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by Miriam Trevis
The Record
March 22, 2006

The somber weather which prevailed on March 13 matched the mood of the more than 130 people who gathered near the dock in Gold River to say goodbye to Luna, the Orca who had graced us with his presence for the past 4 years.

In a moving tribute, the members of the Mowachaht/Muchalaht First Nations conducted a traditional cleansing ceremony, which included singing and drumming. The women of the bands led the way down to the dock where cedar boughs were placed in the water and the canoe, which Luna had grown to love so much, was also bedecked in cedar.

Luna was first spotted in the waters of Nootka Sound in the summer of 2001. His appearance shortly after the death of Chief Ambrose Maquinna, who had always said he was coming back as a killer whale, created a spiritual bond between the animal and the First Nations. They named the whale Tsux'iit.

The relationship between the First Nations and Luna flourished. Efforts by the Department of Fisheries and Oceans to physically remove Luna from Nootka Sound and transport him by truck to Pedder Bay in the summer of 2004, were thwarted when he chose to follow the native canoe away from possible capture. A stewardship program was eventually established between DFO and the Mowachaht/Muchalaht First Nations whereby members of the band ensured both the safety of Luna and that of recreational boaters by keeping the two apart.

Totally unaware of the controversy his presence created, Luna thrived in Nootka Sound, weighing approximately 6000 pounds at the time of his death when he became entangled in the propeller of the ocean going tug the General Jackson, based out of New Westminster. The animal's fascination with boats had caused great amusement for many, and aroused the ire of those less tolerant. His playful antics brought much joy to the children of this area who frequently visited the dock in the hope of seeing Luna.

In a moving tribute to the whale, Chief Michael Maquinna urged that no blame be placed on anyone for his tragic death. "This is not the time for blame," Chief Maquinna continued, "this is the time we should be honoured that he chose to live here." Chief Maquinna went on to explain the special relationship the First Nations have with all animals and also the friendship they developed with Tsux'iit was simply the continuance of a tradition which has prevailed for thousands of years.

The Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council is planning a more formal ceremony honouring Luna in July of this year. The Record will carry full information regarding the location and date of this event once it is announced.

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