Rare Flowers, Rare Find

 




Pulpstone Column on Newcastle Island intended for notable buildings such as the U.S. San Francisco Mint

 

After arriving at Nanaimo in the evening via Gabriola and Commodore Passages, we moored at Newcastle Island, a fascinating Provincial Park.  A detailed description of the island’s history can be found in the Waggoner Guide and in our blogs from previous years; those visiting for the first time won’t want to miss the pulpstone quarry left over from the late 1800’s which operated until the early 1930’s.  Our dog, Java, loves the open fields, trails, and beach walks.  Visiting the Dinghy Dock Pub on adjacent Protection Island is another unique experience.  During nesting season, walk onto the island via the ramp behind the pub and turn right to see the numerous Herons nesting in the trees.  A quiet walk helps to preserve these nesting areas from human disturbance.  

Port of Nanaimo docks

The following morning we moved the boat across the bay to Port Nanaimo.  

Walkways around the Harbour, a nice afternoon stroll

The city has much to offer including shops, good restaurants, museums, and performing arts.  A shopping mall with a grocery store and housewares is located within easy walking distance of the marina docks.  After gathering a few provisions, we headed across the Strait of Georgia with flat, calm seas and overcast skies.  Just north of Nanaimo we approached a group of small islands and islets called the Ballenas-Winchelsea Archipelago, a collection of 19 islands.  While motoring past the islets, we were surprised to discover a small boat tucked between the islands at the north end of South Winchelsea Island.  Upon closer inspection, the boat had tied-up at an old dock and was getting ready to depart so we pulled in, wanting to investigate further.  

Got d' Fever and a fishing boat at S. Winchelsea Island

Clearly, the dock had not been maintained in a number of years and had rusty cleats and moss covered decking with a few rotten boards.  The posted sign indicated that the island belonged to The Nature Conservancy (TLC) of B.C. (250-479-8053); No camping, campfires, or pets allowed ashore. 

This 25-acrea ecological preserve has a number of rare plant species, including Garry Oak, Arbutus, Oceanspray, Camas Lilly and Chocolate Lilly.  This is also the site for nesting and resting bird species; Steller Sea Lions haul out on the banks of the adjacent North Winchelsea Island. 

According the TLC web site, visitors can stop here but should stay on the trail to protect the fragile plants; the trail starts at the west end of the house (once used by kayak tour groups) and is marked with posts; the first part of the trail is a little overgrown and may be hard to find. 

A sport fishing boat soon arrived and tied-up at the dock, a convenient stop for them to clean their catch off the stern of the boat, providing discarded pieces to the seagulls and sea lions.  Perhaps this dock on South Winchelsea Island is a local’s best kept secret. 

It’s a lovely place to visit; the rare wildflowers and shrubs are interspersed among the rock outcroppings, creating some nice opportunities for photos.  

Guest Dock at South Winchelsea Island

Continuing across the Strait of Georgia, we arrived at False Bay on Lasqueti Island to spend the evening at anchor.