On July 31, 2018, eighteen PROBUS members, led by Linda Burrows, ventured out to explore parts of Hornby Island. After a scattered start from Buckley Bay (two ferries and five cars later), the “herded cats” met at the Cardboard Bakery on Hornby for retail and culinary opportunities. From there we went on to visit Big Tribune Bay; a large expansive beach surrounded by driftwood, followed by another stop to smaller, quieter Whaling Station Bay with its beautiful views and sparkling water. We then enjoyed lunch at Sea Breeze Lodge which overlooks the water and where we sampled the buffet while sitting outside on their shady patio: creamed salmon chowder, calamari, freshly-made salads and home- made bread were just a few of our taste treats.
After lunch, another special highlight was a private tour to Island Spirits Distillery where we were greeted by owner and brewmeister Peter Kimmerly, ( a retired ice- breaker captain ) his wife and new puppy, Benson. Sara, their assistant, showed us the distillery and gave us tastings of their excellent gin, vodka and botanicals. Just outside in the garden is a pond filled with exotic koi and a green grassy area filled with happy free-run chickens; an educational and delightful outing. Wending our way home through Grassy Point, we miraculously all got on the same ferry.
Hornby is worth a second visit as we did not have time see all of Linda’s special places. Many thanks to her for all her effort in making this a memorable day.
