The riding
Michelle Stilwell was the sole Island Liberal MLA elected in 2017. Her party took 50 per cent of the vote or better in Parksville-Qualicum in 2005, 2009 and 2013, dipping to 45 per cent in 2017 as the Greens made some gains. The former Paralympian faces Green Rob Lyon, a businessman and former naval officer; Qualicum Beach councillor Adam Walker of the NDP; Conservative Don Purdey; and Independent candidate John St. John.
2017 results
• Liberal — Michelle Stilwell 14,468 (45.13 per cent)
• NDP — Sue Powell 9,189 (28.66 per cent)
• Green — Glenn Sollitt 8,157 (25.44 per cent)
• Refederation — Terry Hand 245 (0.77 per cent)
• Voter turnout: 70.2 per cent
Rob Lyon, Green
We did not receive a response from Rob Lyon, a businessman and former naval officer.
Don Purdey, Conservative
Grew up in Haney, now called Maple Ridge. Did not give his age or say where he lives now, but raised his family in Nanaimo, where he opened the ECONO Drive-In Store.
Making a difference: Has been president of the Kinsmen Club of Nanaimo, K-40, BC Vintage Car Club. Served on the board of the Child Development Centre and the City of Nanaimo’s advisory planning group for Newcastle Island Park.
Main issues: Did not say. “I never planned on running, but when our candidate dropped out at the last minute, I didn’t want let down our many long-time supporters. … We now have three choices, LEFT, MORE LEFT & EXTREME. We need a balanced voice at the table.”
John St. John, Independent
We did not receive a response John St. John, who is running as an Independent candidate.
Michelle Stilwell, Liberal (incumbent)
Age 46, born in Winnipeg, has lived in riding for almost 20 years. Married with one son. MLA since 2013, was a small business owner, motivational speaker and Paralympic athlete
Making a difference: Helped bring government investment such as funding for Vancouver Island University, renovations for palliative care spaces, and improvements to hospice beds. Day-to-day, help people access income or disability assistance; get a driver’s licence or B.C. Services Card; address concerns with MSP bills and property tax payments. “If I can make a difference in someone’s life, even in a small way, that’s incredibly rewarding to me.”
Main issue: The doctor shortage, affordable housing and small business recovery.
Adam Walker, NDP
Age 36, born in Comox, raised in Qualicum Beach — and still lives there. Married with two daughters. Farmer, small business owner, Qualicum Beach town councillor since 2018.
Making a difference: Led an initiative to bring more quality affordable child care to the community, securing a $2-million provincial investment in Qualicum Beach.
Main issue: The pandemic. People “want to make sure our recovery efforts invest in the people of our community in ways that make life better for us all. More doctors and nurses, investing in schools and advanced education, affordable housing, and protecting the natural environment that we all enjoy so much. It’s all about who they want to lead us through the second wave and through this recovery.”
