Campbell River’s Homalco First Nation has acquired a water-taxi service that ferries passengers and freight between the city, north Island and remote communities along the coast.
Way West Water Taxi has been operating since 1996, transporting people, equipment and supplies to communities, camps and worksites on Stuart Island, Dent Island, Sonora Island, the Thurlow Islands and several inlets on the mainland.
The deal between the Homalco and Way West owners Ryan Early and David Pedneault is expected to close by the end of the month. Financial details were not disclosed.
All current employees and schedules are being retained, the First Nation said.
“This acquisition is exciting news for Homalco First Nation, Campbell River and neighbouring communities,” Chief Darren Blaney said in a statement. “Retaining local ownership of such a respected and successful company while pursuing sustainable, thoughtful economic growth where our communities can benefit and work together is important for us as we move forward.”
Early and Pedneault said the company has provided more than 100,000 hours of safe transportation since its founding 27 years ago.
They said the sale agreement ensures the company will retain its commitments and team while also offering a future for more employment under Homalco ownership.
JP Obbagy, general manager of the Homalco First Nation, said the taxi service is a natural fit for the Homalco’s expanding tourism business and economic development plans in the nation’s traditional territory.
The nation operates Homalco Wildlife and Cultural Tours, offering tours of its traditional territory of the Discovery Islands and Bute Inlet.
Guests can take part in eco-adventures that include grizzly-bear viewing, whale-watching and First Nations culture tours.
The nation also operates The Raven 100.7 radio station, Homalco Forestry LP and the Orford Fish Hatchery in Bute Inlet.
“We have seen strong growth in our existing tour and water-taxi business and the expertise shared between companies will be invaluable,” Obbagy said.
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