The Heiltsuk Nation is celebrating July 1st as “Heiltsuk Day” with the purchase and transfer of the 70-year-old Shearwater Resort and Marina from the Widsten family.
The $12.7 million purchase of the 63 acre waterfront property was made with funds secured through a reconciliation agreement signed with the Canadian federal government.
The nation will continue to operate the resort for guests, adding new offerings like ecotourism and cultural experiences.
Moorage and hotel bookings will open for BC residents on July 23rd and the rest of Canada on August 1st with sports fishing opportunities may resume next year.
The purchase represents the nation’s largest investment in economic development to date, which includes an initial 21 job opportunities for Heiltsuk members.
The parties to the agreement signed and completed the final purchase for Shearwater Co. on Wednesday, June 30th, following due diligence and inventory review.
“This purchase is about creating new economic opportunities and new memories for our people,” said Marilyn Slett, elected Chief of the Heiltsuk Nation.
“It is a testament to our resilience, and an example of reconciliation in action. We look forward to building on the legacy of Shearwater and to welcoming guests into our territory in the heart of the Great Bear Rainforest, when it is safe to do so.”
