Ellis, Avery, Gardiner, McKinstry, Battler 2000-2010

The Cabana

2000 – 2005

Our family has celebrated many special occasions at Shawnigan, from weddings to work gatherings and memorable milestones.
Our father, Dick Ellis, was born on August 16, 1925, and he made it a tradition to celebrate his birthday each year surrounded by friends and family. In honour of that tradition, we’ve continued to host weddings and celebrations around that date.
Debbie Ellis married Michael Battler on August 17, 2002, and Duncan and Jessica Gardiner were married on August 2, 2008.

2006 First Summer Renting the Panabode

Renting the Panabode: 2006 – 2021

To help preserve our cherished lakeside property at Shawnigan, we began renting out the larger Pan-Abode cabin during the summer months, from July 2006 through September 2021.

This seasonal vacation rental played an important role in covering annual property taxes while also supporting ongoing maintenance, repairs, and necessary renovations—helping us keep both the cabin and the surrounding property in great condition for everyone to enjoy.

In the photos below, you’ll see our mother, Shirley Ellis, who was a key part of our spring and fall work parties. She devoted countless hours to painting projects and carefully managing the burn pile fires, helping maintain both the beauty and safety of the property.

Thanks to these combined efforts—from rental income and the hands-on support of friends and family—the lake property continues to be a treasured retreat to this day.