakes knockout rounds.
These matches will take place between June 13th and July 7th, and will include two matches featuring Team Canada.
First, on June 18th, Canada will take on Qatar, then Canada will face Switzerland on June 24th. Both of these are part of the group-stage matches.
If Canada is able to progress to the knockout rounds, they may get to play once again at BC Place on June 2nd or June 7th.
The Province predicts over 350,000 FIFA fans to pass through the doors of BC Place over the seven matches, with thousands more flocking to Vancouver to be near the action during the games and billions watching the games on TV.
“When billions of viewers tune in and thousands visit, they will not only see world-class soccer,” said Anne Kang, Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport.
“They will see a world-class destination with our mountains and coastlines, our vibrant cities and welcoming communities, our innovation and clean economy, and our cultural diversity and creativity.”
The Province predicts that hosting the FIFA World Cup 2026 will open doors to increased tourism visits.
Specifically, the BC government predicts that approximately 5% of total tournament visitors—between 17,500 and 18,000 people—are projected to travel to other regions in BC, including Vancouver Island during the event period.
Sadly, the exciting gold and bronze matches will not be taking place in Canada. The bronze match will take place at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida on July 18th and the battle for the World Cup itself will happen at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey on July 19th.
A Port Alberni man has been sentenced to five years in prison after a homemade explosive device detonated outside a local safe consumption site, seriously injuring a worker.
In a decision released February 19th, Judge A. Wolf of the Provincial Court of BC sentenced John Mathew Thomsen to a total of 60 months in jail for offences related to the March 22nd, 2024 explosion.
Thomsen previously pleaded guilty to three charges of causing bodily harm by explosion, possession of an explosive substance and possession of an explosive substance while prohibited.
According to court documents, police were contacted after Thomsen allegedly threatened to make a bomb and blow up the Safe Injection Site and Sobering Centre on 3rd Avenue in Port Alberni.
Staff told investigators Thomsen had been increasingly agitated and had been talking about bombs for some time.
The night of the incident, Thomsen reportedly asked support worker Brianne Crowe to come outside because he had something important to show her.
Crowe later told police Thomsen was holding an object with a string and a lighter. Before she could stop him, the device exploded.
She described hearing an extremely loud blast and experiencing intense pain in her eye. Shrapnel struck her eye, causing significant injuries and temporary vision loss that lasted several weeks.
Video footage obtained by police showed a large flash outside the building followed by people on the ground.
Thomsen also suffered injuries in the explosion.
Investigators also learned Thomsen had previously made repeated comments to staff about bombs and blowing up locations.
Court records show Thomsen was already under a 10-year prohibition order from possessing explosive substances in addition to several lifetime weapons prohibitions.
The judge noted Thomsen has had more than 25 years of involvement with the criminal justice system including convictions for robbery, sexual assault, assault with a weapon, arson, uttering threats and numerous breaches of court orders.
A psychological assessment presented in court found Thomsen suffers from stimulant and opioid use disorders, antisocial personality disorder and psychosis believed to be linked to substance use.
The report concluded he presents a moderate to high risk of future violence. Thomsen told evaluators he planned to continue using drugs including marijuana and crystal meth after release.
In his ruling, Judge Wolf said the offence was extremely serious and emphasized the risk posed by explosives, finding Thomsen’s moral culpability was extremely high particularly because he committed the offence while under court orders banning him from possessing explosives.
Judge Wolf also concluded probation would not likely improve public safety, citing Thomsen’s history of breaching supervision orders.
Thomsen was sentenced to four years for causing bodily harm by explosion, four years concurrent for possession of an explosive substance and one year consecutive for breaching the weapons prohibition order, for a total of five years in prison.
Because Thomsen had already spent about 701 days in pre-trial custody, he will serve approximately 39 more months behind bars.
The court also imposed ancillary orders including weapons prohibitions.
Get ready for a weekend of shopping, live music, and tasty eats at Crafted Farmhouse Market this March.
On Friday, March 13th and Saturday, March 14th, join 60 plus local makers at the Mary Winspear Centre for a one-of-a-kind shopping experience, featuring handcrafted, home décor, and gourmet goodies.
Some of the amazing vendors you’ll find include Evercoast Handmade, Cove, Van Isle Clayworks, Bellamy Home Studio, Cordova Candle Co., and many more—check out the full vendor lineup here.
As you explore, treat yourself to tasty bites and sips from Taco Revolution, Churros + Mor, Saltchuck Pies, and Hoyne Brewery on Friday, and Country Crepes, Greek on the Street, and Morning Star Coffee on Saturday—fuel for your shopping spree!
Enjoy live music performed by Anneda, Cadence Laura Dee, and Peter McMaster, and don’t miss a special appearance from Elsa and Spiderman on Saturday from 2:30 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Admission is just $5 cash per person, but kids 12 and under get in for free.
Looking for a quieter, more relaxed shopping experience? Visit the market during the last hour or two to avoid the crowds and enjoy a slower-paced shop.
With so much to discover, this is the perfect weekend outing for the whole family. From unique finds to delicious foods, and live entertainment, there’s something for everyone!
Plus, to make the weekend extra special, we’re partnering up with Crafted Farmhouse Market to give away 4 weekend passes and $50 Market cash to spend at the market to one lucky winner. Find out how to enter below!
CONTEST
To enter for your chance to win FOUR weekend entry passes to the Crafted Farmhouse Market PLUS $50 in market bucks, complete least one or more of the following:
LIKE the Crafted Farmhouse Marketon Facebook and comment below to let us know you have (1 entry)
FOLLOW Crafted Farmhouse Market on Instagram and comment below to let us know you have (1 entry)
SHARE this post on X and/or Threads and comment below to let us know you have (1 entry)
Contest entries will be accepted from the time and date of publishing until 11:59 p.m. on March 9th, 2026. One winner will be chosen at random and contacted through the platform they used to enter.
Victoria city council has voted to approve two fewer officers than requested in VicPD’s budget, giving taxpayers a bit of a break on the proposed property tax increase.
This has been done in an effort to reduce the tax rate for 2026 which has seen cuts in all City departments.
On November 7th, 2025, Victoria’s 2026-30 Draft Financial Plan was presented to city council that included a proposed tax hike of 13.3%.
Since then, council has been looking at ongoing programs and services to see where costs could be reduced, eliminated or deferred to another year.
As of late February, the property tax hike was reduced to around 10.7%.
In a special committee of the whole meeting on Tuesday, March 3rd, which saw the council trying to make further reductions to the Draft Financial Plan, Councillor Jeremy Caradonna put forth a motion to cut two proposed new police officers from VicPD’s budget.
While motivating his motion, Caradonna noted that Victorians pay the most per capita for police of any BC municipality.
“If the full police budget request had been granted… the total would have been $743 per person,” stated Caradonna.
“That is nearly $100 more per person than even Vancouver pays, at $655 per capita.”
He also recognized that VicPD says they have a shortage of resources, but pointed to the City’s overall lack of available resources.
“I think the two things can be true at the same time—that the VicPD needs more resources, and Victorians are already paying the most in the province for policing per capita,” Caradonna continued.
“If both things are true, it suggests a deep systemic problem in how policing is funded in this city, because the current model is not working.”
Councillor Krista Loughton seconded Caradonna’s motion, saying that she’s been hearing from neighbourhood associations and many residents that Victoria is spending too much on the symptoms of the city’s problems, and not enough on the solutions.
Ultimately, the motion was approved by a vote of 5–4 with Councillors Chris Coleman, Marg Gardiner, Stephen Hammon and Mayor Marianne Alto opposed.
Gardiner remarked that this motion resembled “defunding the police,” but this notion is untrue, as VicPD’s force will actually increase by 20 officers this year.
Furthermore, VicPD’s budget is still increasing substantially.
In the last decade, VicPD’s budget has nearly doubled, going from $50.6 million to a proposed $86.8 million in 2026.
In 2025, VicPD’s budget accounted for 23% of the City of Victoria’s entire budget.
The Vancouver Canucks have traded veteran defenceman Tyler Myers to the Dallas Stars in exchange for two future draft picks.
Vancouver will receive a second-round pick in 2027 and a fourth-round pick in 2029 as part of the deal.
The Canucks will also retain 50% of Myers’ $3 million cap hit through next season.
“We would like to thank Tyler for all that he has done for the Canucks organization both on and off the ice,” said Vancouver Canucks General Manager Patrik Allvin.
“Not only was he a leader in our locker room, but he also did a lot of great work in the community. We also appreciate Tyler and his agent working with us to get this deal done. Acquiring two more draft picks in this trade with the Stars will help us continue to rebuild and improve our roster in the years to come.”
Details: Tyler Myers to Dallas for a 2nd Rd pick in ’27 and a 4th RD pick in ’29.
Plus Vancouver is retaining 50 percent on remainder of Myers contract which makes him a $1.5-million player this year and next. https://t.co/8nR6S37U4f
Myers had been absent from the Canucks lineup since last Wednesday after the team scratched him for “roster management reasons”.
The move came after Vancouver reportedly asked the veteran defenceman to consider a trade to the Detroit Red Wings.
The 36-year-old Houston native holds a full no-move clause, meaning he had significant control over any potential deal.
Myers has played 57 games this season, recording one goal and seven assists.
He is currently in his seventh season with Vancouver after signing with the club as a free agent in 2019. Myers is in the second year of a three-year contract that runs through next season.
In 488 career games across seven seasons with the Canucks, Myers recorded 138 points (26-112-138) and 423 penalty minutes. He also appeared in 22 playoff games in Vancouver, registering one assist and 30 penalty minutes.
The trade comes as the Canucks are widely expected to move additional players ahead of the NHL trade deadline.
Vancouver currently has one salary retention spot remaining after retaining salary on Ilya Mikheyev in a 2024 trade to the Chicago Blackhawks.
Sunrise from Taylor Beach - Photo by Ian Terris Photography
Looking for something to do this Wednesday, Victoria?
From a cozy stitch-and-chat at the library to Sebastian Bach bringing the house down at Capital Ballroom, this week’s got a little something for everyone—no matter what kind of night you’re after.
Here are 5 things to do in and around Victoria this Wednesday, March 4th:
Holding Liat follows Liat Beinin Atzili, who was kidnapped on October 7th, and her Israeli-American family who face their own conflicting perspectives to fight for her release and the future of the places they call home.
General public admission is $11 and UVSS student admission is $8.
Where: Cinecenta – SUB Building, 3800 Finnerty Road
In war-torn 1916 Yorkshire, a controversial choirmaster, played by Ralph Fiennes, unites a depleted town through music, recruiting unlikely voices to perform Elgar’s The Dream of Gerontius.
This poignant story, written by BAFTA winner Alan Bennett, is one of community, courage, and the power of song.
The District of Oak Bay is gearing up to begin construction on two new cycling routes to help people navigate the area safely using active transportation.
The two bikeways will be constructed on Henderson Road and along the Haultain-Estevan corridor.
“These two new cycling routes will bring safety improvements for cyclists and pedestrians, ensuring a safe way for people to travel to and through the District of Oak Bay,” said Steve Rennick, Director of Engineering and Public Works.
Specifically, the Henderson bikeway will stretch from Elgin Road at Oak Bay Avenue, through Bee Street, Florence Street and finally Henderson Road. It will connect to existing cycling lanes on Henderson at Foul Bay Road.
The Haultain-Estevan bikeway will start at a new controlled crossing at Foul Bay Road and Haultain Street, moving along Haultain, through Eastdowne Road, to Estevan Avenue and ending at Willows Beach.
The improvements for cyclists along these routes include speed humps, crosswalk improvements, road markings and cyclist-controlled crossings.
The District noted that a bikeway is not the same as a bike lane. They are meant to calm traffic and allow for safe, shared use of a roadway/bikeway.
Road construction will be handled by Erdem Excavating for this project, who plan on beginning work on Tuesday, March 10th.
The District noted that the community had their chance to provide input during the engagement campaign for both routes, which took place between 2024 and 2025.
Fans of the hit romance series Heated Rivalry were in for a surprise Sunday evening after one of the show’s stars was spotted arriving at Victoria International Airport.
Jennifer Emile says she was picking up a student around 5 p.m. on Sunday, March 1st when she noticed a familiar face stepping off a plane.
“I saw him come off the plane but wasn’t quite certain it was him at first,” she said. “He was wearing dark sunglasses, headphones and a cap.”
After meeting her student and heading toward the luggage area, Emile says the actor, Hudson Williams, was suddenly right behind her with a driver.
“He travelled alone,” she said.
At first, she snapped what she calls a “sneaky pic” of her student with Williams in the background just to take a closer look. Moments later, she watched another man quietly approach and shake his hand.
“I asked the man who that was and he said some actor from Heated Rivalry. My jaw dropped! It was Hudson Williams!”
Emile didn’t hesitate.
“I was so excited so I walked right up to him and said hi,” she said with a laugh. “I asked to shake his hand too. He was so sweet and we chatted.”
She showed Williams the sticker on the back of her phone featuring his character Hollander alongside Rosanov, and told him she creates beaded earrings inspired by the show, including designs featuring the characters’ hockey jersey numbers 81 and 24.
“I told Hudson that I saw him on Saturday Night Live and he said he had to be there for Connor,” she said. “He is super down to earth. No fans, just me!”
Emile says she’s more than just a casual viewer.
“I am such a fan of Heated Rivalry. Obsessed really. I have never enjoyed a show as much as HR,” she said. “I told him that his show has gotten me through some darker days.”
The series, based on the bestselling hockey romance novels, follows the emotional love story between rival players Shane and Ilya — portrayed by Connor and Williams — and has developed a devoted fan base for its tender storytelling and chemistry between the leads.
“I love the love story between Shane and Ilya in the show. Such tenderness,” said Emile.
Already an Indigenous bead artist, Emile runs a local Indigenous artist market at Norway House on Hillside Avenue. When she became captivated by Heated Rivalry, she decided to channel that passion into her craft.
“The hockey jerseys from the show inspired the 81/24 beaded earrings,” she explained. “Then before the Valentine’s Indigenous pop-up market I created heart-shaped earrings and a blended heart pendant.”
She says she watches episodes while beading at night.
“I never tire of the best love story,” she said. “Hudson and Connor are such talented actors and I love watching them shine because they are pure joy like sunshine.”
Heated Rivalry has surged in popularity since its release, drawing a strong online following and fan art communities across North America. The series is available to stream on major platforms, where it continues to climb romance and drama rankings.
Williams’ appearance in Victoria comes amid reports that a production is currently filming on Vancouver Island, though details have not yet been confirmed. Film crews have been spotted in various parts of the Island in recent weeks, fuelling speculation that the actor may be here for work.
For now, Emile says the brief airport encounter is one she won’t forget.
“Meeting Hudson was exciting and made me realize how grounded, kind and lovely he really is,” she said.
And if recent sightings are any indication, Hudson Williams’ visit to Vancouver Island may have been more than just a quick stop.
A trio of UVic grads have developed an app that helps Victorians save money on their groceries while planning meals that are healthy and budget friendly.
The idea for this app came to co-founders Yashar Samim, Alex Micu and Tomer Torgeman while they were venting to one another about the difficulties of budgeting as grocery prices skyrocket.
Samim had just moved out of his parents house at age 24, and was not used to footing the bill for his food.
“It was the first time I had to pay for groceries,” Samim told Victoria Buzz. “It made me realize how expensive things are, and also how hard cooking is, because I was used to my mom’s cooking.”
“So I tried to find a solution and I realized there was a gap—grocery deal apps don’t connect to recipes and recipe apps don’t really care about your budget.”
He says he would get frustrated looking back and forth between online recipes and grocery store deals that were not cohesive, and in the end, felt he was spending too much.
While creating the app, Samim realized that in Victoria, there are several locally-run grocers who often have better deals on some items than even the big box grocers.
“I wanted to make a platform that covered both ‘mom and pop’ shops and big chains so people have both options.”
Baski came together quite quickly once the idea was hashed out.
It started with a complex Excel spreadsheet that Samim had developed for his own use. Then, Micu and Torgeman took that, and having experience in software development, created a web app interface that was launched in the summer.
The trio then posted about their tool on the Victoria subreddit forum page, and were surprised when they received over 300 responses from people interested in testing Baski out.
From there, they turned Baski into a proper app, available for both Apple and Android products. The trio behind the app were able to make this happen with some seed money from a UVic commerce competition and a mentorship program.
Now the Baski app has over 6,000 users and counting.
How Baski works
Samim says Baski can be used in one of a few ways.
“You can either go directly to recipes and pick one that you like and it will tell you the ingredients that are on sale,” explained Samim.
“Or, you can create your own grocery list, input the stuff you already have in your house and this way you can find the best prices and recipes that include ingredients you already have.”
This process uses a combination of an algorithm and AI to find what a Baski-user wants to make and where has the cheapest ingredients for that meal.
There is another feature on the app called “Deal Swipe” that Samim thought would be a fun addition.
The feature works similarly to how Tinder and other dating apps work. It will show the user a deal at a local grocer and allow them to swipe right if they think it is a good deal, left if it’s a bad deal and up if they like it so much, they want it to be added to their grocery list.
What’s next for Baski
Samim says that he hopes to keep improving Baski by creating new features that will help not only shoppers, but small business owners as well.
“One of the things we’re working on that will be part of a future update will be a second app that will be available to mom and pop shops,” Samim explained.
“Let’s say you are a butcher, baker or small grocer that wouldn’t necessarily be able to make flyer deals because you don’t know what your demand is, you can still upload your deals into Baski.”
As an example, he said a butcher could upload a deal on a steak cut and that would allow that product to come up on users’ apps while they make their grocery lists.
He also says that he hopes people will provide input to help them address bugs and issues that make the app difficult to use and is open to any and all suggestions.
International Women’s Day is this Saturday, March 8th, and Victoria is pulling out all the stops to celebrate the incredible women who make this city a better place.
Whether you’re looking to laugh, learn, create, or simply soak up some well-deserved appreciation, there’s something on the lineup for you.
From floral workshops and stargazing talks to burlesque revues and cemetery tours honouring women who shaped history, this year’s International Women’s Day events are as diverse and dynamic as the women they celebrate.
Here are 7 events happening in and around Victoria this International Women’s Day:
Celebrate International Women’s Day with flowers, creativity, and a little well-deserved self-care!
Mayfair Shopping Centre is hosting a Women’s Day Floral Workshop in partnership with Bespoke Blossoms in Centre Court on Thursday, March 5th from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday, March 7th from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Create your own stunning floral arrangement to take home with expert guidance from Bespoke’s floral designers, the perfect way to show yourself some love this International Women’s Day.
While spots have filled up, those interested can contact Mayfair on Instagram to be added to the waitlist.
Where: Mayfair Shopping Centre – Centre Court, 3147 Douglas Street
OK, DOPE and Foxy Box are proud to present GIRLS NIGHT!
This evening of stand-up comedy features some of Vancouver Island’s best female comedians hosted by Alex Forman, and headlined by Alannah Brittany who has performed for Just For Laughs Vancouver, Big Laughs Comedy Fest, and SiriusXM’s Top Comic.
Come catch a laugh live at the Mint and win some prizes from Victoria’s own Foxy Box!
In March, as we recognize International Women’s Day, the Centre of the Universe invites you to explore the remarkable contributions women have made to our understanding of the universe.
Women have shaped our understanding of the universe for centuries, often while facing barriers that kept them out of observatories, universities, and even the history books.
This talk explores the stories of the astronomers whose discoveries revealed the scale of the cosmos, uncovered dark matter, and expanded our search for other worlds, and how their legacy continues to influence astronomy today.
Kulea Culture Society presents a special night on International Women’s Day, featuring stories, music, poetry, and performance.
This year’s event, Who is Your (S)hero?, brings together four socially engaged women from our community who will share the stories of female heroes who have inspired them.
Following their stories, a lineup of talented women performers will take the stage to share their creativity, wit, and artistry.
This is a night to honour and celebrate the invaluable contributions of women from all walks of life.
Celebrate International Women’s Day 2026, with the Old Cemeteries Society (OCS) and Emily Carr Chronicles, at a special event in Ross Bay Cemetery on March 8th.
This year, Yvonne Van Ruskenveld of the Old Cemeteries Society (OCS) and Marilyn Jones of Emily Carr Chronicles are co-presenting two 90-minute tours featuring Eight Remarkable Women Resting in Ross Bay Cemetery.
There will be two 90-minute tours, visiting the graves of eight women who led very different lives, all with fascinating stories to tell, including Emily Carr, Sophie Pemberton, Josephine Crease, Hannah Maynard, Jane Anne Nesbitt, Martha McNeill, and Lottie Bowron.
No reservations are needed—tickets are $5 available inside the gate at the cemetery.
Power, pleasure, and confidence are lighting up the stage this International Women’s Day at View Royal’s’ Elements Casino, and you’re invited to join the celebration.
On Sunday, March 8th, Cheesecake Burlesque Revue’s Lipstick & Liberation brings a cheeky and dazzling tribute to femininity in all its forms.
Don’t miss this unforgettable night of empowering women through sweet and spicy performances—tickets are available now for $51.72 here. This event is 19+.
Where: Elements Casino Victoria, 1708 Island Highway
VicPD are thanking a good Samaritan after a large sum of cash was discovered at a downtown automated teller machine and turned over to police.
According to the police, officers were called to the 1100 block of Douglas Street on February 28th at approximately 6:10 p.m. after someone reported finding money left at an ATM.
Police say the individual remained at the scene and watched over the cash while waiting for officers to arrive.
Once on scene, officers counted the money, which amounted to hundreds of dollars.
VicPD is now working to identify the rightful owner and return the funds.
The cash is currently being held at police headquarters at 850 Caledonia Avenue as the investigation continues.
Police thanked the person who turned in the money, noting their actions helped ensure it could be returned to its owner.
BC RCMP are joining local detachments in warning the public about an increase in so-called gold and distraction theft scams taking place in communities across the province, including several recent cases on Vancouver Island.
Police say the scams typically unfold in busy public areas such as restaurant parking lots, gas stations and retail centres.
Suspects approach individuals claiming they urgently need money for gas, food, medical expenses or hotel bills. In an effort to gain sympathy, they may appear distressed and pressure victims to act quickly.
In many cases, suspects offer what they claim is real gold jewelry at a steep discount in exchange for cash. Victims later discover the items are fake and the suspects are gone.
In those cases, suspects approached people outside busy retail stores, claiming they needed money for gas or food and offering what they described as gold jewelry at a discounted price.
Once money changed hands, police said the suspects left quickly and the jewelry later turned out to be fake.
Nanaimo RCMP have also reported a similar incident at a Bowen Road gas station, where a man was offered a ring purportedly worth $3,000 in exchange for $100 in cash.
The ring was later found to be worthless.
Police in Nanaimo believe the suspects may be part of a larger criminal network travelling throughout Vancouver Island and the Lower Mainland.
In the Cowichan Valley, North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP reported several calls between February 5th and 9th about suspects attempting to sell fake gold jewelry in parking lots, most in the morning hours around Cowichan Commons.
On February 5th, security at a financial institution on Trunk Road contacted police after a man was seen withdrawing a large amount of cash while holding jewelry believed to be fraudulent.
The man was described as having long brown hair, and a grey SUV was linked to the incident.
Additional reports followed on February 7th and 9th, including an attempted sale of a fake gold ring near Dollarama. In a delayed January 22nd report, a person told police they were approached in a Save-On-Foods parking lot by a man asking for fuel money and were given jewelry later determined to be fake.
“Frauds of this nature can be very convincing and suspects often rely on creating a sense of urgency,” said North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP spokesperson Const. Tessa McDonald.
“We want to ensure the public is aware of this activity so they can make informed decisions and report suspicious behaviour to police.”
In addition to fake gold sales, police say some incidents have involved suspects convincing victims, particularly seniors, to get into a vehicle and travel to a bank or ATM to withdraw money.
“These scams rely on urgency and emotional pressure to convince victims to hand over money,” said Corporal Brett Urano, RCMP spokesperson.
“We encourage the public to be cautious when approached unexpectedly and to report any suspicious interactions to police.”
RCMP are advising residents not to buy jewelry from parking lot sellers, not to hand over cash to strangers in exchange for jewelry or promises of repayment, and never to get into a vehicle with someone they do not know.
Anyone who has experienced a similar interaction is asked to contact their local RCMP detachment.
This International Women’s Day there will be a unique opportunity to learn about the iconic, historically important women of early Victoria.
There will be two special tours of Ross Bay Cemetery given by the Old Cemeteries Society and Emily Carr Chronicles that will recognize women’s social, economic, cultural and political contributions to the city we now call home.
The tours will visit the graves of eight women who lived fascinating, storied lives.
Two of the women became artists in their own right.
Many know of Emily Carr, but not as many know of Sophie Pemberton. These two artists took lessons together as children and both grew to be accomplished artists with differing, distinctive styles.
Carr is now known and renowned, but Pemberton was equally as gifted in her own right.
The next two women to be featured on the cemetery tour are Josephine Crease and Hannah Maynard.
They too were artists with Crease working in the traditional medium of watercolour and Maynard forged a path in photography, which was a brand new medium of art in her day.
The women who will be featured on the International Women’s Day tours (Old Cemeteries Society)
Jane Anne Nesbitt was a local businesswoman in her day. She first arrived here on a ‘bride ship’ — a vessel used to transport single British women to Canada to address gender imbalances, provide domestic servants and populate new settlements.
Nesbitt found work, met her husband and eventually took over his business after he died. Back in the 19th century, it was rare for women to own businesses.
Next, the tour will explore the life of Neshaki, who was also known as Martha McNeill. She was a chief of the Nisga’a wolf clan, a First Nation along BC’s northern coast.
Neshaki reportedly maintained connections to her homeland throughout her time in Victoria and worked as a fur trader before marrying Captain William McNeill.
Nancy Lester was a member of the first group of Black pioneers who arrived here in 1858.
She was born in Philadelphia, immigrated to Canada via San Francisco, and played a prominent role in the anti-slavery movement of the time.
And the last iconic, important woman who now lays in Ross Bay Cemetery is Lottie Bowron.
She was born in the gold rush town of Barkerville, and later in life, was instrumental in having her hometown designated as a provincial historic site.
The Old Cemeteries Society and Emily Carr Chronicles invites any and all to join them on the tour to find out more about all of these remarkable women on International Women’s Day.
The tours will take place on Sunday, March 8th at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
No reservations are needed and the tour will cost $5 for non-members of the Old Cemeteries Society and $2 for members.
Tickets can be acquired inside the cemetery gate at 1495 Fairfield Road by cash only.
Fifth Street Bar & Woodfire Grill has been handed a fine by the British Columbia Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch (BCLCRB) after an employee was caught serving a minor.
In June of last year, liquor inspectors were conducting secret inspections at a number of Victoria-based bars and restaurants. The inspectors used two 16-year-old minors on this occasion, and sent them into the establishments as undercover agents.
One inspector arrived at Fifth Street at around 4:45 p.m. on the day of the inspection. The minor agents arrived shortly thereafter.
According to the inspector, one of the minor agents ordered water and the other ordered a Budweiser beer.
“The server took the order without requesting or verifying the ID of the minor agent who ordered the beer,” reads the BCLCRB report.
“The server then brought a bottle of beer with a bold red label and placed it in front of [the minor].”
Once the beer was dropped at the minors’ table, the inspector walked over and confirmed it was an alcoholic beverage that the server brought over.
The minor agents were then told to leave the establishment and the inspector identified himself as an inspector to a server and asked to speak with a manager.
The general manager of Fifth Street spoke with the inspector and was told of the incident and paid for the Budweiser the minor ordered before leaving the establishment.
According to the BCLCRB, the general manager of Fifth Street had around 30 years of experience in the food service industry.
She was reportedly calm and cooperative throughout the incident and did not dispute the inspector’s recollection of events.
“While she found it hard to believe that a staff person failed to ask for ID, she acted professionally in her dealings with the inspector,” reads the report.
She noted that the bar’s current policy is for staff to ask for identification from any patron who appears to be under 25-years-old.
Fifth Street reportedly has a zero-tolerance policy for staff failing to ID patrons, with failure may result in dismissal.
Following the incident, the employee who was involved in the service to the minor agent was first suspended by the general manager, and was terminated a few days later.
Ultimately, Fifth Street acknowledged that one of its staff had unknowingly sold alcohol to a minor, but claimed a defence of “due diligence” in an effort to avoid repercussions.
The grounds they had for this defence were in their training policies and staff communication systems which aim to avoid incidents such as this.
The BCLCRB found that Fifth Street did not give sufficient evidence and was penalized for the incident in the end.
Fifth Street was ordered to pay a monetary penalty of $7,000 to the BCLCRB on or before March 24th.
Two Langford residents have been arrested following a drug trafficking investigation by the West Shore RCMP.
According to police, the detachment’s Drugs and Organized Crime Unit launched an investigation in February into a suspected trafficker operating in the West Shore area.
On February 20th, officers arrested two individuals and executed two search warrants at a residence in Langford.
During the search, investigators located what they describe as substantial evidence consistent with a drug trafficking operation, including quantities of drugs, packaging materials and processing equipment.
Police say they seized more than 350 grams of suspected cocaine, including approximately 250 individual bags that were pre-packaged for street-level sales.
Officers also seized thousands of dollars in cash and roughly 12 ounces of silver, which police believe to be proceeds of crime.
A 44-year-old man and a 39-year-old woman, both Langford residents, were arrested in connection with the investigation.
“Drug trafficking has a direct and harmful impact on our communities,” said Corporal Kevin Pollock of the West Shore RCMP Drugs and Organized Crime Unit.
“We are targeting those responsible for distributing illicit drugs in the West Shore and continue to disrupt the drug trade.”
No charges have been announced at this time and the investigation remains ongoing.
(Saanich Municipal Hall / District of Saanich Facebook)
The District of Saanich has announced that the proposed updated Shelbourne Valley Plan (SVP) will be moving forward to a public hearing that will take place later this year.
This hearing will give residents another opportunity to learn the details of the SVP, and to give their input on the plan.
Last week, on February 24th, the District’s council approved holding the public hearing so that three amendments to the plan could be read.
The first of these proposed changes would involve changing the designation of “Shelbourne Valley Centre” to “Shelbourne Valley Village.” District staff say this will effectively reduce the maximum building height in this area from 12 to six storeys.
Next, council has proposed that the northern boundary of the SVP should be extended to allow selected properties between Shelbourne Street and Lambrick Park Secondary School to be designated “urban townhomes.”
Lastly, the District suggests elevating watershed health as a guiding principle within the plan’s priorities.
The Shelbourne Valley Action Plan was originally implemented back in 2017 and has since been used to guide land use and transportation initiatives and policies in the Shelbourne Valley.
The plan focuses on enhancing pedestrian, cycling and transit infrastructure that coincides with underground utility infrastructure work.
Part of this project included the near-complete Shelbourne Street Improvements Project, which is slated to be complete by 2026.
The District notes that the Shelbourne upgrades that are nearly complete are not part of the SVP.
The SVP deals more with development and land use policies in the designated area, and will help shape the future of the valley for the next 20 to 30 years.
More information on the SVP and the upcoming public hearing can be found online here.
Oak Bay Police have announced that an arrest has been made in an alleged series of residential break and enters that has been impacting much of the capital region.
At around 4:12 p.m. on February 23rd, Oak Bay Police officers were called to the 3300-block of Norfolk Road following a reported break and enter.
The family who lived at the affected residence returned home to discover their home had been entered and disturbed, which they knew because numerous personal items were reported stolen.
Though the suspect had already departed their home, police were able to locate, arrest and charge one suspect following a coordinated response from multiple police departments.
“Ongoing partnerships between policing agencies are essential to solving complex crime across jurisdictions,” said Deputy Police Chief, Kris Rice.
“This investigation is a testament to that. We are grateful for the professionalism and dedication of our partner agencies.”
The suspect, a Langford resident named Michael Leighton, now faces numerous charges relating to breaking and entering.
As of this publication, Leighton remains in custody and the investigation is ongoing.
Anyone with additional information related to this investigation is asked to contact Oak Bay Police Department.
If you’re looking to break up your routine and try something new this week, you’re in luck.
From testing your Brooklyn Nine-Nine knowledge at trivia night to immersing yourself in a gripping movie experience, there’s plenty to do this Tuesday.
Whether you’re after a night of laughs, music, or a bit of friendly competition, we’ve got a lineup of exciting events happening in Victoria that you won’t want to miss!
Here are 5 things to do in Victoria this Tuesday, March 3rd:
Don’t miss this mesmerizing, sensory cinematic journey!
Sirāt thrusts you into a haunting desert odyssey as a father and son chase hope across Morocco’s ravaged landscapes.
Nominated for Best International Feature Film and Best Sound at the upcoming Academy Awards, it needs to be seen on the big screen and heard on the Vic Theatre’s 7.1 surround sound system.
Catch William Prince, a two-time JUNO Award winning artist, at the Royal Theatre this Tuesday!
The distance traveled on William Prince’s new album, “Further From the Country,” is generational, aspirational, and metaphysical.
Expansive and declarative, “Further From the Country” is the work of an artist who meets the challenge of putting incisive and enduring words to this age of uncertainty.
OAKBERRY has announced it’s officially landing in the capital city, with two new locations set to open in early summer 2026, marking the brand’s first move onto Vancouver Island.
The globally recognized açaí chain will open one storefront at Tuscany Village Shopping Centre and another on Fort Street, where Vancouver Island’s original Starbucks once operated.
Together, the two shops signal the start of what the company says will be a broader Vancouver Island expansion, with more neighbourhood locations planned down the road.
Founded in São Paulo in 2016, OAKBERRY has grown into an international superfood brand with more than 900 stores in over 40 countries. After launching in Canada in 2023 and expanding across the country, Victoria is next on the list.
If you’ve never tried it, açaí (pronounced ah-sigh-ee) is a dark purple berry from the Amazon, often blended into thick smoothies or layered into bowls and topped with fruit, granola, and other add-ons.
OAKBERRY’s menu will focus on customizable açaí bowls and smoothies made with organic Brazilian açaí, without dyes or artificial preservatives.
Bowls will range from $12.50 to $19.50 and come with unlimited toppings layered between scoops of açaí. Expect options like bananas, strawberries, blueberries, granola, chia pudding, and cacao nibs.
Smoothies will range from $10 to $13, including protein-packed options with up to 32 grams of protein, alongside functional add-ons. The menu will also feature matcha lattes, grab-and-go breakfast bowls, peanut butter bites, and protein bars.
The Tuscany Village location will be just under 1,000 square feet, with a similar-sized space planned for Fort Street downtown.
The company says its quick, nourishing offerings are designed to complement Victoria’s active coastal lifestyle, whether that’s fuelling up before a hike, after a gym session, or ahead of a day exploring the shoreline.
Official opening dates and launch celebrations are expected to be announced closer to summer.
Victoria and Vancouver Island have a lot of musical talent, and Victoria Buzz wants to highlight some of the best and brightest local artists and bands.
Every Monday, there will be a fresh ‘New Music Monday’ article to help people find and support local artists and bands that are up-and-coming, well established or hidden gems!
For this endeavour, Victoria Buzz has partnered with our good friends at CFUV 101.9 FM, UVic’s campus radio station, to find and select the musicians and bands for this regular column.
To date, there have been 69 New Music Monday features published through this collaboration.
This week, Braxton Glassis the New Music Monday highlight!
Braxton Glass has played in several popular Victoria-based projects, including Saltwater Cowboy, Juniper Smile and Bong Witch—all of which possess a unique sound from one another.
He doesn’t just play a key part as a bandmate in these projects though, recently Glass branched out and began a solo instrumental guitar project.
In April, Glass released a four-track EP called Cascades, inspired by a solo backpacking trip to Ruby Mountain in Washington State.
Following the release of Cascades, Glass hit the ground running and began recording his most recent release, a seven-track record called Ballad of the Great Horned One.
These compositions were meant to build upon what he accomplished on his first EP, incorporating some additional influences ranging from progressive rock, post-rock and black metal.
“I wanted to create something that was a bit more melody-driven, stronger and commanding,” Glass told Victoria Buzz. “Something with a bit more meat to dig into.”
He added that he feels where on Cascades, he got to create nice, pretty sounding compositions, on Ballad of the Great Horned One he got to lean into darker, more dissonant themes.
Where Cascades was a concept album about one specific place in time, this album was inspired by the Pacific Northwest, the deserts of Utah and the works of Cormac McCarthy and Haruki Murakami.
“‘At the Bottom of a Well’ was a really textural song I wrote with three acts to it, and it’s based off of the Murakami novel, The Wind Up Bird Chronicle,” he explained.
“Its about this character who goes to a different dimension, so the first act is this chord progression, then there’s this transition piece and the third act is actually the same chord progression as the first part—just played in reverse order, with reverse delay.”
Highlight song – “Ballad of the Great Horned One”
The title track of his new album is a song with special meaning to Glass.
“Ballad of the Great Horned One” was written while Glass was making weekly trips up to Nanaimo for work.
His day job required him to make the trek up island every week for two days, which allowed Glass to have a lot of free time on his hands as he opted to camp out near town for those days as a way to connect with nature.
“It’s an homage to the time I spent in Nanaimo, when I used to camp out there and there were a ton of great horned owls that would keep me up at night,” said Glass.
“It’s weird, juxtaposed with being away from home for work can be lame—unless you’re into living out of your car—but you’re surrounded by beauty.”
He added that often, he would get off of work and just play guitar in nature, taking notice of how surroundings change through the seasons.
“It’s soul nourishing in a lot of ways, being close to stuff like that,” he explained.
“In the winter there are a ton of owls and in different seasons there can be a ton of frogs and they all keep you up at all hours, but that song is an homage to that time.”
“The first time you hear an owl is crazy, and then there’s a whole chorus of them, it’s great, but then it goes until 2 a.m. and it’s not so cool anymore,” he laughed.
It was there, camping in Nanaimo with his guitar and a stool to sit on that Glass wrote most of this newly-released record.
Listen to Ballad of the “Great Horned One” below:
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To listen to the full album online. It can be found on all major streaming platforms: Bandcamp, Tidal, Apple Music and Spotify.
Now, Glass’ job has come to an end and he will no longer be travelling to and from Nanaimo every week.
He says he will be taking the time off to continue writing music for this project and for his band Bong Witch.
As of this publication, Glass is travelling to Peru on a vacation, but says that when he gets back, he will be looking to book some shows in April and May.
Glass is also eyeing a few music festivals on Vancouver Island and beyond for when he gets back.
Follow Braxton Glass and Bong Witch on Instagram to stay up-to-date with any shows or releases that are coming down the line.
CFUV is a non-profit campus and community radio station that plays a ton of local music of all kinds across Vancouver Island. If you like to support local music they are an amazing resource with a plethora of new local tunes in their arsenal.
“Troy [Lemberg] does such a great job curating the tunes, and all the DJs too,” said Glass.
“Frankly, they are a pillar of the music community, with the Eventide music series. I would say they do more than any other radio station in town to support local music and arts.”
A Vancouver Island grocery chain is recalling one of its in-house snack mixes over concerns of possible salmonella contamination.
According to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, Country Grocer brand Super Mac Mix is being recalled from the marketplace due to potential microbial contamination.
The recall applies to both the unsalted and salted versions of the Super Mac Mix, which were sold in bulk between November 18th, 2025 and February 24th, 2026.
The products do not have a UPC code and were available in variable quantities.
The affected items were sold at multiple Country Grocer locations across Vancouver Island, including stores in Nanaimo, Chemainus, Cedar, Lake Cowichan, Duncan, Cobble Hill, Salt Spring Island and at the Royal Oak location on West Saanich Road in Victoria.
Customers are being advised not to consume, serve, use, sell or distribute the recalled products. Anyone who purchased the Super Mac Mix during the affected dates should either throw it out or return it to the store where it was bought.
Food contaminated with salmonella may not look or smell spoiled but can still cause illness.
Young children, pregnant women, seniors and people with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of serious complications. Symptoms can include fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps and diarrhea.
In some cases, long-term complications such as severe arthritis may develop. Anyone who believes they may have become ill after consuming the product is advised to contact a healthcare provider.
The CFIA says it is conducting a food safety investigation, which may lead to the recall of additional products if necessary.
West Shore RCMP have released new details about a police incident that prompted a large containment in the Langford area on Sunday afternoon.
According to police, officers were called to the 500-block of Goldstream Avenue at approximately 2:20 p.m. on March 1st. They had received a report of a man experiencing a mental health crisis who was armed with weapons and had barricaded himself inside a residence.
RCMP were first to arrive and quickly set up containment around the home. The Vancouver Island Emergency Response Team and Crisis Negotiators were also brought in to assist.
The surrounding area was closed to the public as a precaution while officers worked to safely resolve the situation.
At the time, police said there was no risk to the public but asked residents to avoid the area and not approach officers while they focused on securing the scene.
Shortly after 6:20 p.m., the man was taken into custody under the Mental Health Act without further incident. He was transported to hospital for medical care.
Police thanked the public for their patience while officers remained on scene and the area was temporarily shut down to ensure the safety of everyone involved.
