Galiano Island Ablaze (short memoir) by Leanne Dyck

When you live on a remote island there's an ever-present danger that tourists may not be aware of--but should be. This short story explains.

'Galiano as seen from Mayne' photo by ldyck

Map of the Southern Gulf Islands

Galiano Island Ablaze

Usually, Mayne Island (my remote island home) is quiet. In the summer, peace may be broken by a chorus of tree frogs, birds singing, dogs barking, or even the muffled roar of a vehicle driving down the road. But our world of tranquillity exploded last Sunday night. Helicopters circled overhead. Were we being invaded?

Monday, a smell woke me—air thick with...something. 

I turned on CBC radio. Two words—that's all it took—'Galiano' and 'fire'. 

My husband is a volunteer firefighter. He's warned me, "We have 45 minutes to vacate this island if... 45 minutes." 

And...

"Things are so dry that all it would take is a spark."

So no beach fires, campfires, wood stoves, or fireplace fires. No chainsaws. No barbecues. No... 

We islanders know the dangers; heed the warnings.

But...

Tourists? Do they know the risk?

Rumour had spread that tourists were buying firewood, setting beach fires.

But...

And the worst had happened on Galiano Island. It was ablaze. 130 residents were evacuated.

Where would they go?

Living on a remote island fosters self-reliance and a sense of community.

All Mayne Islanders answered as one, "Over here, neighbours. You're welcome over here."

Three Mayne Island firefighters went over to help battle the flames.

On Tuesday, I attended an art council meeting. Present were members from Mayne Island, Saturna Island, Pender Island, and Galiano Island. The members from Galiano Island set our worry to rest, "We're all working together. The fire is contained. Don't worry. We know what to do, and we're doing it."

Yesterday, I turned on the radio and heard, "Galiano Island evacuees have been given permission to return home."

The worst is over, but we all, islanders and tourists, must remember to be careful. 

Written in the early 2000s.

'ferry terminal' photo by ldyck

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State of Emergency Declared As Fire Menaces Galiano Island

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Mayne animal benefit by Leanne Dyck

Happy Canada Day!

I'll be celebrating with friends and neighbours but for your reading pleasure I continue my summer project...

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This article was published in the Islands Independent newspaper on February 2009...

Nestled in the heart of Mayne Island is Rest-Q Animal Sanctuary. The sanctuary provides a home for 130 animals. The animals that were once abandoned, neglected and abused now oink, purr, quack, snort and bark happily in their forever home.

Providing such sadly necessary care is expensive. From where does this funding come? Well, as their web site says, "Rest-Q is a registered charity entirely funded by private donations."

Nan Johnston and Bob Connolly of the singing group "Nan and Bob" wanted to help and were inspired to act. They enlisted the aide of a few friends and are planning a fund raiser. The evening of Saturday, February 14th will be full of Broadway music, poetry, and delicious desserts. All involved have donated their time. All proceeds will be donated to Rest-Q Animal Sanctuary. Tickets are $15 and they are going fast. The Ag Hall doors open at 7:30 a.m. We invite you to come, enjoy, eat and put a little love in your heart.

Rest-Q Animal Sanctuary director, Ty Binfet will be available to answer your questions and receive your donations during the event.

Visit next Monday to read about the exciting outcome of this planning.

Much thanks to Robert for taking these photos.

After this article was published Rest.Q Animal Sanctuary was moved to Galiano Island (a sister island to Mayne Island). Here you can learn more about the sanctuary, the wonderful animals they care for and how you can help.
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