Dear Editor,
It may not have been the warmest summer to date, but on those gorgeous sunny days, most Bowen residents will have noticed the presence of a handful of cherry-red and white, retro-styled scooters on the road, rented from our new business: Zoom Zoom Bowen.
The launch has been slow and steady, and the learning curve steep. We are writing to thank the many people who have supported this small, locally-owned enterprise. It’s been a long journey, beginning with an application to amend a bylaw which prohibited the rental of limited speed motorcycles. It took almost a year, but following the brilliant guidance of the Emma Chow (one of the city planners), presentations to the Economic Development Committee and the Transportation Committee, public open houses and hours of conversation with local residents, the amendment was finally approved by Council in March 2016.
We are deeply grateful to Murray Atherton and Gordon Ganong, and all of Bowen Tourism for their enthusiasm, written support and thoughtful advice. I am also very appreciative of those who took the time to meet with me face to face, and challenge me with tough questions. It kept me on my toes and doing my homework. I would also like to give thanks to the many B&B owners who have been promoting Zoom Zoom to their guests, to James Glave and Jae Mather who offered expert advice on environmental impact, and the many local businesses who continue to spread the word.
Visitors to Bowen Island now have much greater access to our local restaurants and shops, and parts of the island that would have required bringing a car. It was my vision to reduce vehicle use on island in these busy summer months, and this is happening. To the many Bowen residents who have stopped by to share their enthusiasm and other helpful advice - it has been a great source of energy for us! We could not have launched without the ongoing support of family, the First Credit Union, the printing magicians of Artisan Office, and of course, Miguel and Candace Kabantzov who have so kindly let me use their commercial property until the launch of their own distillery.
We look forward to giving back to the community by bringing visitors to Bowen’s fabulous restaurants and shops, offering gift certificates as prizes for local fundraisers, and supporting the island’s economic development through sustainable tourism. It is a privilege to be able to share more of Bowen’s rich cultural and physical landscapes with our visitors. With many thanks…
Jamie Woodall and Ben Tamblyn
