Matullia Lands
at Rock Bay
A’si’em nu’shwala’kwa (Welcome)
Matullia, a partnership between Songhees & Esquimalt Nations, is transforming a former industrial site into a vibrant, connected waterfront district rooted in Indigenous culture and economic reconciliation.
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A Place of Ancient Gathering, Reimagined for the Future
Once a place of gathering and commerce in lək̓ʷəŋən territory, the Matullia Lands at Rock Bay are returning to Indigenous stewardship.
Songhees and Esquimalt Nations are transforming this site to honour the past while looking to the future – creating a vibrant neighbourhood that mixes culture, industry, community, and renewed connection to the waterfront.
Returning to Indigenous Stewardship
Long before colonial settlement, Rock Bay was part of the ancestral territory of the lək̓ʷəŋən people. The sheltered inlet served as an important village and seasonal camp, valued for its rich shellfish beds, fishing grounds, and access to fresh water. It was also a hub of trade and exchange, where lək̓ʷəŋən families gathered with visiting groups from across the region.
With the onset of industrial development, the shoreline was transformed – filled and hardened for mills, shipyards, and fuel depots that left lasting environmental damage. Yet the cultural legacy of Rock Bay as a place of gathering and connection remains. Today, its return to Indigenous stewardship signals both a recognition of this deep history and an opportunity to restore balance, revitalize the waterfront, and ensure the bay once again becomes a place of gathering for generations to come.
Our Vision for the Future
Explore some of the key ideas and features that will shape the future of this site – where public life, culture, and innovation come together.
You can also view the full rezoning report submitted to the City of Victoria by Barefoot Planning + Design on November 2025, here.
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Cultural resurgence and leadership
Indigenous values, design, and visibility are woven into every part of the site.
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Indigenous Economic reconciliation
Opportunities for Indigenous job creation, training, and enterprises – from construction to long-term site activation.
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A reconnected shoreline
Public access, marine activities and industry, and resilient shoreline infrastructure.
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A Vibrant, Walkable District
Shops, trails, trees, innovative businesses, and walkable streets that connect people, nature, and place.
Rooted in Indigenous Design & Placemaking
While we look to the future, the site planning and design is guided by lək̓ʷəŋən culture and traditions. For example, an east–west orientation reflects the path of the sun and the flow of water. Cultural elements – from traditional plantings to gathering spaces and public art – ensure the land’s history and identity are visible and celebrated throughout.
Key Features
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Gateway
A welcoming arrival space that signals Indigenous leadership and prosperity for future generations.
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Internal Street
A mixed-use street animated by industry, art, and community life.
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Connections
A marked transition into an area shaped by lək̓ʷəŋən culture and community.
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The Gathering Point
A landmark waterfront space for gathering, reflection, and celebration.
FOUNDATIONS & Possibilities
AS PART OF THIS REZONING, WE ARE PROPOSING FOUNDATIONS NOW WHILE CONTINUING TO ADVANCE POSSIBILITIES FOR THE SITE THAT WILL EVOLVE OVER TIME.
Visualizing the Plan
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Store street gateway
• Gateway from Store Street to waterfront pathway
• Indigenous art reflecting lək̓ʷəŋən culture and site history
• Decorative paving marking a unique district
• Trees, shrubs, planters, rain gardens blending nature with industry -
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GOVERNMENT STREET GATEWAY
• Pedestrian-only access to the site and waterfront pathway.
• Pathways, landscaping, and welcome features create a vibrant entry point
• Large rain gardens and permeable surfaces link to a central stormwater system
• Gateways offer space for outdoor displays, pop-ups, and local business activities -
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INTERNAL STREET
• Private central street serving multiple purposes.
• Shared space for pedestrians, cyclists, cars, and trucks.
• Cafes and shops to create a lively district.
• Trees and plants offer shade, beauty, and comfort -
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A Unique Waterfront District
• Blends employment, culture, housing, and public spaces
• An innovative district shaped by lək̓ʷəŋən values, identity, and stewardship
• Restored habitat, soft-shore treatments, and climate-ready design
• Fine-grained blocks, active edges, and an inviting public realm
Project Timeline
2011
Matullia was formed to purchase the Rock Bay lands.
2016
Site remediation completed.
2018
Lands acquired by Matullia.
2018-2024
Site studies, feasibility work, early designs, visioning.
2024
10-year Tax Exemption secured with City of Victoria.
Early 2025
Preliminary Rezoning Application submitted to City of Victoria..
November 2025
Comprehensive Rezoning Application submitted to the City of Victoria.
View rezoning report here.
Future (Short-term )
Interim site activation, such as events and industrial/commercial leases.
Future (Longer-term )
Phased site development.
Matullia Board of Directors
Matullia’s Board of Directors is made up of Songhees and Esquimalt representatives, ensuring the project is guided by Indigenous leadership at every step. Their stewardship reflects a deep connection to the land and demonstrates how development can advance cultural values, self-determination, and long-term community benefit.
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Chief Ron Sam (He/Him) is the elected leader of the Songhees First Nation since 2013 and on council since 2009. With more than 12 years’ experience as the elected Chief of Songhees Nation, Chief Ron also serves as the chair of the Songhees Development Corporation and sits on multiple Indigenous-led Boards. He brings expertise in government and community relations, negotiation and conflict resolution, and strategy development.
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John Rice Jr. (He/Him) is a respected member of the Songhees Nation and a former council member dedicated to advancing the well-being of the Lekwungen Peoples. He plays an active role in promoting economic development and self-sufficiency for the Lekwungen Nations, serving on several Indigenous-led boards, including Xhamasung Holdings and Matullia Holdings LP, that focus on fostering sustainable economic growth and community empowerment.
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Anastasia Thomas (She/Her) is a respected member of the Esquimalt Nation and a dedicated council member. In addition to her work on the council, Anastasia serves on several corporate boards, including Matullia Holdings, where she supports initiatives aimed at advancing Indigenous economic development. Her efforts focus on fostering partnerships, promoting sustainable growth, and creating opportunities that benefit Indigenous communities.
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Alicia Thomas (She/Her) is a respected member of the Esquimalt Nation and a dedicated council member. Through her work on the council, Alicia focuses on initiatives that support the preservation of Esquimalt traditions, cultural heritage, and the well-being of her community. In addition to her role on the council, Alicia is deeply committed to fostering Indigenous economic development and self-determination.
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Laurie Armstrong (He/Him) is a retired litigator with a distinguished legal career, having owned and operated his own law firm in Victoria. Throughout his career, Laurie was a strong advocate for Indigenous self-determination and economic development, a passion he continues to support through Board mentorship and collaboration. In retirement, Laurie pursues his creative and athletic passions. He is also an accomplished athlete, competing internationally in Olympic-style weightlifting.
The Lands Today
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