For Cathie Ounsted, the Conservative candidate for the Saanich-Gulf Islands riding, her deep connection to the community she’s called home for 35 years is at the core of her campaign.
Living on the Peninsula, Ounsted’s life has been shaped by active community involvement and a steadfast commitment to her family.
Raised between Calgary and Castlegar, Ounsted chose to settle in Greater Victoria after recognizing the area's beauty and potential.
“I’ve lived here on the Peninsula for the last 35 years, so I’ve been here longer than I haven’t,” Ounsted shared. “It’s where I’ve made my home, and my children were born and raised here. They’re now in their 20s, and they’re hoping to return to the area after university, though it’s tough with the high cost of living.”
Her dedication to her family extends far beyond the local community. For the past few years, Ounsted and her husband have been flying to Ontario every weekend to support their children, who play football at Western University.
“We’ve never missed a game for four years. We fly back and forth every weekend. We leave on Friday, return Sunday, and then work long hours during the week,” she proudly said.
Ounsted has been actively involved in local sports for years, including managing the Mount Douglas Rams football program and sponsoring youth sports throughout Greater Victoria.
“This was one of our favourite ways to be involved in our kids' lives and the community,” Ounsted said. “We built so many genuine connections during those years which we still nurture today.”
Ounsted’s professional career spans multiple sectors. She began with the Victoria Police Department, then spent a decade as the director of operations at Thrifty Foods. Afterward, she joined her family’s accounting firm, where she’s worked as a controller for 19 years.
Ounsted has also served on several boards, including a 10-year tenure at the Peninsula Co-op and as chair of the Victoria Airport Authority from 2022-2024.
She was also a member of Central Saanich council from 2011-2014.
As the first woman to represent the Conservative Party in this riding since 1997, Ounsted is committed to offering fresh leadership.
“Accountability is everything for me. I’ve always raised my kids with that in mind – accountability for our actions, our responsibilities,” she shared.
Despite the whirlwind of tax season and campaigning, Ounsted remains grounded in her Victoria roots. She enjoys spending time outside at Tod Inlet, Dallas Road, and playing pickleball whenever time allows.
“Our community is important to me – it’s my way of staying connected,” she said.
Looking ahead, Ounsted’s focus remains on her family and the future of her community. Whether supporting her children or working to bring change to her riding, her commitment to Victoria is clear.
“I want to make sure when people need help, they can count on me,” she said.
The federal election will take place on April 28.
