Vancouver Island

When the Ska and Reggae Fest returns to Victoria from June 24 to 28, it will feature a multitude of talent from around the world, and attendees might be forgiven for their difficulty in choosing which of the host of tremendous groups they should see. “One of the groups that I would definitely recommend is The Black Seeds,” said Dane Roberts, the founder and executive director of the festival. “When I first saw these guys perform, I was just blown away, and I said, I have to get them to the festival.” “They have a sound that really showcases the diversity and soul of ska.” The Black Seeds hail from Wellington, New Zealand, where frontman and founder of the group, Barnaby Weir, was inspired by the ska movement. The music that the band performs doesn’t allow for a simple classification within a single genre, though. Sure, it’s inspired by reggae and ska, but their breakthrough hit, One by One, took that inspiration and mixed it with big beat funk, dub, Afro music, pop, rock, and soul. That song was featured in the top-ranked TV series Breaking Bad, and the band has never looked back. “We’re predominantly a funk/soul group with reggae and Jamaican roots,” said Weir. “For us, we enjoy touching on rhythms that are groovy and make your hips move. There has to be a heartbeat to the music, and because we do everything live, our music has that human element. You’ll never hear us play the same song exactly the same way twice.” “You never know what you’re going to hear or see with us. It’s exciting and spontaneous, and I think that people get the group vibe – the way we’re human and there to lead you on a personal adventure.” That formula has obviously worked as the band has been active for 27 years (coincidentally coinciding with the run of Skafest in Victoria). The band performs with eight members, with instruments that include guitar, saxophone, trumpet, bass, drums, bongos, keyboard, and wood block, all in support of the group’s amazing vocals. Weir has been the constant for the group, which, understandably, has seen a number of changes in membership over the years. Around the mid-2010s, the band underwent key personnel changes, with longtime guitarist Mike Fabulous and bassist Tim Jaray departing after contributing to Dust and Dirt. These exits prompted the integration of new members, including keyboardist Nigel Patterson, who had been involved in earlier projects, and drummer Jarney Murphy, who joined in the late 2000s and provided rhythmic continuity. The refreshed lineup supported the release of their sixth studio album, Fabric, in September 2017, which peaked at number four on the New Zealand album charts and earned acclaim for its introspective tracks and production. As was the case for many groups, the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the band’s live shows and forced them into the studio where they created their seventh album, Love and Fire. They re-emerged after the pandemic, with a whirlwind touring schedule and even more releases. They’ve just released a new single, Compassion, and are working on even more amazing music. “We were in Victoria in 2016, and we’re coming back this year because we were lucky enough to run into Dane (Roberts) and he invited us to return,” said Weir. It’s a great festival, and we’re coming over to do the four shows because we love Victoria and we love Dane. We’re excited to bring our sound to Canadian ears.”

For years, it stood at Ogden Point greeting cruise ship passengers from around the world. Now, one of Victoria’s forgotten waterfront landmarks is getting another chance to be seen again, and its champion is looking for a local golf course, business, or community space to take it in. The Greater Victoria Harbour Authority (GVHA) has granted longtime Sidney town crier Kenny Podmore permission to help find a new home for the bronze Town Crier statue, which has remained in storage since being removed from the waterfront roughly a decade ago. While he does not yet have a preferred destination in mind, Podmore says he hopes the 10.5-foot monument remains somewhere in Greater Victoria where the public can continue to enjoy it. “I would like to work with potential people and have a look at locations together,” he said, noting that any relocation costs would need to be covered externally due to the immense size of the piece. “As long as we can keep it down here. I would not want it to disappear somewhere and never be seen again because it is a beautiful statue.” To Podmore, the statue has always represented one simple idea. “One word describes it, and that is welcome,” he said. “It welcomed people to Victoria coming off the cruise ships, but at the same time it kept the history of town crying in the public eye.” The statue, sculpted by Armando Barbon and unveiled in 2009, depicts famed Victoria A.M. Association town crier Tommy Mayne. A plaque attached to the monument also honours 12 Vancouver Island criers and three unofficial criers, including Podmore himself. Sitting on a base measuring roughly 3.5 feet by 3.5 feet, the statue – weighing roughly 750 pounds – became a popular stop for tourists visiting the capital city. “People literally from all over the world had their picture taken with it,” Podmore said. “The cruise ship passengers loved it.” Podmore first spoke publicly earlier this year after learning the statue remained in storage with no clear plan for its future. Now, the GVHA has agreed to let him spearhead the search for a new location. “I think it is wonderful on their part that they agreed to that,” Podmore said. “Hopefully now we have this opportunity to bring it out again.” Podmore also said he would gladly continue helping maintain the statue if it finds a new home, something he previously offered to do through Rotary before insurance concerns halted those efforts. The longtime town crier says the effort is about preserving a unique piece of local history rather than personal recognition. “This is not about Kenny Podmore,” he said. “It is about the history of town crying and keeping it in people’s minds.” RELATED: Once a welcome to Victoria, town crier statue now sits in limbo Sidney man proclaims himself out of retirement as ‘crier at large’

The Highland Games are believed to date back to the 11th century, originating in the rugged terrain of Scotland. Thought to have begun as a way to identify the country’s mightiest warriors, the event featured strength-based contests across a wide range of disciplines. As centuries passed and Scots spread throughout the world, they brought with them the cultural traditions, music, crafts and sports that continue to define their heritage today. In Victoria, the first Highland Games were held more than 160 years ago – just two decades after the city was founded, said Jim Maxwell, president of the Victoria Highland Games Association. Deemed a success with more than 2,000 attendees at its inaugural event, it launched a long, unbroken tradition that has endured through both world wars, making it one of the oldest continually running Highland Games, said Maxwell. Today, the “world-renowned” Victoria Highland Games and Celtic Festival celebrates its 163rd anniversary by showcasing a wide array of activities, including the iconic caber toss and stone-throwing competitions, pipe band performances and Highland dancing. There’s a bit of everything for everyone, said Maxwell. “It doesn’t matter if you’re Scottish, Celtic, or wherever your background’s from,” he said. “If you like music or sports, you’re going to see something really unique.” Although the two-day event got off to a rough start with rain on May 16, thousands visited Victoria’s Topaz Park the following day to enjoy the celebration. As people strolled the grounds in their best Sunday kilts, browsed artisan booths, Maxwell said the festival attracted well above 10,000 visitors. And for those who never had the chance to attend the festivities, Maxwell extended an invitation for next year. “People don’t realize how many different activities are going on,” he said. “They came to see one thing, they ended up staying and watching 10 other things, and we pride ourselves on having world-class quality in each of our major events.” For more information about the Victoria Highland Games and Celtic Festival, visit victoriahighlandgames.com .

Provincial funding will support dozens of sporting, cultural and community events across Greater Victoria through the B.C. government’s Destination Events Program. NDP MLAs announced the $639,000 in total funding May 14, saying the grants will help organizers host events ranging from marathons and music festivals to arts shows and sporting competitions. Among the largest grants announced were $100,000 for the 2026 Royal Victoria Marathon, $90,000 for the 2026 Rifflandia Festival and $53,000 for Saturday Afternoons at the Opera. “Greater Victoria is home to amazing organizations putting on events every year, including free, family-friendly, and inclusive events for the whole region to enjoy,” said Diana Gibson, MLA for Oak Bay-Gordon Head. On the West Shore, the 2026 Sooke Fine Arts Show received $24,000, while The Great Canadian Bash was awarded $22,000 and Island FanCon 2027 received $16,000. “Langford is a world-class destination for sporting, cultural, and community events that bring people of all walks of life together, helping boost our local economy, and make our town more vibrant,” said Ravi Parmar, MLA for Langford-Highlands. Lana Popham said the funding will help support the return of events in the region while Dana Lajeunesse and Nina Krieger highlighted the importance of these grants in highlighting local talents and supporting local economies. “Here in Greater Victoria we’re lucky to have wonderful events throughout the year for locals and visitors to enjoy, while supporting local businesses, artists, creators, and innovators,” said Krieger, MLA for Victoria-Swan Lake. For more information about the Destination Events Program and to find a full list of grant recipients, visit gov.bc.ca .

Big things come in small packages. The Victoria Day parade route may have been shorter this year, but the festivities were in plentiful supply. Hundreds lined the streets of downtown Victoria for the 126th anniversary of the parade Monday morning (May 18), entertained by marching bands, clowns, performers and cultural groups. Over 4,000 participants took part in the event. Among them was retired NHL player Bob Barlow, who was the honorary parade marshal riding in the Greater Victoria Festival Society’s Mustang. The 90-year-old holds the NHL record for scoring the fastest first goal in league history – finding the back of the net just six seconds into his debut with the Minnesota North Stars. Also taking part was the Special Olympics torch run, with Greater Victoria firefighters and police officers walking with B.C. athletes. The torch run was slated to take part in the now cancelled Oak Bay Tea Party Parade. Down from four kilometres to 1.6 km, the 126th­ Victoria Day parade started at the Legislature, travelling down ­Government to Wharf Street, to Johnson Street and back to Government before ending at Chatham Street. The scaled-back route was in part because of the economic impact of fewer people finding time to volunteer, and new safety rules put in place by the city, in response to last year’s Vancouver Lapu Lapu Day Festival, when 11 people were killed. “Thank you for your patience as we worked through a brand-new route this year,” said Greater Victoria Festival Society in a social media post as the parade wrapped up. The society also thanked all the participants, parade sponsors, Victoria Police Department and the City of Victoria. “But most of all, thank you to this community,” they said. “Thank you for your support, your understanding, your cheering, your positive energy, and your deep love for this beautiful city.” READ MORE: VIDEO: Gull power: Victoria seagull screamer soars to victory . Finding Bigfoot: Greater Victoria research trio tracks Sasquatch on Island .

Four Canadians who arrived in B.C. after being on the cruise ship struck by hantavirus are now isolating in the Island Health region, provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry says. The four arrived at Victoria International Airport Sunday evening, Henry told media during a second update in two days on Monday (May 11). Henry gave the first briefing on Sunday afternoon before the four arrived in B.C. She said the arrival went smoothly and the four didn’t come into contact with the public. Henry said that they were thoroughly screened and assessed by Island Health public health officials and everyone was wearing the appropriate personal protective equipment. “It showed last night they were tired, and I would say exhausted, but very relieved and grateful to be back here in Canada.” While the four are isolating for a minimum of 21 days in the Island Health region, they’re not all from the Island or B.C. Two of them are a couple in their 70s from the Yukon, another person is in their 70s and from the Island and the fourth person is in their 50s and from B.C. but living abroad. The person, who lives on the Island, lives alone and is isolating at home. The other three are in facilities that Island Health has procured, Henry said, with the couple isolating together and the fourth person isolating separately. B.C. public health officials are working closely with the Yukon government as the territory wouldn’t have the capacity to test or the facilities to care for someone if they were to develop severe symptoms that have been seen with the virus. The four will be isolating in the Island Health region for a minimum of 21 days, which began on Sunday. However, that could be extended to 42 days, Henry said. The known incubation period is about six weeks. None of the four Canadians had directed contact with the ill people on board, but Henry noted that “in a closed environment, like the cruise ship, it’s very difficult to know for certain.” She said the European Centre for Disease Control had people do an assessment of all passengers onboard and everyone on the ship is considered “higher-risk contacts.” However, the four Canadians are “in the lower-risk spectrum” in terms of the location of their cabins and the activities they did in proximity to those who became ill. Henry added all four “were and continue to be well and have no symptoms.” There are two other “events” where people were potentially exposed to the virus: a flight to Johannesburg, South Africa from Saint Helena and another flight to Amsterdam from Johannesburg. “The wife of the initial case was on board the Saint Helena to Johannesburg flight) and was starting to show symptoms. When that flight landed in South Africa, there were boarding a flight from Johannesburg to Amsterdam,” Henry said. “The wife was notably quite ill and was on that flight for a period of less than an hour. They were medically assessed, the flight was delayed, didn’t take off, and they were taken off the flight and taken to hospital and died the next day in South Africa.” Henry said there Canadians on the Saint Helena-Johannesburg flight and they are being monitored: one in Ontario and one in Quebec. There were also Canadians on the Johannesburg to Amsterdam flight and they are being monitored in Alberta and Ontario. During the isolation, Henry said each person will be receiving daily monitoring by public health teams including regular symptom checks, wellness assessments, and clear guidance on what to do, should their health status change. If there is a change in their symptoms, Henry said her office will provide additional updates. A cluster of passengers with severe respiratory illness aboard the the MV Hondius were reported to the World Health Organization on May 2. Since then, three people have died. Henry said nine people have tested positive, including a recent case in France from someone who just returned from the cruise ship. She added there are multiple people still in hospital, including one in South Africa, two in the Netherlands, one in Switzerland and the most recent case in France.

Driving through the streets of Esquimalt over the past weeks, folks may have noticed front yards decked out with inflatable pirate ships, plastic sabres and skeletons sporting tricorn hats. For the uninitiated, the sight may seem unusual, but for locals it signals the return of the community-favourite Buccaneer Days. With roots dating back to 1939, this year’s four-day celebration took place from May 7 to 10 at Esquimalt’s Bullen Park. Drawing up to 10,000 festival-goers this year, according to organizers Chris and Irene Coell, the event featured a variety of activities, including a community barbecue, cornhole tournament, midway carnival, costume contest and marketplace. Organizers Chris and Irene Coell at this year’s Buccaneer Days. (Olivier Laurin/Victoria News) This year’s Buccaneer Days attracted up to 10,000 festival goers in Esquimalt from May 7 to 10. (Olivier Laurin/Victoria News) Organized with the help of more than 20 local organizations and dozens of volunteers, the Coells said the event is centred around community spirit, Esquimalt’s naval history and having fun. “We’re trying to build community spirit,” Chris said. “With everything that’s going on in the world, we want people to be able to come down, have a beverage, have some food, participate in the activities and enjoy the sun and each other’s company.” For those who missed this year’s festivities, the Coells extended an invitation to attend next year. “You don’t have to pay to come in,” he said. “You can just come and do whatever you need to do.” For more information about Buccaneer Days, visit esquimaltbuccaneerdays.ca .

The Victoria Butterfly Gardens is now home to a fresh collection of 40 dart frogs. A couple of months ago, the gardens sourced the dart frogs from a private breeder. Originally, the frogs were kept in an enclosure for the visitors to observe, but they realized the climate of their greenhouse was the exact climate of the terrariums they were keeping the frogs in. Days after the frogs were released into the greenhouse, they proved themselves and started breeding. “They’re very happy in the environment. The last batch of frogs that we ended up getting, we ended up just releasing the majority of them into the gardens themselves, and they’ve been settling in the gardens for the past couple of weeks now,” Travis Budgeon, horticulturist at Victoria Butterfly Gardens, told Peninsula News Review. Dart frogs, which are originally from the Amazon rainforest, are usually poisonous. They have one golden dart frog, which is part of the Phyllobates species, that has enough poison to kill up to 10 humans. Budgeon explained that the level of toxicity varies based on the frog’s specific diet. “Their poison originates from a diet of ants, millipedes and mites that they feed on in their natural habitat in the Amazon. That’s where they’re getting their toxicity. Now, any dart frog that’s in captivity, because of their food source, like for here, for instance, we feed them a species of flightless fruit fly for their diet, and they are no longer poisonous,” Budgeon added. Victoria Butterfly Gardens has 40 new dart frogs for visitors to see. (Courtesy of Victoria Butterfly Gardens) A special requirement for the dart frogs is to have a wet aquatic area. Humidity in their greenhouse is almost optimal for them because they have several water features installed to make sure humidity rarely dips below 60 per cent. “Ideally, for a captive dart frog to be put into an environment like this is like a dream come true as far as I’m concerned.” Approximately 40 dart frogs of several subspecies are being released into their greenhouse. “There’s a soundscape in our gardens that we didn’t even know we were missing. You walk through our gardens and, along with the birds and along with all the animals making noises, you’re also hearing this constant chittering noise from all sites, all areas of the garden. It just makes it almost surreal.” Another intention of bringing the dart frogs into their rainforest environment is to create awareness about their existence and conservation aspects, because they are losing a vast area of their natural habitat. “A lot of people need to be aware of these things. We’re educating a lot of our guests regarding a lot of these wild species and how they are becoming endangered. I find seeing it firsthand, seeing it one-on-one, up close and personal, it really kind of resonates with a lot of people.” Budgeon said that the frogs in their greenhouse are becoming a little bit more street smart, so they are asking the guests to be cautious when walking through the gardens because they haven’t figured out where to cross paths yet. “They’re a little bit all over the place, but most of the time they’re spending time in the actual gardens themselves. It’s an exciting opportunity for a lot of our guests because they get to walk through, and these dart frogs are out and about.” “We’re just really excited to share these creatures with all of our guests, and we’re really looking forward to expanding people’s knowledge and educating the populace about these beautiful, beautiful creatures.”

It was all smiles aboard the Alberni Pacific Railway as the train made its first official trip across Stamp Avenue with passengers since 2018, heading all the way to the Best Western Barclay Hotel. With members of the Tseshaht and Hupacasath First Nations on board, along with representatives from the city and Island Corridor Foundation, the train headed for the Barclay. “I think everybody in the Valley would love to see this train go all the way at least to Cameron Lake and we’re gonna do whatever we can to support that vision,” said Chief Councillor Ken Watts of the Tseshaht First Nation. “The rail does have a history in terms of our territory that was taken from us. But we see opportunities to work together so we can all benefit from this rail. Not just First Nations but the entire Valley.” Before the train departed for the Barclay, singers and dancers from Tseshaht and Hupacasath First Nations performed together as both Nations have invested resources and lent support in bringing the rail back to service. Councillor Serena Mayer from Hupacasath First Nation said her family has loved the train’s return to service. “We’ve been riding it since it re-opened and really enjoying the time we get to spend together with our family and other families and our community,” Mayer said. “It’s such an incredible way to experience our territory, we’re super grateful to recognize the hard work of the Island Corridor Foundation and the Alberni Pacific Railway, the city, Hupacasath and Tseshaht to really dream big and see what the potential is for this project.” Mayer said despite the rail’s challenging history, she’s excited to see a new path forward being built that will support families, transportation and the tourism economy of the Alberni Valley. Throughout the ride to the Barclay, cyclists, drivers, walkers, city workers and semi-trucks waved or honked for the train as it went by. Riders aboard the train waved back at everyone they passed, including those drivers who waited for the train to cross at Stamp Avenue. Alberni Pacific Railway’s operations manager, Richard Spencer, said the Alberni train is well known as the friendly train. “We would love to hear from everyone from the community on what we can do differently, what we can add to the operation,” Spencer told people aboard the train. “This project represents what’s possible when heritage, tourism and community come together. We’re building on the legacy of the railway while creating new experiences that will benefit the Alberni Valley for generations to come.” The Alberni-Clayoquot Regional District formed a working group to discuss the railway with representatives from the two First Nations and the city to discuss plans for the future of the rail line. In 2025 several railway trestles were damaged by the Wesley Ridge Wildfire, which presents new challenges for longer distance train travel. For more than two decades Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council President Judith Sayers has been involved with the Island Corridor Foundation, currently serving as a co-chair. She hopes that showing how successful tourist trains can be around the Island will encourage governments to fund repairs to damaged trestles and help get the train running to Cameron Lake and well beyond. The foundation is made up of directors from First Nations and regional districts the railway passes through. Up until 2018 the train ran to McLean Mill National Historic Site but between funding cuts and damaged equipment it was shelved. Volunteers have been working hard to bring the train back, running train rides for tourists and bringing Santa on board for the Christmas train. With the stretch of track officially re-opened, train rides aboard the Alberni Pacific Railway will go for around 45 minutes from the station near Harbour Quay to the Barclay and back rather than the previous 25-minute ride on the shorter stretch of opened track.

On Sunday, May 31, the streets of Victoria’s Chinatown will once again come alive with music, dance, vibrant colours and breathtaking displays of art, athleticism and culture. The fifth annual Awakening Chinatown Festival, presented by the Victoria Chinatown Museum Society in partnership with Chinatown businesses, will once again invite residents and visitors alike to witness and participate in a day of culture, celebration and connection. Of course, anyone who has lived in Victoria for any length of time is almost certainly familiar with the city’s historic Chinatown. It’s the oldest in Canada and one of the oldest in all of North America, and a stroll through its historic streets immediately brings to mind the rich culture, heritage and resilience of the Chinese people who played a vital role in Victoria’s (and Canada’s) early days. Established in the mid-19th century, it grew rapidly as Chinese immigrants came in search of opportunities during the Fraser River Gold Rush and the construction of the Canadian Pacific Railway. They established businesses and homes near Cormorant and Johnson Streets in what was often an unwelcoming society. They built places to live, work and belong, and persevered despite the constant threats of discrimination and exclusion. At its peak, Chinatown covered six square blocks, and the neighbourhood’s narrow alleys and enclosed courtyards became home to stores, theatres, temples, cafes, workshops, and social spaces for thousands of residents. Today, a visit to the neighbourhood’s historic streets reminds us of that past but only tells part of the story. It’s only when that backdrop of history and architecture is coupled with the dynamic culture on full display at the Awakening Chinatown Celebration that one can really appreciate the wonder of Victoria’s Chinatown. The event is held annually at the end of Asian Heritage Month when the district is transformed into a lively gathering place filled with music, performances, food, and cultural experiences for all ages. This year, Awakening Chinatown will offer a host of events, including presentations of lion dancing, traditional drumming, and astounding martial arts presented by the Wong Sheung Kung Fu Club. For the more cerebrally inclined, the festival will offer demonstrations of harmony and balance, presented by the Taoist Tai Chi Society. The Victoria Chinese Opera Club, Chinese Dance Victoria and Happy Drum Group will also be giving presentations and performances, and there will be live music performances that span styles ranging from classical to contemporary, including Alex Chen, performing opera and Chinese Art Songs in partnership and sponsored by Pacific Opera Victoria, and Michelle Kwan playing the Guzheng. For the first time, the festival will also offer visitors performances from the Chinese Evergreen Seniors’ Choir, the BC Chinese Music Association’s Traditional Chinese Instrument Chamber Orchestra from Vancouver, and Elvin Chang, acclaimed Canto/Mando pop artist. For festival goers wishing to have a more hands-on experience, the festival will offer calligraphy and Chinese arts demonstrations, hands-on games and activities for families, and opportunities to connect with community organizations. As an added attraction, the festival will once again present the Awakening Chinatown Scavenger Hunt. Visitors will have the chance to explore the district while searching for important landmarks, stories, and cultural touchpoints. It’s a fun and interactive way to experience the neighbourhood while learning more about the history and community that make it so special. The Awakening Chinatown Festival is the work of the Victoria Chinatown Museum Society (VCMS). The Society was formed in 2019 as a non-profit society whose purpose is to share the history, traditions and culture of early Chinese Canadians in Victoria. The museum’s permanent home is inside the Hoy Sun Ning Young Benevolent Association building in Fan Tan Alley, North America’s narrowest commercial street. The museum features a permanent collection of images and artifacts, as well as rotating collections, pop-up exhibits, and family-friendly games and activities. The Awakening Chinatown Festival is free and open to all and will kick off at 11 a.m. and run until 4:30 p.m. on May 31. More information on the festival, as well as an overview of Chinatown’s vibrant history, can be found at

Destination Greater Victoria recognized two long-standing leaders in the region’s visitor economy, presenting its Miracle Award to Reid James and Life Member Award to Robert Bettauer. “Both Reid and Robert exemplify the leadership, collaboration and long-term commitment that have helped shape Greater Victoria as a destination,” said Paul Nursey, CEO of Destination Greater Victoria. “Their contributions have left a meaningful legacy for our industry and our community.” The Miracle Award, established in 1982 to recognize an outstanding individual or group, honours James for decades of leadership and service within Greater Victoria’s hospitality sector. From his early career in hotel operations and sales to his long-standing leadership at the Hotel Grand Pacific, James has played an important role in shaping Victoria’s hotel landscape. He is widely respected for mentoring future leaders and for his commitment to strengthening the industry through service on numerous boards and associations. He has served on the boards of Destination Greater Victoria, the Victoria Hotel Destination Marketing Association, the BC Hotel Association, and as chair of the Hotel Association of Greater Victoria for eight years. James’ leadership was influential in modernizing the relationship with the City of Victoria and was among the key hotel leaders who supported Destination Greater Victoria becoming the eligible entity for the Municipal and Regional District Tax, as well as taking on leadership of sales and marketing for the Victoria Conference Centre. Robert Bettauer, recipient of Destination Greater Victoria’s 2026 Life Member Award, pictured with David Gudgel, chair of the board of Destination Greater Victoria. (Courtesy Destination Greater Victoria) The Life Member Award, one of the organization’s most prestigious distinctions, honours an outstanding individual for sustained contributions to the tourism industry and community, as well as the work of Destination Greater Victoria. Bettauer brings decades of senior sport leadership experience in Canada and has served as CEO of the Pacific Institute for Sport Education since 2010. He was the inaugural chair of the Greater Victoria Sport Tourism Commission and continues to hold the role. His previous roles include president and CEO of the Canadian Sport Centre Ontario and director of tennis development for Tennis Canada. A nationally accomplished athlete, Bettauer has won multiple Canadian men’s masters tennis titles and was named to Canada’s 2026 national 70-plus team competing at the ITF Senior World Tennis Championships. He is also an ongoing tennis analyst for Sportsnet. Through his leadership across sport, education and tourism, he has played a key role in strengthening the connection between sport, major events and tourism, helping advance sport tourism as an important driver of Greater Victoria’s visitor economy. The region’s not-for-profit destination marketing and management organization presented the awards on April 24. For more news delivered daily into your inbox, please click here .

Last week my editor sent me one of the most challenging assignments of my relatively short career in journalism: To ride an e-scooter, maintaining my balance long enough for fellow reporter Michael Briones to snap at least one photo. After I read that email I had to pause and ask myself – am I up to that? I paced around for a few minutes, stared out the window for a while and then decided that yes, I would ‘take one for the team’ and put my life on the line. I would ride an e-scooter for the first time in my life. Evolve’s e-bike and e-scooter share launched in Parksville on April 22, which happens to be Earth Day. After signing my life away on the waiver, I was lent a helmet and given instructions on how to safely ride the scooter, which includes staying off the sidewalk, by the way, unless you’re walking it. Not being a scooter rider, I felt a bit unsure of myself, as I slowly made my way slightly uphill on Craig Street and turned onto a quiet side street. Having both feet up on the deck, legs close together, felt a bit unnatural at first, but only for a minute. Riding downhill on my return was more fun. I felt a lot more confident and was able to enjoy myself more. Don’t let my grumpy expression in the photos fool you, I pretty much always look like that. The accelerator is designed to be very gentle, so even if you push the button down all the way, it’s not going to jerk you forward suddenly. The scooter has a handbrake on each handlebar just like a bicycle. The signals also took some getting used to. Of course, you can always use hand signals if you’re comfortable taking one arm off the handlebars, but otherwise you push a right or left arrow button to show others where you are going. But remember that the signal won’t switch off automatically after you turn like they do in a car. You can see them blinking on the ends of your handlebars. There are 20 e-bikes and 30 e-scooters available at more than 10 locations throughout Parksville and the Evo app can be used to find the nearest location and book one for $0.35 per minute or $12.99 per hour, whichever is cheaper, according to Evo. Timing the launch for Earth Day is a great reminder that riding an e-bike or an e-scooter is not only fun, it’s good for the environment. RELATED: FORSYTH: E-bikes are great but please don’t run me over

Back by popular demand, the Canadian Forces Snowbirds will be returning to Victoria on Aug. 4 to perform their famed aerobatic performance for Greater Victoria residents. The Snowbirds announced the show on Facebook on Thursday, April 23, saying they will be performing at Dallas Road park at 5 p.m. as part of their 55th season. “Bring the family, find a great spot and look up. We cannot wait to see you there,” noted the Facebook post. The Greater Victoria Festival Society noted on their website that food trucks will be present ahead of the event. The Snowbirds have been performing since 1971, flying the 60s-era CT-114 Tutor training jets at shows and events across the country.

When I took on this column in August 2022, it seemed like a fabulous opportunity, with lots of creative licence, to sample Victoria’s slice of the bar and pub culture and tell some great stories. And so it has proved. Featuring 40-plus establishments in the area – and beyond – has taught me that Victoria is a city that takes its leisure with a side of historical re-enactment. It is a place where you can drink a cocktail in a former bank vault, a pint in a 19th-century carriage house, or a neon-blue rum punch under a plastic palm tree while it rains sideways outside. And we wouldn’t have it any other way. I felt it was time to reflect on my story so far, so here is a lighthearted look at 10 of the best pubs and bars I have featured to date, in and around the Garden City. Where better to launch with a bang than the Irish Times? Voted the best Irish pub in North America in 2017 and the best Irish entertainment venue a year later, this Government Street staple is housed in a grand 1894 bank, where the only thing higher than the ceilings is the energy of the nightly live music. Whether you’re chasing a perfect Guinness pour, a bowl of classic shepherd’s pie or a bacon & brie burger, it’s a raucous, fiddle-heavy haven where the craic is always palpable. I was welcomed warmly by Parker and the team, and the hospitality shown was exceptional. It’s hard not to be swept along by the pluck of the Irish. And did I mention that the Guinness brownie is to die for? Another former bank, just down Government Street, is the Bard & Banker – a venue that drips with history and charisma. The ceilings are high, and the chandeliers are large. Drinking here makes you feel as though wearing a top hat and discussing the price of coal wouldn’t be out of place. The barstools are leather, but most notably can spin, which you have to watch out for. Legend has it that a man once tried to mount one and was launched toward a plate of truffle fries. Impressively, though, he didn’t spill his scotch. That’s the Victoria way: elegance under pressure. And the B&B exudes barrel-loads of that. I enjoyed my time there, and Demian and the team (he’s since opened the Saxe Point Pub) painted a definitive picture for me of their unique vibe. Out of town a little, the Monkey Tree is the spiritual headquarters of Saanich, a quintessential neighbourhood pub where the wings are legendary and the Music Bingo is a high-stakes sport. It’s the kind of place where everyone knows your name and exactly how many pints you need to start singing along to the jukebox. Decorated with just enough monkey memorabilia to keep things quirky, it’s a sprawling, unpretentious refuge and a hub of the community. The tale of the original Monkey Tree, after which the pub is named, is also quite a story. I was fed and watered delightfully here by Robert and the team and left with a spring in my step. Another iconic neighbourhood retreat is the Penny Farthing, essentially a cozy hat-tip to the British and located in the heart of Oak Bay. Walking inside feels like being hugged by a wool sweater knitted by Queen Victoria herself. With four crackling fireplaces and enough etched glass to confuse a magpie, it’s the primary habitat for locals who lap up the vibe of a classic community pub. It’s a place where you can discuss the weather or sports for 40 minutes over a pint of bitter without anyone blinking. An actual Penny Farthing bicycle, hanging from the ceiling, will also have you mesmerized. Kudos to Sam and the team for hosting me at short notice and sharing their story. Christie’s Carriage House Pub has transformed from a 19th-century mansion built by Eldridge Christie into a modern-day homage to turn-of-the-century Victoria. It offers a labyrinth of cozy nooks, rooms and corridors, where the architecture beams with historical tales – plus two heated patios. Originally built for a carriage maker, the restored 1905 Rockaway Coupe carriage remains proudly on display near the pub’s front entrance. Opened for business as a pub in 1986, Christie’s is the perfect place to hide in a corner with a book and a burger, occasionally looking up to see if the lady in the 19th-century dress is a patron or a ghost. (If she doesn’t order the yam fries, she’s probably a ghost.) The team at Christie’s showed me great hospitality and really went the extra yard. The 4 Mile House Brewpub is a Tudor-style time machine that has been standing since the 1858 Gold Rush. It also survived prohibition. Originally a roadhouse for weary pioneers, it was renovated and brought back to life as a pub in 1979 by Graham and Wendy Haymes. With its low beams and labyrinthine nooks, it’s the perfect spot to rest from the modern world while lapping up the atmosphere of roasted malt and history. And spooky experiences are almost guaranteed – all part of the charm of this memorable View Royal venue. The 4 Mile team were also excellent hosts to me and laid on a four-dish spread of mouthwatering food to sample. Driftwood Brewery is a cornerstone of Victoria’s craft beer identity, renowned for its commitment to high-gravity, flavour-forward brewing. Since its launch in 2008, the brewery has achieved cult status, largely driven by the “Fat Tug” IPA, which set a new standard for Northwest-style hop profiles. Their expansive taproom in Esquimalt reflects a modern, industrial esthetic, offering a sophisticated space to sample year-round staples and limited-run experiments. Beyond the flagship IPA, Driftwood is respected for its mastery of diverse styles, including Belgian-inspired ales and refined sours. I was shown around their epic, nearly 60,000-square-foot brewery and enjoyed some delicious beer and food in their tasting room. The Saxe Point Pub is Esquimalt’s new kid on the block. Opened in July 2024 by former Bard & Banker general manager Demian Merino, the modern design with a hint of Mexican flavour is lighting up Park Place and helping to put the area on the map. The classic comfort food and striking drinks menu are complemented by an authentic, easy-going atmosphere, which helps it to stand out as a quintessential hub of the community. With its proximity to the scenic Saxe Point Park, the pub is perfect for a range of patrons. Demian and the team were brilliant hosts and their quality shone through. Meanwhile, back downtown, descending into Cenote feels like discovering your coolest older sibling’s secret underground lair. It’s a dim, art-filled bunker where the cocktails are as inventive as the local indie scene. Whether you’re sipping a drink infused with smoked rosemary or a spherical ice cube that has more personality than most politicians, you’ll be spellbound watching the bartenders in action. It’s the perfect place to hide from the sun, the tourists, and the stress of the outside world. I was welcomed with open arms and loved the relaxed vibe. An off-the-beaten-track gem. No Victoria pub crawl is complete without a visit to Tora Tiki. Walking into the neon-lit tiki bar is like having a tropical fever dream. It’s a subterranean paradise where the ‘Victoria Tilt’ is finally explained by rum rather than heritage floorboards. You can sit under a plastic palm tree and sip a drink served in a ceramic volcano that is – at some point – on fire. It is kitschy and a perfect reminder that sometimes you just want to drink rum out of a coconut while a carved tiki god watches over you. Karaoke is also on tap here, so you can let your inner Mariah Carey go wild. I had a really memorable time at Tora Tiki. Hearty shout-outs go to Bartholomew’s, Leopold’s Tavern (my first featured bar), the Drake Eatery, the Refuge Taproom and Little Jumbo, the latter of which sadly is no longer with us. It’s been a fascinating journey of discovery so far, and who knows what the future may bring?

The Soul of Vietnam Festival is set to return to Victoria’s Inner Harbour this summer, bringing a full day of food, performances and cultural programming. The event will take place on Aug. 16, from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. at Ship Point, following a strong debut last year that drew thousands of attendees. Organizers say the festival aims to celebrate Vietnamese culture while creating a welcoming space for the broader community. This year’s event will feature food vendors offering Vietnamese and local cuisine, live performances, an international fashion show, and a children’s activity zone. With support from the City of Victoria, the festival will remain free and open to the public. Local businesses are also returning to support the event. Lien Ho, owner of Saigon Char-Broil, said the festival plays an important role in connecting younger generations to their heritage. “It’s important to keep Vietnamese culture alive in Canada,” Ho said. “Events like this give people a chance to rediscover who they are.” For more details, including the full schedule and vendor lineup, visit soulofvietnam.ca . Applications for vendors, sponsors and performers are now open.