History will be made next week as the Kinsol Trestle is set to be unveiled after an extensive rehabilitation to the structure. Having spanned the Koksilah River for more than 90 years, this “Jewel in the Crown” of the Cowichan Valley has been a vital part of rail travel on Vancouver Island. Standing at 44m high and 188m long, the Kinsol Trestle is the largest wooden trestle in all of Canada!
“After so much hard work, we are very pleased that the day has finally come to celebrate the completion of the rehabilitation of this magnificent structure,” shared Gerry Giles, Cowichan Valley Regional District (CVRD) Board Chair.
“The trestle rehabilitation project was a significant undertaking by the CVRD that would not have been possible without the generous support received from major sponsors, local businesses, community groups and individuals – all of whom share a desire to preserve an important feature of Cowichan’s history,” Giles continued.
The Cowichan Valley Trail is part of Vancouver Island’s Trans Canada Trail route. With the addition of a new walkway on top of the structure, the trestle has been transformed into a safe, vital connector on the Cowichan Valley Trail.
The community is invited to celebrate this historic grand re-opening along with former Duncan mayor, Michael Coleman. Residents are welcome at this family-friendly event on Thursday, July 28th at 11:00 a.m. Refreshments, entertainment and information booths will be on hand.
Those wishing to be a part of the grand opening celebration can take a quick shuttle from the Shawnigan Lake Community Centre (2804 Shawnigan Lake Road) starting at 10 a.m. Make sure you bring sturdy shoes as the walk from the drop-off spot to the trestle site is about 15 minutes. For more information, visit the Cowichan Valley Regional District online.
2. On September 11th I’ll be participating in the BC-SPCA’s Paws For A Cause fundraiser – for the fourth time! Please considering donating to this extremely worthwhile cause and offering support to Jordy and I! Click here to read more.
The 100-mile diet movement is certainly nothing new and nowhere is that diet easier to adhere to than on Vancouver Island. Anything and everything your body needs to stay healthy is all within your fingertips from artisan cheese and organic greens to fresh dairy products and tasty grains.
Launched in 2001, the Cowichan Green Community (CGC) is dedicated to “promote environmental sustainability in the Cowichan Valley with a focus on cultivating a strong and vibrant local food system” – a commitment the group takes very seriously. With a home base in Duncan, the CGC encourages nourished living through community events, workshops and various campaigns and projects.
The Eat Local! Eat Fresh! Fundraising Feast celebrates the culinary abundance our Island has to offer, featuring food that is entirely locally sourced and excitedly prepared by a show-stopping catering team. With vino offerings from Cherry Point Vineyards and True Grain Bread on hand to tempt with mouth-watering desserts, the event promises to please every palate.

This feast-for-all happens Friday, September 30th at Alderlea Farm‘s brand new cafe found at 3390 Glenora Road in Duncan [map]. Apart from the savoury eats, the evening also features a silent auction, live entertainment and door prizes.
Tickets are $50 for CGC members and $60 for non-members with 100% of the proceeds to benefit CGC’s continuing initiatives, including the Farm To School lunch program. Tickets can be purchased at the Cowichan Green Community at 181 Station Street in Duncan [map]. Find them on Twitter for the latest updates.