Dedication to Judy Gilligan

Judith Susannah Gilligan

April 12, 1946 – July 22, 2023

The Sooke Classical Boating Society was saddened by the loss of Judy Gilligan who was a valued and dedicated member.

A smiling woman with short gray hair and sunglasses is sitting in a blue outdoor chair. She is wearing a bright red jacket and is outdoors in what appears to be a park or recreational area.

For two decades, Judy and her husband, Garth, were committed to the preservation and community enjoyment of the Sooke longboats. Judy became involved in the EMCS Maritime Society and Longboat Trust. During this time, she qualified to be a coxswain, organized events and subsequently trained and chaperoned crews who attended the Pacific Challenge and King’s Cup Regattas. Judy was also an enthusiastic participant in the Victoria Classic Wooden Boat Show and two Tall Ship Festivals.

In 2010, EMCS offered ownership of the two longboats to the community. Thanks to Judy and Garth, The Sooke Classical Boating Society was formed. They both can be credited with saving these valuable boats, which are part of the historic fabric of Sooke.

The Society will forever be in Judy’s debt. It’s hard to sum up all the wonderful things she did and all the good times we had! Judy was a community builder and a good friend.

A group of people are standing together on grass, posing for a photo with a lake and tree in the background. They are wearing red and white in celebration of Canada Day, as indicated by the text "CANADA DAY 2013" at the bottom of the image.

Book an Outing

The Sooke Classical Boating Society welcomes bookings for eligible groups.

To inquire about an outing on the longboats, please contact us:

Row with Us

Are you interested in joining our Society?

You can find all the required information here!

Location: Jenkins Marine at 2019 Kaltasin in Sooke

  • Mooring location
  • Parking instructions
  • Link to new member section
  • Info on booking an outing
Logo District of Sooke

We thank the District of Sooke for their support.

Footer

Logo of the Sooke Classical Boating Society. It features a drawing of a traditional sailboat with the text "T'Sou-ke" and "Doña Rosa" above it, encircled by a blue rope outline. The society's name is written below the boat in blue text.

We strive to provide a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for all members and visitors to the longboats, recognizing the diverse identities of persons and the rights of all individuals to be treated with dignity and respect irrespective of their gender, race, sexual orientation, ability, ethnicity, religion, class, age, or national origin.

We respectfully acknowledge that we enjoy our activities on the unceded traditional territory of the T’Sou-ke First Nation of the Coast Salish peoples. We honor their enduring connection to this land and recognize their stewardship throughout history and into the future.