As economic costs continue due to delays in the aftermath of a wildfire that shut off highway access early this summer, the province has yet to answer calls to consider a permanent alternate route into Port Alberni.

Instead, it will focus on “ensuring the stretch of Highway 4 near Cameron Lake bluffs is restored and fully operational for travel,” says B.C.’s ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure.

The Duncan community gathered on Saturday, July 29 for the unveiling of Cowichan artist Charlene Johnny’s mural in downtown Duncan.

Malinski Painting is a company based in the Cowichan Valley, owned by a Ditidaht member. The company volunteered for four days to lay the primer for the mural at 221 Jubilee Street, and were blanketed for their contribution at the unveiling event.

“It’s nice to see the communities come together,” said Braiden Malinski of Ditidaht.

On July 22 an entangled humpback whale was reported to be seen off the coast of Leonard Lighthouse, near Tofino.

Since the initial sighting Fisheries and Oceans Canada, alongside Strawberry Isle Marine Research Society (SIMRS), have struggled to relocate the humpback and encourage community members to call the DFO marine mammal incident reporting hotline if seen, while remaining 200 meters away.

Tla-o-qui-aht elder and former member of the Survivor’s Committee for the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, Barney Williams, has been named a recipient of the 2023 BC Reconciliation Award.

The award, granted by the Office of the Lieutenant Governor of B.C., recognizes four individuals and two organizations who have demonstrated “exceptional leadership, integrity, respect and commitment to furthering reconciliation with Indigenous peoples in the province.”

On July 17 paid parking in Tofino’s downtown took effect, leaving those living in coastal and remote Nuu-chah-nulth reserves with limited spots due to confusion with new signage during the peak tourist season.

“The parking issue in Tofino is so bad,” said Curt McLeod, Ahousaht resident. “Especially during tourist season.”

Within nine months, the amount of crude oil being shipped by southern Vancouver Island is expected to multiply with the completion of the Trans Mountain pipeline expansion, bringing calls for a stronger Nuu-chah-nulth presence to monitor the activity.