Aquabatics

When Susan Smith first moved to Smithers in 1979, she came for the rugged natural surroundings, the majestic beauty and the nearly endless list of outdoor sports and recreational opportunities here. Today, more than three decades later, Susan says she would choose Smithers all over again for all the same reasons, plus the wonderful people who live here and are really the heart and soul of the town that has everything.

Susan sees the people who live here as being especially involved in and committed to having a vibrant community. “People here are personally invested in their community,” she notes, and it has made a big difference for people of all ages and professional backgrounds. Susan sees the business climate as strong and positive, with an influx over the last few years of new, younger entrepreneurs who are helping to infuse it with lively energy. She also appreciates the strong culture of sustainability through local food production that is prevalent in Smithers. “We have some excellent market gardeners, ranchers and many people working very hard to produce top quality locally-grown food for our tables, from organic veggies, to free range eggs, meats and poultry to honey, delicious baking and more!” Susan says.

Susan first started in paddle sports retail in 1981. When she founded Aquabatics in 1989, there weren't many places in BC for paddle sports enthusiasts to get all of the equipment that they needed to fully enjoy the sport. Over the years the shop has developed a reputation as not only a place to find quality equipment and clothing, but also a central hub for the northern paddling community where paddling clubs and individuals have been able to network and exchange information. She is proud of how the business has developed and grown over the decades and grateful to be able to contribute to Smithers in a meaningful, positive manner.