New & Noteworthy – News, Changes, Updates, Launches

MÁWUEĆ, also known as Woodwyn Farm, is now part of Tsartlip reserve lands, together with a neighbouring property of more than 200 acres.

These lands will be held for the use and benefit of W̱JOȽEȽP members and will be governed in accordance with W̱JOȽEȽP laws and policies. This achievement marks the culmination of years of dedication, collaboration and hard work, representing a significant milestone for the W̱JOȽEȽP community. It reflects an important step in strengthening the Nation’s connection to its traditional lands and creating opportunities for future generations.

Beacon Community Services has received approval from Sidney Council for a temporary six-month food service arrangement that will see Truffles Catering provide food services from the SHOAL Centre kitchen while Beacon addresses staffing challenges and evaluates long-term food service delivery options. The arrangement will ensure continued meal service for Assisted Living and Independent Living residents, visitors and community programs, while generating revenue to help offset operating costs and support services delivered through SHOAL.

Near & Dear Concierge provides thoughtful, non-medical lifestyle, property and transition support for seniors, families and homeowners. They help with the everyday details so you and your loved ones can feel supported, connected and at ease. Kind, local and reliable support is provided so that families can feel confident that the details are being handled with care.

Do you love to sing? The Peninsula Singers are welcoming new members for an inspiring Christmas season filled with beautiful music, laughter and lasting friendships. Whether you are a soprano, alto, tenor or bass, they’d love to have you join the choir. All levels of experience are welcome. Rehearsals begin September 8. Become part of a vibrant community of music lovers and help bring the joy of the season to audiences across the Peninsula. Visit www.peninsulasingers.ca to learn more and discover how you can be part of this year’s Christmas concerts. Come for the music and stay for the friendships.

Tideline Vintage is a thoughtfully curated online vintage shop based in Sidney, specializing in timeless pieces for coastal, cottage and character-filled homes. Founded in 2026 by Sidney resident Tiffany Recalma, each collection is hand-selected from estate auctions and hidden gems discovered across Vancouver Island and beyond.

Rather than a traditional storefront, Tideline Vintage operates exclusively on Instagram, where new themed “drops” are released weekly. Followers can claim their favourite pieces by simply commenting “claim” on each post, creating an exciting first-come, first-served shopping experience. Follow along for weekly drops at @tidelinevintage.

What began as a search for a natural wood polish while living in Ireland blossomed into a thriving local business. Unable to find a quality beeswax polish made without chemicals or imported from overseas, Miranda Russell created her own using locally sourced beeswax and natural oils.

Now handcrafted in North Saanich, Bee’s Knees Canada continues to produce premium wood care products that nourish, protect and bring out the natural beauty of wood.

Available at the North Saanich Farmers Market, The Millstone Shop in North Saanich and Davidson Chambers in Sidney. Follow @beeskneescanada on Instagram to learn more.

Treat your dog to a premium snack at the Puppaccino Bar, located inside Higgie’s Pet Mercantile at #114 – 10330 McDonald Park Road, North Saanich. This fun in-store amenity serves up dog-safe soft serve ice cream and custom “pup cups” featuring a rotating menu of seasonal flavours. After treating your pup, head over to their convenient self-serve dog wash station to clean up!

A new community recreation facility is one step closer to becoming a reality in Central Saanich. Planned for the corner of Hovey Road and Wallace Drive, the proposed 7,500-square-foot accessible centre will feature arts, fitness, pottery and ceramics studios, along with flexible multi-purpose spaces. Designed to help meet the growing demand for indoor recreation on the Saanich Peninsula, the project will complement the existing Panorama Recreation Centre while expanding opportunities for residents of all ages.

Each September, the Town of Sidney celebrates the importance of trees by bringing the community together for Tree Appreciation Day. Residents can take part in tree planting activities and help enhance Sidney’s beautiful green spaces. www.sidney.ca/events-and-attractions

Jared VanderMeer Gallery and Studio has opened at #1 – 2449 Beacon Avenue in Sidney. Discover the stunning wildlife and bird photography of Canadian photographer Jared VanderMeer. Featuring breathtaking images from some of the world’s most remarkable natural landscapes, Jared’s limited-edition fine art captures the beauty, wonder and spirit of the wild.  www.jaredvandermeer.com

Terra Nail Studio is officially open in Brentwood Bay! Offering beautiful nail services with care, passion and attention to detail, Terra looks forward to welcoming the community and helping clients feel their best. Enjoy the perfect blend of relaxation and beauty. www.nailsbyterra.setmore.com 

Have an idea to support literacy on the Saanich Peninsula? Saanich Peninsula Literacy Grants will soon be accepting applications for projects that strengthen literacy in our community. Grants of up to $5,000 are available. Applications open September 1 to October 1, 2026. https://tinyurl.com/3nyv26c9

Art Soul Studio is opening soon and bringing a vibrant new hub for creativity to the community. Offering inspiring classes, drop-in sessions and resources for artists of all ages and skill levels, the studio will provide a welcoming space to explore creativity, learn new techniques and connect with fellow art enthusiasts. Join the creative community at 9802 Fifth Street and discover where imagination comes to life. www.artsoulstudio.ca

Silver Rill Corn is celebrating a century of family farming in 2026! This beloved fourth-generation Central Saanich farm is marking its 100-year anniversary with 100 days of free corn giveaways, alongside its famous fresh daily harvest, friendly farm animals and the return of its popular late-summer corn maze. Over 25 varieties of fresh-picked non-GMO sweet corn, local berries, vegetables, and homemade preserves. Come celebrate 100 years of tradition, community, and delicious local corn!

North Saanich Canadian Tire has painted the crosswalk at the front entrance orange in recognition of National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30. Orange has become a national symbol of remembrance, reflection and learning through Orange Shirt Day, with its important message: Every Child Matters.Visit the store on September 30 as we take a moment to honour this important day, reflect on the history and experiences of Indigenous Peoples, and continue our journey toward truth and reconciliation.