Words June Murray Dagnall
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Travel Expert to Paralympic Athlete
Departures Travel Sidney is proud to announce that Josh Holton, the team’s Accessible Travel Specialist, has been selected to join the Danish National Development Team for wheelchair rugby in preparation for the 2028 Paralympic Games! This incredible achievement is a testament to Josh’s determination, athleticism and unwavering commitment – all qualities he brings to both the court and his role at Departures Travel Sidney. As our Accessible Travel Specialist, Josh works passionately to help clients with mobility needs experience the world with confidence and ease.
Island Leaders Spark Change
The 2025 Miracle Gala, hosted by the Victoria Hospitals Foundation, raised an astounding $1.76 million to transform women’s cancer care on Vancouver Island. The recent event funded a second operating room at Victoria General Hospital with state-of-the-art, minimally invasive surgical equipment. This investment will allow two gynecologic oncologists to operate simultaneously, doubling surgical capacity, reducing wait times and improving outcomes for women facing ovarian, cervical and endometrial cancers. This marks a huge leap forward in the women’s health field on the Island with over 500 women requiring these surgeries annually.
Broken Butterfly
Local writer Wanda Gray recently published her book Broken Butterfly, a deeply personal true story about her daughter Erin, told through a dual retelling. It’s a mother’s ode to a beautiful soul, taken and exploited. It’s also a reminder that addiction can overtake even the most cautious, but it needn’t define them. The aim is to raise awareness about human trafficking, drug addiction and the profound grief that often follows. Wanda has completed six speaking engagements in Saskatchewan and B.C., and plans to continue presenting at schools, colleges and treatment centres this summer and fall. The book is now available in local bookstores and libraries across Canada.
Love to Sing?
The Peninsula Singers are celebrating 45 wonderful years of music and community! They are inviting new members to join their dynamic show choir. Whether you are a soprano, alto, tenor or bass, they would love to hear from you as they prepare for their festive Winter Wonderland performances this December. Auditions will be held Tuesday, September 9 at 6 p.m. Please don’t worry as the auditions are simply a chance to hear your voice and get to know you. Bring your passion for music and become part of something special! For more details and to apply, visit www.peninsulasingers.ca.
Beacon Community Services
Beacon Community Services has released its 2024–2025 Annual Report, showcasing the organization’s meaningful contributions across southern Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands.
Over the past year, Beacon has made a significant impact across the region, with more than 114,400 volunteer hours contributed by over 500 volunteers. Additionally, 644,009 thrift items were sold to support sustainability and local services, and 12,831 meals were delivered to vulnerable seniors. Housing support included rental supplements for 95 people and $24,000 per month in eviction-prevention aid. A $77,500 grant from BC Housing enhanced technology and digital access, while the BEAMS mental health program supported 96 clients and connected with over 170 others.
On another note, Beacon Community Services is proud to be recognized as a nominee for the 2025 Carol Matusicky Distinguished Service to Families Award by the BC Council for Families, in recognition of its strong ongoing partnership with the School District 63 (SD63) and the Individual Learning Centre (ILC). This collaboration helps students and families by providing inclusive programming and wraparound support.
Sidney on the Move
Over the past few months there has been somewhat of a Sidney Shuffle, with new storefronts opening, spaces expanding and fresh coats of paint popping up. Cameron Rose Gifts has now opened in the corner space at 2506 Beacon Avenue, just a few doors down from where they were. Refire Kitchen (Sidney) is now at 2506 Beacon and has done a major expansion, offering fantastic products and delicious ready to enjoy meals. Seawards Souvenir & Apparel has moved a few doors down within the same building, featuring more space and more beautiful products. The Peninsula Gallery has relocated from the Landmark Building to a bright, brand-new space at the corner of Bevan Avenue and First Street. With every move and makeover, Sidney’s downtown continues to shine with local flair and charm.
