The Cowichan Tribes and the Cowichan Stewardship Roundtable are jointly hosting Cowichan River Day on Sunday, Sept. 21 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The Quw'utsun Sta'lo' has been the heartbeat of the Cowichan People since time immemorial and is a provincially and nationally designated Heritage River, organizers said in a press release.
There will be performances by Tzinquaw Dancers, and opportunities to learn Quw'utsun teachings, make salmon art, meet birds of prey, and learn about the watershed.
Gather at Black Bridge Beach, on Cowichan Tribes private property. Parking will be available behind Si'em Lelum Gym, 5574 River Rd., Duncan. From the parking area, it is a short walk to the river site.
This event is free and everyone is welcome. Please wear an orange shirt, and bring your water bottle and plate if you are coming for lunch.
For more details, visit: cowichanstewardship.com/riverday
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In the tradition of St. Francis of Assisi, the Patron Saint of Animals, Reverend Greg Darjes, the minister at the Chemainus United Church on Willow Street, will be conducting a Blessing of the Animals service on Sunday, Sept. 21.
The service, beginning at 10 a.m. is an acknowledgement and celebration of our relationship with all creatures, said a press release for the event. People are welcome to attend in the sanctuary with their companion pets (on leash or in a carrier), ashes/photos of past/present pets, or even favourite stuffies to be blessed during the service.
Attendees with their pets will receive a small St. Francis of Assisi medal which can be attached to a collar or draped over a picture frame.
Light refreshments will be offered following the service and there will be an opportunity to mingle with the animals, including Belle, a 25-year-old Austrian mountain pony. Join us for this family friendly service.
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The Xwulqw'selu Government-to-Government Planning Team is inviting the community to an open house on the Koksilah Watershed and Water Sustainability Plan on Thursday, Sept. 25.
The purpose of the open house is to increase awareness of the Xwulqw'selu watershed planning process; provide an opportunity for public input on actions being considered for the plan; and kick off upcoming engagement about the draft plan for 2025-2026.
This drop-in event will feature several interactive stations where you can speak directly with the project team. Topics will include Cowichan Tribes teachings, history and ongoing stewardship, potential regulatory approaches to water use, practical water storage and conservation solutions, and the role of restoration and land use in the health of the watershed.
There will also be a mini market of local producers and their food.
The event takes place from 3-7 p.m. at the Quw'utsun Cultural Centre.
For more information, visit koksilahwater.ca
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The Mill Bay/Malahat Historical Society invites the community to an unforgettable afternoon of storytelling with aviation historian and former Cathay Pacific pilot, Steve Nichol on Saturday, Sept. 27.
The event will feature two remarkable stories, organizers said in a press release.
The first is that of the Hawaii Martin Mars Water Bomber. Discover the history of the largest Allied flying boat built by the U.S. Navy prior to the Second World War. After being decommissioned, it became a firefighting legend over the forests of Vancouver Island.
The second is that of a rescue in the Mid-Atlantic. Relive the harrowing experience of Yves Le Cornec, adrift for days in the Atlantic, and the miraculous rescue that followed.
With his ease, wit, and outstanding delivery, Steve Nichol promises to have audiences fascinated and on the edge of their seats, organizers promised.
"Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of two historic and thrilling aviation adventures!" said organizers.
The event takes place from 1-4 p.m., with doors opening at 12:15 p.m. at the Mill Bay Community Hall (1035 Shawnigan Mill Bay Road).
Admission is free.
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Cowichan Valley artist Jennifer Lawson is hosting a one-day workshop on Sunday, Sept. 28 on watercolour painting.
"Have fun and enjoy a unique experience in one of B.C.'s most beautiful locations," Lawson said in the press release. "All you need to bring is yourself! We work together step-by-step with a playful fun approach from initial concept through to completed painting. I keep the group small enough so that I can work one on one with each painter as required."
Everyone, beginner through experienced artist, is invited. The workshop runs from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and all supplies are included, as well as a meal, snacks and wine. The cost is $225 per person. Space is limited. Book at [email protected].
Lawson's work is also on display in the big window at Imagine That! gallery in downtown Duncan until Sept. 26.
