Sayward News
Sayward News
New Lightning-Started Wildfires Raise Concern Near Sayward And North Island
A cluster of new wildfires has been reported across northern Vancouver Island, including several fires in the region north of Gold River and additional lightning-caused fires near Sayward. Three new wildfires were discovered Friday evening in the Sayward area,...
Three Arrested in Port McNeill Drug Trafficking Investigation After Drugs, Guns and More Than $100,000 Seized
Three people have been arrested following a drug-trafficking investigation in Port McNeill that resulted in the seizure of suspected illicit drugs, firearms, cash, contraband tobacco and vehicles. The investigation was conducted by the Port McNeill RCMP in partnership...
Saanich Woman Missing Near Woss For Two Weeks Found Safe
A 32-year-old Saanich woman who had been missing for more than two weeks has been found safe near Woss Lake, after searchers received reports that she may have been seen at a local boat launch. Taisia Verbitchi was located Sunday on the eastern shore of Woss Lake,...
Online News Act Leaves Rural Canadians Without Reliable Wildfire Information
A report submitted to the House of Commons heritage committee says the federal Online News Act contributed to a loss of credible local news on Facebook during wildfire emergencies, with rural communities particularly affected. The study, conducted by researchers at...
Police Seek Saanich Woman Last Seen Camping Near Woss
Police are asking for the public’s help locating a 32-year-old Saanich woman who has been missing since she was dropped off near Woss more than two weeks ago. Saanich Police say Taisa Verbitchi was last seen shortly before 7 p.m. on July 22, when she was dropped off...
Two More Vancouver Island Wildfires Declared Out As Fire Situation Improves
The wildfire situation on Vancouver Island continued to improve Saturday, with two more fires declared out by the BC Wildfire Service (BCWS). While wildfire activity is escalating across much of British Columbia, prompting new evacuation orders and alerts, conditions...
New BC Government Funding to Support Emergency Operation Centre for Sayward
The B.C. government is investing more than $800,000 in emergency preparedness projects across Vancouver Island, helping local governments and First Nations strengthen their ability to respond when disasters strike. The funding is part of the Province's Community...
Two Killed in Helicopter Crash During Forestry Work on BC Coast
Two people have died following a helicopter crash during forestry operations in a remote area of British Columbia's central coast. The crash occurred on the morning of Tuesday, July 13th near Loughborough Inlet, north of Vancouver Island, at approximately 6:15 a.m. A...
SRD Seeks Public Input on Regional Hazard and Risk Planning
The Strathcona Regional District (SRD) is inviting residents to help shape future emergency planning by sharing their perspectives on the natural hazards and risks facing their communities. As part of its Hazard, Risk and Vulnerability Assessment (HRVA), the SRD is...
Lightning Sparks Multiple Wildfires Across Vancouver Island
A series of lightning strikes has ignited several new wildfires across Vancouver Island following thunderstorms that moved through the region this week. According to the BC Wildfire Service, four of the five newly discovered fires are believed to have been caused by...
New Summer Bus Route Connects Campbell River and Gold River
Residents and visitors now have a new transportation option on the North Island with the launch of a pilot bus service linking Campbell River and Gold River. IslandLinkBus has introduced the seasonal route, providing twice-daily service in each direction from Thursday...
Congrats Sayward Klimbers
Congratulations to all of the Sayward residents who took on the challenge of this year's Kusam Klimb and Mini Klimb! Whether you conquered the full mountain or tackled the shorter course, your determination, perseverance, and community spirit are something to be proud...
Telegraph Cove Reopens to Visitors Following Devastating Fire
One of Vancouver Island's most iconic waterfront destinations is welcoming visitors once again nearly a year after a devastating fire destroyed much of its historic boardwalk community. Telegraph Cove officially reopened for the 2026 tourism season following months of...
Endangered Vancouver Island Marmots Emerge From Hibernation as Recovery Efforts Continue
Conservationists are celebrating an encouraging sign of spring after the first wild Vancouver Island marmots of 2026 were spotted emerging from hibernation in alpine regions of Vancouver Island. The sightings mark the beginning of the species' active season after...
Avalanche Survivor Continues Long Road to Recovery After Near-Fatal Accident on Mount Cain
A Victoria-area teacher who survived a devastating avalanche is sharing his story of resilience as he works to rebuild his life following injuries that dramatically changed his future. Tim Sorensen still vividly recalls the moment a backcountry adventure turned into a...
Grizzly Bear Sighting Prompts Safety Warning in Sayward
Residents of a Sayward are being urged to remain vigilant after a grizzly bear was spotted near the Village, an increasingly common occurrence as the species expands its presence on the Island. Village officials issued a public warning after the bear was seen in and...

























