A few weeks ago we launched our new Q&A “Get to know your Bowen Island neighbours” series with randomly selected Undercurrent subscribers. Seventh up is Diana Kaile
When did you come to Bowen?
Fifteen years ago. And what is important about this number is it’s the first time we’ve ever lived so long in one place. It’s a record for us, because in Michael’s business we were always here a few years, there a few years. So it’s pretty special for us.
How did you come to live on Bowen?
So we visited friends who have a home on Old Eagle Cliff Road. They invited us for lunch. I was helping her in the kitchen, Michael was having a drink on the deck with our friend. I helped Betty take the lunch out onto the deck and I looked at the view and I fell in love. And I just thought, the peace and quiet, and I turned to Michael and I said ‘What about Bowen?’
Years before we had a connection because we used to sail and we’d always bring our boats in and anchor in Deep Bay. And then over the years, I collected Sue Clarke’s pottery and it travelled around the world with us. And I feel it’s now come back to its final resting place.
Where on Bowen do you live?
We live on Hummingbird Lane, which is aptly named as we are home to several families of hummingbirds.
Fill the ferry lineup gap or don’t fill in the gap?
I do both. If I get to the corner there and the traffic goes up the hill, I take a left. If there’s not much traffic, I take a right. I do both. But I’m not naughty! I don’t turn right if the cars are all the way up the hill.
What’s your favourite Bowen fact?
When people leave Horseshoe Bay on the ferry and they say ‘20 minutes to sanity.’
What’s a Bowen Islander?
I think a Bowen Islander is a person who can find more positives about the ferry than negatives.
And what’s your favourite COVID-19 balm or activity?
Walking every day because it connects me with nature and feeds my soul. But as important is my daily yoga practice because that brings me peace and calm and helps me to cope during these demanding times. And brings increased flexibility and energizes me for the day. So that’s what really got me through COVID. And my husband of course being in my bubble.
