West Shore RCMP searching for missing 33-year-old woman

By
Curtis Blandy
-
(West Shore RCMP)

West Shore RCMP are calling on the public for assistance in locating a missing 33-year-old woman, Courtney Irvine. 

Irvine was last seen on Friday, August 21st, and was reported missing on the same day. 

Police describe Irvine as a Caucasian woman, standing 5’9” tall, with a slim build, dirty blonde hair and hazel eyes. 

She was last seen wearing a black top, striped pants and one striped fingerless glove.

Police say they are very concerned for Irvine’s health and well-being. 

Since her disappearance, investigators have reportedly followed up on several leads and possible sightings, but Irvine remains missing.

Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Courtney Irvine should contact their local police, or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).

Ryan Painter announces candidacy for mayoral race in View Royal

By
Curtis Blandy
-
Councillors Ron Mattson and Don Brown have endorsed Ryan Painter as a candidate for mayor of View Royal (Ryan Painter)

There is a new candidate in the race for mayor of View Royal. 

On Monday, August 24th, Ryan Painter announced that he is putting his name forward for the position of View Royal’s mayor.

Painter has experience in governance, runs his own successful View Royal small business in public relations, has worked in BC’s not-for-profit sector and in the BC legislature. 

He has also served as an elected Greater Victoria school trustee and as chair of the Greater Victoria School Board. 

According to Painter, his vision for View Royal’s future stems from conversations with residents across View Royal, as well as his experience in governance and leadership.

“Over the last eight months, I’ve had conversations with many of my fellow View Royal residents,” said Painter. 

“I’ve gone door to door, visiting hundreds of homes to listen to your concerns, and I’ve heard time and again at View Royal events like the first View Royal Community Association Summerfest and barbeques this summer what our hopes are.”

Painter says his priorities for the municipality lie in improving traffic flow, getting better value for tax dollars, bringing more jobs and businesses to the Western Gateway at Six Mile, bringing more family doctors into the community and allowing people’s voices to be heard.

“We have so much to be thankful for living in View Royal,” Painter continued. 

“At the same time, there are changes happening that pose a real threat to our way of life here—changes that the province is pushing on us, changes that would mean more and more unwanted traffic congestion and parking issues, changes that would download more costs onto your tax bill. We need to stand up together for the View Royal we know and love.”

Along with his candidacy, Painter announced endorsements from two current members of the View Royal council, Ron Mattson and Don Brown.

Painter will not be alone in the race for mayor. As of this publication, David Screech has also announced his candidacy for the role.

In 2022, the former incumbent ran against sitting Mayor Sid Tobias and lost by around 240 votes. Before his loss to Mayor Tobias, Screech sat as View Royal’s mayor from 2014 to 2022. 

Mayor Tobias has announced he will not be running for mayor in this election. 

Lotto ticket bought on Vancouver Island wins Surrey woman $5M

By
Mike Kelly
-
(BCLC)

A lottery ticket purchased on Vancouver Island has turned a Surrey woman into BC’s newest multimillionaire.

Jane D. won the $5 million Classic Jackpot in the August 8th Lotto 6/49 draw with a ticket purchased at the Rexall on Willow Street in Chemainus.

She discovered she had the winning ticket while shopping for groceries at Country Grocer on Cedar Road in Nanaimo.

“I didn’t know how to react,” Jane recalled.

“The cashier was almost more ecstatic than me!”

Her husband was waiting in the car when she returned with more than just the groceries.

“My husband waited for me in the car to bring out groceries, then I told him,” she said.

“He didn’t believe me at first, then I showed him the validation slip and he counted the zeroes.”

Jane plans to use some of the winnings to renovate her home and contribute to her investments, but she also has something more relaxing in mind.

“I want to go on a trip and get a suite on a cruise!”

When asked how it feels to become a millionaire, Jane said the win has opened up new possibilities.

“It’s very exciting. I have more flexibility now.”

According to the BC Lottery Corporation, players in the province have redeemed more than $50 million in Lotto 6/49 winnings so far in 2026.

Lotto 6/49 draws take place Wednesday and Saturday evenings. Its Classic Jackpot is always worth $5 million.

New BC Transit route will connect Victoria directly to Victoria International Airport

By
Mike Kelly
-
(Victoria International Airport/Facebook)

Getting to and from Victoria International Airport (YYJ) by public transit is about to become easier for early-morning and late-night travellers.

BC Transit and the Victoria Regional Transit Commission are launching the new Route 72A Swartz Bay/YYJ/Downtown beginning Tuesday, September 8th.

The new route will follow the existing Route 72 between downtown Victoria and the Swartz Bay ferry terminal, with an additional stop at the airport.

For travellers, that means a one-seat ride between downtown Victoria and YYJ during select early-morning and late-night travel times, without having to transfer at McTavish Exchange.

Regular BC Transit fares will apply.

Here is the current route 72A schedule:

Weekdays

  • From the Legislature via YYJ: 5:14 a.m.
  • From Swartz Bay via YYJ: 10 p.m., 11 p.m. and midnight

Saturdays

  • From the Legislature via YYJ: 5:25 a.m. and 6:21 a.m.
  • From Swartz Bay via YYJ: 10 p.m., 11 p.m. and midnight

Sundays

  • From the Legislature via YYJ: 6:22 a.m.
  • From Swartz Bay via YYJ: 10 p.m. and 11 p.m.

The listed times are when buses depart the Legislature or Swartz Bay ferry terminal. The buses will stop at YYJ as they continue along the route.

Routes 87 and 88 will continue operating on their existing schedules, providing airport service and timed connections at McTavish Exchange throughout the rest of the day.

The service announced Monday is more limited than an earlier proposal considered by the Victoria Regional Transit Commission.

The original plan would have sent every Route 72 trip through the airport while eliminating Route 88 and realigning portions of Route 81.

That proposal would have provided much more frequent one-seat service to YYJ, but was expected to add approximately 10 minutes to trips through Sidney and reduce service in some parts of the community.

Sidney Mayor Cliff McNeil-Smith raised concerns that better airport connectivity would come at the expense of residents and workers who already rely on peninsula transit service.

Following public consultation earlier this year, Sidney council voted unanimously to formally oppose the proposed changes.

The Route 72A plan preserves Routes 87 and 88 while adding airport stops to a smaller number of existing trips during times when other airport transit options are limited.

A one-seat connection between downtown Victoria and YYJ has been sought for years. In 2021, the region’s only dedicated airport shuttle had been suspended indefinitely, leaving transit riders to rely on connecting buses.

Passengers travelling on the Route 72A with luggage are being asked to keep suitcases, bags and sports equipment on their laps or on the floor without blocking the aisle.

Those riding a double-decker bus with luggage must remain on the lower level.

BC Transit says improving service between downtown Victoria and the airport remains a priority, although further expansion will depend on funding and approval from the Victoria Regional Transit Commission.

Additional fall service changes for the Victoria region are expected to be announced Tuesday.

Cat lost while on Nanaimo-bound BC Ferries vessel now found

By
Curtis Blandy
-
Photo of Tango (BC Ferries/Facebook)

Late last week, a beloved cat named Tango was lost while enroute to Nanaimo’s Duke Point from Tsawwassen aboard a BC Ferries vessel. 

Tango went missing between 5:45 p.m. and 7:45 p.m. on Thursday, August 20th while aboard the Coastal Inspiration sailing. 

The cat’s owners believed that he must have escaped out of their vehicle’s window before disappearing to the lower decks of the vessel. 

BC Ferries said that crew on board searched for Tango alongside his family, but he could not be located, leaving his family devastated.

In order to help the effort, BC Ferries posted to social media on Thursday to ask that other passengers aboard the vessel check their vehicles, trailers, boats and possessions for the lost and possibly scared cat. 

On Saturday, August 22nd, some hope was given to Tango’s family after there were a couple sightings of the cat. 

At around 1 a.m. that morning, someone who had seen BC Ferries’ post reported seeing him walking across the Duke Point lot while waiting for ticketing to open.

Two hours later, at 3 a.m., a ferry employee believed he saw Tango in the long-term parking lot amongst the vehicles there.

The following day, on Sunday, August 23rd, Tango’s owners were permitted to camp out in the long-term parking lot. They put food out and kept their vehicle open in an attempt to lure their cat back to them between 1 a.m. and 6 a.m. The attempt was unfortunately unsuccessful.

At around 11:15 a.m., BC Ferries says the owners received a text saying: “We’ve seen Tango. Across from the junkyard by the orange cranes of Port of Nanaimo. On the corner of Jackson and Dalholt roads.”

Upon receiving the message, BC Ferries and Tango’s owners put out a renewed plea for people to keep an eye out for the cat in that area. 

Later on Sunday, at around 6:30 p.m., Tango was triumphantly reunited with his owners near the corner of Jackson and Dalholt Roads. 

“Tango’s owners found him in a fenced enclosure that was locked for the night,” wrote BC Ferries in an update to their social media post. 

“When Tango got close to the fence, his dad grabbed him and pulled him underneath the fence. Finally, he is with his family once again.”

Tango’s big adventure is now finished and has culminated in a happy ending for him and his owners, but it is important to be cautious while transporting a pet on a BC Ferries vessel. 

BC Ferries has a webpage dedicated to information for pet owners travelling with their furry companion that includes rules and etiquette to keep pets and human passengers safe while sailing.

Sooke Road shut down near Royal Roads University after vehicle hits pole

By
Victoria Buzz Staff
-
RCMP Cruiser Generic
(File photo)

Heads up motorists.

Sooke Road is closed in both directions in Colwood Monday afternoon after a vehicle crashed into a BC Hydro pole, leaving more than 3,000 customers without power.

The City of Colwood said the road was closed at Aldeane Avenue, near Royal Roads University.

Drivers heading toward Victoria were being detoured along Kelly Road, while those travelling into Colwood were being diverted using Aldeane Avenue.

In a post on X, West Shore RCMP said the closure was necessary because of a live-wire risk in the area.

BC Hydro reported that the outage began at approximately 1:27 p.m. and was affecting 3,107 customers in parts of Colwood, Langford and View Royal.

A BC Hydro crew was on scene as of 2 p.m. Monday. Injuries are currently unknown and no timeframe was given on when Sooke Road would be reopened.

 

5 things to do in and around Victoria this Tuesday, August 25th

By
Rory Dickinson
-
(The Guess Who / Facebook)

Happy Tuesday, Victoria!

Some Canadian music legends are in town this Wednesday, as The Guess Who will perform at the Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre. There are still a few tickets left, so make sure to grab yours and head down to what is bound to be the show of a lifetime!

If that’s not for you, there is some great comedy, a singles event and free yoga in the park to get you out of the house.

Here are 5 things to do in and around Victoria this Tuesday, August 25th:

The Guess Who at the Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre

Catch the Canadian legends The Guess Who at the Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre!

This legendary Canadian band just recently won the rights to the band’s name, and is on tour to celebrate.

With chart-topping hits like “American Woman,” “These Eyes” and “No Sugar Tonight,” The Guess Who is undoubtedly one of the greatest Canadian rock bands of all time.

They’ll be ending their tour in Victoria on Sunday night, with supporting act Kim Mitchell sharing the stage.

Remaining tickets start at $119.25 and can be purchased here.

  • Where: The Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre, 1925 Blanshard Street
  • When: Tuesday, August 25th – 7:30 p.m.

Comedy on the Run at Frontrunners

Join NEED2 and Front Runners for an evening of movement, laughter and connection.

The event will begin at Front Runner’s downtown Victoria location and set off on a voluntary friendly-paced run or walk.

Attendees will then reconvene for some drinks, food and a stand up show by Dylan Williams.

All proceeds from this event will go toward NEED2’s program working to increase mental health awareness and suicide prevention across South Vancouver Island.

Tickets are $30 and can be purchased here.

  • Where: Front Runners, 1200 Vancouver Street
  • When: Tuesday, August 25th – Run/walk at 6 p.m., show at 7 p.m.

Keithsonic One Night Only at The Mint

If you haven’t been to a show from Keithsonic, you need to.

Keith is an absolute pillar of the underground arts community in Victoria, contributing much to the visual arts, comedy and storytelling scenes in the city.

This show will feature all three, at an establishment that serves as another pillar to the same communities.

Make sure to try their famous Himalayan cuisine!

Tickets to the show are $15 and can be purchased here.

  • Where: The Mint, 1414 Douglas Street
  • When: Tuesday, August 25th – 7 p.m.

Yoga in the Park at Willows Beach Park

Head down to Yoga in the Park at Willows Beach Park!

Get involved in the community and experience the benefits of outdoor yoga. What’s not to love?

These free, all-levels classes take place every Tuesday and are led by experienced instructors.

Everyone is welcome to attend.

  • Where: Willows Beach Park, Oak Bay
  • When: Tuesday, August 25th – 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Summer Singles Mixer at Swan’s Brewpub

Looking for a fun, relaxed way to meet new people?

Skip the awkward first dates and head to Swan’s for an evening of great conversations, cocktails and genuine connections.

The Summer Singles Mixer lets you mingle naturally at your own pace—chat with whoever catches your eye, stay as long as you like and enjoy the atmosphere.

Throughout the evening, simply socialize with the people you’d like to meet. When you’ve had a chance to chat, pull up their profile on your phone and choose “Like” or “Pass.”

Grab a drink, start a conversation and let the matches happen!

Tickets start at $12.90 and can be purchased here.

  • Where: Swan’s Brewpub, 1601 Store Street
  • When: Tuesday, August 25th – 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.

 

 

VicPD seek man wanted on Canada-wide warrant after leaving parole facility (UPDATED)

By
Victoria Buzz Staff
-
(VicPD)

Update:

Shortly after VicPD issued an advisory regarding Christopher Hinton, police were able to locate and arrest the wanted individual.

—original:

VicPD are seeking information related to the whereabouts of 40-year-old Christopher Hinton, who is wanted on a Canada-wide warrant. 

According to police, the warrant was issued for Hinton’s arrest after he left a Parole Community Residential Facility in Victoria without authorization on Friday, August 21st.

Hinton is described as a Caucasian man, standing 6’1” tall, weighing around 192 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes. 

VicPD cautions the public to not approach him if seen. 

Hinton’s sentence has a remaining five years, five months and 11 days left on it and stems from convictions he received in 2022. 

Since then, he has received convictions for dangerous operation of a conveyance, flight from police while operating a motor vehicle, possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000.

He was also convicted for being in possession of a controlled substance for the purpose of trafficking, operation while prohibited, using an imitation firearm while committing an offence and assaulting a peace officer. 

Anyone with information on Hinton’s whereabouts should call 911, citing file number 26-35391. 

Victoria Royals land Tri-City’s top scorer ahead of historic London Knights series

By
Mike Kelly
-
Save on Foods Memorial Centre
(Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre)

You know summer is entering its final stretch when hockey talk begins to ramp up, and the Victoria Royals just gave fans plenty to talk about.

With their highly anticipated “Clash of the Kingdoms” series against the London Knights less than two weeks away, the Royals have pulled off a major trade to add one of the Western Hockey League’s top scorers.

Victoria announced Monday that it has acquired 2007-born forward Savin Virk from the Tri-City Americans.

Virk led the Americans in virtually every offensive category last season, recording 27 goals and 38 assists for 65 points in 66 games.

The Surrey native has already accumulated 111 points, including 49 goals and 62 assists, over 116 WHL games.

“Savin has proven to be a top player in this league and we expect him to be a big part of our team,” said Royals General Manager Jake Heisinger.

“Adding a player of his calibre to our group is an important move for us.”

The Royals also received a second-round selection in the 2027 CHL Import Draft and a sixth-round pick in 2030.

In exchange, Victoria sent 2009-born forward Eli McKamey, a first-round selection in the 2027 CHL Import Draft and a third-round pick in 2030 to Tri-City.

McKamey, a Cowichan Bay native, recorded six goals and 11 assists for 17 points across 48 games with the Royals last season.

“Eli is a very good young player that has a bright career in front of him,” Heisinger said. “In making this move, Eli will have the opportunity to play an offensive role in his draft year.”

Virk’s arrival gives the Royals another proven offensive weapon ahead of what could be one of the most memorable weekends of junior hockey Victoria has ever hosted.

On Friday, September 4th and Saturday, September 5th, the Royals will welcome the defending Memorial Cup champion London Knights to the Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre for the “Clash of the Kingdoms.”

The two-game showcase will mark the first inter-league meeting between WHL and Ontario Hockey League clubs outside of the Memorial Cup tournament.

London will arrive in Victoria following back-to-back championship seasons in 2024 and 2025, setting up a rare opportunity for Island hockey fans to see two prominent Canadian Hockey League programs face each other.

“Hosting this series in Victoria will create an outstanding atmosphere for our players and fans while highlighting the level of talent across the Canadian Hockey League,” said Joey Poljanowski, vice-president of hockey operations for the Royals.

“This event will give our community a great platform to celebrate junior hockey and experience something truly unique. We’re looking forward to welcoming the Knights and to a very entertaining series.”

The weekend is expected to feature several top NHL prospects, along with a notable coaching matchup between London’s Dale Hunter and Victoria’s James Patrick.

Hunter and Patrick each played more than 1,200 games in the NHL before moving behind the bench, where both have played significant roles in developing some of the CHL’s top players.

The hockey will not be the only attraction. An outdoor Fan Fest is also planned on the main entrance plaza, featuring live music, games and additional activities.

The opening game takes place Friday, September 4th at 7:05 p.m., followed by the second game at 4 p.m. on Saturday, September 5th.

Tickets for the “Clash of the Kingdoms” are available through Select Your Tickets.

Clash of the Kingdoms

  • Where: Save on Foods Memorial Centre, 1925 Blanshard Street
  • When:
    • Game 1: Friday, September 4th, puck drops at 7:05 p.m.
    • Game 2: Saturday, September 5th, puck drops at at 4 p.m.

32 wildfires now burning on Vancouver Island following weekend lightning storm

By
Curtis Blandy
-
2026 wildfire located around 10 kilometres south of Qualicum Beach (BC Wildfire Service)

In the last two weeks the number of wildfires on Vancouver Island has grown from seven to 32 due to lightning strikes. 

Though the thunderstorm over Victoria on Saturday, August 22nd was spectacular to watch, it was the cause of several new wildfires spanning as far north as Parksville. 

Last week, another thunderstorm caused numerous other wildfires to spark in the central region of the island, just west of Campbell River. 

Most of these new wildfires are small in size and being monitored rather than directly responded to due to the difficult terrain they burn in, and being far from populated areas or key infrastructure. 

All wildfires in the southern island region are estimated at being 0.009 hectares or less in size save one which is around 0.1 hectare. 

Up island, there are a few that range between 39 hectares in size and just over 10 hectares. 

Of all the Vancouver Island wildfires, 10 are deemed to be ‘out of control’ by the BC Wildfire Service (BCWS), 10 are ‘being held’ and 12 are considered to be ‘under control.’

In anticipation of more wildfires being ignited by the weekend’s thunderstorms, the BC government has opted to extend the current state of emergency until Saturday, August 29th. 

The Province said the extension follows advice from emergency-management officials and will help ensure the government will continue to have access to emergency powers under the Emergency and Disaster Management Act if they are required.

As of this publication, no emergency orders have needed to be issued under the state of emergency to respond to the current wildfire situation. 

Despite not having to issue any emergency orders, the Province noted that maintaining the state of emergency ensures the tools needed to respond quickly will remain available as wildfire conditions continue to evolve.

In the southern Okanagan region there are still several massive wildfires active that are up to 67,000 hectares in size. Over 20,000 residents have had to be evacuated due to the Bald Range wildfire burning just north of Penticton alone. 

The largest blaze in BC is the Pear Lake wildfire, which is currently estimated at being over 164,000 hectares. 

As of this publication, there are 180 active wildfires throughout the province.

VicPD seek public assistance locating missing 16-year-old girl (UPDATED)

By
Curtis Blandy
-
(Victoria Buzz/ItkasanImages)

Update:

VicPD announced at around 3 p.m. on Monday, August 24th that Alanna had been located and is now safe.

—original:

VicPD are seeking the public’s assistance in locating a 16-year-old girl, Alanna, who was reported missing over the weekend. 

Alanna was reported missing by her family on Sunday, August 23rd, and is considered vulnerable. Police say they are concerned for her wellbeing. 

Police describe Alanna as a Caucasian girl, standing 5’4” tall, with a medium build and long, thick black hair. 

She was last seen wearing a black hoodie with white writing on the sleeves, grey pants and carrying a black shoulder bag.

According to investigators, Alanna may have travelled to Vancouver and police are asking anyone who may have seen her, or has information about her whereabouts, to contact VicPD. 

VicPD are asking anyone with information on Alanna’s whereabouts to contact the E-Comm non-emergency line at (250) 995-7654, citing file number 26-35662.

More than 42K cruise passengers expected in Victoria as season enters final stretch

By
Mike Kelly
-
(Greater Victoria Harbour Authority)

Victoria’s busy cruise ship season is beginning to enter its final stretch, but there is still plenty of activity ahead for Ogden Point.

Another 15 cruise ships are expected to arrive in Victoria between Monday, August 24th and Sunday, August 30th, potentially bringing more than 42,000 passengers to the city over the seven-day period.

It comes as the 2026 cruise season approaches its final couple of months, with regular ship traffic expected to continue throughout September and into October.

According to the Greater Victoria Harbour Authority’s (GVHA) 2026 master schedule, 337 cruise ship calls were scheduled for Victoria this season, beginning with the Nieuw Amsterdam on April 10th and ending in October.

Based on the schedule through August 23rd, approximately 249 ships have visited the city so far this season, representing an estimated passenger capacity of nearly 750,000 people.

And the season is far from over; another 86 calls remain on the schedule between August 24th and the final scheduled visit on October 18th, representing capacity for roughly another 255,000 passengers.

This week’s cruise schedule begins Monday evening with the arrival of Carnival Spirit, which is scheduled to dock at 8 p.m. with an estimated 2,124 passengers.

Things begin picking up Tuesday when two vessels arrive. Oceania Cruises’ Riviera is scheduled for 9 a.m., followed by Regent Seven Seas’ Seven Seas Explorer at 11 a.m. that morning. Together, the two ships carry an estimated 2,082 passengers.

Wednesday will see three ships in port, with the Queen Elizabeth, Azamara Pursuit and Carnival Miracle carrying a combined estimated 4,982 passengers.

On Thursday, the much larger Voyager of the Seas arrives with an estimated 4,000 passengers, followed by Celebrity Edge with another 2,918.

Similar to previous weeks, Friday is expected to be the busiest day of the week in terms of passenger capacity.

Three large ships are scheduled to arrive that evening: Norwegian Bliss, Eurodam and Royal Princess.

Combined, the vessels have an estimated passenger capacity of 9,914 people.

Saturday will bring another 8,298 potential passengers aboard Star Princess and Norwegian Encore.

The week wraps up Sunday with two familiar sights returning to Victoria.

Royal Caribbean’s massive Anthem of the Seas is scheduled to arrive with an estimated 4,919 passengers, while MSC Poesia is expected to bring another 3,013.

Together, Sunday’s two vessels account for another 7,932 potential passengers.

For several of the ships arriving this week, Victoria has become a regular stop throughout the summer.

Voyager of the Seas, for example, has been making near-weekly calls since May. Its August 27th arrival is scheduled to mark roughly its 17th visit to Victoria this season. The same goes for Carnival Miracle which will also make its 17th visit. 

Norwegian Encore has also become a familiar Saturday-night sight at Ogden Point. Its August 29th arrival is expected to be its 18th visit this year.

The season will remain busy through September, with dozens more cruise ship arrivals currently listed on the GVHA schedule for the month.

Traffic drops considerably in October, with the final vessel on the calendar currently scheduled to arrive on October 18th.

In total, the GVHA’s July 22nd master schedule lists 337 scheduled arrivals for the 2026 season, although arrival times, departures and ship calls remain subject to change.

This week’s cruise ship schedule

Monday, August 24th

  • Carnival Spirit: 8 p.m. to 11:59 p.m., estimated 2,124 passengers

Tuesday, August 25th

  • Riviera: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., estimated 1,328 passengers
  • Seven Seas Explorer: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., estimated 754 passengers

Wednesday, August 26th

  • Queen Elizabeth: 1 p.m. to 10 p.m., estimated 2,081 passengers
  • Azamara Pursuit: 2 p.m. to 11 p.m., estimated 777 passengers
  • Carnival Miracle: 8 p.m. to 11:59 p.m., estimated 2,124 passengers

Thursday, August 27th

  • Voyager of the Seas: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., estimated 4,000 passengers
  • Celebrity Edge: 5:30 p.m. to 11:59 p.m., estimated 2,918 passengers

Friday, August 28th

  • Norwegian Bliss: 7:30 p.m. to 11:59 p.m., estimated 4,250 passengers
  • Eurodam: 8 p.m. to 11:59 p.m., estimated 2,104 passengers
  • Royal Princess: 8:15 p.m. to 11:59 p.m., estimated 3,560 passengers

Saturday, August 29th

  • Star Princess: 7 p.m. to 11:59 p.m., estimated 4,300 passengers
  • Norwegian Encore: 7:45 p.m. to 11:59 p.m., estimated 3,998 passengers

Sunday, August 30th

  • Anthem of the Seas: 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., estimated 4,919 passengers
  • MSC Poesia: 7 p.m. to 11:30 p.m., estimated 3,013 passengers

 

Comox Valley RCMP warns public of fraudulent social media posts

By
Curtis Blandy
-
(File photo)

Comox Valley RCMP has issued a warning to residents, advising them to be cautious when viewing and sharing social media posts that claim to be connected to police matters. 

Recently, police have noted an increase in misleading and fraudulent social media posts that reference the Comox Valley RCMP investigations, missing persons, wanted individuals or other public safety concerns, or that use local place names to gain attention and encourage sharing. 

According to Comox Valley RCMP, these posts often claim that a person is missing, wanted by police or that there has been a serious incident; however, many originate from anonymous users, recently created accounts or pages with little to no connection to the community.

“These types of posts are designed to attract attention and generate shares, often by exploiting people’s desire to help others,” said Constable Monika Terragni, media relations officer for the Comox Valley RCMP. 

“While we appreciate that community members want to assist by sharing important information, we encourage everyone to take a moment to verify the source before reposting.”

Police noted that while some of these posts may be attempts to increase engagement, others can have more serious consequences. 

For example, in some cases false missing person posts have been used to gather information about an individual’s location, activities or personal circumstances. 

Oftentimes, people will respond to missing person appeals with comments such as where they last saw the individual, where they work, what vehicle they drive or where they may be staying. Fraudulent posts like this allow for personal information to be collected by those who may have ill intentions. 

Comox Valley RCMP advise that people provide information about missing persons directly to police without posting it to social media.

Additionally, police noted that the spread of inaccurate information can impact innocent individuals when false allegations, fabricated wanted person notices,or misleading posts about criminal activity are shared online. This kind of activity can lead to damaged reputations or, harassment and can create unnecessary concern within the community. 

Depending on the situation, police say the individuals who create or share false information could be liable to civil lawsuits or other legal consequences.

Comox Valley RCMP says that any information police need to share with the community will be shared through official RCMP communication channels, established local media outlets or verified government and law enforcement platforms.

Residents who want to ensure what they are seeing online is accurate can check if the information originates from an official RCMP detachment or trusted news source, review the profile or page that posted the information and look for signs that the same post has been copied and shared in multiple unrelated communities.

Furthermore, residents are advised to be cautious about providing information regarding a person’s whereabouts publicly, verify information through official sources before sharing it and report suspected scam or fraudulent posts directly to the social media platform.

Comox Valley RCMP says they recognize social media’s impact and its role in connecting communities and sharing information quickly. 

Members of the public are encouraged to continue sharing legitimate safety-related information, while taking simple steps to confirm that the information is accurate.

Anyone who is unsure whether a post is legitimate can visit an official RCMP page or contact the Comox Valley detachment’s non-emergency line for guidance at (250) 338-1321.

Greek Fest returns to Victoria for two weekends this August and September

By
Rory Dickinson
-
(GreekFest / Instagram)

Opa!

Greater Victoria’s biggest Greek festival returns to the city this weekend, bringing Greek food, lively entertainment, cultural traditions and Mediterranean hospitality to Saanich.

From August 28th to 30th and again from September 4th to 7th, Victoria Greek Fest will return to the Greek Community Centre, bringing seven days of celebration to the city.

This marks the 25th year of the festival, which invites visitors of all ages to experience the sights, sounds and flavours of Greece right here on Vancouver Island.

The star of the festival is the wide selection of Greek cuisine, from the ever-popular souvlaki and roasted lamb to baklava and loukoumades for those with a sweet tooth.

There will be a selection of appetizers, main courses, desserts, baked goods and refreshing beverages for attendees to enjoy throughout the festival.

Apart from the delicious food options, there will be plenty of reasons to celebrate, with live music, entertainment and cultural performances, including the singing and dancing events that makes Greek Fest one of the highlights of summer in Victoria.

The Greek Heritage Museum will be on-site and open throughout the festival weekends, showcasing Greek history and the contributions of Greek Canadians in British Columbia.

The celebrations will also include the AGORA market, where shoppers will be able to browse for Greek products, including handmade items and treats to enjoy at home.

Organizers say that “philoxenia”—the Greek tradition of welcoming guests with generosity, friendship and hospitality—is at the heart of the event.

Admission to the festival is free, and the many food options will be available to enjoy on-site or to order ahead and take home.

For more information on the festival and for a full schedule of events, click here.

Head down to Victoria Greek Fest this weekend and next for a taste of Athens right here on Vancouver Island!

Victoria Greek Fest 2026

  • Where: Greek Community Centre, 4648 Elk Lake Drive
  • When: August 28th to 30th and September 4th to 7th

Cooler temperatures expected for Greater Victoria in this week’s weather forecast

By
Curtis Blandy
-
Yates Street (lokeshbaskararajan / Instagram)

This week’s weather forecast will bring slightly cooler temperatures and a mix of sun and cloud to the Greater Victoria area. 

According to Environment Canada, the week will start out with warm temperatures on Monday, August 24th. The predicted high will be 24°C and sunny conditions can be expected throughout the day. Overnight, the low will drop down to around 14°C and clear. 

Tuesday’s forecast is similarly warm, with a predicted high of 24°C once again. Conditions will be mainly sunny with some cloud coverage moving into the capital region in the late afternoon. Overnight, there is a 30% chance of showers and the low is expected to be around 14°C. 

On Wednesday, temperatures will begin to drop with the forecasted high being 20°C. Conditions in Greater Victoria will also begin to get cloudy on Wednesday, though a mix of sun and cloud can be expected. The overnight low will drop to around 13°C. 

Thursday’s forecast is calling for a mix of sun and cloud with a high of around 20°C once again. Overnight, cloudy periods can be expected, as well as a low of around 12°C. 

Environment Canada is calling for a high of 21°C on Friday with a mix of sun and cloud throughout the day. The overnight low is expected to be 12°C with some cloudy periods. 

Throughout the weekend, the Greater Victoria forecast is calling for highs of around 20°C with a mix of sun and cloud on both Saturday and Sunday. The overnight low for the weekend is expected to be around 11°C. 

(Environment Canada)

5 things to do in and around Victoria this Monday, August 24th

By
Rory Dickinson
-
(Wonderffle Cafe / Facebook)

Happy National Waffle Day, Victoria!

Get up to anything fun this weekend?

Keep the fun going this Monday with a farmers market, a free salsa class at Ship Point or a movie at the campus theatre!

Those aren’t your jam? Try grabbing a waffle at one of Victoria’s many waffle shops to celebrate National Waffle Day!

Here are 5 things to do in and around Victoria this Monday, August 24th:

Free Beginner Salsa Class and Social at Ship Point

Every Monday until September 7th, head to Ship Point for a free outdoor beginner Latin dance class!

These classes are sponsored by the City of Victoria.

The social dancing after the class is the perfect time to practice what you’ve learned, connect with others and get 1-on-1 help from instructors.

Last year there were more than 100 dancers at almost every class. Don’t miss out on this summer tradition!

Class time is from 6 p.m. to 7:15 p.m., and social dancing is from 7:15 p.m. to 8 p.m.

These events are free and everyone is welcome to attend.

  • Where: Ship Point, Inner Harbour
  • When: Monday, August 24th – 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

National Waffle Day at Scoop and Waffle

It’s National Waffle Day!

Celebrate at Scoop and Waffle in Sidney with a special deal to celebrate.

All day, customers can purchase one waffle and get a second at half price.

They’ll also be holding raffles all day long!

  • Where: Scoop and Waffle, 2423 Beacon Avenue
  • When: Monday, August 24th – 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

The Gorge Farmers Market

The Gorge Farmers Market is in full swing!

Happening every Monday until September 21st, the Gorge Farmers market will be setting up shop in Gorge Park.

This year, the market is celebrating its fifth season. Local food, live music, a beautiful view of the Gorge Waterway and over 50 vendors.

Get down to Gorge Park and buy local! The market is free and everyone is welcome to attend.

  • Where: Esquimalt Gorge Park, 1070 Tillicum Road
  • When: Monday, August 24th – 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Make Your Whole Day Matter: Move More, Sit Less, Sleep Well at the Yakimovich Wellness Centre

Your daily habits shape your long-term health far more than you might think.

In this session, attendees will explore simple ways to add more movement into your routine, cut down on long periods of sitting and build healthier sleep patterns.

The event will look at “movement snacks,” like standing breaks or quick chair exercises, that interrupt sedentary time and support better health.

Attendees will leave with evidence informed strategies that are easy to apply and designed to fit real life.

The session is led by Dr. Kirstin Lane, associate professor in the School of Exercise Science, Physical and Health Education at the University of Victoria and a CSEP-Clinical Exercise Physiologist (CEP).

Her research focuses on how exercise can safely support people with diagnosed medical conditions, with a particular interest in cancer.

This event is free and is offered both in-person and digitally. Register here.

  • Where: Yakimovich Wellness Centre, 1454 Hillside Ave
  • When: Monday, August 24th – 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

The Devil Wears Prada 2 at Cinecenta

Catch The Devil Wears Prada 2 at the UVic campus theatre!

Anne Hathaway, Meryl Streep, Stanley Tucci and Emily Blunt all return in this sweet sequel that was made for a night out with friends.

When audiences pick up years after the events of 2006’s The Devil Wears Prada, things look very different at Runway: Magazines aren’t selling, journalism is in crisis and budget cuts are a constant.

Tickets are $8 for UVSS students, $9 for seniors or children, $10 for alumni, faculty, staff and one guest and $11 for the public. Tickets are purchased at the door.

  • Where: Cinecenta, 3800 Finnerty Road
  • When: Monday, August 24th – 5 p.m. and 7:15 p.m.

 

More than a dozen new wildfires reported on Vancouver Island after powerful lightning storm

By
Mike Kelly
-
(BC Wildfire Services)

Lightning lit up the skies over nearly every region of Vancouver Island Saturday night, with repeated flashes continuing throughout the evening.

The spectacular storm also carried a serious consequence, with more than a dozen new wildfires appearing on the BC Wildfire Service (BCWS) map following the lightning.

According to BCWS, more than 7,000 lightning strikes were recorded across the province over a 24-hour period as a subtropical weather system brought hot temperatures and widespread thunderstorms.

Lightning-caused wildfires were reported in each of BCs southern fire centres.

Many areas affected by the storm also received substantial rainfall, which helped reduce fire behaviour and the likelihood of some new ignitions.

BCWS said crews and operational staff were prepared for the weather system and that the initial response had been successful, with many of the new fires already classified as being held or under control.

Several fires on Vancouver Island remained classified as out of control Sunday afternoon, although there were no evacuation alerts or orders listed at the time of publication.

An out-of-control designation does not necessarily mean a wildfire is large or immediately threatening a community. It means the fire is continuing to spread or is expected to spread beyond its current boundaries.

The closest active wildfire to Greater Victoria is the Empress Mountain wildfire, identified by BCWS as V61842.

The fire is located near S Jack Lake in Sea to Sea Regional Park, close to the Sooke Potholes area. It was discovered Sunday morning and remained classified as out of control Sunday afternoon.

Empress Mountain is a 682-metre peak and one of the highest points in the region.

BCWS said smoke from the fire may be visible from Greater Victoria and surrounding communities. The cause had not yet been officially listed Sunday afternoon, but the fire was discovered following the overnight lightning storm.

As of approximately 2:30 p.m. Sunday, BCWS listed 179 active wildfires across the province, including 71 new fires reported during the previous 24 hours.

Of the active wildfires, 77 were classified as out of control, representing slightly more than 41% of all active fires.

BCWS data indicated that 150 of the active wildfires were caused or suspected to have been caused by lightning. Eighteen were believed to be human-caused, while another 18 remained under investigation.

There were also 37 evacuation orders listed across BC, but none were located on Vancouver Island. Those numbers are expected to change as crews assess new reports and update existing incidents.

Conditions are expected to become hot, dry and windy again this week, increasing the potential for additional fire activity.

BCWS warned that holdover fires may become visible as the weather changes. These are lightning-caused fires that can smoulder beneath the surface or inside forest fuels without producing visible smoke.

As temperatures rise and fuels become drier, the hidden fires can begin producing smoke or develop into more active wildfires hours or even days after the original lightning strike.

Anyone who sees an unattended wildfire or an unexplained column of smoke should report it immediately by calling 1-800-663-5555, dialing 5555 from a cellphone or using the “Report a Fire” feature in the BC Wildfire Service mobile app.

Photos can also be attached to reports made through the app, but they should only be taken when it is safe to do so.

When reporting a fire, be prepared to provide as much information as possible, including:

  • The fire’s location or the direction and approximate distance from a known landmark
  • The approximate size of the fire
  • What appears to be burning
  • The colour and amount of smoke
  • Whether flames are visible
  • Whether people, homes or other structures may be threatened
  • Whether anyone is already attempting to fight the fire

Residents are also encouraged to register for emergency notifications from their local government, discuss evacuation plans with their household and prepare grab-and-go bags before an emergency occurs.

The latest wildfire information is available through the BC Wildfire Service, while evacuation alerts and orders are posted by EmergencyInfoBC.

Duncan apartment fire leaves two dead and some injured: RCMP

By
Victoria Buzz Staff
-
(File Photo)

Two people were killed in an apartment fire in Duncan this Friday, August 21st. 

At approximately 2:30 a.m., the North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP, Duncan Fire Department, North Cowichan Fire Department and Cowichan Bay Fire Department responded to a fire on Government Street in Duncan. 

According to RCMP, firefighters were able to contain the apartment fire to one building and all tenants were evacuated. 

Police noted that the fire is considered suspicious in nature. 

Over 50 residents of the building were reportedly displaced due to the fire and Emergency Management Services was activated to assist with them.

Police confirmed that injuries were sustained and that there were two fatalities. 

“At this time, to respect the families involved, the names of the deceased will not be released,” said North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP. 

North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP Serious Crime Team, the Duncan Fire Department, BC Coroner Services and the Office of the Fire Commissioner are actively investigating the blaze to determine the cause and circumstances.

Anyone with information is asked to call North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP at (250) 748-5522.

BC extending state of emergency due to wildfire risk across province

By
Curtis Blandy
-
Bald Range wildfire (BC Wildfire Service)

The BC government has announced the current province-wide state of emergency will be extended for a further seven days until Saturday, August 29th due to the ongoing risk of wildfires.

The Province says this extension follows advice from emergency-management officials and will help ensure the government will continue to have access to emergency powers under the Emergency and Disaster Management Act if they are required.

As of this publication, no emergency orders have needed to be issued under the state of emergency to respond to the current wildfire situation. 

Despite not having to issue any emergency orders, the Province says that maintaining the state of emergency ensures the tools needed to respond quickly will remain available as wildfire conditions continue to evolve.

The state of emergency was declared on August 8th as wildfires burned throughout the province. 

Of particular concern was the Bald Range wildfire between Summerland and Peachland in the southern Okanagan.

When the state of emergency was declared more than 20,000 people had to be evacuated from their homes as the wildfire encroached on populated areas. 

“While most people have returned home, thousands of people in BC continue to be on evacuation alerts and orders, and wildfire risk in the Okanagan region and other parts of the province remains elevated due to warm and dry conditions,” said the Province in a media release. 

The BC government is urging residents to remain prepared and stay alert to changing wildfire conditions.

People are encouraged to have emergency plans in place and make sure everyone in the family knows what to do in case of an evacuation alert or order.

Furthermore, residents can pre-register for Emergency Support Services (ESS) through the BC Services Card app or the ESS website.

Packing grab-and-go bags for each member of the household is encouraged, including ones for pets. These bags should have medications, important papers, phone chargers, water, food and clothes. The Province recommends keeping bags at home, at work and/or in the car.

There are currently 124 wildfires across BC, with 19 on Vancouver Island. Of Vancouver Island’s fires, only two are considered ‘out of control’ by the BC Wildfire Service.

8 places to get a waffle in Victoria to celebrate National Waffle Day

By
Rory Dickinson
-
(Wonderffle Cafe / Facebook)

Who doesn’t love a reason to celebrate? Especially one as tasty as National Waffle Day!

National Waffle Day (yes, that’s a thing) is officially taking place on Monday, August 24th. You know what they say, ’tis the season!

Breakfast is a thing of tradition in Victoria, and waffles are no exception.

From the former waffle royalty of Victoria, the now-closed West Coast Waffles, to the new kids on the block, Waffles are a staple of this city through and through.

In honour of the delectable breakfast treat, here are 8 places to grab a waffle in honour of National Waffle Day:

Wonderffle Cafe

Talk about new waffle spots on the block, Wonderffle Cafe is exactly that.

The restaurant opened at the end of 2024 and has quickly become one of Victoria’s favourite spots to grab one of those crispy, fluffy treats everyone loves so much.

They offer savoury waffles for the eggs benny lovers, or dessert waffles for those with a sweet tooth and want to start their day off with a little treat.

  • Where: 632 Yates Street

Wannawaffel

It’s hard to think about waffles without Wannawaffel coming to mind.

With their first location in Victoria opening in 2009, they originally started as a food truck that they still occasionally take out to events.

Their location in Market Square makes them synonymous with downtown Victoria, and the coffee + waffle combo for $6.99 is a price that just can’t be beat.

Customers can choose from different toppings to add to their classic belgian waffle, including whipping cream, fruit compote, banana, chocolate sauce and more!

  • Where: 560 Johnson St

The Ruby

The Ruby is known for many things, and their waffles are one of them.

They’ve got an entire section on the menu dedicated just to waffles, and they’ve cooked up some absolute delights.

With sweet options like the berry waffle and the banana waffle and savoury options like chicken and waffles and the brisket and waffles, there’s truly a waffle for everyone.

There’s even a blueberry, brie and bacon waffle. Have you ever heard of something so delicious?

They’ve got three locations in the city, so hit the location nearest you!

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by LifeInOurPalette (@lifeinourpalette)

  • Where: 
    • 624A Johnson Street
    • 3110 Douglas Street
    • 328 Wale Road

Spoons Diner

Sometimes, simple is best.

As the Spoons menu says, this is homemade comfort food, plain and simple.

A crispy outside and fluffy inside is what makes a waffle great, and Spoons does just that.

They do have some specialties on the menu, like the Saxe Point Berry Stack, which comes with sweet cream cheese, berry compote and whipped cream, but if you’re after a simple, well-made waffle with some syrup and butter, Spoons is as good as anywhere in town.

Or add it to your classic breakfast!

  • Where: 2915 Douglas Street

Scoop and Waffle

Located in Sidney, Scoop and Waffle serves up made-to-order Belgian waffles that are crispy on the outside and light and fluffy on the inside. Enjoy one on its own or load it up with ice cream, toppings and a decadent drizzle.

For National Waffle Day on Monday, August 24th, Scoop and Waffle is offering a second waffle for half price with the purchase of any waffle from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. There will also be raffle prizes available throughout the day.

The offer is limited to one discount per order, and toppings are not included.

  • Where: 2423 Beacon Avenue #106

John’s Place

It’s simply not a Victoria breakfast list without John’s Place.

One of the oldest and well-known breakfast spots in town, they’re no stranger to a good waffle.

Their Belgian waffle was featured on the hit show You Gotta Eat Here! and it’s not without good reason.

They give their customers the choice of regular, gluten-free or a churro style with a cinnamon sugar twist.

It’s the first item on their menu and only $13.

You really just have to get it to get it.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by John’s Place (@johns_placeyyj)

  • Where: 723 Pandora Avenue

Shanzee’s Old Town

Shanzee’s may be known for their biscuits, but they are passionate about all types of breakfast food.

Their chicken and waffles is one of the only ones in town that features true sausage gravy for those looking for a southern twist on the classic Belgian.

And go ahead and get one of their biscuits on the side!

  • Where: 529 Pandora Avenue

Five and Dime

For those out in Sidney, there’s the local favourite Five and Dime.

They’ve also got an entire selection devoted to Belgian waffles, with classics and specialties.

A standout on the menu is the stuffed waffle, with bacon and sausage cooked inside and topped with cheese and green onions and eggs on the side.

  • Where: 2305 Beacon Avenue

Have a favourite waffle spot in town that we missed? Let us know in the comments below!

 

Esquimalt reminds voters mail-in ballots are available to those who need them

By
Curtis Blandy
-
Voting Elections BC
(Elections BC / Facebook)

The Township of Esquimalt is reminding eligible local voters that mail-in ballots are available to them if they need one. 

The 2026 local general election will take place on Saturday, October 17th; however, there are many ways to cast a vote for people who will be unavailable that day. 

In an effort to allow every eligible voter to cast a ballot in the local election, Esquimalt wants to ensure that voting is accessible, convenient and inclusive for all with mail-in ballots.

Any eligible resident elector or non-resident property elector may request one via the Township’s website. 

So long as mail ballots are properly completed and received by 8 p.m. on October 17th, they will be securely processed and included in the official ballot count on election day.

Mail ballot applications can be found online here, or at the Esquimalt Municipal Hall, located at 1229 Esquimalt Road.

“We want to make it absolutely clear: mail ballots are for everyone,” said the Township’s Chief Election Officer. 

“Whether you’re travelling, have mobility considerations, prefer to vote from home, or simply appreciate the convenience, you can vote by mail—and your vote will be counted.”

Mayor Barbara Desjardins noted the importance of broad and inclusive access to voting in order to allow everyone to have their voice heard. 

“By making mail ballots available to every voter, we’re ensuring that participation in our local democracy is as easy and flexible as possible,” said Desjardins. 

“Your vote matters and no matter how you vote, in person or by mail, it will be counted.”

In addition to mail-in ballots, voters who need assistance or accommodation will have options at the voting place to mark and cast their ballot privately and securely. 

There will be purpose-designed ballot-marking devices for those who need them, curbside voting or voters will be able to ask for personal assistance from a voting official.

Furthermore, there are two advance voting days for Esquimalt’s race on October 7th and 14th before the general voting day on October 17th. 

For advance voting, polls will be open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the Esquimalt Recreation Centre, located at 527 Esquimalt Road.

Candidates have until 4 p.m. on Friday, September 11th to be nominated. Following the closure of the nominations period, the official list of candidates will be posted on the township’s website.  

Mail-in ballots are handled by each individual municipality. For the rest of Greater Victoria, voters can contact their municipal government for information on mail ballots or advance polling days. 

Beloved Salish Sea Lantern Festival returns to Sidney this weekend

By
Rory Dickinson
-
Salish Sea Lanterns
Salish Sea Lantern Festival (Bob Orchard / Facebook)

One of Sidney’s most beloved events returns to the township this weekend.

The Salish Sea Lantern Festival will take place on Saturday, August 22nd from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., bringing with it live performances and family-friendly activities throughout the evening, followed by the lantern procession.

Since August 16th, lantern installations have been placed throughout the community in anticipation for the festival this weekend.

Residents and visitors have been able to participate in lantern-building workshops or watch online tutorials to create their very own lanterns for the procession. Retailers in town have also been giving away lantern kits.

The culmination of these events this week results in a festival on Saturday.

The festival will begin at 6:30 p.m., with face painting, temporary tattoos and some time to appreciate the lanterns and costumes.

At 7:00 p.m., there will be an official welcome from municipal representatives and the emcee.

Daniel Cook and the Radiators will take to the stage for some live music at 7:15 p.m., blending finger-style folk, bass-driven funk, tender ballads, reggae and rock, all rooted in country vibes.

During the festival, there will be food vendors and a craft tent for creating cup lanterns and donations. There will also be memory lanterns available for purchase, which can be dedicated to a favourite memory, beloved pet or someone special.

At 8:30 p.m., the main event kicks off.

The Lantern Parade will begin at the Bandshell in Beacon Park, proceed along the Sidney Waterfront Walkway, and conclude in Eastview Park by the walking pier.

Attendees will be able to see interactive costumed characters and large-scale lanterns along the parade route.

For more information on the festival, including a full schedule, lantern-building kits and more, click here.

Salish Sea Lantern Festival

  • Where: Beacon Park, Sidney
  • When: Saturday, August 22nd – 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

 

 

Fundraiser launched for family of 27-year-old Goldstream Falls drowning victim

By
Curtis Blandy
-
Photo of Deepender Singh who drowned in Goldstream Provincial Park on August 17th, 2026 (GoFundMe)

An online fundraiser has been launched to provide financial aid to the family of the Goldstream Falls drowning victim who died last weekend. 

West Shore RCMP responded to Goldstream Provincial Park at approximately 7:35 p.m. on August 17th following a report of a swimmer in distress.

The swimmer, now identified as 27-year-old Deepender Singh, had been swimming near the waterfall in Goldstream Provincial Park when he went underwater and did not resurface.

Bystanders pulled him from the water and immediately began life-saving efforts while emergency crews were on their way.

Singh was transported to hospital for further treatment but later died.

Since his death, Deepender’s younger brother Pushpinder has launched a GoFundMe campaign to help his family during this time of grieving. 

“Deepender was only 27 years old,” wrote Pushpinder in the campaign description. 

“His passing was sudden and completely unexpected, leaving our family, friends and everyone who knew him devastated.”

The funds raised by this campaign will go towards helping the Singh family with unexpected expenses associated with his passing, including funeral and memorial arrangements and other related costs.

Pushpinder says that any funds remaining after these expenses have been covered will be sent directly to Deepender’s parents to help support them during this difficult time.

“No family is ever prepared to lose someone so young and so suddenly,” Pushpinder continued. 

“Any contribution, no matter the amount, would mean a great deal to us. If you are unable to donate, sharing this fundraiser with others would also be deeply appreciated.”

He added that his family is extremely grateful to the bystanders who immediately tried to save Deepender, as well as the first responders, medical professionals and everyone who has reached out to support the family.

“Thank you for your kindness, prayers, support and generosity during this heartbreaking time.”

As of this publication, the fundraiser has garnered over $13,000 of its $15,000 goal. 

Click here to donate.

21 things to do in and around Victoria this weekend – August 21st to 23rd

By
Rory Dickinson
-
(VEC)

The weekend is finally here, Victoria, and there are markets and live music aplenty!

There’s also a pre-Fringe Festival event, the FringeKids Fest, to get you excited about the Victoria Fringe Festival starting next week.

If you’re looking to hit the town, there are some great shows and dance parties happening around town.

And don’t forget the free movie showing at Beacon Hill Park for the Free-B Film Festival, which has its final two showings this weekend!

For all of this and more, here are 21 things to do in and around Victoria this weekend – August 21st to 23rd:

ALL WEEKEND

FringeKids Fest 2026 at the Kaleidoscope Theatre

FringeKids is back!

Ahead of Victoria Fringe Festival next weekend, head down to Kaleidoscope Theatre for two fun-filled days for young Fringers as FringeKids joins forces with Kaleidoscope to Fringe-up their indoor and outdoor spaces.

FringeKids features drag storytime, music, interactive theatre, dress-up, crafts and more!

For more information, visit their website here.

  • Where: Kaleidoscope Theatre for Young People, 613 Pandora Avenue
  • When:
    • Saturday, August 22nd and Sunday, August 23rd – 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Four Winds Weekend at the Malahat Skywalk

Head to the Malahat Skywalk for an Indigenous cultural celebration!

On Saturday and Sunday, the landmark will come alive with vendors, performers and artists.

More than a series of performances or an artisan market, Four Winds Weekend is an invitation to slow down, listen, ask questions and connect.

Watch artists at work, discover the meaning and process behind what they create, hear songs and stories shared across generations or find a piece of art that speaks to you and meet the person who made it.

The best part? The celebration is included in general admission.

Admission is $49.95 for adults, $45.95 for seniors, $35.95 for youth and free for children 5 and under. You can purchase admission here.

  • Where: Malahat Skywalk, 901 Trans-Canada Highway
  • When: Saturday, August 22nd and Sunday, August 23rd – 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.

FRIDAY

LampPost’s Pop-Up finale at Ship Point

Head down to Ship Point for a pop-up party!

This is LampPost’s third and final pop-up of the summer.

If you’ve been to the previous two, you know how great these parties are.

Music, dancing, food trucks and the one and only lamppost beer bus, all at the beautiful Inner Harbour as the sun sets. What else can you ask for?

These events are free and everyone is welcome to attend.

  • Where: Ship Point, Inner Harbour
  • When: Friday, August 21st – 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Art Battle at Magic Box Studios

Art Battle returns to Victoria!

Art Battle pits talented artists against each other in several rounds of live paintings.

Each artist gets only 20 minutes to complete a work of art, which is then voted on and put up for auction at the event.

Winners of each round move on to the final, where the best of the best face off against each other.

In a new venue this time around, Magic Box Studios is a beautiful venue that features a top floor to overlook the painting.

Remaining tickets are $26.91 and can be purchased here.

  • Where: Magic Box Studios, 429 Hillside Avenue
  • When: Friday, August 21st – 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Goth Nite: Blacklight at the Downbeat

Get UV reactive at the Downbeat!

Head down to the Downbeat for Nightjar’s first ever benefit show.

DJs Corvix, Craig Huxtable, Mr. Zoth and Blasphemy will be spinning all night, spotlighting as much Black-made goth and industrial music as they can fit on the tracklist.

Half of the profit from this show will be donated to the newly established Black and Here Community Centre, so throw on your glow and go dance for a good cause!

Remaining tickets are $22.63 and can be purchased here.

  • Where: The Downbeat, 1325 Government Street
  • When: Friday, August 21st – 9 p.m. to 2 a.m.

BLIND DATES LIVE! at the Mint

OK, DOPE is proud to present BLIND DATES LIVE! with Alex Forman!

Looking for something to do on a Friday Night!? Well look no further—whether you are single or taken, this will be a show you won’t want to miss.

Watch singles take the stage for a live first blind date all the while Alex sits behind them attempting to help when things go south, but often making things much worse.

Tickets are $25—grab yours here!

  • Where: The Mint, 1414 Douglas Street
  • When: Friday, August 21st – 8 p.m.

I Married a Monster from Outer Space at Free-B Film Festival in Beacon Hill Park

The Victoria Film Festival (VFF) is producing an outdoor cult classic film fest all August long.

Their ‘Free-B Film Festival’ will bring moon men, monsters and more to the Cameron Bandshell in Beacon Hill Park every Friday and Saturday as part of their month-long event, with their final showings this weekend.

This Friday, catch I Married a Monster from Outer Space, starring Peter Baldwin, Gloria Talbott and Tom Tryon.

Aliens arrive on Earth to possess the bodies of humans. One of their first victims is a young man, whose new wife soon realizes something is wrong with him.

Before each film, catch a pre-show serial of Radar Men from the Moon from 8:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.

  • Where: Beacon Hill Park, 100 Cook Street
  • When: Friday, August 21st – 9 p.m.

SATURDAY

Josie and the Pussycats at the Free-B Film Festival in Beacon Hill Park

The ‘Free-B Film Festival’ is back on Saturday night for another flick!

This time, they’ll be showing Josie and the Pussycats, starring Rosario Dawson, Tara Reid and Rachael Leigh Cook.

A girl group finds themselves in the middle of a conspiracy to deliver subliminal messages through popular music.

Remember that before each film, catch a pre-show serial of Radar Men from the Moon from 8:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.

  • Where: Beacon Hill Park, 100 Cook Street
  • When: Saturday, August 22nd – 9 p.m.

Salish Sea Lantern Festival in Sidney 

After a week of community lantern displays in Sidney, the culmination happens this weekend!

The festival will begin with face painting, costumes, temporary tattoos and a viewing of lanterns, and will end with a lantern parade.

Daniel Cook and the Radiators will also take to the stage at 7:15 p.m. at the Bandshell in Beacon Park, so make sure not to miss the live music!

This event is free to attend. For a full schedule of events, click here.

  • Where: Beacon Park, Sidney
  • When: Saturday, August 22nd – 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Moss Street Market

Moss Street Market is back in full swing!

This year, Moss Street Market is celebrating its 35th season of offering local and organic farm-fresh produce, local foods, handmade crafts, artisanal clothing, inspiring services and community education.

The market takes place May through October, every Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the Sir James Douglas school grounds—rain or shine.

Enjoy the sunshine and grab some local produce and crafts.

The market is free and everyone is welcome to attend.

  • Where: Sir James Douglas school grounds, surrounding boulevards and Porter Park
  • When: Saturday, August 22nd – 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Queer and Trans Farmers Market at Banfield Park

A community-led Jubilee!

Head down to Banfield park this Saturday for the third annual Queer and Trans Farmers Market.

This event is a celebration of queer and trans excellence, featuring a marketplace with more than 60 farms, food, crafts and art vendors.

There will also be a resource garden where market goers can connect with service providers and non-profits, and entertainment featuring queer musicians and drag performances.

This is a free event and everyone is welcome to attend.

  • Where: Banfield Park, 521 Craigflower Road
  • When: Saturday, August 22nd – 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

UVic Vikes versus Oregon State University at CARSA

Oregon State University is headed to the island!

This is a rare opportunity to see an NCAA program in CARSA taking on the Vikes.

This will be a tough opponent for the Vikes, so make sure to show up and bring the thunder!

Tickets start at $15 and can be purchased here.

  • Where: UVic CARSA, Gabriola Road
  • When: Saturday, August 22nd – 1 p.m.

Dayglo Abortions, Dirtnap and Half Dead Wench at Lucky Bar

The Dayglos are back!

Catch them hit the stage with Dirtnap and Half Dead Wench at one of Victoria’s favourite venues.

The Dayglos are a hardcore punk and metal band from Victoria.

Half Dead Wench is a horror-punk, horror-folk, punk, jazz and blues band, and Dirtnap is a ska, punk and hardcore band.

This show is bound to be a great one for head-bangers!

Tickets are $20 and can be purchased here.

  • Where: Lucky Bar, 517 Yates Street
  • When: Saturday, August 22nd – 7 p.m. to 11 p.m.

James Bay Market

Head down to the James Bay Market at the corner of Superior and Menzies Streets for one of Victoria’s favourite local shopping experiences.

Just steps from the iconic BC legislature, this vibrant market features vendors from across Vancouver Island offering handcrafted jewellery, knitting, body care products and locally sourced food and beverages.

  • Where: Corner of Superior and Menzies
  • When: Saturday, August 22nd – 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Westshore Rebels versus Okanagan Sun at Starlight Stadium

Catch the Westshore Rebels at Starlight Stadium!

The Westshore Rebels are a junior football team who play in the BC Football Conference.

This Saturday, they take on the Okanagan Sun.

The team is three-and-one on the season, beating the Kamloops Broncos 64-0 in their last game.

Saturday’s game will be 90s themed, so make sure to dress appropriately!

Tickets are $25 for adults or $20 for students, seniors and youth and can be purchased here.

  • Where: Starlight Stadium, 1089 Langford Parkway
  • When: Saturday, August 22nd – 4 p.m.

SUNDAY

Pop Punk Party at Lucky Bar 

Head to Lucky Bar for a night of uplifting community, reconnection and nostalgia.

Pop Punk Party features live music with each band covering at least one pop punk anthem for everyone to sing along to.

Bands Punk Is Dead, RazorVoice, Charmed and Dysaynia will take to the stage.

Remaining tickets start at $21 and can be purchased here.

  • Where: Lucky Bar, 517 Yates Street
  • When: Sunday, August 23rd – 8 p.m.

Summer Sounds Concert Series: The Timebenders at Beacon Park in Sidney

Catch another free outdoor concert at Beacon Park in Sidney!

Founded in 1992, The Timebenders is and has always been one of the finest, most popular show bands for corporate, casino and festival entertainment in North America.

Today, they continue to fit as many greatest hits as possible into one show, from the 60s all the way to now!

Experience 50 years of great music wrapped up into one dynamite performance.

Complete with costume changes and fantastic impersonations this group is sure to get everyone up dancing!

These events are free and everyone is welcome to attend.

  • Where: Beacon Park, Sidney
  • When: Sunday, August 23rd – 2 p.m to 4 p.m.

Move & Groove Picnic Party at Ship Point

Ship Point hosts another party this Sunday!

Head down to the Inner Harbour for the Move & Groove Picnic Party for a free afternoon of DJs, dancing, picnic and community.

Bring a picnic mat or a lawn chair to settle in, or head to the stage and dance the afternoon away!

Food trucks will be available, or bring your own.

This event is free and everyone is welcome to attend.

  • Where: Ship Point, Inner Harbour
  • When: Sunday, August 23rd – 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Vintage Market on Uptown Boulevard

In collaboration with CREAM Life + Style, Uptown is hosting a curated Vintage Market on Uptown Boulevard.

Head down to the boulevard to explore an array of vintage apparel, home décor and one-of-a-kind treasures.

Enjoy live music throughout the day and unwind in the dog-friendly beer garden hosted by Browns Socialhouse.

This event is free and everyone is welcome to attend.

  • Where: Uptown Boulevard
  • When: Sunday, August 23rd – 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Mythic & Mint Collectibles Market at the Fernwood Community Centre Gym

The Mythic & Mint Collectibles Market Presented by Collectr is back!

After an incredible first market, they listened to feedback and have been working hard to make this one even better.

They’ll be welcoming an awesome group of vendors, with even more variety than the first market!

Whether you’re hunting for a grail item, adding something new to your collection or just looking for a fun day out, there will be plenty to discover.

The market is free and everyone is welcome to attend.

  • Where: Fernwood Community Centre Gym, 1240 Gladstone Avenue
  • When: Sunday, August 23rd – 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Horn Divertimenti with Victoria Baroque at Goward House

Catch Horn Divertimenti with Victoria Baroque at Goward House!

The horn has long been associated with outdoor entertainment.

Bring a lawn chair and enjoy some music by Telemann and friends for horn, violin, bassoon and harpsichord.

Tickets are $30 for adults for $5 for children.

  • Where: Goward House, 2495 Arbutus Road
  • When: Sunday, August 23rd – 2:30 p.m.

 

 

Greater Victoria forecast shows possibility of rain and thunderstorms this weekend

By
Curtis Blandy
-
(Allan Parson / Facebook

The Greater Victoria region may see rain and thunderstorms this weekend. 

According to Environment Canada, on Friday, August 21st the high will be 26°C with increasingly cloudy conditions throughout the day. Overnight, the low will drop down to around 14°C and there is a 40% chance of showers and thunderstorms. 

On Saturday, the forecast is calling for a mainly cloudy day with a 40% chance of showers and risk of a thunderstorm. The predicted high will be around 20°C while the low will be around 13°C. Overnight there is a 60% chance of showers. 

Sunday’s forecast shows a 30% chance of showers with cloudy conditions throughout the day. The high will only reach around 18°C and the overnight low is expected to be 13°C with cloudy periods throughout the night. 

As of this publication, Environment Canada predicts there will be no rain next week, but conditions from Monday to Thursday will bring a mix of sun and cloud to the region daily. Highs will range from 21°C to 22°C. 

(Environment Canada)

Most British Columbians believe the health care system needs changes

By
Curtis Blandy
-
(File photo)

According to a recent poll by BC-Based Research Co., most British Columbians believe that changes are needed to improve the health care system. 

The first question on the poll asked how people view Canada’s current health care system. 

To this, 55% of BC respondents answered that there are some good things in Canada’s health care system, but many changes are required. 

Conversely, 22% indicated that there is so much wrong with the system, it needs to be completely rebuilt, and on the other side, 19% answered that the system works well and only minor changes are needed. 

Respondents in other regions of the country answered similarly to BC. Ontario showed the most confidence in the system with 24% saying only minor changes were needed while the Atlantic provinces indicated the least confidence with 30% saying it needs to be completely rebuilt. 

When asked what the biggest problem facing the Canadian health care system is, three issues took precedence among British Columbians. 

According to the poll, 36% of BC respondents believe that doctor and nurse shortages are the underlying issue, while 30% said long wait times and 11% answered inadequate resources of facilities were the biggest factors. 

Respondents were also asked if they were confident that the system would be able to care for them if they were diagnosed with a medical condition or disease.

To this, the majority of BC pollees at 48% indicated they were “moderately confident,” where 23% said they were either “very confident” or “not too confident.” Only 7% of respondents answered they were “not confident at all.”

Because Canada has public health care that is funded by the government, but the country’s economy is facing challenges and debt, the poll sought to find out if people think a reduction in health care spending would be warranted. 

BC respondents were vehemently against the idea, with 76% disagreeing with health care spending cuts and only 14% in agreement. 

When asked whether Canadians should move to a privatized health care model, respondents were slightly more split on the idea. 

In BC, 49% answered that they do not believe a private system would help the health care system’s capacity, while 32% do think a private system would help and 19% were unsure. 

On Vancouver Island, do you believe the results of this poll accurately reflect the challenges facing the current health care system? Is there anything that uniquely impacts the island in terms of health care capacity? 

Let us know in the comments section below. 

Burnout ends in crash and suspected drug seizure in Colwood

By
Victoria Buzz Staff
-
Man shot dead in Beiseker
(West Shore RCMP)

A single-vehicle collision in Colwood has led to the arrest of a suspended driver and an ongoing drug trafficking investigation.

West Shore RCMP officers responded to the intersection of Island Highway and Wale Road at approximately 8:45 p.m. on Wednesday, August 19th, after receiving a report that a pickup truck had crashed into a telephone pole.

According to police, a witness reported seeing the driver performing a burnout before the collision occurred.

Officers identified the driver as a 53-year-old man whose driver’s licence was suspended. While police determined that he was sober, officers reportedly observed evidence of illicit drugs inside the pickup truck.

The driver was subsequently arrested in connection with suspected drug trafficking offences.

A search of the vehicle allegedly uncovered approximately 240 grams of suspected methamphetamine, 98 grams of suspected cocaine and drug paraphernalia.

Police also issued the driver several motor vehicle infractions, including driving without due care and attention, stunting and having tinted windows.

The pickup truck was impounded, and West Shore RCMP said the drug trafficking investigation remains ongoing.

Port Alberni man sentenced to 22 years in prison for sexual offences

By
Curtis Blandy
-
(Shaun Pater/Facebook)

A Port Alberni resident has received a 22-year sentence after being convicted of sexual offences by the courts. 

Shaun Pater, 47, received his sentence on August 11th, and his charges included one count of sexual interference involving a person under the age of 14, two counts of sexual interference involving persons under the age of 16 and one count of sexual assault.

When Pater went to court, he was facing 15 charges relating to sexual offences, and he was not alone. Alongside Pater were accused collaborators Terrance Houbregs and Wayne Moore, who have yet to be sentenced. 

After Pater was charged, BC Prosecution Service hit him with an additional dozen charges, making the total number of charges against him 27. 

He has now been convicted and sentenced on four of those charges. 

“These historical offences spanned several years and required an exceptional degree of dedication and investigative skill to bring these matters before the courts, to obtain justice and hopefully, to gain some measure of closure, for those individuals directly impacted by the offender,” said Inspector Kim Bruce, officer in charge of the Port Alberni RCMP detachment.

Port Alberni RCMP say they recognize the courage of victims and witnesses who participated in the criminal justice process.

Because Pater’s victims were minors, a court-ordered publication ban remains in effect, limiting the information available to the public in this court case.

5 things to do in and around Victoria this Friday, August 21st

By
Rory Dickinson
-
(Ship Point / City of Victoria)

Thank goodness it’s Friday—there’s a ton to do in Victoria!

Get out and catch a free film at Beacon Hill Park, head to the Inner Harbour for a free pop-up party, watch artists race the clock at an Art Battle, do some dancing at Goth Nite at Lucky Bar or see a hilarious show where blind dates happen in front of an audience!

Whatever you get up to, get out and enjoy this amazing city!

Here are 5 things to do in and around Victoria this Friday, August 21st:

LampPost’s Pop-Up finale at Ship Point

Head down to Ship Point for a pop-up party!

This is LampPost’s third and final pop-up of the summer.

If you’ve been to the previous two, you know how great these parties are.

Music, dancing, food trucks and the one and only lamppost beer bus, all at the beautiful Inner Harbour as the sun sets. What else can you ask for?

These events are free and everyone is welcome to attend.

  • Where: Ship Point, Inner Harbour
  • When: Friday, August 21st – 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Art Battle at Magic Box Studios

Art Battle returns to Victoria!

This event pits talented artists against each other in several rounds of live paintings.

Each artist gets only 20 minutes to complete a work of art, which is then voted on and put up for auction at the event.

Winners of each round move on to the final, where the best of the best face off against each other.

In a new venue this time around, Magic Box Studios is a beautiful venue that features a top floor to overlook the painting.

Remaining tickets are $26.91 and can be purchased here.

  • Where: Magic Box Studios, 429 Hillside Avenue
  • When: Friday, August 21st – 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Goth Nite: Blacklight at the Downbeat

Get UV reactive at the Downbeat!

Head down to the Downbeat for Nightjar’s first ever benefit show.

DJs Corvix, Craig Huxtable, Mr. Zoth and Blasphemy will be spinning all night, spotlighting as much Black-made goth and industrial music as they can fit on the tracklist.

Half of the profit from this show will be donated to the newly established Black and Here Community Centre, so throw on your glow and go dance for a good cause!

Remaining tickets are $22.63 and can be purchased here.

  • Where: The Downbeat, 1325 Government Street
  • When: Friday, August 21st – 9 p.m. to 2 a.m.

BLIND DATES LIVE! at the Mint

OK, DOPE presents BLIND DATES LIVE! with Alex Forman!

Looking for something to do on a Friday Night!? Well look no further—whether you are single or taken, this will be a show you won’t want to miss.

Watch singles take the stage for a live first blind date all the while Alex sits behind them attempting to help when things go south, but often making things much worse.

Tickets are $25—grab yours here!

  • Where: The Mint, 1414 Douglas Street
  • When: Friday, August 21st – 8 p.m.

I Married a Monster from Outer Space at Free-B Film Festival in Beacon Hill Park

The Victoria Film Festival (VFF) is producing an outdoor cult classic film fest all August long.

Their ‘Free-B Film Festival’ will bring moon men, monsters and more to the Cameron Bandshell in Beacon Hill Park every Friday and Saturday as part of their month-long event, with their final showings this weekend.

This Friday, catch I Married a Monster from Outer Space, starring Peter Baldwin, Gloria Talbott and Tom Tryon.

Aliens arrive on Earth to possess the bodies of humans. One of their first victims is a young man, whose new wife soon realizes something is wrong with him.

Before each film, catch a pre-show serial of Radar Men from the Moon from 8:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.

  • Where: Beacon Hill Park, 100 Cook Street
  • When: Friday, August 21st – 9 p.m.

 

Stretch of Dallas Road will be closed this weekend for event: VicPD

By
Curtis Blandy
-
(VicPD)

Heads up for those planning to visit Dallas Road this weekend. 

VicPD has issued a traffic advisory for this weekend as a stretch of Dallas Road will be closed for an event. 

Between Saturday, August 22nd and Sunday, August 23rd, Triathlon Canada will be hosting the Super Sprint and Relay National Championships. 

Throughout the event, VicPD officers will be on site providing security and monitoring the road closures between Cook Street and Memorial Crescent on Dallas Road. 

The Clover Point loop will also be closed through the duration of the event. 

While the event is ongoing, traffic detours will be in place from approximately 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. each day. 

Police say the Clover Point loop will re-open around 3 p.m. on Sunday, August 23rd. 

Furthermore, VicPD are asking drivers to remain patient while cyclists are in the area for the event and thank our communities for their support. 

Police seek vehicle of interest after one dog killed and another wounded in Sooke

By
Victoria Buzz Staff
-
(Greater Victoria Crime Stoppers)

Sooke RCMP are asking for the public’s help identifying the occupants of a vehicle seen near the scene of a shooting that killed one family dog and wounded another last year.

Greater Victoria Crime Stoppers have obtained surveillance footage of a vehicle of interest that was in the area before and after the October 2025 shooting.

Investigators believe the vehicle is a 2008-2010 Toyota Corolla and are looking to identify the people who were inside it.

The investigation began on October 19th, 2025, after Sooke RCMP received a report that two dogs had been shot in the 2500-block of Farmer Drive.

Police were called at approximately 11:59 a.m. Investigators later reviewed surveillance footage that reportedly captured the sound of gunshots at around 11:46 a.m., followed by one of the dogs collapsing in a neighbouring driveway.

The dogs’ owners, Kaylee Peaker and Gabe Nelson, identified the animals as 15-year-old Silo and three-year-old Riptide, also known as Rip.

Silo died from his injuries, while Riptide was rushed to WAVES Veterinary Hospital in critical condition.

Peaker previously told Victoria Buzz that Riptide required five blood transfusions, chest tubes on both sides and treatment for damage to his lung and liver. Despite the severity of his injuries, Crime Stoppers confirmed in its latest appeal that Riptide survived.

The couple said the dogs had been playing near the forested edge of Nelson’s rural property shortly before the shooting and were not roaming far from home.

Police are now asking anyone who recognizes the Toyota Corolla, knows who may have been inside it or has other information about the shooting to come forward.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Sooke RCMP at (250) 642-5241 and reference file 25-5299.

Those wishing to remain anonymous can contact Greater Victoria Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

Nearly 120K visitors flocked to Parksville Beach Festival this summer

By
Mike Kelly
-
(Parksville Beach Festival)

Despite beginning with a troubling act of vandalism, the 2026 Parksville Beach Festival went on to welcome nearly 120,000 visitors during its five-and-a-half-week run.

Festival organizers announced that 119,480 people visited the Quality Foods Sand Sculpting Exhibition at Parksville Community Park this summer.

Visitors also cast 95,367 People’s Choice votes to select their favourite creations from this year’s international field of sand sculptors.

This year’s exhibition opened on July 13th and continued through August 16th under the theme “Beauties & Beasts.”

Taking first place in the solo category was Free Hugs by BC artist Damon Langlois.

The doubles People’s Choice award went to Finding Beauty, created by Edith van de Wetering and Wilfred Stijger of the Netherlands.

The successful conclusion followed a difficult start for organizers and artists after several sculptures were damaged by vandals⁠ shortly before the exhibition opened.

The vandalism forced sculptors to spend valuable time repairing their creations. Organizers called on the public to support the artists by visiting the exhibition and celebrating their work.

Vancouver Islanders answered that call in a big way.

The festival will also continue to make an impact after the final sculptures disappear.

Proceeds from this year’s event will support 24 local not-for-profit organizations and community initiatives. Since 1999, the Parksville Beach Festival Society has contributed more than $1.2 million to the community.

Organizers credited the festival’s artists, volunteers, staff, sponsors, community partners, residents and visitors for making this year’s event possible.

The sculptures are now being carefully dismantled, with the sand stored for use at future festivals.

While the artwork may have only lasted for the summer, its impact will continue to be felt across the Parksville community long after the final grains of sand are cleared away.

Beyond the sand sculpting exhibition, Parksville Community Park remained busy throughout the summer with performances by April Wine, the Tim Hortons Summer Concert Series, daily buskers, Sand & Sounds and Beachfest ROCKS!

Lime e-bikes launching in Victoria this Friday

By
Curtis Blandy
-
The new LimeBike coming to Victoria (Lime Canada)

This Friday, August 21st, Lime e-bikes will be launching in Victoria and will be distributed throughout the city. 

This partnership between Lime Canada and the City of Victoria is aimed at giving residents a new affordable, sustainable and convenient way to get around the region. 

In June of this year, Lime announced the partnership with the City, and revealed that Victoria would be one of the first Canadian cities to see their new model of LimeBike launched. 

According to Lime Canada, this new model was designed for riders who may have difficulty pedaling for extended periods, and those looking for a comfortable way to replace their car commute.  

The LimeBike features 2.5” tires for strong traction that work effectively in wet conditions. Lime also repositioned the battery and updated the wheels to achieve a lower center of gravity, which results in enhanced stability and maneuverability, especially for smaller-statured riders.  

Lime will be celebrating the launch with the community by hosting an event at 49 Below Ice Cream in Vic West from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday. 

As a way to encourage residents to download the Lime app and use the new e-bikes, the first 200 people to stop by with the app downloaded will receive a free popsicle. 

During the event, Lime staff will also be handing out free helmets, showcasing the new e-bikes and sharing information about how to ride and park safely. 

“We have been looking forward to this day for months and are incredibly excited to officially bring Lime to Victoria,” said Carling Dick, government relations at Lime Canada.  

“Our goal is to build a program that works well for the entire community, including riders and non-riders. That means making it easy to ride, but also making sure bikes are parked properly and that people understand how to use the system responsibly.”

Dick added that Friday’s event will provide residents the opportunity to ask them questions before taking their first ride. 

To use a Lime e-bike, Victorians will have to download the Lime app, which can be used to unlock the bikes at their parking locations.  

When a rider wants to end their trip, they will be required to return their bike to a designated Lime parking zone. 

A live riding map will be available on the Lime app, showing real-time pins with active parking zones, bike availability and open parking slots near the rider. 

“Whether you’re heading to work, your favourite coffee shop or connecting to transit, e-bike share is a great way to get there,” said William Doyle, director of engineering and public works with the City of Victoria. 

“Our All Ages and Abilities cycling network makes Victoria the ideal place to give shared e-bikes a try.”

Victoria is the only municipality to have partnered with Lime Canada, where Langford, Colwood and Saanich have all introduced Evolve e-bike share programs for the same purpose. 

Because those municipalities all chose Evolve over Lime, riders are able to travel and park in any of the three regions and travel between them.

Victoria installs new numbered signs along Dallas Road to aid emergency response

By
Curtis Blandy
-
(City of Victoria/Instagram)

The City of Victoria has recently installed 19 numbered signs at beach entrances along Dallas Road to help first responders in emergency situations. 

With these new signs, people can more accurately communicate their location to emergency crews such as paramedics, fire fighters and police when needed. 

The signs span Dallas Road from Ogden Point to Gonzales Beach with clearly displayed numbers as well as other information. 

The City believes these improved signs will effectively reduce sign clutter by combining the access point’s location ID, along with information on hazards and regulations.

When going to the beach, residents and visitors are asked to take note of the nearest beach access number. 

In an emergency situation, sharing the number with the 911 operator will help first responders get to the scene faster.

The City also noted that open fires are not permitted in Victoria.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by City of Victoria (@cityofvictoria)

Hullo Ferries surpasses 1.5M passengers since entering service 

By
Rory Dickinson
-
(Hullo)

Nanaimo to Vancouver trip, anyone?

Hullo Ferries is celebrating their third anniversary in business and 1.5 million passengers served this week.

The company had their first official sailing in August 2023 and has increased the number of daily sailings and passengers every year since.

“We are so grateful to have been a part of the coastal communities of Vancouver and Nanaimo (and beyond!) for three whole years now,” a post on their instagram page states.

“In that time, we’ve helped transport more than 1.5 million passengers on nearly 10,000 sailings!”

The downtown Nanaimo to downtown Vancouver passenger ferry offers a much-needed service to those in Nanaimo or Vancouver who want to make the most of travel to and from the mainland without the need for a vehicle.

The company filled a hole in the market after the previous harbour ferry service, HarbourLynx, ended service in 2006.

Hullo Ferries says it has plans to introduce a Victoria to Vancouver ferry service, although anticipates that it may be years before this service comes to fruition.

To celebrate the third anniversary, the ferry company is offering 20% discounts on bookings with three or more tickets.

To take advantage of the deal, bookings must be made in  Comfort-Flex or Premium tiers, using the discount code “BIRTHDAY3” at checkout.

For more information on the third anniversary deal, visit their website here.

Oak Bay Police investigating theft of $6,200 in jewelry from open house

By
Curtis Blandy
-
(Oak Bay Police)

Oak Bay Police have launched an investigation into the theft of approximately $6,200 worth of jewelry that was reported missing following an open house. 

The theft was reported to police on August 12th, and investigators believe the items were stolen while members of the public were touring the residence.

“Open houses can create opportunities for theft when large numbers of visitors are moving through a home,” said Oak Bay Police in a media release. 

“Homeowners are encouraged to remove or securely store jewellery, cash, financial documents, prescription medications, keys and other valuables before hosting an open house.”

Police recommend using a safe, locking valuables in a secure location or temporarily storing high-value items off site.

Additionally, residents can ask their realtor about visitor sign-in procedures and other security strategies for monitoring access to the home during showings.

The address of the theft was not provided. 

Anyone with information related to this investigation should call Oak Bay Police (250) 592-2424, citing file number 2026-2420.

32 impaired driving bans issued on Vancouver Island during summer campaign

By
Victoria Buzz Staff
-
(BC Highway Patrol/Twitter)

BC Highway Patrol officers issued 32 impaired driving bans on Vancouver Island during a six-week enforcement campaign this summer.

Four of the driving bans issued were related to drug-impaired driving, according to results released by BC Highway Patrol.

The 2026 Summer Impaired Driving Campaign ran from June 15th to July 31st, significantly shorter than last year’s 10-week campaign, which continued until August 31st.

During the 2025 campaign, officers issued 131 impaired driving prohibitions on Vancouver Island, including 17 related to drugs.

While this year’s numbers appear considerably lower, police cautioned against making a direct comparison. BC Highway Patrol said the shorter campaign and temporary redeployment of officers were significant factors in the decline.

“This year’s Summer Impaired Driving Campaign was only six weeks compared to ten weeks last year,” said Superintendent Lori Orstad with BC Highway Patrol.

“Our officers did notice improvements in some of our usual check stops in 2026, but we are intercepting far too many people who choose to drive while impaired.”

Across BC, officers issued 229 impaired driving prohibitions during this year’s campaign, including 18 related to drugs. That compares with 626 prohibitions, including 78 related to drugs, during the longer 2025 campaign.

The south coast recorded the highest number this year, with 97 prohibitions, followed by northern BC with 58 and Vancouver Island with 32.

Police said staffing levels have since returned to normal following the temporary redeployments and drivers should expect regular enforcement to continue.

BC Highway Patrol is reminding people to plan ahead, arrange a safe ride and never drive while impaired.

Country music festival coming to Langford’s Starlight Stadium next weekend

By
Rory Dickinson
-
(Starlight Stadium)

Yeehaw country fans, get those cowboy boots ready!

On Saturday, August 29th, the Country Roads Music Festival will head to Starlight Stadium in Langford, bringing with it some of the best country artists from across the country.

The event will feature two stages, with Canadian country legends Doc Walker and Aaron Pritchett headlining the main stage.

Supporting acts include The Tumblin’ Dice, JaimesonRhy, Born Reckless and Eagle Eyes, and Eagles tribute band.

Gates to the festival will open at 3 p.m., and attendees will be able to enjoy country music all day long, as well as a beer garden, food trucks, VIP and plaza viewing sections and a lively plaza atmosphere.

The event is family-friendly and features a dedicated kids zone for all the little cowpokes.

Attendees are encouraged to bring their own blanket or low-back lawn chairs to the festival, as well as those cowboy hats and some sunscreen to protect from the sun.

Tickets start at $50 for adults or $25 for children under 12 and can be purchased here. Admission is free for children under five.

The country music spirit is alive and well on Vancouver Island, with thousands attending SunFest in Cowichan Lake at the end of July.

If you’ve got a hankering for some great country music, bring the family down to Langford on August 29th for the Country Roads Music Festival!

Country Roads Music Festival

  • Where: Starlight Stadium, 1089 Langford Parkway
  • When: Saturday, August 29th – Gates open at 3 p.m.

Traffic safety blitz held on Trans-Canada Highway near Helmcken Road exit

By
Mike Kelly
-
(Road Safety at Work)

A targeted traffic enforcement blitz was held along the Trans-Canada Highway near Helmcken Road Wednesday morning, one day after two multi-vehicle crashes brought traffic in the area to a standstill.

The enforcement campaign was planned in advance and was not connected to Tuesday evening’s collisions.

Road Safety at Work and the BC Highway Patrol’s Capital Regional District Integrated Road Safety Unit conducted the blitz near the Helmcken Road interchanges.

Officers monitored drivers travelling through an active construction zone, watching for speeding, distracted driving and failures to obey traffic-control directions.

During the two-hour blitz, officers issued 34 tickets, including 16 for cellphone use, eight for travelling more than 20 km/h above the speed limit in a construction zone, five for seatbelt violations, one for another moving violation and four for non-moving violations.

One driver was also handed a four-month driving prohibition.

The initiative was part of Road Safety at Work’s annual Work Zone Safety campaign, which reminds motorists to slow down and remain alert around roadside workers.

“Drivers need to make safe decisions every time they approach a work zone, starting with slowing down and paying attention,” said Trace Acres, program director for Road Safety at Work.

“The people working behind those flashing amber lights and orange cones are doing jobs that keep our roads open and our communities running. They deserve to be able to work safely.”

According to WorkSafeBC statistics, 11 roadside workers were killed and another 263 suffered injuries resulting in time-loss claims across BC between 2016 and 2025.

The blitz came the morning after two separate three-vehicle crashes caused major traffic disruptions along the Trans-Canada Highway.

Saanich Police were initially called to a collision in the northbound lanes of the 1200-block shortly before 6 p.m. Tuesday. When officers arrived, they discovered separate crashes had occurred in both directions.

The southbound collision closed all lanes between Helmcken Road and McKenzie Avenue for roughly three hours. Police said two drivers were taken to hospital and all three vehicles were towed.

Two drivers involved in the northbound collision were also taken to hospital as a precaution. Police issued tickets to two drivers for following too closely.

When entering a work zone, drivers are required to follow the posted speed limit, obey signs and traffic-control personnel, remain focused and leave their phones alone.

Under BC’s Slow Down, Move Over law, motorists approaching a stopped vehicle displaying flashing red, blue or amber lights must slow to 70 km/h when the posted limit is 80 km/h or higher. On roads with limits below 80 km/h, drivers must slow to 40 km/h.

Drivers must also move over and provide workers with as much space as possible when it is safe to do so.

“A few extra seconds spent travelling safely through a work zone are insignificant compared with the consequences of a preventable incident,” Acres added.

5 things to do in and around Victoria this Thursday, August 20th

By
Rory Dickinson
-
(Westshore Town Centre Summer Music Series)

Ready for a great Thursday, Victoria?

This Thursday, the city is feeling groovy with some fantastic free music events!

Head down to the 70s Sip and Shop at Flux and Stone, a free concert at the Westshore Town Centre or Willows Beach Park, a renowned English songwriter at the Capital Ballroom or support your local farmers at the Esquimalt Farmers Market!

Whatever your vibe is, there’s plenty to get you out and about this Thursday!

Here are 5 things to do in and around Victoria this Thursday, August 20th:

70s Disco Sip and Shop at Flux and Stone

Calling all disco lovers, go and party with Flux and Stone!

They’re throwing an evening of shopping, cold brews, good music and even better company.

Flux and Stone is teaming up with soul sister and Swift Beer Brewing to bring you a night filled with vintage vibes, groovy tunes, local shopping, and all the feel-good energy you could ask for.

Throw on your bell bottoms, fringe, denim, florals or anything that screams 70s!

This event is free and everyone is welcome to attend.

  • Where: Flux and Stone, 1306 Government Street
  • When: Thursday, August 20th – 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Trevor Davies at Westshore Town Centre’s Summer Music Series

The Westshore Town Centre’s Summer Music Series has two more shows left this season!

This week, catch Trevor Davies, a singer-songwriter with an alternative vibe.

These events are going to be happening every Thursday evening at the Westshore Town Centre, on the pathway behind the RBC.

Soak up some summer atmosphere at the penultimate show in the series and grab some take-out from one of the many local restaurants!

These events are free and everyone is welcome to attend.

  • Where: Westshore Town Centre, 2945 Jacklin Road – in the pathway behind RBC.
  • When: Thursday, August 20th – 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

lək̓ʷəŋən Traditional Dancers and The Soul Shakers at Willows Beach Park

Experience unforgettable summer nights at Willows Beach for the Oak Bay Summer Concerts in the Park series, where live music, ocean views and community spirit come together.

This week will feature lək̓ʷəŋən Traditional Dancers and The Soul Shakers.

lək̓ʷəŋən Traditional Dancers are a celebrated multi-generational dance group from the Songhees Nation, sharing their rich cultural heritage through traditional dance, song and drumming.

The Soul Shakers are a dynamic band of accomplished professional musicians delivering high-energy performances that keep audiences dancing. Their crowd-pleasing repertoire spans classic Soul, Motown, R&B, blues, pop and original music.

These events are free and everyone is welcome to attend.

  • Where: Willows Beach Park, Oak Bay
  • When: Thursday, August 20th – 6 p.m.

Fink at the Capital Ballroom

Catch Fink at the Capital Ballroom!

Fink is an English singer-songwriter, guitarist, DJ and producer.

The City Is Coming to Erase It All is Fink’s ninth and most recent studio album, following 2024’s Beauty In Your Wake.

Recorded in Zennor, Cornwall, the album was made with a strict era-specific approach. Imagining a record Michael Chapman might have made, right down to the guitar strings.

Shows at the Capital Ballroom are always a night to remember, so make sure to grab your tickets now!

Tickets are $29.50 plus fees and can be purchased here.

  • Where: The Capital Ballroom, 858 Yates Street
  • When: Thursday, August 20th – 9 p.m.

Esquimalt Farmers Market

This food-first market is a foodie’s dream!

Peruse an amazing selection of local businesses, pick up a delicious dinner from a hot food vendor and enjoy twice nightly musical performances while the kids run wild in the onsite playground.

In addition to food, there will be a fantastic selection of artisans and crafters yielding everything from soap to hand-printed tea towels, clothing, jewellery and more.

The weekly vendor map will be posted on the Esquimalt Market website so you can see who will be there each week and plan your trips.

Parking is limited at this location so organizers recommend walking, using transit (#15 or #26 bus) or riding your bicycle.

  • Where: Memorial Park, 1200 Esquimalt Road
  • When: Thursday, August 20th – 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Sooke man ordered to pay over $1.1M for shooting neighbour in driveway

By
Mike Kelly
-
(File Photo)

A Sooke man serving seven years in prison for shooting his neighbour has now been ordered to pay more than $1.1 million in damages and health-care costs.

According to a BC Supreme Court decision released on August 14th, Paul Tregear shot Anthony “Tony” Nelson at point-blank range with a .22-calibre rifle on May 7th, 2022.

The shooting followed a history of disputes between the neighbours.

Nelson was shot in the driveway of his Otter Point-area property at around 7:30 p.m. that night.

He was found suffering from serious gunshot injuries and transported to a Victoria hospital.

Police described the shooting as targeted and arrested Tregear after locating him hiding in a nearby neighbourhood.

Tregear claimed during his criminal trial that he had taken the rifle outside to chase away a bear and ended up on Nelson’s property while attempting to warn him.

However, the trial judge rejected that explanation and found Tregear went to the property intending to shoot Nelson.

Related: Man shot in driveway of residence in the Otter Point area of Sooke

A jury convicted Tregear in November 2024 of aggravated assault and several firearms offences. He was later sentenced to seven years in prison.

Anthony and his wife, Wendy Nelson, subsequently filed a civil lawsuit against Tregear.

Justice Julie Gibson found Tregear liable to Anthony for assault and battery and to Wendy for intentionally inflicting mental suffering.

Tregear represented himself during the civil trial and appeared by video from prison.

Despite his criminal conviction, he maintained for much of the civil proceeding that it had not been proven he shot Anthony.

Gibson found that position ignored the outcome of his criminal trial and amounted to an abuse of the court process.

The shooting left Anthony with lasting physical and psychological injuries.

The bullet remains lodged in his body and he has undergone multiple surgeries. He also experiences a hernia that restricts his ability to lift heavy objects, an irregular heartbeat, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder.

His injuries have also affected his ability to return fully to his construction work.

Anthony was awarded a total of $767,100, including $230,000 for his injuries, $134,061 in past wage loss, $250,000 for reduced future earning capacity and $150,000 for future care.

Wendy, who witnessed her husband being shot, says she continues to experience post-traumatic stress and has lost much of her sense of safety and independence at home.

She was awarded $279,186, including $120,000 for mental suffering, $17,129 in past wage loss and $140,000 for future care.

Tregear was also ordered to pay the provincial government $64,064.91 for health-care costs resulting from the shooting.

In total, the court ordered Tregear to pay $1,110,350.91 to the Nelsons and the Province of British Columbia.

The decision does not indicate whether any of the money has been collected.

The Guess Who hit the stage at Victoria’s Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre next week (UPDATED)

By
Rory Dickinson
-
(The Guess Who / Facebook)

Update: An earlier version of this article stated Chilliwack would be opening the show, but due to a band member’s “medical situation,” Canadian band Kim Mitchell will be filling in as support for The Guess Who.

—original:

Ready for a once-in-a-lifetime show, Victoria?

The Guess Who, one of Canada’s most iconic rock bands, will hit the stage at the Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre on Tuesday, August 25th as a part of their Takin’ it Back Tour.

With classic hits like “American Woman,” “These Eyes” and “No Sugar Tonight,” the band has cemented their legacy as rock and roll legends in Canada and around the globe.

The band was originally formed in Winnipeg, Manitoba, and saw the peak of their success in the late 60s and early 70s.

Unfortunately, the band carries some history that prevented the original members from playing concerts for a period of time.

According to the band’s website, a former member that was kicked out of the group trademarked “The Guess Who” name, barring co-founders Burton Cummings and Randy Bachman from performing their songs to audiences under the moniker.

For years, The Guess Who that performed in venues around the world did not include Bachman and Cummings.

In 2023, Cummings filed a false advertising claim against the band using the “The Guess Who” name. Things escalated to the point that Cummings pulled the performance license for his songs, unilaterally stopping establishments from having the songs performed in venues.

Eventually, Bachman and Cummings were successful in reclaiming the rights to the band’s name.

This tour marks the band’s first return to the stage under the “The Guess Who” name, and an exciting new chapter for them.

The show is bound to be an exciting one, and fans of 70s rock and roll are in for an absolute treat.

The Guess Who will be supported by Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee Kim Mitchell.

Mitchell will be stepping in for the band Chilliwack, who was scheduled to perform with The Guess Who, but had to cancel their performance due to health concerns. They will join the band later on in their tour.

Remaining tickets start at $119.25 and can be purchased here.

The Guess Who Takin’ it Back Tour

  • Where: The Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre,
  • When: Tuesday, August 25th – 7:30 p.m.

 

Photo contest aimed at preserving Canada’s natural beauty now open for submissions

By
Curtis Blandy
-
2025 Grand prize winner (Jeremy Mathieu - Herring spawn)

This year marks the fourth annual Key Biodiversity Area (KBA) Canada Photo Contest, which aims to share the importance of Canada’s natural beauty, and the urgency to protect it. 

The contest is based out of BC, but focuses on conservancy in regions all across Canada. The initiative was started as a way to share some lesser-known landscapes, flora and fauna that can be found throughout the country. 

KBAs are defined as sites that contribute to the persistence of biodiversity nationally and globally, and that support rare and threatened species and ecosystems, as well as key natural processes.

KBAs range in size and may encompass private or public land, sometimes partially or entirely overlapping legally protected sites.

In Canada, KBAs are identified in consultation with local communities and experts. There are over 400 that have been identified in Canada, with BC containing the most. 

“When people think about conservation, their minds often jump to exotic, faraway places, but we have incredible biodiversity right here in Canada,” said Julian Victor, Ontario wildlife filmmaker and KBA Canada Photo Contest judge. 

“Key Biodiversity Areas can be found in or around many of our own communities. The KBA Canada Photo Contest is a fantastic opportunity to explore and understand what makes them special.”

According to KBA Canada Photo Contest organizers, this year will bring new opportunities, new judges and a new category for photographers to submit for. 

This new category is meant for Indigenous storytellers. Judges will be assessing photographs in the category based on how entrants express Indigenous relationships with wildlife, lands, waters and culture within KBAs, or how they tell a story about KBA sites, species or ecosystems grounded in Indigenous ways of being. 

The category is open only to participants who identify as First Nations, Inuit or Métis.

“Photography is a powerful way to shine a light on the relationship between people, wildlife and the lands and waters central to our collective future on this planet,” said Peter Soroye, Key Biodiversity Areas assessment and outreach coordinator at WCS Canada. 

“Through the new Indigenous Storytellers category, we want to create space for First Nations, Inuit and Métis photographers to share those relationships through the lens of their own experience.”

The KBA Canada Photo Contest is open to photographers of all experience levels, and submissions will be open until October 15th. Winners will be announced November 25th. 

The only stipulation is that all photos must be taken in a designated KBA, or feature species/ecosystems that are in the process of being recognized through the KBA program.

Find out more specifics about KBAs here. 

The contest categories are as follows:

  • Fauna — elusive predators to tiny pollinators 
  • Flora and fungi — showcase the textures, colours and shapes of plants and fungi
  • Landscapes and ecosystems — show the character and vastness of Canada’s KBAs
  • People and conservation — people connecting with nature or working to protect KBAs
  • Indigenous Storyteller — photographs that express Indigenous relationships  with KBA ecosystems and/or their inhabitants

To enter the contest, or view the contest details, rules and submission guidelines, click here.

See some examples of past winners below:

2025 People and Conservation 1st prize (Liam Brennan – People Copepods and climate change
2025 Flora and Fungi 1st prize (Deborah Freeman – Richness of a forest)
2025 Fauna 1st prize (Simone Heinrich – A Quiet Moment in Bloom)

12 Greater Victoria beaches currently deemed unfit for swimming

By
Curtis Blandy
-
(Blue-green algae/Photo by James Younger)

There are currently 12 beaches in Greater Victoria that have been declared unfit for swimming by Island Health, up from seven around this time last month. 

The most recent beach advisories issued by Island Health and the Capital Regional District include Esquimalt Gorge Park Kinsmen Beach, Glen Lake Park Glen View, Cordova Bay McMorran Park, Eagle Lake and Langford Lake Ed Nixon Lane.

On Monday, August 17th, Esquimalt Gorge Park Kinsmen Beach was declared unfit for swimming due to high amounts of enterococci detected in beach sampling. 

Enterococci is a bacteria that inhabits the human gastrointestinal and female genital tracts. While this bacteria can be harmless in the gut, they can cause serious infections in the urinary tract, bloodstream or surgical wounds, and are highly resistant to antibiotics.

On Friday, August 14th, both Glen Lake Park Glen View and Cordova Bay McMorran Park beaches had advisories issued for them due to E. coli and enterococci bacteria respectively.

E. Coli advisories are issued when water sample tests show high levels of fecal bacteria. While advisories are in place, swimming is not recommended because water contact may cause skin, ear, eye or stomach illnesses.

Eagle Lake was deemed unfit for swimming on Tuesday, August 11th due to a blue-green algae bloom. 

Blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria, can produce harmful toxins called cyanotoxins. 

Visitors to the lakes are advised to avoid any contact with the algae and to keep pets on a leash to prevent them from drinking or swimming in the affected waters until the advisory is lifted.

Toxins released by blue-green algae blooms are known to cause a range of health issues in humans, such as headaches and abdominal pain, and can result in lethal liver damage in dogs if ingested.

On Monday, August 10th, Langford Lake Ed Nixon Lane also had an advisory issued for it due to E. coli bacteria. 

See below for the additional beach advisories issued by Island Health this year:

  • Cordova Bay Agate Park Beach – issued on July 30th due to enterococci
  • Langford Lake Leigh Road – issued on July 30th due to E. coli
  • Prior Lake – issued on July 14th due to blue-green algae
  • Thetis Lake Beach – issued on June 23rd due to blue-green algae

Prior to 2026, there were three additional beaches in Greater Victoria with advisories against swimming that remain in place today. 

Ross Bay Beach was declared unfit for swimming in June 2024 due to high levels of enterococci. 

In October 2023, a blue-green algae bloom was discovered at Beaver Lake which remains present. 

Art Mann Park has had a beach advisory in place since January 2015 due to undisclosed “unsatisfactory bacteriological water results.”

All of these beaches continue to be monitored and tested by Island Health. Signs are in place at the impacted sites to warn beachgoers of the dangers of swimming under the current conditions. 

To see active beach advisories in Greater Victoria, click here. 

5 Victoria restaurants named among top outdoor dining spots in Canada  

By
Rory Dickinson
-
(Finn's Restaurant / Facebook)

It goes without saying that British Columbians are big fans of the outdoors. Because of this, patio season in Victoria is one that people in the city look forward to all year.

Everyone in the city has a favourite patio.

Whether it’s dog-friendly, has a great happy hour, a beautiful view of the ocean and olympic mountains or has the best food, everyone has a favourite place to stop in and watch the world go by while enjoying a choice beverage or bite to eat.

To honour the tradition of outdoor dining, every year OpenTable.ca highlights Canada’s favourite patios with their Top 100 Restaurants for Outdoor Dining list.

“We love what can happen around the restaurant table,” their website states.

“Since 1998 we’ve been committed to empowering that experience.”

This year, some of Victoria’s favourite patios have been given the honour of being named on OpenTable’s 2026 Top 100 Restaurants for Outdoor Dining list.

The unranked list had five Greater Victoria restaurants make an appearance.

In no particular order, these restaurants were Boom + Batten, Fireside Grill, Glo Restaurant + Lounge, Wind Cries Mary and Finn’s Seafood.

Each restaurant on the website is issued a star rating corresponding to diners’ experiences.

Finn’s has the highest rating at 4.8 stars, with Wind Cries Mary at 4.7, Boom + Batten and Fireside Grill at 4.6 and Glo Restaurant at 4.5 stars.

Finn’s, Boom + Batten, Glo Restaurant and Fireside Grill are storied establishments in the city, and are commonplace on lists like these.

They each made OpenTable’s list last year as well, along with Cafe Brio, which was left out this time around.

Wind Cries Mary is one of Victoria’s favourites for cocktails and small plates, and is a newcomer to this list that highlights the best outdoor dining in the city.

These rankings are always subjective, and everyone in Victoria has their own opinion on the best outdoor dining in the city.

Do you have a favourite restaurant patio in the city that didn’t make the list? Let us know in the comments below!

Police investigating after several businesses vandalized in Campbell River

By
Curtis Blandy
-
(Campbell River RCMP)

Campbell River RCMP have launched an investigation after numerous businesses were vandalized over the weekend. 

Police say the targeted businesses had glass windows or doors smashed, and at least six businesses were impacted over the course of four days. 

Between 1:30 a.m. and 2 a.m. on Friday, August 14th, at least four businesses suffered glass breaks.

According to police, a suspect wearing all black with one yellow glove, one grey glove and riding a red bicycle was captured on video surveillance during these incidents.

The following day, at around 6:15 a.m. on Saturday, August 15th, another local business was targeted with a window smash.

Lastly, at around 2 a.m. on Monday, August 17th, police responded to a break and enter at a local restaurant. There, two suspects allegedly smashed the patio window before entering the restaurant.

Police say they are working to gather evidence and determine if these incidents are connected.

No details surrounding where these businesses are located was provided. 

Anyone who witnessed suspicious activities between Friday and Monday are asked to call Campbell River RCMP at (250) 286-6221.

Bear incident near Sooke prompts reminder for residents to secure garbage

By
Curtis Blandy
-
Black bear getting into unsecured garbage in East Sooke (Photo by Brian Rundle/WWS)

After a black bear got into unsecured garbage in East Sooke, southern Vancouver Island communities are being reminded to secure their garbage and food waste. 

This reminder came from the Wild Wise Society (WWS), a volunteer-driven group committed to reducing human-wildlife conflict and fostering peaceful coexistence through awareness and education. 

According to the organization, there has been an influx in reports of bears getting into unsecured attractants such as food waste in garbage cans. 

When these incidents happen, it can often lead to bears continuing to search garbage cans in populated areas, which sometimes can lead to human-wildlife conflict. 

These situations can sometimes lead to the bear having to be killed. 

BC Parks often use the motto “a fed bear is a dead bear” to discourage parks’ visitors from feeding bears and other wildlife. This is because once a bear has a taste for human food, they will continue to seek it out. 

“We understand that it can be distressing to hear about a bear losing [its] life as a result of a human-wildlife conflict,” wrote WWS in a social media post. 

“Proactively securing attractants truly can help prevent the unnecessary death of bears.”

Earlier this week, there were two incidents in BC that brought concern to the WWS. 

In East Sooke, a visitor witnessed a bear getting into a garbage bag that was not securely discarded. 

He stopped to take a picture and share the information with WWS as he thought it served as a good reminder to keep garbage stored safely. 

While this bear has not been put down, if this behaviour continues, it may have to be. 

An example of this is a situation that occurred in Nelson where a bear did have to be killed by the BC Conservation Officer Service (BC COS).

BC COS shared that the grizzly was killed because it showed signs of food-conditioned behaviour and had a lost fear of people significantly. 

The bear frequented residences looking for unnatural food sources and was regularly getting close to people in the populated area. 

BC COS had already relocated the grizzly once, along with her two cubs, but because of the bear’s food-conditioning and comfort in residential areas, it had to be killed. 

WWS noted that just because a bear is reported, doesn’t mean it will be automatically killed. In 2025, BC COS received 13,672 reports involving black bears across the province and only 178 were destroyed, or killed, the lowest number recorded since 2011.

Following this incident in Nelson, WWS says that they were dismayed by people targeting governmental bodies online for carrying out their work. 

“While it is understandable that people are upset about the loss of any bear, we have been even more disappointed to witness the relentless bullying and personal attacks directed at government staff, agencies and even volunteers who worked hard to try to avoid this outcome,” wrote WWS. 

“No one deserves to be bullied for simply doing their job or volunteering their time in an effort to be helpful.”

The organization says that while they support and advocate for long-term changes to human-wildlife conflict, proactive measures to keep bears safe are the best way to make changes in the present. 

“If you see unsecured attractants, talk to your neighbours, share information, support local education efforts and report ongoing concerns through the appropriate channels,” WWS added. 

“Help people understand what they can do differently before a conflict occurs.”

The organization urges those who regularly observe unsecured wildlife attractants to report them to local municipal bylaw offices. 

They also noted that Sooke, Langford and Colwood all have  securing attractant bylaws, but Metchosin, East Sooke and Juan de Fuca do not. 

Ultimately, WWS asks that south island residents put in an effort to secure garbage and recycling, compost, pet food, bird feeders, livestock, fruit trees and other attractants.

Spirit Halloween returns to Uptown in former Forever 21 location

By
Mike Kelly
-
(Jade Chamberlin)

’Tis the season for ghosts, costumes and animatronic creatures that jump out at you when you least expect it.

While most Victorians are still basking in the summer sun, Spirit Halloween is already preparing for the scary season.

The seasonal retailer opened its Victoria location in early August, returning to Uptown after several years away. This year, Spirit Halloween has taken over the former Forever 21 store along the boulevard.

Spirit Halloween has previously operated at Uptown, but its Victoria pop-up has spent the past several years at Tillicum Centre. It was housed in the former Bed Bath & Beyond location for a time before moving into the former Mr. Pets store last year.

The company is well known for appearing inside vacant retail spaces seemingly overnight, a tradition that has inspired countless jokes and memes online. A business closes its doors and, before long, Spirit Halloween arrives with costumes, decorations and towering animatronic monsters in tow.

While they are only using one level of location, the Uptown storefront gives the retailer plenty of space to showcase its familiar collection of Halloween costumes, masks, decorations, props and other frightening merchandise.

Spirit Halloween currently has two Vancouver Island locations listed for the 2026 season, including the new Uptown store in Victoria and another location in Nanaimo.

Halloween may still be more than two months away, but for those who start planning their costumes before summer is over, eerie season has officially begun.

Rescue helicopter medevacs ill cruise passenger from ship off Vancouver Island (VIDEO)

By
Curtis Blandy
-
The patient being rescued by helicopter (JRCC)

A medical evacuation rescue was successfully coordinated last weekend when a cruise ship passenger fell ill and needed to be taken ashore. 

The Joint Rescue Coordination Centre (JRCC) Victoria conducted the medical evacuation on Sunday, August 9th, after receiving a request for aid from the cruise ship Ovation of the Seas, located approximately 52 nautical miles northwest of Tofino.

According to JRCC, a CH-149 Cormorant helicopter with the callsign RSCU 915 and a CC-295 Kingfisher airplane were tasked to respond for the operation. 

First the plane arrived at the cruise ship in order to coordinate the medevac and to provide over-watch for the incoming helicopter. 

JRCC sent search and rescue (SAR) technicians—elite military specialists in the Royal Canadian Air Force trained to provide advanced medical care and rescue people in hard-to-reach areas— who were lowered from the helicopter onto the deck. 

There, they assumed care and began preparing the patient for transfer to the hovering helicopter. 

JRCC says that the rescue was completed when the patient and SAR technicians were hoisted back up to the helicopter. 

From there, the patient was transported to a Victoria hospital by helicopter.

The patient’s ailment and status are unknown due to their personal information being protected.  

JRCC Victoria often works with search and rescue partners to identify, task and coordinate the most appropriate resources in situations like these.

The team’s highly trained crews are ready to respond to search and rescue missions on a 24-hour basis and are among the most highly trained specialists in the world, says JRCC. 

5 things to do in and around Victoria this Wednesday, August 19th

By
Rory Dickinson
-
Hail the Void playing Eventide 2025 (Photo by Amelia Duke)

It’s Eventide day again, Victoria!

The Eventide Music Series is winding down for the season, with the penultimate show happening this Wednesday.

If those shows aren’t your jam, there will also be a show at Little Fernwood, art in the park at Beacon Hill Park, the Oaklands Sunset Market and a jazz jam at The Coda!

For more information on all of these events, take a look at these 5 things to do in and around Victoria this Wednesday, August 19th:

Flesh Produce, Cherub Weaponry and Still Depths at Eventide in Centennial Square

Catch some of the biggest names in Victoria’s music scene at Eventide!

Every Wednesday throughout the summer, Eventide has been putting on a free outdoor concert at Centennial Square, with a different promoter bringing different bands to the stage each week.

This week, Flesh Produce, Cherub Weaponry and Still Depths to the square.

Near Dark returns to curate an evening of experimental and weird sounds.

This is the penultimate show in the series, so make sure you don’t miss it!

Attendance is free and everyone is welcome.

  • Where: 1 Centennial Square
  • When: Wednesday, August 19th – 6 p.m.

Wax Mannequin, The Kettle Black and Lily Fawn Electric at Little Fernwood

Little Fernwood, also known as the Paul Philips Hall, is one of the most intimate venues in town, offering shows, gatherings and all kinds of community events.

This Tuesday they’ll host Wax Mannequin and The Kettle Black, supported by Lily Fawn Electric.

Wax Mannequin’s music veers from psych folk and art punk to absurdist metal, churning with dark satire.

Unsettling imagery and ambitious, hook-laden musicality frame a steady questioning of identity, politics and the strangeness of being.

Wax has released eight records and has appeared on thousands of pub, gallery and festival stages worldwide.

The event is described as a heavy audio-visceral experience.

Tickets are $15 and can be purchased here.

  • Where: Little Fernwood, 1923 Fernwood Road
  • When: Wednesday, August 19th – 8 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Arts in the Park at Beacon Hill Park

Join the Embrace Arts Foundation for their “In The Park” summer series!

These informal arts-based events are a chance to gather as a community. At Beacon Hill Park they’ll be running Art in the Park!

It will be a time to connect through open-ended arts-and-crafts activities.

Attendance is free, however registration helps organizers know how many people will be arriving. Register here.

  • Where: Beacon Hill Park, corner of Circle Drive and Heywood Way
  • When: Wednesday, August 19th – 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Oaklands Sunset Market

The Oaklands Sunset Market is back for another nine weeks of summer fun!

Join them every Wednesday night until September 2nd for a night of food trucks, live music, a beer garden and more than 30 diverse vendors.

There’s no better way to spend a summer evening.

  • Where: Oaklands Community Centre, 1-2827 Belmont Avenue
  • When: Wednesday, August 19th – 4:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Victoria Jazz Jam at The Coda

Victoria’s jazz community comes alive once a month at The Coda’s Jazz Jam, hosted by the incredible Tom Vickery Trio.

Whether you’re a seasoned player, a student finding your voice, or a jazz lover who simply enjoys great music, this is your chance to be part of one of Victoria’s most vibrant musical gatherings.

Musicians are invited to bring their instruments, sign up and join the house band and fellow players for an evening of jazz standards, spontaneous creativity and unforgettable musical moments.

Every jam is different, bringing together performers from across generations and experience levels in the true spirit of jazz.

Not a musician? Grab a ticket, settle in with a drink and enjoy a front-row seat to the magic as some of Victoria’s finest players, emerging talents and surprise guests create music together in real time.

Tickets are $5 for musicians or $10 for those who would like to watch. Get yours here.

  • Where: The Coda, 751 View Street
  • When: Wednesday, August 19th – 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

 

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