National Observer, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Island commuters hit a bit of rough water when ferry service between Quadra Island and Campbell River was cancelled all day Tuesday due to a mechanical issue. A problem made all that much worse because of COVID-19.
Continue reading Tuesday’s BC Ferries Shutdown On QuadraNational Observer, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
The shutdown of First Nations communities is more crucial than ever with the sad news that an Indigenous elder from another island has died from COVID-19, says a Quadra Island, B.C., council member.
“My first thought was real sadness to hear this,” We Wai Kai Councillor Ted Lewis said. “It hurts all First Nations to hear this. Quite a few members have family up there, lots of people are related to that community.”
Continue reading Namgis Elder’s Death Heightens ConcernNational Observer, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Lucas Chickite almost didn’t hear it. The Quadra Island fisherman was standing on the bow of the Armada, a vessel working a scallop farm off the east shore of Rebecca Spit, on Thursday at around 6 p.m., when he heard a faint sound over the noise of the engine and hydraulics. The west wind had come up to 20 knots in the afternoon and the water was showing whitecaps. He strained his ears again and looked around, but didn’t see any other boats. He was about to start working, when he heard it again.
“It definitely sounded like someone cried, Help,’” said Chickite. “I starting scanning the horizon and I saw a white hand flash out of the water.”
Continue reading First Nations Fishermen Rescues Kayaker Off Rebecca SpitNational Observer, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Quadra Island, a tourist haven off the eastern coast of Vancouver Island, B.C., is making a request to the visitors that usually flock there: please stay home.
Continue reading Quadra Island Asks Visitors To Stay Away During COVID 19 CrisesOn February 23, the Quadra Island Emergency Support Services Team will practise setting up an Emergency Reception Centre at the Quadra Island Community Centre. Two weeks ago, the SRD’s Protective Services Coordinator asked how feasible it was for CKTZ to deploy its’ “radio in a suitcase” to different locations on Cortes Island. The SRD is currently considering extending its fire protection zones on both Cortes and Quadra Islands. At its last meeting, the SRD Board approved funding to purchase mobile radio kits to enhance emergency “ … communications between the City of Campbell River, Homalco First Nation, and Wei Wai Kai First Nation.” These are only a few recent examples of how the SRD is preparing for an emergency in our area.
Continue reading The SRD Is Preparing For An Emergency
