Author: Mia Richardson

North Saanich author Meg Todd has released her debut novel, Most Grievous Fault, a moving story that delves into love, trauma, and the challenges of motherhood. The book, published on October 7, highlights issues such as marginalization, addiction, and the growing cracks in Canada’s social safety net, both in small towns and large cities. The novel follows 29-year-old Crystal Constantine, a single mother navigating her past while raising her daughter, Becky. Their relationship reflects the cycles of trauma and love that can exist across generations. Todd’s portrayal of their bond emphasizes the complexity of human connections and the impact of…

A North Saanich couple is mourning the loss of one of their alpacas, Dua, following a cougar attack on their Nitinat Road acreage early Thursday, July 3. The couple, who chose to remain anonymous, shared the incident on the Sidney/North Saanich Facebook page. They said the attack occurred between 4 and 5 a.m., and they saw the cougar immediately after it struck Dua. A photo of the cougar, provided by a neighbour, was also shared online. Sidney/North Saanich RCMP and a B.C. conservation officer were contacted promptly. According to the couple, the conservation officer indicated that since no human life…

For music lovers on Vancouver Island, Jazz Vespers North Saanich is more than a concert series. It is a unique way to enjoy jazz in a reflective and spiritual setting. The popular program begins its 16th season on September 7, offering an exciting lineup of Canadian and international talent. This season will launch with Grammy-nominated musician Morry Stearns, who brings decades of experience and artistry to the stage. The program, held at St. John’s United Church, has become a cultural highlight in the region. Combining the structure of an evening prayer service with live jazz, the series creates an atmosphere…

The B.C. Aviation Museum is seeking public support for a new hangar in North Saanich. The expansion aims to protect historic aircraft and provide more space for visitors. The museum currently operates from limited space, making it difficult to store and display its growing collection. Leaders say the new hangar will allow the museum to properly preserve historic planes and improve visitor experiences. The planned facility will feature climate-controlled storage, interactive exhibits, and educational programs. Officials hope it will attract more tourists and aviation enthusiasts to the region. Community members, local politicians, and aviation fans have been invited to back…

A wave of resignations has struck the North Saanich Fire Department, as firefighters voice concerns about a toxic work environment and management decisions that could impact taxpayers. Since April 2024, 13 paid-on-call (POC) firefighters have left the department, citing workplace challenges following the leave of Chief John Trelford for personal reasons. The unrest began when the POC firefighters became the first on-call group in British Columbia to unionize with the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) on May 29. The unionization was driven by ongoing frustrations with management practices and workplace culture. Several firefighters told investigators that the environment at…

A North Saanich couple is grieving the loss of their alpaca, Dua, after a cougar attack on their property along Nitinat Road early Thursday, July 3. The attack, which happened in the early morning hours, has left the couple shaken and their community more aware of the risks of living close to wildlife. The couple, who chose not to share their names, explained that the tragedy occurred between 4 and 5 a.m. They said they saw the cougar right after it struck their alpaca. A neighbor later shared a photo of the cougar that was also posted online as a…

A tribute was held at the BC Aviation Museum at Victoria International Airport on Saturday, August 9, to honour the Royal Canadian Navy pilot awarded the Victoria Cross. As the Royal Canadian Navy named its sixth Arctic offshore patrol ship, HMCS Robert Hampton Gray, in Halifax, members of the Canadian Armed Forces joined the Vancouver Island Branch of the Naval Association for a ceremony remembering the navy hero at the North Saanich museum. The event included wreath-laying and the sounding of the Last Post and Rouse. It commemorated the actions of Lt. Robert Hampton Gray 80 years ago on the…

A critical shortage of volunteers is putting the future of Dominion Brook Park in North Saanich at risk. The park, an 11-acre historic green space, has relied on a small but dedicated group of volunteers. But as summer growth peaks, the need for more hands has become urgent. The Friends of Dominion Brook Park Society, the group in charge of the park’s upkeep, has issued a call for more community members to step in. With just around 11 active volunteers, the group is struggling to keep up with basic tasks like pruning, weeding, watering, and planting. Nancy Johnson, the society’s…

The North Saanich Rod and Gun Club is opening its doors to families, friends, and newcomers to celebrate National Range Day. This annual event, held across Canada, aims to promote safe, responsible, and inclusive firearms sports for all Canadians. On June 7, the North Saanich range on McTavish Road will welcome visitors from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event is designed to give people of all ages and skill levels the chance to explore sport shooting in a secure and welcoming environment. National Range Day is observed every year around the first Saturday of June. Its main goal is…