Swiftsure International Yacht Race 2017

What a gorgeous day to watch the yachts set sail at the 74th annual event that runs all weekend finishing Monday May 29th at 6 am.  This year was a little different than past years...Four Long Courses, a tactical race testing knowledge, sharp skill, and endurance. These racing yachts are also very technical.  Approxiamtely two hundred yachts registered for one of the following races: Swiftsure Inshore Classic, The Hein Bank Race, The Cape Flattery Race and The Juan de Fuca Race. Congratulations to ANOMALY - skipper Bill Elmer for finishing first in The Swiftsure Inshore Classic. Click Here to watch this race live right now with the 2017 Race Tracker which uses GPS transponders to show you real time positions of the participants during the Four Long Course races. A Big thank you to all of the volunteers and the Royal Victoria Yacht Club. I hope you enjoy the photos below!

A Few Photo's During Friday Night Inner Harbour Festivities

Photo of The Swiftsure Yachts Heading to Clover Point

Photo of Spectators Enjoying the Start Sequence at Clover Point

Photo From Oak Bay's King George Terrace Look Out 

On a personal note: Completed years ago my 'Basic I' which I remember very well...having capsized in order to pass this level... and enjoying hot choclate afterwards to warm the body from the ocean temperatures... ha ha ha - below is a little photo of me and my son while sailing for a week down the coast of Baja Mexico...in a harness on deck and my son below... an incredible experience from 1997 and realizing a full week of sailing was enough for me... smile... Wishing you all a great weekend and if you have any real estate questions please call me direct at 250.744.4556, twenty-eight years of experience... stay tuned for more updates. Cheers!

Oak Bay Artists' Studio Spring Tour 2017

This year there are 26 local Artists in this self guided free event, Saturday and Sunday April 22 -23 2017 from noon - 4:30pm.  The artists will be opening their home studios to the public showing paintings in watercolour, acrylic, oil as well as jewelry, art cards, ceramics, photograhy, paper castings, woodcuts and more. Come and walk, drive or ride your bike to locations shown on the map above.  Meet the artists!

Several of these artists have received nationwide and international recognition.

1.  Victor Lotto - An award winning painter in acrylics and watercolour, Victor invites you to his studio to see his latest paintings from Canada and his travels overseas.

2.  Pam Stonehouse - Pam explores trees, water, flowers, animals and the unexpected by foot, bike and canoe.  Cards, prints, canvas and metal.

3.  Avis Rasmussen - 'Tour Memory Lane' triptych linocuts, drypoint polymer prints.  All original artworks.  'Garden World,' chapbooks, rubbings, and cards.  Plus print your own card...

4.  Claire Christinel - An award winning artist, Claire welcomes you to her studio!  Enjoy her most recent vibrant landscpe paintings, in either oils or acrylics.  Her art cards will also be available.

5.  Anne Hansen - Anne is famour for her oystercatcher art.  She is also fond of herons, bears, woodpeckers and bald eagles.

6.  Linda Lindsay - Linda is known for her sensitively sculpted, and life-like terracotta and bronze figures. She is passionate about representing the best in humanity.

7.  Jean Betts - Jean's textiles reflect her continuing studies in Japan.  Handwoven silk scarves, linens and decorative pieces using handspun yams and natural dyes.

8.  Myra Baynton - A selection of water colour and acrylic paintings that represent local and international settings.  These works are inspired by the vibrancy of nature and travel.

9.  Vivian Lochridge - Vivian's style is direct.  Her brush strokes evoke a kind of synesthesia, the sound of colour.  She explores, in oils, the balance and harmony of form.

10.  Arlene Davey - In Chinese Brush Painting, the choice of subject matter, simplicity of composition and direct manner of execution bring life to this traditional medium.

Below is a photo describing the artist, location and phone number

11.  Flo-Elle Watson - Using up-cycled white porcelain for her canvas;  Flo-Elle creates an original one-of-a-kind, permanent, non toxic, and functional piece of art.  Flo-Elle welcomes you, come and view her latest creations.

12.  Bonnie-Anne Goodwin - Bonnie has collected antique and spiritual beads in her travels.  She now is creating unique bracelets and necklaces.

13.  Sandi Madsen - The studio is full of beautifully hand crafted pottery and silver jewellery.

14.  Paul Redchurch - Once again, Paul is back with an eclectic mix of water-colours and acrylic paintings as well as his always popular greeting cards.

15.  Robert Amos - Overflowing with creativity, Robert's studio is a must see.  Paintings of Oak Bay, musings about James Joyce, books and prints and umbrellas.  Don't miss it.

16.  Sarah Amos - "Well made, strong confident new oils of Oak Bay and Victoria.  An eclectic group of smaller paintings too."

Below is photo showing off more artists contact information for the 18th Annual Oak Bay Artists' Studio Spring Tour for 2017

17.  Erik Thorn - "My work mostly in acrylic, reflects my love of colour, natural patterns and details."  Exhibition and collections in Canada, France, Scandinavia, and New Zealand.

18.  Miriam Thorn - "I use oil pastels, watercolours, mixed media and photography inspired by natural forms and music."  Exhibitions and collections in Canada, USA, UK, France, Scandinavia, New Zealand and Australia.

19.  Joan Turner - "I am at a new location but my art is still the same! Vibrant Colours! Looking forward to seeing art lovers!."

20.  Joanie McCorry - Discover the new magic Joanie has created via her three dimensional paper castings, collages and photos.  New greeting cards on display.

21.  Marie-Andree Allison - Represented in several ancient media, the subjects displayed are either figurative or abstract.  A long-time visual artist and art educator, Marie offers demonstrations in some of the techniques.

22.  F. Caroline Hunter - An award winning artist, Caroline welcomes you to her home to view her watercolour and acrylic paintings and cards.

23.  Greg Stoneman - Greg is pleased to welcome you to his Jactone Studios to view his unique styles of multimedia woodart.

24.  Val Woulters - "Shapes and colours I notice everyday inspire me to express the peace and joy of nature through the use of mixed media o canvas"

25.  Bruce Vallance - Bruce continues to explore boat, figure and eclectic themes.  His garden and renovated studio akes this a 'must see' visit.

26.  Myrna Germaine-Brown - Myrna is creating larger works inspired by familiar subjects and surroundings using her painted and dyed fabric enhanced with pastels.

Below is a photo of artists in this weekends special free self guided tour

Wishing you all a fabulous weekend and please stay tuned for more Oak Bay updates! 

Brenda Russell is proud to present a new listing this Condo for sale, 301 1687 Poplar Avenue, Mt. Tolmie, Victoria, BC

'The Poplar' is located in the Mt. Tolmie Area. This warm and inviting corner suite offers windows on three sides! Immaculate two bedroom, two bathroom and is conveniently located within walking distance to shops, banks, restaurants, park and the University of Victoria. The Seller professionally enstalled a walk-in shower with seat in the ensuite bathroom. The main bathroom offers a tub/shower. The 'Murphy bed' and built-in desk will remain in the second bedroom for the new owner. In 2015 the Seller professionally replaced the fireplace with a new 'Valor' gas fireplace in the livingroom. This bright kitchen has lots of cupboards and counter space, an eating area and two large windows. The sliding doors are located off the dining area and lead to a nice spacious 18 x 6 balcony (approx). This suite has ensuite laundry facilities, secure underground parking and a storage locker. A fantastic location close to schools, and a short stroll to picturesque Mt. Tolmie Park. Ready for immediate occupancy. All yours!

Brenda Russell is proud to present a new listing this House for sale, 46 King George Terrace, Oak Bay, Victoria, BC

A very rare offering in Oak Bay. The Gonzales area is a special one... sweeping southerly ocean views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Olympic mountains showcase this solid, classic, 1965 post and beam home. Located in one of Victoria's most prestigious locations. Probably the most affordable offering on King George Terrace in years, boasts three bedrooms (could be four), three bathrooms, oak floors, floor to ceiling fireplace, some thermo windows and is a blank canvas for your imagination. Perched on an easy-care lot, rock terracing and a green house in the rear. Bonus: Drive into the garage and walk right in to the home. Some properties in this area the garage is either at street level or there isn't one. Enjoy the sunsets, sailboats, vessels and all the activity this exposure offers. Views of Gonzales Bay as well. Only minutes walk to this beach which I like to call 'Victoria's Malibu'. Victoria Golf Course is only a few minutes drive as well as the Oak Bay Marina. This home offers immediate occupancy upon completion of the sale.

A short video showing off a little of Gonzales Bay.

Brenda Russell is so happy for her clients purchase at 1027 Roslyn Road, South Oak Bay, Victoria, BC

Simply a beautiful home in South Oak Bay! Solid and charming. This home is well loved and cared for. One could easily read about it in a 'House and Garden' magazine. Once inside you will appreciate the designer vibe of the interior spaces and the natural light, gorgeous wood floors, coved ceilings and privacy throughout. Cozy gas fireplace. The garden has been custom designed with walkways offering many areas of sun, solace and refuge. Situated on a quiet street but walking distance to the Oak Bay Village and cafe.

S. DAVID AUJLA, PLC
CANADIAN IMMIGRATION LAWYER
Website: www.BCimmigration.com

If you have any real estate questions please call me direct at 250.744.4556 or toll free at 1.800.550.0585.  Please stay tuned for more updates!  Thank you.

Brenda Russell is proud to present a new listing this House for sale, 3058 Henderson Road, Oak Bay, Victoria, BC

Ultra desirable Henderson area! This warm and inviting classic 50's family home sits in a prime location on the Lansdowne/Henderson slope. Almost 1700 sqft on the MAIN FLOOR! Offering PRIVACY, City, Mountain VIEWS and some ocean on clear days towards the Oak Bay Beach Hotel. The owner loved her home for 40 years. All principal rooms are of generous proportions with large picturesque windows. The dining room with French doors to a sun deck. Gorgeous oak flooring. Three fireplaces. The lower level provides a 23 x 15 family room with sliding doors to the patio and private fenced yard (could offer wheel chair access), extra bedroom and ensuite, PLUS a large unfinished area. BONUS: DOUBLE garage with ceiling height ranging from 16'-11'5. Walk to Camosun College and Uplands Golf Course. A short bus ride to The University of Victoria and downtown.

Brenda Russell is proud to present a new listing this West Coast House for sale, 3384 Cardiff Place, Henderson Oak Bay, Victoria, BC

The Grande Dame of Cardiff Place in Henderson Oak Bay. This very rare offering perfectly combines west coast tradition and privacy in the area. 113 x 182 lot (.47 acre) with views of Mt. Baker, sunrises and sunsets all on a cul-de-sac. Gorgeous cedar ceilings, oak floors, floor to ceiling windows, updated baths. Two propane fireplaces. Completely NEW kitchen showcasing sleek granite, glass/tile back splash, under counter lighting, centre island with a solid block. NEW Stainless appliances (French door fridge w/water/ice filters, two ovens). Two sets of washer/dryers (one set: Bosch) BONUS: ELEVATOR (with new motor) off the kitchen!! Entertainment size dining room leading to either the GRAND livingroom, sunroom and decks. New windows 2010. New TRANE Air Conditioning/Heat pump and Hot Water Tank. Double garage. Walk to the University of Victoria and Henderson Recreation Centre. Bus route to downtown on Henderson Road and minutes drive to Uplands golf Course.

Brenda Russell is proud to present a new listing this Townhouse for sale, 141 2345 Cedar Hill Cross Road, Henderson, Oak Bay, Victoria, BC

Welcome to Elegance. 'Uplands Estates' is a well established, exclusive gated community in Oak Bay. This RARE ONE LEVEL townhome has been designer refurbished and unrivalled in condition! An idyllic floor plan. Wood floors in bedrooms and hall, tile in the entry, cork in kitchen and broadloom in living the formal dining areas. A gorgeous kitchen with corner windows, patio door, Kitchen Aid appliances, Quartz counters, under counter lighting, Italian tile back splash, pot lights. Large Master suite has access to a private patio as does the large den with built-ins and the living area. Generous window sizes, Phantom screens and Hunter Douglas Blinds throughout. Double garage with workbench and windows. Beauty, lush landscaped grounds overlooking Uplands Golf Course. Propane and electric BBQ's allowed.

Brenda Russell is proud to present a new listing this House for sale, 1680 Earle Street, Fairfield East, Victoria, BC

This beauty is a 1923 Character house in prime Fairfield close to the South Oak Bay border. Whether you call it Arts and Crafts, Craftsman or Character this style of architecture is virtually a signature piece for anywhere along the West Coast but especially here in Victoria. Combine that with the convenience of being within walking distance of anything you need and great bus routes to UVIC and down town. Walk to the Fairfield Plaza, Hollywood Park and Ross Bay... Margaret Jenkins Elementary School is also just a few minutes away and offers French Immersion. Gorgeous wood floors, beams, built-ins, window seat, wood burning fireplace. Double carport. The lot shows off a nice 60 x 144 size! Undeveloped basement. New roof last year. Bonus: WALK to sandy Gonzales beach!

Brenda Russell is honored to announce that this June 27th, 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM we will be hosting an Open House at 2324 Middowne Road in the Henderson, Oak Bay neighborhood, Victoria. This is an opportunity to visit this excellent House for sale in beautiful Oak Bay.

Please come with any questions you may have. In the meantime you can take a virtual tour of this Henderson, Oak Bay House for sale.

As always please do not hesitate to call me direct at 250.744.4556 if you have any questions before the open house, or if you would like to book a private showing.

Brenda Russell
Royal Lepage Coast Capital Realty - Oak Bay

Brenda Russell is proud to present a new listing this House for sale, 2324 Middowne Road, Henderson, Oak Bay, Victoria, BC

An Oak Bay property that deserves SERIOUS attention! This Olympic view 1950's home has never been listed and has been lovingly cared for by one family, with gorgeous modern updates. 1450 sq.ft. on the main floor, a FULL undeveloped 7'6" ceiling height walkout basement. Approximately 2887 total square feet, add to that a RARE park side lot with ideal South West exposure, to take in the views from in the dining room patio. GORGEOUS oak floors. Vinyl windows, NEW Kitchen with granite, stainless steel appliances and sliding doors leading to the deck. Large modern bathroom showing off a glass shower, claw tub and heated tile floors. Mature tiered gardens on 78 x 127 lot (9,906 sq.ft.) are full of flowering scrubs... a gardeners paradise. Finally, it's the right combination of privacy and expansive views make this home an absolute gem! Walk to Ecole Willows School and the Gonzales Co-op Preschool. University of Victoria, Uplands Golf Course, Parks, bus and shopping are so close and convenient.