Wind Phone Art Installation

“Waves”, a Wind Phone created by artist Mauro Dalla Costa, is now permanently installed at Bowen Road Cemetery. The installation offers a quiet, symbolic space for reflection, remembrance and connection for those experiencing grief and loss. Wind Phones are non-working telephones placed in natural or communal public spaces as a way to process grief and honour loved ones who have passed. This Wind Phone invites visitors to speak words they wish they could still share.

“Waves” is carved from teak wood and features rippling textures inspired by the movement created by a single drop of water. At the centre of the piece, the wind phone becomes the origin point of these waves, serving as a powerful metaphor for how every word spoken continues to resonate outward, echoing beyond what we can see. The City acknowledges and thanks Carmen Lavoie for initiating this meaningful project, and Bryan Gittings for his skilled woodwork contribution to the installation.

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Environmental Grant Applications

Local organizations, groups and residents interested in completing environmental projects in Nanaimo may be eligible for City funding. The Community Watershed Restoration Grant offers up to $20,000 for projects that improve urban streams, riparian areas and natural habitats. Eligible applicants include community groups, environmental non-profits and individual residents.

The Community Environmental Sustainability Project Grant supports smaller, creative environmental initiatives not covered by other City grants. Up to $20,000 is available each year, with a maximum of $5,000 per project. Eligible applicants include environmental non-profits, stewardship groups, schools, religious organizations and participants in the Acting for Climate Together program. Projects may focus on habitat health, nature education, reducing emissions or preparing for climate impacts.

An online information session will be held February 10, 2026 at 5 pm. To attend, RSVP to sustainability@nanaimo.ca. Full details and applications are available on the City’s Grants webpage. The application deadline is 4 pm on March 9, 2026.

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Drop-in Programs at Oliver Woods Community Centre

From February through the end of March, join us for a series of exciting pop-up drop-in programs at Oliver Woods Community Centre (6000 Oliver Road)! These short-term offerings are a great way to stay active, try something new or enjoy extra gym time.

🏀 Pop-Up Basketball Shoot Around

Wednesdays | February 4 to March 25
Time: 11:45 am to 1:45 pm
Location: Gym 1

A casual drop-in opportunity for adults to shoot around and enjoy basketball in a relaxed setting. 
Ages: Adult
Supervision: Gym attendant on site

🥒 Pop-Up Evening Pickleball

Thursdays | February 5 to March 26
Time: 5:30 to 6:45 pm
Location: Gym 1
Exclusion Date: March 12, 2026

Designed especially for patrons who are unable to attend our daytime pickleball sessions, this evening pop-up offers a fun and accessible way to play.
Ages: Adult (19+)
Supervision: Gym attendant on site

🏐 Pop-Up Youth Volleyball Bump Around

Fridays | February 13 to March 27
Time: 6 to 8 pm
Location: Gym 2
Exclusion Date: March 13, 2026

A fun, informal drop-in session where youth can practice skills, rally and enjoy volleyball in a supportive environment.
Ages: Youth
Supervision: Gym attendant on site