The Ladysmith Maritime Society has hired a new marina manager, Pat McEvoy.
McEvoy signed on for the role after Roberta Bowman, the previous marina manager, stepped down from the position. McEvoy is a UBC alumni, and has spent 20 years managing municipal parks and recreation facilities in both B.C. and Alberta. About five years ago, he made a career change to the marine industry working for Okeover and Lund Harbour Authorities.
He left his position at Okeover to come to Ladysmith. McEvoy said the quality of LMS and the heritage of Ladysmith attracted him to the town.
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“It’s an amazing facility in terms of mixing together a marina with museums, and educational programs. It’s kind of unique on the coast, and it’s a very attractive feature to come to,” McEvoy said.
At the moment, McEvoy is learning the ropes. His priority is working with LMS volunteers to maintain the facility. He’s also responsible for managing the moorage, and will be managing transient moorage in the summer.
“My immediate goal is to learn the position and get up to speed as soon as possible,” McEvoy said.
McEvoy joked that he’s glad to have the chance to learn the position before the marina’s busy summer season. He’s looking forward to seeing LMS community events and working with Ladysmith’s volunteers.
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So far, McEvoy is enjoying the community and is looking for a more permanent home in Ladysmith. He looks forward to staying on with LMS indefinitely.
“I’ve always been preferential to smaller communities… I like the heritage that’s on display in Ladysmith. One of the things that attracted me to initially was to stay in a smaller community,” McEvoy said.