The Gorge Tillicum Community Association emerged from the old ratepayers group in June,1999. With a new board of directors determined to create a proactive voice for our south Saanich neighbourhood, the GTCA has demonstrated strong leadership and advocacy on community issues since that time.

This voluntary organization seeks to promote a healthy, vibrant community in Gorge Tillicum by addressing issues such as land use planning and streetscapes, environment and parks, traffic and transportation, social wellness and community celebration, and emergency preparation.

We have established an excellent working relationship with Saanich Council and municipal staff, as well as with other community agencies such as Saanich Silver Threads, Saanich Neighbourhood Place, Pearkes Recreation Centre and now the Victoria Native Friendship Centre. In addition we have also received the support of local businesses as sponsors of our Canada Day Picnic (see Picnic page for details)

Significant achievements of GTCA

• Gorge Canada Day Picnic attracts 5,000+ people to the Waterway each July 1st.
• Provided community input into the Tillicum Local Area Action Plan.
• Conducted a community charrette on the future design of our main thoroughfares resulting in the Burnside Tillicum Action Plan.
• Advocated for the establishment of the new Tillicum branch of the GreaterVictoria Public Library system.
• Traffic calming for Tillicum east, with Tillicum west in the works.
• Involved with completion of Gorge Waterway Park from VCKC clubhouse to Tillicum Rd. Currently working on a Centennial Project in Gorge Park East.
• Co-hosted a Forum on Homelessness in Saanich with the Victoria Native Friendship Centre.
• Sponsored community meetings for municipal and provincial elections.
• Produce and distribute 4,000 copies of Gorge Tillicum Neighbourhood News three times annually.

The GTCA board of directors meets monthly to direct the business of the association, with other sub committees involved with environment, traffic calming, Picnic planning, parks improvement meeting separately as required. Our AGM occurs in May each year and community members are welcome to attend and stand for election to our 12-14 member board. We produce four seasonal newsletters per year and these are delivered to every household in the neighbourhood by volunteer carriers.

The GTCA has established itself as a vibrant, proactive community group in south Saanich. We have achieved a great deal in a short time. Our strength has been attracting great local people who have invested their time, energy and expertise to help build our community's future. We invite you to come and join us.