Mill Bay, British Columbia, is a charming commuter town nestled on Vancouver Island, Canada. With a population of approximately 7,200 people, it is situated about 30 km (19 mi) north of Victoria, the capital. Mill Bay is a part of the Cowichan Valley Regional District, offering a unique blend of history, community spirit, and natural beauty.
Mill Bay was established in the 1860s, with its primary industries being lumber and milling. The town was named after a sawmill built in the area in 1861 by Henry S. Shepherd, which was later purchased by William Sayward. The mill on the bay was the heart of the town, giving it not just its name but also its economic backbone.
Mill Bay is known for its ferry service to Brentwood Bay on the Saanich Peninsula and the historic Malahat Drive. However, the Malahat Drive has been a source of criticism due to frequent closures from either automobile accidents or weather conditions. Numerous suggestions have been made for a 'bypass' route, possibly a bridge, but as of 2007, the Brentwood-Mill Bay Ferry and the Malahat remain the best routes to Greater Victoria from the rest of Vancouver Island. The MV Mill Bay, named after the town, served the ferry route from 1956 until 2011. It has since been replaced by the MV Klitsa.
Mill Bay is surrounded by several other charming communities. The village of Shawnigan Lake is just a ten-minute drive away. Other nearby towns include Cobble Hill, Cowichan Bay, and Duncan, all of which are part of the Cowichan Valley.
The community spirit in Mill Bay is strong, with several organizations contributing to the town's vibrant social fabric. The Mill Bay Freemasons Hall, for instance, meets on the third Thursday of the month and also offers room to other community organizations. This sense of community is a testament to the town's welcoming and inclusive nature, making Mill Bay, British Columbia, a wonderful place to visit or call home.
