Dock Talk

I had a chance to drop in on one of our Live & Learn classes yesterday. If it was any indication of what’s to come this season then our participants are in for a real treat.

Our first Live & Learn of the year, Acrylic Painting: A Taste of the Figure, wraps up today and from what I’ve seen and heard it’s been a huge success. The participants have been all smiles as instructor Nicholas Pearce (who will also be at Painter’s Lodge this weekend for Painters at Painter’s) happily shares his secrets to success. Pearce has a truly unique teaching style. He is energetic and fun, and more than happy to spend one on one time with every student. I even saw him having lunch with the participants, proving this is a truly special experience.

Painter’s Lodge and April Point Resort & Spa will be hosting more Live & Learn classes throughout the year. They’re the perfect way to relax, have fun and uncover some hidden talents. For more information on our upcoming Live & Learns go to http://www.painterslodge.com/lodge/events/live-learn/. I hope to see you here this season!

Every week our Marine Activities Manager Dwayne Mustard provides us with a fishing report. Are you wondering what the tides will be like? Curious where people are catching fish? Or maybe you're just looking for some good fishing stories. If so, you've come to the right place. Here is Dwayne's latest entry:

I don’t know if you have ever noticed that big tide swings always seem to coincide with nasty weather but it was certainly that way over the weekend. Thirty knot winds and sideways rain make fishing difficult at the best of times, but when you add in a weed-filled seven knot tide rip it can become an exercise in frustration. But that didn’t deter our guide Russ Lim from taking his mom Jan out for for their traditional Mother’s Day fish. Russell (as his mom calls him), his fiance Jen and mom Jan all bundled up against the elements and bounced off south toward the Lighthouse. They are perhaps the most fishing crazed trio of angler’s in our fair city and they were gonna let a little foul weather spoil their fun, dammit. An hour later they returned from the Lighthouse, wetter than a crab at high tide, with a nice spring salmon in tow. So the fish are there, it is just a matter of getting to them.

This Victoria Day long weekend should see some more favourable fishing conditions. Environment Canada is calling for nice weather and while you can’t always rely on Environment Canada, you can rely on the Government of Canada tide tables and this weekend will see some fairly light tides. Your best salmon tides of the weekend will be fairly early in the morning, so don’t stay up drinking all night. But midday will see minimal tide movements on Friday, Saturday and Sunday so it might be a good time to see if there are any halibut hanging out at the Hump or off Shelter Point. Send down your salmon gear and who knows? That next big strike might just be a barn door hali!

Until next week,

Tight lines and keep on fishin’

Dwayne

As you may or may not know, Painter’s Lodge is made up of many different buildings. When I first began working here I assumed they were all pretty much the same, but that’s not really the case. Each building offers a slightly different experience, but they all have one thing in common: they’re all a lovely place to spend your vacation.

The first building you’re likely to experience is the Main Lodge. This is where our lobby, Legend’s Dining Room, Fireside Lounge and Tyee Pub are located. If you head upstairs you’ll find our trophy room where you can relive the history of the lodge. You’ll also find 15 rooms, two of which are large suites with extended decks. The main lodge offers both ocean and garden view rooms that are just a few steps away from our lovely dining areas and right in the heart of the action.

The Redonda Wing is all ocean view, but what really makes this building unique is the lawn that the bottom decks open up to. Many guests love to pull their deck chairs out onto the lawn and lounge in the sun right next to the ocean.  The top floor may not have the lawn but offers some of the best views of the ocean on the property.

Directly behind the Redonda Wing is the Vancouver Wing. Situated on a hill, this building looks over top of the Redonda Wing and also offers a wonderful view of the ocean. The top floor features lofted ceilings and the building is just a few feet away from our heated pool and hot tubs.

The Quadra and Cortes Wings are our garden view buildings. Thanks to our expert gardeners every view is a good one at Painter’s Lodge. These buildings allow you to sit out on the deck right next to a wide array of beautiful flowers. The top floors feature lofts and four beds, making them an excellent choice for groups of friends or families. The Cortes Wing is also home to our hospitality room, 325. This room has two floors, two decks and is perfect for large parties and functions.

Finally, we have the Victoria Wing. This ocean view building has seven loft rooms with large seating areas and king size beds. The couches fold out into queen sized beds, making them perfect for family getaways or romantic weekends for two.

In addition to our wings, we also have four cabins nestled in the woods at the back of the property, located right next to our tennis courts, children’s centre and fitness centre. These are ideal for those large groups that need a little more space than a regular hotel room can offer.

So, where are you going to stay when you come visit us? The choices are many, but they’re all good ones.

Catch you later,

Travis

This year’s Spring Fling Salmon Derby has been running for the last week and the fishing has been great. Both Painter’s Lodge and April Point have been reeling in loads of fish and this is just the beginning. The derby runs until June 8^th, so there’s still lots of time to get in on the action.

Our savvy guides seem to know exactly where the fishing is good. So far this year the hot spots have been south of Campbell River at Shelter Point and The Hump, with most of our boats returning from there with one or two fish.

Part of my job as Marketing Coordinator is to take pictures of all the catches. It’s amazing how just catching one fish can make someone’s day. Whether it’s a 7 pounder or a 17 pounder, people are all smiles when they get back to the dock with a fish. Even those that don't catch seem to enjoy themselves, with tons of wildlife on display while they’re out on the water.

There have been some pretty impressive fish brought back this week, but so far our derby leader is Philippe Blondel, who caught a 20.8 pounder. That’s a tough number to beat, but with 28 days still to go we could very well see a new leader before things wrap up.

So besides all the fish and all the fun, why should you join in? Because we are offering some great prizes! The person who catches the biggest fish during the derby will win a 4 day/3 night fishing package for 2 at Painter’s Lodge. Second prize isn’t too shabby either, with the runner up receiving a 3 day/2 night adventure package at April Point Resort & Spa, including your choice of two of the following: A 4 hour fishing trip, a whale watching adventure, a $200 spa credit or 18 holes of golf at Storey Creek. There are also daily prizes at both Painter’s Lodge and April Point for the biggest fish caught that day. On top of all of that, everyone who catches a Chinook is entered to win our bonus prize: A 3 day/2 night fishing package at the Canadian Princess Resort in Ucluelet.

So what are you waiting for? If you haven’t booked your fishing trip already then now’s the time! We’re offering a special Spring Fling Derby Package: $329 for two nights accommodation and two guided fishing tours. I’m looking forward to taking pictures of more people holding giant fish. Who knows? Maybe my next picture will be of you!

Catch you later,

Travis

As the 8^th Annual Photographer’s at Painter’s wraps up, it seems every participant is leaving with a smile. The event was a huge success, as some of British Columbia’s most esteemed photographers mingled with amateurs and shared their secrets.  I’m sure everyone who participated is better photographer now than when they arrived. I know I am!

All the photographers were extremely friendly and more than happy to help everyone improve their skills. I even saw some of them posing patiently, acting as models so their students could practice what they had learned. The presentations covered a wide array of skills, including how to utilize light, garden photography and using a flash. There was even a presentation on how to take professional level photographs with your iPhone.

I couldn’t help joining in on a few lessons, and I was so impressed with how the photographers seemed to take time to help every participant. Everyone was smiling and having fun, including myself, and I can’t wait to try out some of the new skills I learned.

Another great part about the event was the brunch that was held both days. As usual, the kitchen out did themselves and produced a large selection of delicious goodies. I’m positive no one left hungry.

On behalf of the Painter’s Lodge staff, I’d like to thank everyone who participated in the event and helped make it such a success. We look forward to seeing you next year!

Catch you later,

Travis

Painter’s Lodge may have only been open for only one day, but there is already a lot of excitement around here.

Photographer’s at Painter’s begins tomorrow, with the first presentation due to begin at 9 am. The Photographers are just arriving now and their work is beginning to be displayed around the lodge. As an amateur photographer myself I am in awe of some works I’ve seen so far. Hopefully I’ll have a chance to talk to some of these photographers so I can learn their secrets.

The local wildlife has also been on full display, with several seals being spotted around the docks waiting for the fishing guides to throw them some scraps. Most exciting though were the two orca whales that were spotted between Painter’s Lodge and April Point. With so much already seen after just one day I can’t wait what other wildlife I’ll catch a glimpse of throughout the season.

Of course, what Painter’s Lodge is really known is the fishing, and we’ve certainly lived up to expectations so far. Every boat that has left the dock has come back with fish. Our Spring Fling Salmon Derby is well under way with our first daily prize already being awarded. If you haven’t booked your fishing trip already then now’s the time as we really seem to be on a roll.

It’s been a great start to the season and I’m sure it will only get better.

Catch you later,

Travis

With opening day less than 24 hours away, the Painter’s Lodge and April Point Resort & Spa crew are working furiously to get things ready. The gardeners are putting the final touches on the grounds, the kitchens are perfecting their menus, and everyone is pitching in to make sure these two resorts are in pristine condition.

It may only be our first week, but we already have lots on tap. The 8^th Annual Photographers at Painter’s kicks off on May 3^rd. Some of British Columbia’s premiere photographers will be descending upon Painter’s Lodge to participate in presentations, panel discussions and more. It’s the perfect event for aspiring photographers or anyone interested in the art of still photos. Passes are still available, so register today before it’s too late! Call 1-800-663-7090 to order.

Brunch will also be available at Painter’s Lodge this weekend on both Saturday and Sunday, so locals are encouraged to come by for a meal. A breakfast buffet will be held from 8 am to 10 am, followed by full brunch which will be served until 2 pm. After sampling some of the food today I can assure it’s worth the trip. Reservations are recommended.

Those who are looking for a unique dining experience are encouraged to take the free water taxi from Painter’s Lodge to dine at April Point. The Quadra Island resort features a new menu created by executive chef JD Runnells that’s sure to have something for everyone. It’s the same great location with some fresh new twists, so be sure to check it out.

Finally, our Spring Fling Derby will be held from May 2^nd to June 8^th. Every Chinook (Spring) salmon caught at Painter’s Lodge and April Point will automatically be entered to win a prize. The angler with the biggest Chinook each day will win a prize, and at the end of the derby we’ll tally up all the catches and award some huge prizes, including a trip for two to Painter's Lodge. Special Derby Packages are available (go to http://www.painterslodge.com/lodge/events/spring-fling-salmon-derby/ for pricing) so don’t miss out on all the action.

Painter’s Lodge and April Point Resort & Spa are officially open at noon tomorrow, so I hope to see you there.

Catch you later,

Travis

Crew orientation for Painter’s Lodge and April Point Resort & Spa was held today. New and returning crew arrived on site and everyone was buzzing with anticipation. I could tell I wasn’t the only one exciting about working here this season.

After an informative presentation by resort managers Christine Fleming and Matthew Arnott, the kitchen staff provided a delicious lunch for all the employees. Then, everyone broke into their departments and was given a tour of the property. Overall, the day was a huge success. All the crew were in a great mood and it looks like this year’s group is top notch!

With opening day on May 2^nd, all the departments are wrapping up their preparation for the new season. After being here for the last week and meeting all the new crew I know this is going to be another great year for Painter’s Lodge and April Point.

Make sure to check back with me next week for information on the Spring Fling Derby and Photographers at Painter’s.

Catch you later,

Travis

Hey there! My name is Travis and I’ll be keeping you up to date on all the happenings at Painter’s Lodge and April Point Resort & Spa throughout the 2013 season.

Before I go any further, let me just congratulate last year’s Resort Marketing Coordinator, Joanna, on the upcoming birth of her new baby! Everyone at Painter’s Lodge and April Point wishes her the best and she will be sorely missed. While Joanna is enjoying the wonders of motherhood I will be working hard to fill in for her this season. She is not someone who is easily replaced, but I will try my best to live up to her high standards.

I grew up right here in Campbell River, making me well acquainted with the local scenery and history. I worked at Painter’s Lodge for a number of years in a variety of different positions before moving to Vancouver to pursue a career in marketing. However, after a few years and many great experiences in the big city, the desire to move back across the water was too strong. Simply put, nothing beats Vancouver Island! I am so glad that the wonderful people at Painter’s Lodge and April Point have welcomed me back and allowed me to continue my career in a place I love. I’ve renewed some old friendships and met many new faces, but everyone has been equally friendly and I’m sure this will be another great season.

We have so many exciting events planned for this year, including the 19^th annual Painters at Painter’s, the Women’s Fishing Derby and many Live and Learn programs. Of course, these events are in addition to our guided fishing, adventure tours, and fine dining experiences that are offered throughout the season. There’s no shortage of action at Painter’s Lodge and April Point, so make sure to check back here often so you don’t miss out on all the fun!

Catch you later,

Travis

Check out a new promotional video for the Cape Santa Maria Beach Resort courtesy of Noelle Nicholls - The Domestic Tourist. Keep in mind, now is great time to make your bookings to "Escape to the Cape!".