The Comox Valley Paddlers Club welcomes Vancouver Island-based wilderness guide and expedition leader Hayley Shephard as guest speaker to their April 2 meeting.
In 2010 Shephard attempted a world-first solo kayak journey around the isolated Sub-Antarctic Island of South Georgia. This challenging journey had a cause – to raise awareness for the magnificent albatross, a bird whose future is uncertain. Despite many challenges, Shephard embodied her resilient spirit as she strove against the odds to fulfil her motto: “Live your dreams.”
Shephard was born in New Zealand and became a middle-school teacher. She came to Canada on a three-week vacation which extended to 20 years, where her classroom was moved outdoors. Shephard spends the majority of her time on the ocean, sharing in the company of whales, bears and penguins. She leads expeditions from Antarctica to the Arctic and throughout western Canada. Introducing people to our natural wild environment is her passion.
An adventurer, writer and photographer, Shephard’s work has been published in a variety of magazines and her book South Solo: Kayaking to Save the Albatross will be available for purchase at the presentation ($20 incl tax). Her documentary film Soul of the Sea is currently on the film festival circuit.
Shephard’s presentation commences at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 2 at the Lion’s Den, 1729 Comox Ave., Comox (behind the Pearl Ellis Art Gallery). Doors open at 6:30 p.m.
Comox Valley Paddlers Club winter meetings take place the first Thursday of the month, October through to May. Paddling enthusiasts can learn more about club events and summer activities at the meeting. Non-members are also very welcome to attend.
For more information e-mail comoxpaddlers@gmail.com or visit comoxvalleypaddlers.ca
– Comox Valley Paddlers Club
