Gabriola Government, Services and Infrastructure

Formed in 1974 by a provincial government Act, Islands Trust largely governs land use on islands in the Salish Sea, with a focus on environmental preservation and protection. Its interest and actions cross departments in all other levels of government, including water, trees, parks, shorelines and housing.

Gabriola Island votes for 2 local Trustees in municipal elections.

The Regional District of Nanaimo provides regional governance and services, such as solid waste/recycling services. The RDN also manages land planning and use for most areas around the city of Nanaimo, EXCEPT for Gabriola, Mudge, Link and Decourcy Islands.

Residents of Gabriola vote for one RDN Director in municipal elections.

The Government of British Columbia is body responsible for the administration of the Canadian province of BC. Its administration is divided into ministries, which manage specific policy. This includes: Environment & Climate Change Strategy; Land, Water & Resource Stewardship; Forests; Agriculture & Food.

Gabriola Residents vote for one Member of the Legislative Assembly (“MLA”) in provincial elections.

The federal government creates laws and manages programs and services that tend to affect the whole country. Its departments include: Fisheries & Oceans Canada; Environment & Climate Change Canada; Natural Resources Canada; Parks Canada.

Gabriola Island residents elect one Member of Parliament (“MP”) in federal elections.

The Gabriola Volunteer Fire Department operates under the direction of the Fire Chief and trustees. It has 38 firefighter positions. The Office of the Fire Commissioner suggests it be raised to 40.

Gabriola Elementary is a rural school, located a short distance from the Village center, enrolling students in grade K to 7. Bus service is provided. Gabriola students in grades 8-12 commute to high school in Nanaimo. A school bus circumnavigates the island to shuttle these children to and from the ferry at Descanso Bay.

GHCF is a health care advocate, and also leases space in the local Health Centre to a number of independent tenants including the Gabriola Medical Clinic, Island Health, Gabriola Dental and LifeLabs.

A community based not for profit organization serving Gabriola Island individuals and families. Focus is on food security, reducing social isolation and supporting children’s academic success.

GaLTT is a non-profit, charitable organization with a mandate to preserve sites of environmental, historical, and social importance and to secure, develop, and sustain a network of parkland and trails on Gabriola Island for the benefit of the public.

Gabriola Housing Society is a non-profit, registered charity working to create affordable, comfortable and secure rental housing for Gabriolans of all ages who have low to moderate incomes.

A member organization providing services, support, and networking opportunities for local business to succeed. Also promoting sustainable economic growth rooted in island values.

Promotes and supports farmers on Gabriola and Mudge islands.

Gabriola location houses local work equipment and is not open to the public.

Hours of Operation:

Monday: 8 am to 5 pm / Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday: 8 am to 4 pm