Business Notes: Gulf Island Seaplanes now offering service between Maple Bay and Vancouver

Gulf Island Seaplanes has taken over seaplane services between Maple Bay Marina and Vancouver Airport.

The Indigenous-owned seaplane company began operating the service on Oct. 25, and will be offering two round trips a day during the winter months.

The company, which is owned by Sean and Alison Evans, provides regular float-plane service to and from Vancouver Airport and Gabriola Island, Hornby Island and now Maple Bay, as well as a private charter service throughout coastal B.C.

Harbour Air had provided a float-plane service between Maple Bay and Vancouver, but shut it down in September due to a “persistent softening in demand” the company said in a press release.

Sean said Maple Bay Marina reached out to Gulf Island Seaplanes to take over the service soon after.

“We’re starting with two round [trip] flights a day between Vancouver Airport and Maple Bay when it’s less busy, and we plan to ramp that up in the spring, as well as offer a service between Maple Bay and downtown Vancouver,” he said.

For more information, email [email protected] or call 250-247-9992.

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Duncan Garage Café & Bakery is open on Sundays again.

The ever-popular eatery said on its Facebook page that it has recouped from the crazy summer season and is now thrilled to announce that starting Oct. 27, people will be able to order from its all-day select breakfast menu from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

“Our coffee bar will be brewing up your favourite Garage drinks, and as always, our daily baking will be coming out fresh every morning,” Duncan Garage said.

In May, Duncan Garage Café & Bakery announced that Matthew Huotari, Brennan Morgan, and Casey Thompson had taken over the business from Susan Minette, who ran it for 21 years.

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The much-anticipated Chemainus Sip & Shop will be held on Nov. 16, from 3 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., on Willow Street.

The streets in the community will come alive with an event like no other, with a delightful evening of sipping, shopping, and socializing with friends.

The heart of Sip & Shop lies in its night market, which will be featuring an array of traditional local and seasonal vendors.

These artisans and crafters will showcase an enticing array of products, crafts, and original items, making it the ideal place to kickstart your holiday shopping or find that unique, one-of-a-kind treasure.

From handcrafted jewelry to cozy winter knits, there’s something for everyone here.

As well, local liquor, beer, and cider vendors will be on hand within the night market to tantalize your taste buds.

“Whether you’re looking for unique gifts, the perfect sip, or a delightful night out, this event has it all,” said Tourism Chemainus, which is organizing the event. “We can’t wait to welcome you to our town for a night of sipping, shopping, and celebrating all things local. Don’t miss out on this incredible community gathering.”

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The Island Return It recycling centre on Norcross Road will be closed Nov. 10-18 for renovations and the installation of the centre’s new automated reverse-vending machine.

“If you have any recycling and/or bottle-deposit needs during that time, we would like to direct you to either our South Cowichan location at 1350 Fisher Rd. in Cobble Hill for bottles, or to the Bing’s Creek Solid Waste Management site at 3900 Drinkwater Rd. for recycling,” management said in a statement to its customers.

“We’re sorry for any inconvenience.”

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Westland Insurance, a leading Canadian insurance brokerage that has offices in Duncan and Mill Bay, has been recognized as one of the Best Companies to Work for in Canada.

This accolade highlights Westland Insurance’s commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive workplace culture.

To determine the winners of the 2024 Best Places to Work, Canadian HR Reporter conducted a comprehensive survey among thousands of employees across the country.

Westland Insurance stood out for its dedication to creating a welcoming and encouraging workplace environment, its prioritization of employee well-being, and a strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

“We’re incredibly proud to be recognized as one of the best companies to work for in Canada for 2024,” said Jamie Lyons, CEO of Westland Insurance.

“This honour reflects the dedication and passion of our entire team, who make this organization a truly special place to work. Together, we’ve built a culture that prioritizes growth, collaboration, and well-being, and we’ll continue striving to set even higher standards in the years ahead.”