Retiree Stories - Brian & Sue Dawkins

Retiree Stories

Brian and Sue Dawkins
Newcomers 2002, Calgary, Alberta

Brian and Sue Dawkins have been living in a seaside condo in Campbell River for just under a year. They moved here from Calgary where Brian worked as an accountant and Sue as a secretary. Brian discovered Campbell River in 1989 on a company fishing trip and was so impressed by the climate and beauty he told Sue that she had to come see it. They began vacationing here each year and "after a while it started to feel like home." They're very happy to have retired here because it's a pretty little town with nice people and a lot of activities to take part in.

The weather and the water were the two main draws of Campbell River. There's the sea life: seals, eagles, herons and spectacular pods of killer whales. There's the fishing, which is Brian's hobby, and there's the simple, ever changing beauty of it. They'll never get tired of watching the cruise ships that glide by on summer evenings. Sue often chooses to walk along the water to the store rather than drive because it's just so nice to look out at the ocean.

In terms of activities Sue is sure that the volunteer center has something for everyone. She herself enjoys volunteering at the art gallery and the Tidemark theatre. She also became involved with her church again when she came here, something she hadn't done in a while, but when she came to Campbell River it was just so welcoming and made it very easy for her to get involved. The Dawkins have been very pleased with the welcoming attitudes and friendliness of the local people. Other aspects of Campbell River that the Dawkins appreciate is that, though it is a small town, they have good health care and are not isolated from friends and family in other towns. West Jet is near by and the Dawkins can quickly and easily get to Calgary. Also there is a brand new highway, on which Nanaimo is less than two hours away and Victoria less than four.

Campbell River is just a pretty place to be. It's a welcoming seaside community with a lot to see and do and that is what the Dawkins look forward to enjoying for the rest of their retirement