Yay! Jon_Snow, so glad you can make it after all, and Retired, that sounds like a great itinerary.
As you're coming up from Victoria and heading into Duncan, and as Jon_Snow wants to bring his kayak(s), let go ahead and meet in Cowichan Bay, at the park I linked to earlier. If you like, we can meet at the Estuary Nature Centre building as an easy landmark, then move to the park/picnic tables a few yards away. Anyone interested can then head into Duncan to show you around (about 10 mins farther up the highway).
So--for everyone who wants to join us (at the moment it looks like we'll be 5-6?):
Coming from Victoria: take Hwy 1 up island and turn right off the highway onto Cowichan Bay Road, one intersection past Fisher Road, where there's a big Rona. Follow Cowichan Bay Road all the way into Cowichan Bay village and continue past the businesses and homes. You'll see the sign for Hecate park, with the parking lot on your right. Park, and join us in front of the Nature Centre at the north end of the parking lot.
Coming from Duncan, head left off the highway at Koksilah Rd, then turn left again at the intersection onto Cowichan Bay Road (at the Trading Post). Continue as above. If you know the area, it's slightly faster to take the Bench Rd turn off and then head right onto Cowichan Bay road at the bottom of the hill.
Noon for a potluck picnic? Village, backyardfeast homestead, and Duncan tour could all follow as desired. :) Debbie, if you're still coming, do bring the mustache sign!