As of last week, new ownership has taken over the popular Island View Mini Golf course!
Jana and John Weed purchased the property three years ago, working diligently to breathe life back into the grounds that had been neglected by previous owners.
They updated the putting greens, added nightlights, renovated the building, spent a year and a half getting the gardens under control and more.
The business grew in sales and customer loyalty, and the pair were happy to continue upgrading and enhancing the business for years to come.
However, when John was diagnosed with cancer last June, suddenly their future plans began to shift as their priorities were revaluated.
“We bought the property three years ago and completely revamped it. It wasn’t our intention to leave it, but life threw us a curveball,” Jana said in an interview with Victoria Buzz.
They both decided it would be more important at this point to step back and focus on loved ones and enjoy their time.
“We’re retiring…and [John] deserves to take it easy from here on out.”
The property was listed for sale on July 12th, 2023 and it sold on August 1st of this year to a local family ownership group, where Shawn Smith will be the main operator.
This timeframe may seem long to some, but with such a complex property and several hoops surrounding the ALC and Central Saanich, as well as waiting for the right person with committed interest, they knew it was going to take a while.
Jana mentioned that Central Saanich had a sour relationship with the previous owners, so the property itself had become a bit of a ‘blacklisted’ area—meaning delays for any kind of development proposals.
Smith, however, took initiative and spent some time researching what is possible with the bylaws and regulations of both Central Saanich and the ALC to ease the process.
When asked what Jana and John hope for the new owners, Jana was happy to share that they all have a good relationship and hope they’ll put just as much time and upkeep into the property as they had.
“Our main hope is that it will continue to thrive and get busier every year, and I think the additions Shawn will bring will be great for the community.”
In an interview with Smith, he applauded Jana and John’s hard work and how beautiful the grounds are, saying that they’ll absolutely maintain the beauty as well as introduce new ideas to the property.
Specifically, with the seven acres of farmland that have been pretty beaten up over the years as a driving range and golf course, they wish to turn it into an experience for visitors as well as a working farm.
“We’re motivated by the idea of investing in regenerative principles and trying to figure out how to bring that land back and have great soil, bees, birds and food for the peninsula.”
This will include a market garden, farm stands that will complement the neighbouring stands and an orchard and cidery, complete with a picnic area and a tasting room.
“This is the vision that we’re working towards…things that will complement the property…where everybody feels welcome to come and spend some time, play some mini golf, try some cider and check out the farm,” Smith said.
“We’ll just keep chipping away at it one bite at a time.”
Once Smith and his family acquire the needed approvals and licenses, they’re going to get to work!
