On Friday, April 8, we had the opportunity to ride on the 130th Anniversary Island Train in Nanaimo.
It was a totally awesome and fun day and we greatly appreciated being given the chance to be on this ride.
We were both born and raised in Victoria and the E&N Dayliner was a big part of downtown Victoria.
(Bill): I only rode the Dayliner once when I was a young boy and delivered the Victoria Times Colonist and won a free trip to Courtenay.
It was an experience I will always remember – the trestles and scenery along the rail route.
Until last Friday I had never been on another train.
(Miriam): My family rode the Dayliner most summers to visit relatives in Courtenay. It was the highlight of our summer vacation.
When we moved to Ladysmith we took our children to Victoria on the Dayliner to visit relations – they were so excited and loved every moment on the trip.
It now saddens us to think our own grandchildren and future generations will not be able to experience this adventure on Vancouver Island.
We strongly urge the RDN to reconsider reinstating the Dayliner service so both tourists and Island residents can enjoy the beauty that is not see by driving the Malahat in a vehicle.
The train is also important and essential as it keeps the Island communities connected.
Bill and Miriam Rose
Ladysmith
