BC Ferries The Wave Fall 07

IN THIS ISSUE Launching the Renaissance Page 2sGreat Canadian Shoreline Cleanup Page 5
Presidents Awards Nominations Page 6sSailSafe Page 7sEngineering Achievement Award Page 8
Tsawwassen Terminal Maintenance Safety Page 9sNew Coastal Experiences Page 11sAlert Bay Terminal
Opening Page 14sCrofton Customer Appreciation Day Page 15sOtter Bay to the Rescue Page 16
Long Service and Retirement Awards Page 17
THE WAVE
FALL 2007 BC Ferries Employee Newsletter
COASTAL RENAISSANCE
SETS SAIL
11807 BCF.Wave.Fall07.indd 1 11/20/07 7:49:49 AM
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IN MEMORIAM
Sharron (Stubbs) Booth
passed away on August 20,
2007. Sharron joined BC Ferries
on July 15, 1978 and was a
terminal services attendant in
Campbell River before going
on LTD. She loved children
and was affectionately called
Mrs. B by many kids at local
elementary schools. We send
our condolences to Sharrons
family and friends.
Ron Budda passed away on
August 22, 2007. Ron joined
BC Ferries on April 1, 1966 and
was working as Warehouse Shift
Supervisor in Nanaimo before
retiring on April 1, 2001. We
send our condolences to Rons
family and friends.
Richard (Crusty) Crawford
passed away on July 28, 2007.
Richard began his career with
BC Ferries in 1990 and retired
in 2001 after working as a
deckhand for many years on the
Queen of Nanaimo. We send our
condolences to Richards family
and friends.
Frank Dresser passed away
on September 10, 2007. Frank
had an extensive career with
BC Ferries, having started as a
seaman on the Queen of Prince
Rupert in 1965 and working
as a second officer from 1975
until his retirement in 1998. We
send our condolences to Franks
family and friends.
FSG closed its shipyard to allow thousands of
shipyard workers and their families to attend the
celebratory event.
LAUNCHING THE RENAISSANCE
IN STYLE
Its been an exciting few months as weve watched the Coastal Renaissance get ready to
set sail for her new home in British Columbia. The countdown officially began with a
celebration on September 21 in Flensburg, Germany, where an unveiling ceremony was
held to mark the completion of the ship and a Canadian-style barbeque was put on for
shipbuilders and dignitaries. In addition to Betty Harrison, Chair, Board of Directors,
David L. Hahn, President & CEO, David Emerson, Minister of International Trade
and Minister for the Pacific Gateway and the Vancouver-Whistler Olympics, Honourable
Kevin Falcon, Minister of Transportation, members of the Royal Canadian Mounted
Police and First Nations representatives, several thousand shipyard workers and their
family members attended the event, which provided an opportunity to showcase B.C.
products and delicious food creations.
The vessel, complete with sensational graphic images of Olympic and Paralympic athletes
and of beautiful British Columbia, will be seen by hundreds of thousands of people as it
travels from Europe, through the Panama Canal and up the Pacific Coast of Mexico and
the United States. Our Coastal-class ships are floating invitations to the world to visit
B.C. and enjoy the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic games.
Captain Robert Harman; Blair Landry, Chief Officer; Michael Atto, Chief Engineer; Darryl Dunbar,
Third Engineer; and Jeff Landa, First Engineer, attended the unveiling ceremony at FSG Shipyard in
late September.
Royal Canadian Mounted Police took part in the
event at Flensburg Shipyard.
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IN MEMORIAM
James (Jim) Gillespie passed
away on August 7, 2007. Jim
had an extensive career with
the company having started with
Black Ball Ferries in 1966 and
continuing with BC Ferries until
his retirement in 1997, working
for many years at Deas. We send
our condolences to Jims family
and friends.
Murray Henderson passed
away on October 29, 2007.
Murray joined BC Ferries on
November 15, 1974 and worked
throughout his years in Long
Harbour in many catering
classifications. Murray was 52
years of age and leaves behind
his wife, Alice, and his children,
Bradley and Melissa. Murray
was a great co-worker and had
a wonderful sense of humour.
We send our condolences to
Murrays family and friends.
Roy Hinder passed away on
August 22, 2007. Roy spent
his entire career at BC Ferries,
including many years as a Chief
Officer out of Tsawwassen,
before retiring in 1995. We
send our condolences to Roys
family and friends.
Dan Scarbro passed away
on September 12, 2007. Dan
started work with BC Ferries
in 1990 and retired from his
position as a customer service
representative in 2004. Dan was
well regarded by his co-workers
and will be remembered for his
big heart and positive attitude.
We send our condolences to
Dans family and friends.
Hans Zimmermann, Manager, Food & Beverage (right),
along with John Bishop of Bishops restaurant
in Vancouver did a fantastic job of showcasing
many of British Columbias finest foods for
several thousand attendees on September 21 at
FSG Shipyard.
David L. Hahn, President & CEO, presents gifts
from Canada to Peter Sierk, President & CEO,
FSG Shipyard.
The event included a traditional welcome and blessing by First Nations from British Columbia.
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COASTAL RENAISSANCE
SETS SAIL
It was a landmark day for BC Ferries when the Coastal Renaissance set sail from
Flensburg on October 27 destined for her new home in B.C. The trans-Atlantic
voyage will take approximately 45 days, depending on weather, and will include stops
for refueling in Brunsbuettel, Germany; Las Palmas, Canary Islands; and Cristobal,
Panama, before transiting the Panama Canal and sailing up the west coast of North
America to British Columbia.
Under the terms of our contract with FSG, the shipyard is responsible for delivering
the ship to B.C. and has engaged an international ship delivery company from the
Netherlands to conduct the voyage. Captain Harald Stokke, Senior Master; Jaideep
Johar, Chief Officer; Andrew Martin, Engineering Superintendent; Gary Johnson, First
Engineer (onboard until Panama); and Fernando Costa, Chief Engineer (joining the ship
in Panama) are also accompanying the ship on its journey from Europe to Canada.
The Coastal Renaissance is scheduled to arrive in Nanaimo in mid-December, at which
time crew training and familiarization will begin. After a series of open houses for
employees and retirees in Vancouver and on Vancouver Island, as well as separate events
for the public, the ship will enter service on the Departure Bay Horseshoe Bay route
in the spring of 2008. The second and third ships in the series, Coastal Inspiration and
Coastal Celebration, which will also feature photographs of winter games events and
British Columbia scenes, will set sail next year and will join the BC Ferries fleet during
the summer of 2008. Watch for additional details about the open houses in the coming weeks!
Peter Sierk, CEO, FSG Shipyard, presents Captain Harald Stokke, Senior Master, Coastal Renaissance
(centre) and Andrew Martin, Engineering Manager, Major Vessel Construction, with a lucky gold coin
from the ship's keel laying.
As I travelled from Victoria
to Vancouver, I discovered that
my wallet was missing. After
the initial shock, I remembered
placing it on a counter at a
7-11 store in Victoria. It was
then that I saw one of your
employees, Bonnie Elliott,
Second Steward, and told her
about my problem. She could
not have been nicer. She produced
a map of Victoria and asked
if I could identify the location
of the store. She then brought
me to the Chief Stewards
office and introduced me to
Peter Woo, Chief Steward.
Within 30 minutes they had
located my wallet, with contents
intact! Peter then telephoned
Michael Denton, Customer
Services Officer, who arranged
to have my wallet forwarded to
my home address in Connecticut.
My wallet arrived yesterday,
approximately one week after
I left it at the 7-11 in Victoria,
with beautiful postcards and
childrens crayons included in
the mailing. The postcards will
be part of my vacation souvenir
scrapbook along with this
story. The crayons have been
distributed to children in my
neighbourhood and have caused
quite a stir since they came all
the way from British Columbia.
Words can not possibly express
my gratitude. Please let Bonnie,
Peter and Michael know how
grateful I am for their help.
Connecticut
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Way to go, BC Ferries! We were the number one company in
B.C. at the annual Great Canadian Shoreline Cleanup. The
program, which was started 14 years ago as a small beach
cleanup by four Vancouver Aquarium employees, is now the
second largest cleanup of its kind in the world. Its a great
way to make a difference to the environment, with more than
40,000 Canadians cleaning up 966 shorelines and removing
84,708 kg of litter last year.
This year, BC Ferries 15 site coordinators registered 200
employees and collected more than 2,700 kg of debris from
shorelines in and around our communities. What a terrific
effort by employees to give back to the communities we serve.
Congratulations to the following prize winners:
Most Employccs Rcgistcrcd: Eric Kalnins, Manager, Travel
& Tourism, and his team of 38 at Woodwards Landing.
Most Carbagc: Bill Dickie, Master, Route 20, and his team
in Preedy and Telegraph Harbour with 1,400 kg of garbage.
Most Lniquc Itcm: Liz Haskell, Accounts Payable, found a
hand carved knights pawn for a chess board.
Thanks to Cheri Maisonneuve, Manager, Sales & Community
Relations, for organizing BC Ferries participation in the event,
Captain Ian Tresidder, Master, Swartz Bay, for recruiting
three-quarters of his crew for the Sidney cleanup, and to all
those who headed out into the rain, wind, sun or fog to help
keep our beaches clean. For more information about the Great
Canadian Shoreline Cleanup, including 10 easy steps for
keeping your local shoreline clean and healthy all year long,
visit www.vanaqua.org/cleanup/home.php. Lets see what we
can accomplish next year!
NUMBER ONE AT THE GREAT CANADIAN
SHORELINE CLEANUP!
Saxe Point Team Tsawwassen Team
Langdale Team Deas Pacific Marine Inc. Team
Thanks to all the team members who made this years cleanup a tremendous success!
Little River Team
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To the staff of BC Ferries
and the Captain and crew of
the Queen of Alberni: A special
thanks to all of you for your
assistance that allowed me to
make my meeting in Blaine,
Washington in plenty of time.
Years ago, I had an unpleasant
experience with BC Ferries and
have gone out of my way to
use the Coho Ferry service to
Port Angeles insteada service
I use up to 8 times a month. The
unexpected excellent customer
service I received onboard has
certainly won me back as a
regular customer. Also, the ship
looks good and breakfast was
excellent. Thank you again.
Nanaimo
Many thanks to the staff at the
Nanaimo Terminal who helped
us with our campers going over
to Camp Sunrise in Gibsons. It
made the trip more enjoyable
for the children and the adults
who accompanied them. Special
thanks to the lady in the toll booth
who went out of her way to help
us when a miscommunication
within our group caused us to
believe that we were unable to
reserve baggage carts and left
us searching for a way to get the
childrens luggage safely to the
Gibsons Terminal.
Nanaimo
PRESIDENTS AWARDS
NOMINATIONS
If you know of an employee who has demonstrated excellence in seamanship & safety,
customer service or operational excellence this year, we want to hear from you. Were
looking for nominations for the 2007 Presidents Awards, which acknowledge employees
who have gone above and beyond in one of the following three categories:
SEAMANSHIP & SAFETY
rccognizcs thc outstanding actions of an cmploycc who has gonc abovc and bcyond
the call of duty at sea or on shore.
CUSTOMER SERVICE
rccognizcs an cmploycc who displays customcr scrvicc cxccllcncc whilc on duty.
OPERATIONAL EXCELLENCE
rccognizcs an cmploycc who, in thc pcrformancc of his or hcr dutics, makcs
a substantial contribution in support of safety, fleet or terminal operations; or
significantly contributes to the value and performance of the company.
Please submit nominations for the above awards to presidentsaward@bcferries.com or
by fax to (250) 381-7238 by January 31, 2008. The 2007 award recipients will be
announced in March. Check out the Spring 2006 edition of The Wave on the intranet
for a list and photos of last years winners.
BC FERRIES HOSTS CFOA
CONFERENCE
This year, more than 90 delegates attended the 20th Annual Canadian Ferry Operators
Association conference that was hosted by BC Ferries in Victoria from September
11-14. The objective of the CFOA, which is comprised of 14 major ferry operators in
Canada, is to establish and maintain a standard of professional and technical excellence
in the operation of ferries in Canada in a safe, effective and efficient way. In addition
to technical presentations and briefings at the conference, delegates discussed the
implementation of new marine personnel regulations under the Canada Shipping Act and
the high cost of fuel facing ferry operators. As one of the founding members of CFOA,
BC Ferries was pleased to welcome delegates to Victoria and host them onboard the
Spirit of British Columbia.
Captain George A. Capacci, Vice
President, Fleet Operations (left),
with Captain Peter Turner, National
Master, the Company of Master
Mariners of Canada, onboard
the Spirit of British Columbia.
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I have to tell you about your
staff member Derek Irwin,
Customer Service Attendant,
who went above and beyond
the call. He was fantastic. As
we approached Horseshoe Bay,
we learned there would be a
35-minute delay in docking due
to heavy traffic. Normally that
would not have been a problem,
but I planned on catching the
express bus to West Van as I
had a very important doctor
appointment. When I heard we
would be delayed and realized
I would miss my bus and my
appointment, I went to the Chief
Stewards office to ask for help.
They made numerous phone
calls and double-checked our
arrival time again, but there was
nothing they could do short of
offering to call me a cab. I was
not sure what to do, but thanked
them for their help. Derek was
in the office at the time and
said he would be off shift when
the ship docked and offered me
a ride home so I could pick up
my vehicle. It was so thoughtful
and considerate. With his help, I
was able to get to my doctor on
time. Please give Derek special
thanks and recognize him for his
great customer service.
Vancouver
Theres a new website in town with
everything you need to know about
SailSafea joint initiative of the
BC Ferry & Marine Workers Union and
BC Ferries. SailSafe builds on our current
safety practices and reflects our common
commitment to safety as an essential part
of our business and our daily work.
The new website contains lots of great
information about SailSafe, including
whos on the steering committee, what
the SafeWatch team is, frequently asked
questions, ways for you to get involved and
a video introduction to SailSafe that was
put together by the steering committee
a great way to hear directly from the team
why we are 100% committed to this joint
initiative.
WHOS INVOLVED IN SAILSAFE
Were all involved in SailSafe, but
employees are the key to success as
nobody knows the job better than you
do. In addition to the five company and
five Union members on the steering
committee, a group of 41 employees
has been selected to comprise the
SafeWatch Team and lead the SailSafe
initiative. A further 300 employees have
been nominated to identify areas for
improvement and potential fixes. Check
out the website for more information.
SEND US YOUR SAFETY
SUGGESTIONS
Were looking for all your suggestions to
improve safety at BC Ferries. You can
email us at sailsafe@bcferries.com or
contact one of the SafeWatch members
listed at www.SailSafe.com. This is your
opportunity not just to tell us about
the issues, but to offer your suggested
solutions. In the coming days, weeks and
years, all of us will have the opportunity to
participate in SailSafe by identifying areas
and methods for enhancing current safety
practices, and ensuring that we all put
safety first each and every day.
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Jeff Smith, Director, Fleet Planning and Projects; Amarjit Dhariwal,
Engineering Superintendent; Dave Carroll, Director, Terminal Construction;
Geoff Vickery, Director, Terminal Asset Maintenance; Olous Boag,
Director, Fleet Engineering; John Constable, Director, Fleet Support
Unit; Paul Radford, Engineering Superintendent; and Mark Collins,
Vice President, Engineering.
2007 ENGINEERING
ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
In early October, our Senior Chief Engineers met to discuss
engineering achievements over the past year and explore ways
to improve the service the engineering team delivers to other
areas of the company. The meeting was also an opportunity
to present the 2007 Engineering Achievement Award to the
Queen of Vancouver crew in recognition of the impressive
improvement they made this past year to the steering-gear
compartment on the vessel. The Engineering Achievement
Award is presented each year to the ship that shows the
greatest improvement in the target area set for that year.
Congratulations to the Queen of Vancouver engineering team!
COMPANY OF MASTER
MARINERS OF CANADA
Congratulations to Erika Bourgault, Chief Officer, who
recently received her Certificate of Membership in the
Company of Master Mariners of Canada (CMMC). BC Ferries
participates in many of the CMMCs events and is a corporate
member of the organization, which was established in 1967 to
encourage and maintain the high and honourable standards of
the nautical profession, further the efficiency of the sea service
and uphold the prestige of Master Mariners. The CMMC has
500 members nationally, including men and women actively
engaged in deep-sea shipping, both ashore and afloat, coastwise
shipping, tug and barge operations, stevedoring, pilotage,
marine surveying, salvage and marine law.
From left to right: Mark Collins, Vice President, Engineering, and
David L. Hahn, President & CEO, present Metro Dutka, Senior Chief
Engineer, and Azmal Karim, Engineering Superintendent, with the 2007
Engineering Achievement Award.
ENGINEERS SHOWSOME TEAMSPIRIT!
During the Engineering Departments annual strategic planning session, the group took a break from flipcharts
and presentations to engage in a team building exercise that consisted of pile driving each other in a highly competitive game
of football!
Erika Bourgault, Chief Officer, receives her Certificate of Membership
in the Company of Master Mariners of Canada (CMMC) from Divisional
Master Captain David Bremner of the CMMC.
Greg Peterson, Director, Fleet Performance; Wayne Ralph, Engineering
Superintendent; Frank Camaraire, Engineering Business Manager;
Mark Nemeth, Engineering Superintendent; Greg Stewart, Engineering
Superintendent; and Garry Hague, Engineering Superintendent. In front:
Azmal Karim, Engineering Superintendent.
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Kudos to cashier Josh Wong,
Tsawwassen, and Raj Chumber,
Hospitality Services, for their
excellent customer service. My
daughter left a music book in
my car that she needed for
the next morning at music
camp in Victoria. I didnt find
the book in my car until just
before the ferry sailing. The
two of them solved my problem
very effectively. Thank you!
Burnaby
I would like to express my
sincere thanks Mike Pilon,
Cashier, Hospitality Services,
for looking after me when I
spilled hot coffee on my hand on
board the Spirit of Vancouver
Island. He was extremely
professional, helpful, caring and
pleasant.
Vancouver
Special thanks to deckhand
Andrew Kanivets on the
Queen of Vancouver who was
extremely helpful in making sure
we made the last possible spot
onboard the ferry. I am partially
handicapped and he was very
courteous and helpful in parking
us and providing us with some
good natured conversation for a
few moments when we returned
to our vehicle for off-loading.
He should be commended for his
help. A very pleasant individual!
We enjoy using your service and
we will see you in the future.
Abbotsford
TSAWWASSEN TERMINAL
MAINTENANCE CELEBRATES
500 DAYS WITHOUT A
TIME-LOSS INJURY
Congratulations to the employees of Tsawwassen Terminal Maintenance for their safety
achievements and ongoing commitment to improving safety. On June 18, 2007, the team
celebrated 500 safe working days, with the last recorded time-loss incident occurring on
January 26, 2006. (At press time, the team was at 650 safe working days!) In recognition
of their outstanding workplace safety milestone, the Safety, Security & Environment
Division presented the Tsawwassen Terminal Maintenance Site Safety Committee with
a Safety Recognition Plaque.
Tsawwassen Terminal Maintenance provides a wide range of services to maintain
marine ramp structures, terminal building facilities and ground structures in compliance
with required codes, safety standards and Worksafe BC regulations. Their 23-member
team consists of one maintenance planner, two administrative assistants, and two trade
supervisors who oversee a number of welders, dock repairers, carpenters, plumbers and
electricians.
Please contact your regional Safety, Security & Environment manager or safety officer
regarding your safety achievements or any safety matters, or visit the Safety, Security &
Environment site on the intranet.
On June 18, 2007, Tsawwassen Terminal Maintenance celebrated 500 safe working days, with the last
recorded time-loss incident occurring on January 26, 2006. Congratulations! Back row, left to right:
Mark Hobden, Don Hass, Harry Penner, Mark Chaisson, Doug Tomkins, Allan Aalder, Yvon Cote. Front
row, left to right: Tom Gillam, Pete Labounty, Sergio Cavalleri, Wayne Colwell, Jason Higham, Phil
Brown, Lorne Sadler, Dave Fitzpatrick, Michael Bennett, Roger Dauteuil, David Gillam, Tim Ouellette,
Gordon Wiebe, Joan Simpson, Dean Geiger, Darcey Hebert, Heather Smith and Gary Gerein.
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I would like to comment on
the helpfulness of one your
employees, Lynne Gosvig,
Little River, who was working
in the caf and gift shop area
as we travelled from Powell
River to Comox. She went
above and beyond and should
be commended, not just for her
service to us, but with many
others passengers as well. She
definitely enhanced the trip.
Thank you, Lynne!
Victoria
I am writing to congratulate
the many staff members who
helped me onboard the Queen
of Saanich. We left Tsawwassen
via car bound for Swartz Bay,
but just as we were docking, my
husband quickly left the car to
try and find his glasses. I tried
to stop him, in part because he
has Alzheimers. All the other
cars had unloaded and there
was still no sign of my husband.
The employees were great. They
got in touch with other members
on the ship and kept assuring
me not to worry. I was then
directed off the ship to where
my husband was waiting. We
are regular travellers on your
ferries and now I know that any
emergency will be dealt with
promptly and efficiently. Please
convey my sincere thanks to all
your staff that helped me and, if
you give out gold stars, they all
deserve them!
Vancouver
MARINE DRAUGHTERS ARE
HERE FOR YOU
Did you know that the Marine Draughting office, which is part of the Fleet Technical
Department in the Engineering Division led by Director Bruce Paterson, is the custodian
of more than 15,000 ships drawings?
In an effort to be more efficient and improve accessibility, the Marine Draughting
office, comprised of Gary Brookall, Marine Draughtsperson; Martin Mayuga, Marine
Draughtsperson; and supervisor Francois Cambron, Marine Systems Engineer, recently
scanned the paper ship drawings, some dating back to the companys inception, into
electronic files. What used to occupy 20' x 8' of wall space is now on the companys
network and will soon be moving online.
Aside from looking after our ships drawings, the Marine Draughting offices primary
role is to ensure our International Safety Management (ISM) safety drawings are
updated and accurate for each ship in the fleet. Seven essential drawings are maintained,
including the Fire Control Plan and Life Saving Equipment Plan, and each time a ship
undergoes a refit or modification involving a change in configuration, those drawings
must be updated. It can be a long process, but good communication between the ship and
the Draughting office goes a long way to ensuring the drawings are accurate.
FROM DRAUGHTING TO DESIGN UPGRADES
In September 2006, the Marine Draughting office accepted a challenge to support the
upgrade and refurbishment of the Queen of Burnaby. With assistance from an interior
designer, and after much input from the ships crews, the Draughting office produced
detailed plans for the upgrades, resulting in significant onboard enhancements for our
customers and crews. In addition, significant cost savings were realized by doing the
project in-house. Due to the success of the project, the team has been asked to work on
the Howe Sound Queens interior upgrades that will take place during its refit at the
end of this year.
The Draughting Office and the entire Fleet Technical Department are always ready for
interesting new challenges, so if youre
looking for a marine engineering solution,
the answer may be closer than you think!
From left to right: Gary Brookall, Marine
Draughtsperson; Franois Cambron, Marine
Systems Designer/Draughting Manager; and
Martin Mayuga, Marine Draughtsperson.
Queen of Burnaby seating area, before and after.
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I was bringing my handicapped
wife from Horseshoe Bay to
Departure Bay from a hospital
trip and we were the last car
onboard the Queen of Oak Bay.
The only problem was that we
were at the stern of the boat
and there was no way we could
get to the elevator. It was our
great fortune, however, to meet
one of your attendants on the
car deck who spent quite a while
contacting the other car owners
to have them move their cars so
that we could reach the elevator.
Eventually this was achieved and
we were able to enjoy the ferrys
facilities. He would not accept a
gratuity for the work he put in
and we did not get his name, but
would like to express our thanks
for his efforts in making our
crossing more enjoyable.
Nanaimo
I would like to thank your
staff in assisting me with an
error I performed with your
online reservation process. I
called the toll-free number and
spoke with a very professional
customer care representative
who assisted me in canceling
a reservation that I charged
it to my credit card in error.
With the work of his supervisor,
they were able to delete this
transaction and put the credit
back onto my credit card. I really
appreciated their understanding
with this matter and thank them
for being professional and more
efficient than I was! Thanks,
BC Ferries.
Campbell River
INTRODUCING NEWCOASTAL
EXPERIENCES
If youve been to the Swartz Bay or
Tsawwassen foot-passenger lounges lately,
youve probably noticed our new Coastal
Awareness presented by Chevron interactive
exhibits. The exhibits are a great addition
to our Coastal Experiences program
and complement the successful Coastal
Naturalists program that was offered
onboard our ships this past summer in
partnership with Parks Canada. By joining
forces with other organizations that are
equally committed to British Columbias
coast, wildlife, marine life and healthy
living, were able to provide additional
services for our customers in a cost-
effective manner.
At our Route 1 terminals, youll find the
Coastal Awareness presented by Chevron
game playing on a 42-inch touch-screen
exhibit. With dynamic natural imagery,
animation and graphics, the interactive
game is designed to entertain, educate
and engage our employees and customers.
Although the program is in its first year,
were planning to expand the exhibits to
additional terminals and vessels and use
feedback from customers, employees and
our program partners to further develop
the program.
Check out www.bcferries.com for a
preview of the interactive game!
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My family and I would like to
express our sincere thanks and
appreciation for the assistance
we received while on the Queen
of Vancouver. I had arranged
to meet my sister and mother
on the ferry, but just after
boarding, I received a frantic
call from my sister saying that
my mother had a terrible fall on
the lower main deck. My mother
had tripped and fallen head
first on the cement. Christy
Mooney, Customer Service
Attendant, was on the scene
within a minute and she was
excellent! She provided my mom
with great care and provided her
with necessary first aid. She also
let us stay in the First Aid room
so that my mom could settle her
nerves and rest, and provided us
with packs of ice to ensure the
bruising would settle. Christys
actions certainly calmed us and
helped my mom. I am happy to
report that my mom is doing
better. Please commend Christy
for her efforts. She truly made
a difference in ensuring my mom
was safe and taken care of.
Richmond
After I boarded the ferry, I
noticed that I had a flat tire
and asked at the chief stewards
office for some assistance. Jesse
Phinney, Deckhand, Nanaimo,
accompanied me to my car,
checked the tire and insisted on
putting on the spare for me. He
was extremely courteous and
made me feel like he was happy
to help out. Thanks, Jesse!
Burnaby
DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL
Captain Allan Bell, Senior Master, Queen of Cumberland, was a great sport at the
13th Annual Victoria Dragon Boat Festival held in Victorias Inner Harbour this year.
BC Ferries was a proud supporter of the event, which saw 90 teams compete in a variety
of races, including the Breast Cancer Survivors Cup.
SATURNA ISLAND BARBECUE
This year, BC Ferries sponsored the annual Saturna Island barbecue, which raises funds
to support the Islands community services and community hall. More than 1,200 plates
of food were served and approximately $21,000 raised, with 75 per cent of the money
going to support health care services on the Island. The organizing committee sends its
thanks to BC Ferries for providing additional sailings to accommodate the event and to
Captain Chris Frappell, Marine Superintendent, Southern Islands, who was a great sport
and a favourite draw at the dunk tank.
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GO CANUCKS!
In addition to sponsoring the Vancouver Canucks' training camp, which was held at Bear Mountain Resort just outside of
Victoria, BC Ferries recently entered into a five-year sponsorship deal with the team. Next time youre at GM Place or checking
out the game on t.v., watch for our BC Ferries logo on the rink boards, on the undercarriage of the clock and throughout the rink
when the home team scores. Go Canucks!
After heavy flooding forced organizers of Raid the North
Extremea six-day, expedition-length adventure race in
northwestern British Columbiato alter the race course from
the Skeena and Bulkley River basins to the Queen Charlotte
Islands, BC Ferries jumped at the opportunity to be part of
the event. The Queen of Prince Rupert transported twenty-
four teams of extreme athletes, travelling with their bikes
and kayaks, from Prince Rupert to the Queen Charlottes to
compete in a grueling test of endurance through the wilderness
of the Haida Gwaii. After a three-day race adventure, the
athletes re-joined the vessel and were transported back to
Prince Rupert to complete the Raid the North Extreme.
Thanks to everyone involved for their efforts to support the
race on such short notice. The race organizers were extremely
grateful and the participants had a fantastic time meeting our
employees and travelling onboard the ship.
GOING TO THE EXTREME
Members of team Race the Rockies with Captain Orval Bouchard, Senior
Master, Queen of Prince Rupert (centre) and Parv Bal, Regional Manager,
Terminal Operations.
Members of the Vancouver Canucks visit the bridge on the Spirit of British Columbia en route to training camp in Victoria. From left to right: Captain
Neil Wellis, Markus Naslund, Captain Andrew Poole, Captain Andy Patterson, Chief Officer Erika Bourgault, Byron Ritchie, Aaron Miller, Ryan Kesler,
Taylor Pyatt.
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As we arrived at Swartz Bay
terminal, I made the unfortunate
choice of trying to change
lanes to a ticket booth that
had just opened. I didnt notice
the traffic island and ended up
bursting a tire. I drove the car
into the line up and started to
call BCAA when I saw terminal
attendant Camrin Hillis walking
by. I told him about the situation
and without hesitation he came
to look at the problem, found a
jack in the trunk and took the
wheel off and replaced it with
a spare in a matter of a few
minutes! I was able to continue
on the trip and the day turned
out very well thanks to Camrin.
We are very grateful to him.
Victoria
The captain and entire crew
on the sailing from Horseshoe
Bay Departure Bay deserve
5 stars or more for their
friendly, courteous service that
was truly above and beyond.
Their cheerful assistance was
offered without any request
from us, and made a tremendous
difference to our trip. Please
convey our gratitude not only
for their many helping hands,
but also for the memory they
created of outstanding customer
care that was a highlight of our
adventures. With thanks from
two ladies and their kayaks.
Campbell River
From left to right: Mayor John Rowell, Village of Alert Bay; Manuel Achadinha, Vice President, Terminal
Operations; and Chief Bill Cranmer, 'Namgis First Nation, perform the official cedar ribbon cutting at
the new terminal building.
ALERT BAY TERMINAL OPENING
On August 24, BC Ferries employees and members of the community joined together
to celebrate the opening of a new and improved terminal at Alert Bay. The terminal
upgrade, which cost approximately $2 million, included expanding the holding
compound by one lane, designating pickup and drop off areas and building a new foot
passenger waiting room.
The ceremony began with a welcome by Manuel Achadinha, Vice President, Terminal
Operations, followed by a traditional blessing ceremony by 'Namgis Chief Bill Cranmer
and speeches from Alert Bay Mayor John Rowell and Regional District Chair Brenda
Swanson. The terminal was officially opened with a special cedar ribbon cutting
ceremony.
THE KWUNA
GETS ITS BELL
RUNG
All it took was a casual mention by
Senior Master William Frowd (left) that
the Kwuna was missing a ships bell and
Terry Giles, Senior Chief Engineer, was
on the job. Terry purchased a new 12-inch
bell, had it engraved and presented it to
Captain Frowd, who had it mounted a
few days later. After 32 years, the Kwuna
finally has a bell. Thanks, Terry!
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As we attempted to disembark
at Nanaimo, our Volvo was
inexplicably and totally disabled.
All the employees, from deck
personnel to the chief stewards
office, were extremely helpful,
patient and kind to two very
bewildered and embarrassed
passengers. The car couldnt be
moved at all, so we returned to
Horseshoe Bay where a tow truck
had been called to drive onboard
and take us away. The employees
couldnt have been more kind and
really helped to make a dreadful
incident less embarrassing. We
so appreciated their attitude.
The car in question is at the
dealer at this very moment as
they try to figure out just what
went wrong!
West Vancouver
We would like to thank
Kathy Nesdoly, Foot Passenger
Ticket Agent, Horseshoe Bay,
for her professionalism and
effort in assisting us. Kathy went
far beyond and above any other
service we have experienced
in our 20 years of sailing with
BC Ferries. Our most sincere
thanks for all your help, Kathy.
Courtenay
CROFTON CUSTOMER
APPRECIATION DAY
On September 24, Crofton employees surprised the 582 customers travelling through
the terminal with a Customer Appreciation Day complete with cupcakes, balloons,
cookies, water and prize draws. The crew also handed out goody bags to 40 school kids
and awards to several long-time commuters. Thanks to Hardeep Grewal, Senior Master,
Howe Sound Queen; Phil Benbow, Terminal Manager, Long Harbour; Shelley Berg,
Finance; and Cheri Maisonneuve, Sales & Community Relations, for helping to hand out
cookies and water, and to Ursula Deno, Terminal Services Agent; Rachel Martin, Terminal
Services Agent; and Lorraine LaMontagne, Terminal Attendant, for making cupcakes and
blowing up lots of balloons. Last, but certainly not least, kudos to Patty Conrad, Terminal
Operation Supervisor, for organizing the event and making a lot of customers very happy!
Lorraine LaMontagne, Terminal Attendant,
Crofton, decorates the terminal after serving up
her homemade cupcakes to happy customers.
Phil Benbow, Terminal Manager, Long Harbour;
Patty Conrad, Terminal Operations Supervisor,
Crofton; and Cheri Maisonneuve, Manager, Sales
& Community Relations, serving up smiles at
Crofton terminal.
Ursula Deno, Terminal Services Agent, gets into the spirit greeting customers at the Crofton terminal
ticket booth.
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OTTER BAY TO THE RESCUE
On September 16, Otter Bay Terminal Services Agents Brian Horsfall and Dan Charman
leapt into action when a van caught on fire as it was leaving the terminal. Brian and Dan
ensured the occupants, a couple and a seven-year-old child, were safely removed from
the vehicle and then evacuated other passengers from the area. The Pender Island Fire
Department responded to the 911 call and, upon arrival, found the van fully engulfed.
Due to the professional efforts of the two terminal staff members, there were no injuries
and the terminal was back in full operation within an hour. Good work!
MISSY THE
MISPLACED MUTT
At the beginning of a busy long weekend, employees at
Departure Bay found themselves in a bit of a dilemma. A
passenger, who had been on the previous sailing to Horseshoe
Bay, had gotten out of his campervan while in the terminal and,
without him noticing, his wifes dog had also jumped out. Once
Missy was spotted in the compound, the employees took over to
ensure the missing property was returned to its rightful owner.
Missy arrived (or pranced, as the crew states) onboard the ship with the van driver and
immediately took over, providing a bit of relief to the crew in what was an otherwise very
hectic day. Because Missy was an unaccompanied minor, she was taken care of in the
back of the Chief Steward's office. Missy was reunited with her very grateful owners who
send their thanks to all the employees involved in looking after their precious pooch. The
gentleman was especially grateful as he explained that they day he lost Missy, his wife
had been medivaced to Vancouver and he had quickly packed up everything, including
the dog, and was travelling through Departure Bay en route to the hospital. He would
have had a lot of explaining to do if he arrived at the hospital without Missy in tow.
Terminal Services Agents Brian Horsfall and Dan Charman at
Otter Bay after rescuing three occupants from a burning van.
Cindi Sutherland, Second
Steward, Nanaimo, went above
and beyond her job description
when she reached into her own
wallet and gave me five dollars
so Id have enough cash to
buy bus tickets for myself and
my daughter. Id forgotten to
stop at a bank machine before
arriving at the terminal and had
almost no cash on hand, not
knowing that the onboard bus
driver wouldnt accept a credit
card. With a tired five-year-
old in tow, I was desperate to
make the rest of the trip home.
Cindi saw my frustration and,
without being asked, handed
me the five dollar bill saying,
would this help?. When I
took her mailing address and
promised to reimburse her, she
just shrugged and said, if you
think of it, but not to worry.
I would certainly never expect
the onboard officers or crew to
give money to total strangers,
and certainly dont feel its their
responsibility to look after every
stressed-out mother who comes
onboard, but her generosity
and calm reassurances really
turned the day around for me. I
hope that you will take notice of
her exceptionally kind attitude
towards passengers. She is a
great example to the rest of
your staff, and has raised my
opinion of BC Ferries service.
Nanaimo
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I recently visited the Seawest
lounge as I travelled from
Victoria to Vancouver. The
seating, service and amenities
were excellent, making this one
of the most pleasant ferry trips I
have experienced in years. It was
made especially first class by the
exceptional service, attitude &
friendliness of Lisa Woodward,
Customer Service Attendant.
What a fantastic lady she was to
me and countless other travellers
on that trip. As a footnote, I
returned to the island on my
normal route via Duke Point on
the newly renovated Queen of
AlberniWOW! The new eating
area was great, the food was
fantastic and the whole interior
is so much nicer and warmer.
Well done, BC Ferries.
Nanaimo
I want to compliment your staff
at Swartz Bay. I had a family
emergency and had to catch the
next ferry to Vancouver. I have
lived on Vancouver Island for
46 years and have never taken
the ferry by myself. I arrived
at the terminal in tears and
the lady at the booth was so
kind to me and sent me to the
priority lane. Then one of the
other employees approached me
in the line to make sure that I
was okay and ask if I needed
assistance. I want to thank you
and your staff for the wonderful
service they provided for me in
my time of need.
Victoria
LONG SERVICE AND
RETIREMENT AWARDS
In early October, celebration receptions were held at the Marriott hotel in Victoria to
honour employees who recently retired and to recognize those who reached service
milestones of 25, 30, 35, 40 and 45 years with the company this past year. Thanks for all
your valuable years of servicewe wouldnt be where we are today without your hard
work and dedication. Congratulations!
30 YEARS OF SERVICE
Back row, left to right: Linda McLeod, Graeme Johnston, Jim Woodward, Deb Hames,
Mike Corrigan (EVP & COO), David L. Hahn (President & CEO), Carol Wilson and
Peter Simpson. Front row, left to right: Linda Savage, Gillian Bangay, Cheryl Johnson, Jim
Laite, Steve Lukinuk, Michele Roberts, Lynda Laity, David Bartle and Lesley Woods. Missing
from photo: Douglas Abrams, David Bartle, Peter Dart, Mark Flach, Linda Handyside, Fred
Hoare, Mark Jordon, Carl Larson, Lisa Lynn, Randall Mar, Michael Nemrava, Brian Pannell,
Lee Passenger, Charlotte Probizanski, Leslie Setchfield, Eileen Smith, Wendy Wegner, Lesley Woods.
25 YEARS OF SERVICE
Back row, left to right: David Kinsey, Don Dubois, Jack Steele, Captain Lance Lomax, Captain Mike Clark,
Craig Henderson, George Sutherland, Nancy Arkell, David L. Hahn (President & CEO), Kim Brice, Mike
Corrigan (EVP & COO) and Rob Byron. Front Row, left to right: David Scott, Gail McDonald, Sue Lowe,
Elaine Kerr, Christina Copland, Lynn Hines, Val Meers, Marek Mirski and Nick Cookson. Missing from
photo: Judy Aitken, Burce Billie, Don Boyce, Kim Carswell, Deb Clark, Judy Cryer, James Drebert, Kelly
Duke-Wilson, John Gallagher, Margaret Hansen, David Lind, Stephen Marsden, Mark ODonnell, Randy Pratt,
Henry Robitaille, Joanne Rushton, Ernest Varga, John Wegner and James Wilkinson.
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35 YEARS OF SERVICE
Back row, left to right: Dan Carlos, Steve Neish, Ron McSween, Captain Pete Duffey, Mike Dawes,
Tom Warren, Mike Corrigan (EVP & COO), Adrian Perkins, David L. Hahn (President & CEO) and Ernie Varga.
Front row, left to right: Dilys Robbins, Pat Case, Wayne Croaker, John Pinto, Rennie Yu, Elaine Moore,
Wai K. Chau, Milt Wilson, John Chin, Captain Greg Hogue and Richard Finnegan. Missing from photo:
Richard Bell, Bin Chiang, Robert High, Kai Chung Lam, Ian McLeod and Janet Muir.
40 YEARS OF SERVICE
Left to right: Mike Corrigan (EVP & COO), Captain Finn Andersen, David L. Hahn (President & CEO)
and John Van-Tol.
Missing from photo: Seiji Mukuyama.
45 YEARS OF SERVICE
Special congratulations to Robert Douglas, First Engineer, on his 45 years of service.
Robert was unable to join in the celebrations, but his dedication to BC Ferries was
wholeheartedly applauded by all those in attendance.
Just prior to my arrival at
Swartz Bay I started to feel
very ill, so after purchasing my
ticket, I spent some time in
the terminal washroom. I was
feeling worse by the time I
boarded the ferry, running a
fever, shivering with severe chills,
aching all over and suffering
from a pounding headache, so I
approached the Chief Steward's
office to request assistance. I
was escorted to a state room
by two ladies who were very
compassionate and helpful,
ensuring that I had a quiet place
to lie down, tucking me in with
a clean blanket, turning off the
lights and closing the drapes to
ensure my privacy. By the time
we arrived in Tsawwassen, I was
feeling better, but upon arriving
home, I did end up spending
the next three days in bed with
a high fever. I would like to
commend your staff for showing
great concern for my well-being
and for taking such great care of
me. I wish I had asked for their
names, so please relay my heart-
felt appreciation and thanks to
these wonderful ladies!
Victoria
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2005/2006 RETIREES
Back row, left to right: Captain Robert Carnegie, John Bawden, David L. Hahn (President & CEO), Thomas Gregorchuk, Captain Alan Donohue, Mel Olson,
Blair May, Captain Ed McDonald, David Hetherington, Dale Thompson. Middle row: Tim Hanna, Captain Tak Hayashi, Captain Jock Palmer, Captain
Jan Andreassen, Captain Donald Crighton, Earl Agar, Danny McJannet, Captain Glen Campsall, Ed Bowser, Dave OHara and Man Chau Chiu.
Front row: Margaret Stevens, Elaine Moore, Ellen Coppinger, Captain Mike Ragan, Jenafor Camren, Greg Ozeroff, Ann Carpenter, Dawne Cressman,
Linda Crotty, David Carlsen, Rusty Deshmukh, Anita Mahoney and Robert Brady. Missing from photo: Patrick Abbott, Captain Robert Andrews,
Gordon Arthur, Arnie Bell, John Booton, Ray Brown, Clifford Carey, George Carlson, Captain Michael Carter, Chun Tim Choy, Michael Cox,
William Craig, Daniel Cross, Harvey Dendy, Margaret Franke, Shirley Fricker, Yuen Gee, Sandra Gibb, Elizabeth Grant, Captain James Grimmer,
Edward Harker, Cecil Hobday, Captain James Huffman, Michael Inness, Brenda Kuss, Kelly Kwan, Vivian Laning, Gerald Lavalee, Archie Lee,
Kathleen Lucas, Kenneth Mikus, Barry Miles, James Miller, Grant Mitchell, Ev Miyasaki, Captain Tony Monaghan, Roderick Morrison, Finlay Munro,
Trevor Oram, David Oxland, Reine Pineault, Andrea Plank, George Redl, Robert Ryan, Harold Savoy, Allan Scott, Richard Scruton, Alexander Smith,
Raymond Smith, Maureen Surkan, Barbara Vince, Mervin Walde, Peter Wilson and Ann Yorke.
2007 RETIREES
Back row, left to right: Pat Slingsby, David L. Hahn (President & CEO), Larry Berg, Robert Swanson, Alan Ponting, Russell Chan, John Gilmore, K.W.
Jackman and Captain George A. Capacci (VP, Fleet Operations). Middle row: Randall Sloan, Arland Robson, Murray Ziprick, Gary Shook, Vern Shore,
Alex Nicholl, Ray Ledoux, Jennifer Maxwell, Jan Butterfield, Bernie Hetrick, Jerry Osis, Captain Tom Butler-Cole, Hardy Sandhu, Darryl Mossop, Kathy
Cipriani and Lillian Denovan. Front row: Leon Garson, Rob Coomber, Rod Laity, Lucie Seykora, Kwong Ming Wong, Ray Jupe, Corinne Simmons, Judy
Slingsby, Maria Leahy, Bruce Beattie, Henry Schwagly, Darlene Newfield, Dean Charbonneau, Judy Harris, Val Perkins, David Worsley, Dave Hungar and
Captain Don Pearson. Missing from photo: David Andronyk, James Behan, Brenda Boisvert, Connie Clairmont, Captain Bryan Coe, Michael Dean, Irene
Dolan, Stanley Douglas, Heather Droux, Lorne Elmhurst, Andrew Finnie, Michael Flynn, David Foster, Doris Funk, Matthew Greening, Doris Guest, John
Gumbert, Douglas Jordan, Charles Lawlor, Man Fai Ma, Gordon MacGregor, Captain John Markham, David Marrs, Captain John McKinoon, Roy Melchior,
Karen Mennitti, Rance Myers, Frances Patterson, Kenneth Pattison, Borje Persson, Jon Pettersen, Stephen Pierce, Michael Poustie, Carol Priebe,
Robert Reeves, Philip Raoch, Peter Ross, Thaoms Russell, Prithviraj Sen, Ida Seregely, Daniel Skelcher, David Slingsby, Ronald Speed, Robin Stead,
David Towell, Slex Tsui, Lana Underwood, Gerald Van Achte, Wilma Walters, Bruce Williams and Brian Wright.
THE WAVE is looking for stories,
events and photos from throughout
the fleet.
The next deadline for submissions is
January 31, 2008.
Contact THE WAVE
Erinn Grant, Editor
1112 Fort Street
Victoria, BC V8V 4V2
Tel: 1-877-280-1419
Fax: (250) 978-1119
employees@bcferries.com
THE WAVE
NOWWERE COOKING!
Greetings from the K Watch crew onboard the Queen of New Westminster. Pictured on the galley flats are Claude Beaudry,
Second Cook; Charles Wilson, Third Cook; William Foo, Galley Helper; and Patrick Ho, Chief Cook.

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