Cherie Chaffey’s Inspiring Venture: Launching Whistler’s Courier Service

From a Race to a Business

In 1979, Cherie Chaffey participated in the Great Snow Earth Water Race, an unexpected beginning that ultimately led her to establish her own courier service in Whistler. This competitive event, founded by Bryan Walhovd, was not just another race; it combined skiing, cycling, canoeing, and running, challenging participants in various ways.

The Unexpected Turn of Events

Cherie was part of Ken Hunter’s “Nearly Normal Racing Team,” where her role was to cycle from Whistler Mountain to Green Lake. Unfortunately, upon reaching Emerald Estates, tragedy struck when she was hit by a car—an off-duty ambulance driver fortunately assisted her until she was taken to Squamish Hospital. Following the incident, Cherie made the difficult decision to return to Ontario to recuperate.

A New Chapter Begins

Cherie’s journey to Whistler first began three years prior when she moved from Ontario with her friend Cathy Jewett. Despite a slow start to the ski season, they landed jobs with Garibaldi Lifts Ltd., where she started learning the ropes. On a notable day, as she took the lift to the top of the mountain, she humorously asked the lifts’ crew, “Ok, how do you ski?” Their advice: “Go straight until you fall, get up, and do it again,” became a mantra for her as she faced the slopes like a trooper.

Various Roles in Whistler

Over the years, Cherie took on numerous jobs at the lift company, including serving as the lift supervisor at the Toni Sailer Summer Ski Camps. Picture her driving an “old army truck” to start the gondola and Red Chair, working hard to prepare for the day’s activities, only to find time for windsurfing later on Alta Lake. Her cheerful spirit and hard work made her a respected member of the community.

Establishing Whistler Courier Service

Before returning to Whistler in 1979, her father provided her with funds to purchase a car—a gift that sparked an entrepreneurial idea. Cherie bought a Honda Civic in Vancouver and envisioned starting a delivery service. Thus, Whistler Courier Service came to life, offering deliveries and pickups among Vancouver, Squamish, and Whistler.

Building the Business

On August 10, 1979, Cherie launched her courier service, charging $15 for deliveries to Vancouver and $7 for Squamish, with additional stops at minimal extra costs. Her advertisement proudly proclaimed, “No job too big or small,” as she transported everything from mail to pets needing a vet visit—the dogs always behaved splendidly during their rides.

Growing with the Community

As the village developed, so did Cherie’s clientele, evolving from casual deliveries to professional document transport services. By spring of 1981, Cherie’s business boomed, allowing her to operate five days a week and even hire another driver, Brian McPherson. Her growth necessitated moving from a home office to a proper business office.

A New Direction

Eventually, Cherie’s hard work caught the eye of Jeff Wuolle, owner of Twin Peaks property management, who offered to buy part of her courier service in exchange for a stake in his company. After this transition, Cherie’s journey in couriering came to an end as she shifted her focus to property management and left Whistler.

Experience Whistler and More

The adventure of starting Whistler Courier Service reflects the spirit of entrepreneurship and community in this beautiful region. While reviews and stories from locals can provide valuable insights, nothing compares to experiencing the vibrant culture and stunning landscapes of Whistler for oneself. Booking experiences on GetExperience.com puts travelers in touch with verified providers—delivering fun-filled adventure activities and unique experiences tailored to personal preferences. With transparent pricing and extensive choices, travelers can eagerly embark on their own journeys without the worry of overspending or disappointment.

Discover Whistler

From exhilarating eco-friendly wildlife safaris to unforgettable museum tours guided by live experts, Whistler has something for everyone. Take the plunge into adventure rafting trips for beginners or explore online virtual tours that provide an immersive glimpse into what awaits. Be it luxury adventure travel experiences or interactive online cultural workshops, the choices are endless. Cherie’s story is a reminder that opportunities arise in the unlikeliest of situations, and finding one’s path could lead to unexpected adventures. Book your next experience with GetExperience.com.

In conclusion, Cherie Chaffey’s entrepreneurial journey illustrates the endless opportunities for growth and adventure in Whistler. This thriving region embodies the spirit of adventure and resilience, encouraging visitors to explore everything this vibrant destination has to offer. Whether it’s through local tours or adventurous activities, immersing oneself in Whistler is bound to create lasting memories.