Events

Archana Cini, Lookout Newspaper; with files from the Government of Canada - From Aug 31 to Sept 2, the Fairmont Empress Hotel and the Victoria Conference Centre (VCC) became one of the most secure square kilometres on Canada’s West Coast for the 2026 Indo-Pacific Chiefs of Defence Conference (PACOM CHODS).   The three-day international conference was co-hosted by General (Gen) Jennie Carignan, Canada’s Chief of the Defence Staff, and Admiral (Adm) Samuel Paparo, Commander of U.S. Pacific Command, and held under the theme Strengthening Collective Security: Navigating Challenges in a Dynamic Indo-Pacific Landscape. The conference traditionally rotates annually between Hawaii, home to U.S. Pacific Command, and partner nations across the region, like Hawaii (2024), and Thailand (2025). This year’s 28th PACOM CHODS marked the largest guest list in the conference’s history, with 32 invited countries in comparison to just six in 2016. This is also the second time the conference has returned to Canada, with its 2017 iteration also held in Victoria. The goal of the annual event is to promote mutual understanding and interoperability among senior military leaders while discussing shared challenges and opportunities.  [caption id="attachment_360910" align="alignright" width="300"] Senior military leaders representing 30 delegations and 29 countries gather for a photo during the 28th annual PACOM CHODS conference in Victoria on Sept 1.Photo: Cpl Mark Wanzel, CAF Imagery[/caption]  The Honourable David J. McGuinty, Canada’s Minister of National Defence, welcomed delegates during the 2026 PACOM CHODs opening ceremony by framing the conference around shared responsibility despite differences.   “Our geography may be different; our capabilities may be different; but the responsibility is shared,” said McGuinty. “To protect our people, to defend our sovereignty, to preserve peace, and to be ready when that peace is tested.” He then pointed to a busy year of Indo-Pacific engagement for Canada, including new defence dialogues launched with South Korea, India, and Japan; joint exercises with the Philippines; and the appointment of Canada’s first senior military representative...

Archana Cini, Lookout Newspaper Join us!  Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Esquimalt’s annual Ship to Shore Industrial Tradeshow returns on Tuesday, Oct 6, bringing more than 40 industry suppliers and partners to the Naden Athletic Centre to showcase new technologies, products, services, and opportunities to the local Defence community.  Presented by the Lookout Newspaper and Creative Services, the event will run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and feature a variety of indoor and outdoor displays, demonstrations, and engagements for attendees and local industry professionals.   New at this year’s tradeshow is the Industry Connect Hub, a dedicated space that will give Defence community members and industry professionals the ability to meet, exchange ideas, and discover new opportunities for professional growth. Alongside the event’s displays and demonstrations, attendees can also enjoy a complimentary gourmet burger lunch while connecting with the vendors, colleagues, and industry partners around them.  The Ship to Shore Tradeshow is free to attend for all local Defence community members.  Thank you to this year's Ship to Shore sponsor: Thank you to this year's Ship to Shore community partners:   Meet the 2026 Vendors  Western Equipment Ltd   KMS Tools  Point Hope Maritime Ltd   Industrial Plastics and Paints (The Redco Group)  Costco Wholesale  Calgary Police Service  New-Line Hose & Fittings   NLS Products  MarineLabs Data Systems  Willis College  University of Victoria Continuing Studies  Wesco Distribution Canada  Cloverdale Paint Inc  EB Horsman  Helmets to Hardhats  Grand & Toy  Levitt-Safety Limited  Grainger Canada  RCMP E Div Recruiting  Local 258 IBEW  Purolator   Commander Warehouse  Snap-On Tools of Canada  3M   Service First Limited   Fastenal Canada LTD  Testforce Systems Inc  Makita Canada Power Tools  Motion Industries   Velocity Bolting  Fountain Tire  Elec-Tech Sales Ltd  Transition Unit   Recruitment and Talent Strategies Team  Veterans Services  Fleet Maintenance Facility (FMF)  NDWCC   BMO  WestJet  Staples Canada Allredi Blast & Abrasives Canada  And more! 

Archana Cini, Lookout Newspaper Members of the local Defence community gathered at Work Point for Formation Fun Day 2026. Families enjoyed a wide offering of indoor activities, outdoor attractions, and more. The annual event brought the community together for an anticipated afternoon of fun and connection. - More than a decade of Formation Fun Day traditions met a new home this year as the Defence Team community gathered at Work Point on Sept 12 for an afternoon of family fun, food and connection.   [caption id="attachment_360822" align="alignleft" width="300"] A parent and child engages with one of many indoor activity booths during Formation Fun Day 2026.Photo: Cpl Conor Munn, CAF Imagery[/caption] The move to Work Point marked a new chapter for the annual event, offering more space for both indoor activities and outdoor engagements. Attendees made their way to the Nixon Building and surrounding grounds, exploring more than 25 indoor activities and booths and a full lineup of outdoor attractions, including the popular RHIB rides.  Inside the Nixon Building, families and community members enjoyed everything from face painting, glitter tattoos and a photo booth to a Super Mario bouncy castle, mini putt, a golf simulator and a 20-foot obstacle course. Community organizations and hobby clubs also welcomed attendees throughout the afternoon.  [caption id="attachment_360823" align="alignright" width="300"] A caricaturist sketches people during Formation Fun Day 2026.Photo: Cpl Conor Munn, CAF Imagery.[/caption] Outside, the Work Point grounds were filled with activity, including rock climbing, Euro bungee, battle archery, obstacle courses, bounce slides, yard games, a marketplace, and a dedicated Five and Under Zone. Live music, balloon twisting, caricatures and static displays from across the Defence community added to the atmosphere. Food, treats, and refreshments were also available throughout the event, while children took part in a scavenger hunt by collecting stamps in event passports for a chance to win prizes.  We can’t wait to welcome...

Archana Cini, Lookout Newspaper CFB Esquimalt hosted the first of three Indigenous drum-making workshops this summer, bringing Defence Team members and their families together. Participants learned about Indigenous teachings and made traditional hand drums using elk hide, wood and sinew under the guidance of the Aunty Collective. Base leadership emphasized the importance of cultural learning, meaningful relationships and ongoing engagement in reconciliation. - On Aug 13, the Wardoom Lower Lounge filled with the gentle sound of stories being exchanged and sinew being threaded and pulled tight. The morning represented the first of three Indigenous drum-making workshops this summer hosted by the Defence Indigenous Advisory Group (DIAG) and facilitated by the Aunty Collective, an Indigenous women-led cultural practice hub.   This first session was designed as a family workshop, inviting civilian and uniformed Defence Team members to attend with a child, parent, sibling, partner, or another person they consider family. Through the course of the morning, each pair built a traditional hand drum together. Facilitated by Sarah Rhude, known as Rhudey, artist and co-founder of the Aunty Collective, the workshop opened the way Indigenous gatherings often begin: in a circle, with no head or foot, where all are equal. Participants passed an eagle feather around, through each other’s hands, introducing themselves and where they or their ancestors are from. Aunty Collective facilitators then sang the “Strong Women Song” together.   “We sing this song to each other. It is so that we keep each other strong,” said Rhudey. Participants were invited to hold someone in mind through the singing, whether a family member, stranger, or simply themselves.  [caption id="attachment_360142" align="alignright" width="450"] A workshop facilitator from the Aunty Collective demonstrates how to thread sinew during the Aug 13 workshop. Photo: A/SLt Mike Samuels, RCN[/caption] The group then moved into the drum making, learning to stretch damp elk hide over a hollow, round wood base. A long strip of sinew was then used to weave the...

Archana Cini, Lookout Newspaper YOU’RE INVITED!  Date: September 12, 2026  Time: 12 pm – 4 pm  NEW Venue: Work Point (Nixon Building and surrounding grassy areas) - For more than a decade, Formation Fun Day has celebrated the Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Esquimalt community with vendors, music, food, drink, and activities like rock climbing, face painting, and bubble shows. Drawing more than 1,000 attendees year after year, Formation Fun Day is designed to provide an afternoon of good times and connection for the local Defence community.  This year’s event brings an exciting change for attendees: Formation Fun Day 2026 is moving to Work Point from its long-time venue at the Naden Athletic Centre. With the Nixon Building anchoring the indoor fun and the surrounding grassy areas opening space for games, food, play, and performances, Work Point will offer the kind of layout that turns an afternoon into an adventure.    What’s Inside: the Nixon Building  [caption id="attachment_359355" align="alignleft" width="300"] A balloonist places a twisted balloon on a child's head during Formation Fun Day 2025. Photo: Lindsay Groves, Lookout Newspaper[/caption] Step inside for an exploration of more than 25 activities and booths, including face painting and glitter tattoos with Sparkle Storm; as well as engaging experiences from Kaleidoscope Theatre, the Victoria Conservatory of Music, Enchanted Fables, and the Greater Victoria Public Library. Community groups like the Scouts, Girl Guides, and the Esquimalt Proton Pulverizers STEM Robotics team will also be found indoors, alongside hobbyist clubs including the Base Model Railway Club, Vic LEGO Users Group (LUG), and the Base Golf Association. Indoor activities will include: a golf simulator and mini putt; a photo booth; a 20-foot obstacle course; and a Super Mario bouncy castle and slide. Attendees will also be able to drop by resource booths from BMO, CFMWS HR/Recruitment, MFRC Programs, CANEX, and SISIP.     What’s Outside: Work Point Grounds ...

Archana Cini, Lookout Newspaper Cdr Michael Edmonds assumed command of HMCS Vancouver from Cdr Malorie Aubrey during an Aug 7 ceremony at C Jetty. Cdr Aubrey, who commanded Vancouver since May 2025, reflected on her time with the ship’s company as one of the most rewarding periods of her career. Cdr Edmonds brings a career that began as a Naval Reservist in 1995 as Vancouver continues its longstanding operational service. - On Aug 7, the company of His Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Vancouver gathered at C Jetty, His Majesty’s Canadian Dockyard, for a Change of Command ceremony. The event saw command of the vessel pass from Commander (Cdr) Malorie Aubrey, outgoing Commanding Officer (CO), to Cdr Michael Edmonds, incoming CO. The ceremony was presided over by Commodore (Cmdre) Blair Brown, Commander Canadian Fleet Pacific (CCFP).    [caption id="attachment_359345" align="alignleft" width="300"] (Left to right) Cdr Malorie Aubrey, Outgoing CO of HMCS Vancouver, and Cdr Blair Brown, CCFP, pose for a photo during the Change of Command ceremony on Aug 7. Photo: S1 Kyle Maguire, MARPAC Imaging[/caption] Following the arrival of Cmdre Brown and the singing of the national anthem, both Cdr Aubrey and Cmdre Brown addressed those gathered before official Change of Command certificates were signed. Cdr Edmonds then addressed the ship’s company for the first time as Vancouver’s CO. Cdr Aubrey was also presented with gifts from the Junior Ranks Mess, Wardroom, and Chiefs’ and Petty Officers’ Mess before the ship’s company manned the side and  Cdr Aubrey, the outgoing CO, walked ashore off the brow.  Cdr Aubrey, who was born and raised in Petawawa, Ont., joined the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) in 2006 after developing a love of the water on the Ottawa River. She assumed command of HMCS Vancouver on May 5, 2025. Cdr Aubrey credited the ship’s company for making her time in command “the most rewarding period...

SLt Christopher Hofing, MARPAC Public Affairs  S3 Neil Pontejos represented the RCN during a Flag Party supporting the visit of Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Prime Minister Mark Carney. The Surrey-raised sailor carried the Philippine flag during the ceremony, creating a meaningful personal connection. The experience highlighted the importance of preparation, teamwork, and pride in representing the RCN. - Sailor 3rd Class (S3) Neil Alen Pontejos, a Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) sailor raised in Surrey, B.C., participated in a Flag Party at the Vancouver Convention Centre on July 2 in support of the official visit of Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos, and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney.  For S3 Pontejos, the opportunity to represent the RCN during a high-profile international engagement just months after graduating from basic military training was an experience he will not soon forget.  “It felt a little bit surreal,” said S3 Pontejos. “I've been to the convention centre before as a civilian, but being there in uniform was completely different.”  Born in the Philippines and raised in B.C. after moving to Canada in 2008, S3 Pontejos enrolled into the RCN on Feb 23 and is currently posted to Naval Fleet School(Pacific) (NFS(P)), where he is awaiting training to become a Naval Communicator. Selected for the Flag Party based on his drill performance, he spent several days rehearsing alongside fellow sailors before the event.  During the ceremony, S3 Pontejos carried the Philippine flag, adding a personal connection to an already memorable experience. He described seeing the visiting dignitaries in person as a unique moment.  “I found out the day before that the Prime Minister would actually be there,” he said. “Then suddenly he appeared right in front of us. It was definitely something I wasn't expecting.”  For S3 Pontejos, the event reinforced the importance of preparation, teamwork, and attention to detail. Sailors spent days rehearsing movements and ensuring that uniforms met the highest standards before stepping into an environment surrounded by media and public attention. ...

Archana Cini, Lookout Newspaper. CFB Esquimalt officially welcomed Capt(N) Douglas Layton as Base Commander during a Change of Command ceremony on July 21. Capt(N) Kevin Whiteside reflected on three years of leadership, highlighting the strength of the Defence community and its people. RAdm David Patchell praised both leaders as CFB Esquimalt prepares for continued growth, modernization, and future operations. - Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Esquimalt welcomed a new Base Commander during a Change of Command ceremony held on July 21 at the CFB Esquimalt Naval and Military Museum Square. Presided over by Rear-Admiral (RAdm) David Patchell, Commander, Maritime Forces Pacific (MARPAC) and Joint Task Force (Pacific) (JTF(P)), the ceremony marked the transfer of command from Captain(N) (Capt(N)) Kevin Whiteside to Capt(N) Douglas Layton. The event united military and civilian members of the Defence Team, veterans, local leaders, and community partners to both recognize Capt(N) Whiteside’s leadership over the past three years and welcome Capt(N) Layton to the role. In his farewell address, Capt(N) Whiteside looked back on three years as Base Commander, describing the role as “the professional honour of a lifetime.” While he highlighted accomplishments ranging from new infrastructure and housing initiatives to strengthened Indigenous partnerships and environmental stewardship, he repeatedly returned to what he believed mattered most: people. [caption id="attachment_353523" align="aligncenter" width="600"] Outgoing Base Commander Capt(N) Kevin Whiteside converses with a guest during the July 21 Change of Command ceremony. Photo: MCpl William Gosse, MARPAC Imaging[/caption] “As I look around this parade square today, one word comes to mind,” said Capt(N) Whiteside. “Community.” He also offered words of encouragement to his successor. “Doug, I cannot think of a better person to be taking the lead of Canada’s finest base,” he said. “This team and this community will rally with you every step of the way.” Presiding over the...

Archana Cini, Lookout Newspaper. More than 550 participants and supporters attended the 20th annual CFB Esquimalt Navy Run. The event featured a new Work Point race route, kids' activities, and a free pancake breakfast. Community members, military personnel, sponsors, and families came together to celebrate two decades of Navy Run tradition. - More than 550 participants and supporters filled Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Esquimalt this weekend as the 20th anniversary Navy Run returned with a new starting location at Work Point. For the first time, event registrants took on a new scenic race route, a change that quickly became a highlight of the day. Set alongside a waterfront backdrop and the local Esquimalt community, the course brought both challenge and beauty as participants noted that the shift added fresh energy. [caption id="attachment_337167" align="alignleft" width="400"] Sun Oystrek celebrates her 63rd birthday at the 20th annual CFB Esquimalt Navy Run on June 20. Photo: Joseph Camilleri[/caption] “Watching everyone come together with a positive attitude and such good energy was a highlight of the day,” said Gillian Larsen, Co-Race Director of Navy Run and Personnel Support Programs (PSP) Manager Community Recreation. “We also had a special naval addition this year with the ringing of the bell to officially start the run – that felt really meaningful.” CFB Esquimalt leadership and community members also took part in the race, including Captain(Navy) (Capt(Navy)) Whiteside, Commander of CFB Esquimalt, and Mayor of the Township of Esquimalt Barbara Desjardins, reinforcing the strong connection between the base and surrounding community. On the course, both the 5K and 10K race options saw strong performances, with medals awarded to the top three finishers in each category. (Podium finishers listed below.) Beyond the race itself, a free pancake breakfast was served by the Esquimalt Military Family Resource Centre (EMFRC). This new...

Archana Cini, Lookout Newspaper. Inaugural charity motorcycle ride brought together over 100 riders during PTSD Awareness Month. Event raised awareness of life after service and supported veteran-focused charities. - June marks Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Awareness Month, a time dedicated to increasing understanding of the invisible injuries that can affect Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members, veterans, and their families after military service has ended.  For many within Canada's Defence community, PTSD and other operational stress injuries can impact daily life in ways that are often unseen. For CAF members and veterans, PTSD can manifest in many forms, including anxiety, sleep disturbance, hypervigilance, emotional numbness, or difficulty reintegrating into civilian life. Effects often extend beyond the individual, impacting families and support networks as well. While clinical treatment and professional support remain essential to the recovery process, community connection and peer support also play an important role in helping veterans navigate life after service.  This message was at the heart of the inaugural ‘Kickstands Up for Veterans’ charity motorcycle ride, held June 20 and organized by the League of Veterans Canada under the theme Life After Service. As such, more than 100 riders and approximately 120 participants, volunteers, veterans, family members, and community supporters gathered for the event, which began at the Veterans Food Bank before following a self-guided route across Vancouver Island and concluding at Barnes Harley-Davidson.  Created as a way to support veterans while raising awareness of the challenges many face after leaving the military, all funds from the event will be donated to two charities: Vancouver Island Service Dogs, and the Veterans Food Bank. Both organizations provide practical assistance to veterans facing challenges during their transition to civilian life.  "The League of Veterans Canada wanted to find a way to give back to the veteran community," explained Yance Sheehan, event organizer and CAF veteran. "Kickstands Up for Veterans came to be as a way to ride, raise awareness regarding PTSD, support two important causes, and remind veterans that they have not been...

Archana Cini, Lookout Newspaper. More than 160 cyclists participated in the 2026 CFB Esquimalt Navy Bike Ride. Participants have raised over $35,000 for Support Our Troops, Soldier On, and the Navalis Foundation. The event brought together riders, volunteers, vendors, and families for a day of community and connection. - Cyclists, families, volunteers, and supporters came together on May 30 for the 2026 CFB Esquimalt Navy Bike Ride.   A growing tradition of community connection and fundraising for Support Our Troops, Soldier On, and The Navalis Foundation, three organizations dedicated to the well-being of current and former Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) sailors and their families, the event welcomed over 160 registered participants riding through either an 18-kilometre or 36-km route. This year’s ride saw both an increase in overall riders, as well as a notable increase in riders taking on the longer 36-km route.   [caption id="attachment_336886" align="aligncenter" width="600"] A participant cycles along the course during the 2026 CFB Esquimalt Navy Bike Ride on May 30. Photo: S1 Kyle Maguire, MARPAC Imaging[/caption] Beyond the ride itself, the impact of the Navy Bike Ride extends well beyond the kilometres travelled. As of mid-June, participants had raised over $35,000 through peer-to-peer fundraising efforts, already surpassing the total raised during the 2025 campaign. Donations will continue to be accepted until June 30.   For many participants, however, the event’s greatest success was the atmosphere of the day itself.  “This community-building event had great energy,” said Matthew Carlson, CFB Esquimalt Navy Bike Ride Director. “People were smiling, enjoying the music, and connecting with supportive vendors. Overall, participants experienced a warm community atmosphere on a perfect day to ride.”   This sense of connection has long been at the heart of the Navy Bike Ride, which has bought together cyclists of varying experience levels for years.  The annual CFB Esquimalt Navy Bike...

Lindsay Groves, Lookout Newspaper.   Defence Team members and community allies gathered at Clover Point for Red Dress Day in solidarity with MMIWG2S+ awareness. The event emphasized healing through movement, reflection, and community connection under the theme “Movement is Medicine.” - At Clover Point on May 5, members and allies of the Indigenous Community and the Defence Team gathered for the event, “Movement is Medicine,” in recognition of Red Dress Day — the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and 2SLGBTQIA+ people (MMIWG2S+). This event, coordinated by Caitlin Hancock of Fleet Maintenance Facility (FMF), aimed to raise awareness of MMIWG2S+, support the effort to end gendered and racialized violence against Indigenous peoples, and encourage healing, reflection, and community support. Participants were invited to wear red, walk, run, or wheel in solidarity. Sergeant (Sgt) Nate (Nathan) Spence, a member of the Sandy Bay First Nation in Manitoba (Man.) and the Military Co-Chair of the Pacific region's Defence Indigenous Advisory Group (DIAG), opened the event with a land acknowledgement spoken in his Anishinaabemowin language. He then shared his own deep connection to Red Dress Day. “For me, this movement is not abstract,” he said. “It is not symbolic. It is personal.” His aunt, Charlene Ward-Lake, was murdered on Nov 1, 2007 — “a day forever engraved in my mind, my heart, and my soul,” Sgt Spence shared. He continued to share how the violence of that day did not end with her passing. It flowed through her loved ones, leaving Ward-Lake’s daughters without their mother and her grandchildren without their grandmother. Those left behind are now without Ward-Lake’s “laughter, her warmth, and the joy she brought,” Sgt Spence said. Instead, her family is left “with an absence that cannot be filled.” Sgt Spence continued, saying that within...

Archana Cini, Lookout Newspaper. Contributions by Lindsay Chung, CFMWS The 2026 Navy Bike Ride returns May 30 to CFB Esquimalt with new national ambassadors and creative event elements. The in-person event supports military charities while bringing together community members, families, and cyclists. Registration is now open. - This year’s Navy Bike Ride (NBR) is getting a fresh burst of creativity, and Esquimalt riders will be among the first to experience it.  The Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) has announced the appointment of the first NBR National Ambassadors: Eric Chan, a Canadian artist known professionally as EEPMON, and Tanya Woods, founder of Project In-Kind The new national ambassador roles are intended to help grow awareness of the annual cycling event; inspire participation across Canada; and strengthen support for the three charitable organizations the ride benefits — the Navalis Foundation, Support Our Troops, and Soldier On — causes that directly support serving members, veterans, and their families.   “Our Navy’s strength lies not only in its operational excellence, but in the people and communities that stand behind it,” said Vice-Admiral (VAdm) Angus Topshee, Commander of the RCN. “EEPMON and Tanya Woods bring leadership, vision, and a deep commitment to service.”   The annual NBR event offers a chance for local residents, Defence Team members, and supporters alike to come together in a positive, active way.   [caption id="attachment_335958" align="alignleft" width="571"] (Left to right) 2026 Navy Bike Ride ambassadors Eric Chan and Tanya Woods. Photo supplied[/caption] For Chan, the mission behind the NBR was an easy one to support. “The dedication of Canada’s sailors and the families who support them inspires me,” he said. “I’m excited to help grow the Navy Bike Ride and support the amazing charitable organizations that make a real difference in people’s lives.”  Woods echoed this sentiment. “The Navy Bike Ride brings Canadians together in such a meaningful way,” she said. “It’s an honour to help...

Archana Cini, Lookout Newspaper Defence Team members at CFB Esquimalt gathered at Work Point’s Nixon Gym on Jan 21 for a free guided yoga practice in recognition of Bell Let’s Talk Day 2026. Hosted by MARPAC’s Mental and Social Wellness Working Group, the session encouraged DND staff to 'take a moment for mental health'. PSP instructor Allison Jones shared how yoga supports resilience, stress management, and community, while mental health resources were available on site to reinforce ongoing support. - On Jan 21, Defence Team members at Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Esquimalt were invited to pause, breathe, and reconnect during a free guided yoga practice held in recognition of Bell’s annual Let’s Talk Day. Hosted by MARPAC’s Mental and Social Wellness Working Group, the midday session took place at Work Point’s Nixon Gym and welcomed both civilian and uniformed Department of National Defence (DND) staff to ‘take a moment for mental health,’ the theme of Bell Let’s Talk Day 2026. Participants stepped away from their workday and into a calm, supportive space focused on movement and mindfulness. With yoga equipment provided on site, attendees enjoyed a welcoming guided practice led by Personnel Support Program’s (PSP) Allison Jones. The practice emphasized gentle stretches, mind-body-muscle connection, and breathwork designed to help support overall wellbeing. “Mindfulness and yoga can support the mental health and wellness of Defence team members by helping them stay present and focused, even in busy or demanding environments. Through movement and breath, yoga encourages mindfulness — paying attention to purpose in the moment,” said Jones. “It also helps build a sense of community and gives people tools to reset, manage stress, and feel more grounded, both individually and as a team.” Bell Let’s Talk Day is dedicated to opening conversations about mental health and reducing stigma across Canada. This...

Kelley Stark, MARPAC Public Affairs MARPAC hosted its first Menopause Symposium on Nov 21, creating an open space to discuss women’s health and workplace impacts. Four expert speakers addressed physical, emotional, and hormonal health, dismantling stigma while offering evidence-based guidance on treatment, advocacy, and exercise. Defence leadership emphasized that supporting menopause awareness strengthens both member well-being and overall CAF operational effectiveness. - Maritime Forces Pacific’s (MARPAC) first Menopause Symposium took place on Nov 21 in a step towards fostering awareness and support for women’s health in the workplace. Menopause impacts not only individual well-being in life, but also team dynamics, productivity, and retention — yet it remains one of the least discussed phases of life. By creating space for education and dialogue at the workplace, MARPAC is leading the way in breaking stigma and promoting inclusivity. The event was filled with attendees from diverse age groups and backgrounds, highlighting that menopause continues to be a topic that resonates beyond the demographic of middle-aged women. Captain(Navy) Mike Stefanson, Champion for the Defence Women’s Advisory Organization (DWAO), opened the event, reminding audiences that mental, physical, and spiritual health are all key to operational success. “If it’s important to you, it’s important to me and the Admiral,” he said, encouraging people to lean on the DWAO team when needed. The first speaker, Susannah Stewart, a pelvic health physiotherapist in Victoria, gave a talk titled Menopause 101. She explained that menopause can happen for many reasons, including surgery or medical treatment, and that it also affects gender-diverse people. There are over 130 symptoms associated with menopause, including hot flashes, brain fog, and anxiety. She also shared that hot flashes could signal risks for heart disease or dementia. Stewart stressed the value of pelvic physiotherapy and addressed hormone therapy. Next, Shirley Weir, women’s health advocate...

Archana Cini, Lookout Newspaper The Naden Band’s 47th annual Holiday Show returns to the Royal Theatre this Dec 8 and 9, featuring festive music and a long-standing Salvation Army toy drive partnership. Behind the scenes, the show takes nearly a year to plan, with new arrangements, scripts, and production elements crafted to surprise audiences. - The Victoria holiday season wouldn’t be complete without the return of one of the region’s longest-running musical traditions: The Naden Band of the Royal Canadian Navy’s (RCN) annual Holiday Show. Now in its 47th iteration, the beloved community event returns to the Royal Theatre this Dec 8 and 9, transforming the stage into a festive showcase of music. More than an incredible showcase of some of the RCN’s finest musicians, the show is also a major part of the Salvation Army’s annual toy drive. As such, ticket prices range from $10 to $15 per person with an unwrapped toy. Military members are also able to access balcony seating for $7.50 alongside a toy donation. The toy drive collaboration has been a partnership between the Salvation Army and Naden Band since the first Holiday Show in 1978 — nearly half a century worth of toys for children. “Our relationship with the organization is now 47 years, and we know how much they appreciate what we can bring to the table,” said Petty Officer Second Class (PO2) Cindy Hawchuk, Production Supervisor (Vocals). “I love that the community is also aware of this partnership and show, and that they come back year after year to support.” This year’s production will feature a lively and heartwarming program of holiday favourites arranged to feature the ensemble’s musicians, including vocalist PO2 Hawchuk. “We don’t want to give too many secrets away though — you must come to one of our two...

Archana Cini, Lookout Newspaper The 25th Annual Concert of Remembrance took place Nov. 8 at the Dave Dunnet Community Theatre, bringing together hundreds in honour of Canadian veterans. The event featured performances by the Band of the 5th (B.C.) Field Regiment, Royal Canadian Artillery, and students from the Canadian College of Performing Arts (CCPA). Proceeds benefited the Esquimalt Military Family Resource Centre (EMFRC) and Canadian Heritage Arts Society (CHAS). - Hundreds of Vancouver Island residents recently gathered at the Dave Dunnet Community Theatre to remember Canadian veterans through music and movement. A night of respect and reflection, the annual Concert of Remembrance returned on Nov 8 to honour our Canadian veterans and service members. The concert was co-presented by the Canadian Heritage Arts Society (CHAS) and the District of Oak Bay, bringing together the Band of the 5th (British Columbia) Field Regiment, Royal Canadian Artillery, and the Canadian College of Performing Arts (CCPA). An annual tradition since the CCPA’s founding in 1998, the Concert of Remembrance celebrated its 25th show this year. The event opened with remarks from Kevin Murdoch, mayor of Oak Bay, and Lieutenant-Colonel (retired) Philip Sherwin. The night then took audience members through the realities and vulnerabilities of service with the Band of the 5th performing over ten compositions introduced by Master of Ceremonies Lieutenant-Commander (LCdr) (retired) Gerald Pash. To Captain (Capt) Daniel Moses, Director of Music Band for the 5th (British Columbia) Field Regiment, music has often played the role of an ultimate morale booster. “Music and song are crucial to being human, and that is even more apparent during times of duress. Think about the military action in Ukraine and how music, dance and song bound the Ukrainian people together against their oppressors,” said Capt Moses. “It was the same during the Second World War,...

Victoria Harbour Ferries President Nick Samson, Esquimalt Mayor Barb Desjardins and Base Commander Capt(N) Craig Baines cut the ribbon to officially open the new Baseline Ferry service.

From April 7 to 11, 2012, a contingent of 105 CF members took part in ceremonies in Europe commemorating the 95th anniversary of the Battle of Vimy Ridge.