4 things you didn't know about West Kelowna (until now)

| October 14, 2016 in West Kelowna

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We all know about the things that define West Kelowna, from the beautiful wineries and parks, to the famous Gellatly Nut Farm, and plenty of community events. But what about the not-so-ancient history that has shaped the community into the vibrant and growing city it is today? Whether you've just moved to the area, or were here for it all, you might just learn something about the little city over the bridge. 

West Kelowna, Westside, Westbank...what’s the deal?

It’s confusing, especially for those who have recently moved to the community, so here it is. Traditionally the community was known as Westbank, but in the 2008 civic election residents participated in an “Opinion Vote,” which had 7,516 participants. The name West Kelowna won by just 166 votes, which speaks to why there is still some dispute. As for Westside, it’s a nickname everyone just seems to be okay with.

What ever happened to “The Bluff?”

Up until a particularly strong wind storm this past summer, you could see the classic giant white letters and broken down stage when going across the bridge towards West Kelowna. The venue hosted a couple major concerts in the early 2000’s as part of a Rock the Bluff series, including Evanescence and ZZ Top. There have been some attempts to either reopen the venue or tear it down, which the storm this summer seems to have had a final word on.

The 51st city in BC

This was yet another close and controversial vote. In 2007, Westside residents voted to incorporate the various areas into one city rather than amalgamation with the city of Kelowna, making it the province’s 51st city. Rosalind Neid served as the first mayor, followed by Doug Findlater who remains in office today. 

The CNR Wharf (aka Old Ferry Docks)

Anyone who grew up in West Kelowna knows about the Old Ferry Docks in Gellatly Bay. They served as a gathering place for kids on long hot summer days, featuring a somewhat sketchy diving platform and plenty of splinters. If you go there now however, you’ll find a beautifully restored wharf that took all that was loved about the docks, and improved on it. There are jumping platforms, a zipline, and a new floating dockevery kid’s dream playground.

West Kelowna is a unique combination of the small town feel alongside all the cultural benefits of living in a larger urban centre. If you’re thinking of making the move, consider Gellatly Place. This new community of contemporary two and three bedroom homes offers breathtaking lake views and is nestled amongst the beauty of Gellatly Regional Park. Visit the Show Suite open daily 11- 4 p.m. at Gellatly Place. Adventure Starts Here!

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