Ladysmith - Heritage by the Sea

Nestled on the eastern shores of spectacular Vancouver Island, the Town of Ladysmith features all of the warmth and charm of small town living with a full range of services and amenities. Ladysmith is a growing community (population 7,538 in 2006) located just 88 km north of Victoria and 23 km south of Nanaimo.

Ladysmith offers world-class outdoor recreational opportunities; a renowned trail system through picturesque forests; first-class shopping and dining in the historic downtown area; and fun-filled waterfront activities at pristine Transfer Beach.

Coal mining was the industry when James Dunsmuir founded Ladysmith, it was established to give the miners and their families a place for home and recreation. By the mid 1930’s the mines were closed and the town’s fortunes were down until the forestry industry was established.

Since then, logging and milling lumber have continued to play an important role in the town's economic development. Even with the ups and downs of its industrial base, the town of Ladysmith has continued to grow and diversify. The oyster fishery thrives as does pleasure boating and tourism.

To learn more about Ladysmith, click here.

Chemanius - The Little Town that Did

Chemainus, on Vancouver Island's east shore is tucked between the island mountain range and the Gulf Islands of Georgia Strait. As the towns only industry, forestry, was shutting down the enterprising citizens looked to the arts as salvation.

That vision was to encompass the idea of giant outdoor wall murals scattered throughout the main centre of the town. Depicting the history of Chemainus the murals display everything from the arrival of the first immigrants to the beginnings of the lumber industry.

The metamorphosis of Chemainus continued and in 1993 Chemainus Theatre Festival was born. The theatre has brought thousands of fans of the arts to Chemainus with world class theatrical productions. These have ranged from Shakespeare's best to musical and comedy productions.

To learn more about Chemanius, click here.