Profile information
Host rating
90 %
Last replied
25 Apr 2024
Reply rate
92.7 %
Usually responds within 4 days
Feedback
47
Email verified
Badges (1)
Details
Description
Learn about bison ranching and eagles while helping out on my Ranch on Southern Vancouver Island, Canada
Hello I'm Buffalo Bob :) , Owner of the Bison Ranch
Here at the sprawling 240 acre Ranch there's always lots of interesting things to do and see. We always welcome our visitors and will supply you with safe and comfortable lodging in exchange for your helpful contributions as you travel around our part of the world.
Types of help and learning opportunities
Language practice
Gardening
DIY and building projects
Animal Care
Farmstay help
Help around the house
General Maintenance
Help with Computers/ Internet
UN sustainability goals this host is trying to achieve
Cultural exchange and learning opportunities
We are located in Cassidy on Southern Vancouver Island, close to Nanaimo, Victoria and Vancouver BC. There's lots to see and do in this area of the world. Here on the farm you will learn about the Bison and participate in our farming operation and have an opportunity to practise your English and learn many new things. You may see Beaver, Eagles, Elk and many other natural wildlife.
Help
It has been another good year with work-away volunteers. Many awesome young men and women lived and worked on the ranch. You were very much appreciated, and I thank you - one and all... :)
Due to the nature of the work here the ideal volunteer is strong and not afraid to get dirty.
There is always a variety of things to do on the Ranch , such as:
- (Women - potentially house work, cleaning and cooking) as well as
- Help feeding the large herd of Buffalo,
- some fence repair
- weed elimination (broom and tansy)
- Christmas tree pruning in the fall
and many other interesting country type things to do.
Languages spoken
English: Fluent
Accommodation
We have a nice comfy bed for you and all the amenities.
WE CANNOT AT THIS TIME ACCOMMODATE COUPLES.
We are NOT vegan, vegetarian or gluten free.
MUST like dogs!
What else ...
We are located only 15 minutes south from the city of Nanaimo. We are close to a popular swimming hole in a local river, the ocean with sandy beaches and close to restaurants , movie theatres and so much more. We also go into town fairly often and can turn you loose there for a while.
Please take note that we are not on a public transportation line as we are somewhat remote. The bus route is about 5k away. If you have no vehicle, we will arrange together your excursions.
A little more information
Internet access
Limited internet access
We have pets
We are smokers
Can host families
How many Workawayers can stay?
One
Hours expected
Maximum 5 hours a day, 5 days a week (max 25/hours/week)
Host ref number: 723396776673
Feedback (29)
13 Jun 2023
Left by Workawayer (Michael) for host
I had a great and memorable stay with Bob and Lorraine!
They made me feel very welcome and I was sad to leave.
There is always something to do at the Bison Ranch: feeding grain to the bison, repairing fences, chopping wood or pruning trees. Bob explained everything about the animals on the ranch (besides bison, there are also eagles and you can… read more
They made me feel very welcome and I was sad to leave.
There is always something to do at the Bison Ranch: feeding grain to the bison, repairing fences, chopping wood or pruning trees. Bob explained everything about the animals on the ranch (besides bison, there are also eagles and you can… read more
11 Jun 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Michael)
Michael is in the top 5 of all of our several hundred volunteers!
His profile describes him to a tee.
He has great karma and deserves it!
This Master Wood Chopper works hard, communicates well and appreciates and is grateful for everything!
Michaels two weeks stay with us was way too short....we could keep him forever ;-) alas it is with extreme… read more
His profile describes him to a tee.
He has great karma and deserves it!
This Master Wood Chopper works hard, communicates well and appreciates and is grateful for everything!
Michaels two weeks stay with us was way too short....we could keep him forever ;-) alas it is with extreme… read more
(Excellent
)
14 Apr 2023
Left by Workawayer (Madline) for host
I spent my first Workaway with Lorraine and Bob, which was a great experience. I learned a lot and especially reached my physical limits, because some of the tasks required a lot of strength and well, I'm just no Hercules ;-) Nevertheless, I always tried to do my best. With Bob I could learn a lot about bisons and eagles, he was always willing to… read more
14 Apr 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Madline)
Madline is a volunteer who will outshine many if not most other volunteers! Her willingness to learn, to contribute and participate are next to none!
Bob put her through the paces with post hole digging , log placements and other manly tasks and she stood tall and put her shoulders to the tasks!
She is an awesome house guest who is respectful of… read more
Bob put her through the paces with post hole digging , log placements and other manly tasks and she stood tall and put her shoulders to the tasks!
She is an awesome house guest who is respectful of… read more
(Excellent
)
15 Dec 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Nicolás)
Nicholas is....marvelous! One of your finest houseguests and a consciensious helper who doesn't need to be asked to help around. If he knew a need needed to be fullfilled, he did not need to be asked....he just took care of it! I would be very proud to say he was my son!!
(Excellent
)
Feedback
These are extra optional ratings when members leave feedback. The average rating left for each option is displayed.
Accuracy of profile:
(4.7)
Cultural exchange:
(5.0)
Communication:
(5.0)
13 Jun 2023
Left by Workawayer (Michael) for host
I had a great and memorable stay with Bob and Lorraine!
They made me feel very welcome and I was sad to leave.
There is always something to do at the Bison Ranch: feeding grain to the bison, repairing fences, chopping wood or pruning trees. Bob explained everything about the animals on the ranch (besides bison, there are also eagles and you can… read more
They made me feel very welcome and I was sad to leave.
There is always something to do at the Bison Ranch: feeding grain to the bison, repairing fences, chopping wood or pruning trees. Bob explained everything about the animals on the ranch (besides bison, there are also eagles and you can… read more
11 Jun 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Michael)
Michael is in the top 5 of all of our several hundred volunteers!
His profile describes him to a tee.
He has great karma and deserves it!
This Master Wood Chopper works hard, communicates well and appreciates and is grateful for everything!
Michaels two weeks stay with us was way too short....we could keep him forever ;-) alas it is with extreme… read more
His profile describes him to a tee.
He has great karma and deserves it!
This Master Wood Chopper works hard, communicates well and appreciates and is grateful for everything!
Michaels two weeks stay with us was way too short....we could keep him forever ;-) alas it is with extreme… read more
(Excellent
)
14 Apr 2023
Left by Workawayer (Madline) for host
I spent my first Workaway with Lorraine and Bob, which was a great experience. I learned a lot and especially reached my physical limits, because some of the tasks required a lot of strength and well, I'm just no Hercules ;-) Nevertheless, I always tried to do my best. With Bob I could learn a lot about bisons and eagles, he was always willing to… read more
14 Apr 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Madline)
Madline is a volunteer who will outshine many if not most other volunteers! Her willingness to learn, to contribute and participate are next to none!
Bob put her through the paces with post hole digging , log placements and other manly tasks and she stood tall and put her shoulders to the tasks!
She is an awesome house guest who is respectful of… read more
Bob put her through the paces with post hole digging , log placements and other manly tasks and she stood tall and put her shoulders to the tasks!
She is an awesome house guest who is respectful of… read more
(Excellent
)
15 Dec 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Nicolás)
Nicholas is....marvelous! One of your finest houseguests and a consciensious helper who doesn't need to be asked to help around. If he knew a need needed to be fullfilled, he did not need to be asked....he just took care of it! I would be very proud to say he was my son!!
(Excellent
)
15 Nov 2022
Left by Workawayer (Workaway member) for host
Info notice: Exchange was cancelled at last minute
1 Nov 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Workaway member)
Although Gareth decided our offering was not for him after his arrival; In the 24 hrs that he was here he helped me with moving some heavy furniture stacking a bit of wood and being a VERY pleasant guest. For my part I much appreciated his help.
On the other hand it was extremely disappointing that he did not stay the 33 days which we had… read more
On the other hand it was extremely disappointing that he did not stay the 33 days which we had… read more
(Good
)
29 Aug 2022
Left by Workawayer (Sven) for host
I really enjoyed my stay on the range. Working with Bob during the day was always fun. The range is huge so there is lots of different things to do and the work is diversified as well. Bob is a very experienced farmer with lots of interesting things and stories to tell.
Lorraine makes your time after work very comfortable. She is a excellent cook… read more
Lorraine makes your time after work very comfortable. She is a excellent cook… read more
14 Jul 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Jasmin)
What a delightful girl! Willing to attempt to tackle any task with enthusiasm....but being of slight build some task were just beyond her musculature, but that doesn't mean she didn't try!!! 8-)
And was always ready and willing to do what she was able to do. Jasmin worked hard and we appreciated all her efforts....we just wish she could have… read more
And was always ready and willing to do what she was able to do. Jasmin worked hard and we appreciated all her efforts....we just wish she could have… read more
(Excellent
)
29 May 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Georgie)
Georgie was everything one would want in a volunteer and then some....lots of some. Not many volunteers will do a kinda gross job and be happy for the learning of it!!!
A joy to host, we laughed - a lot! A hard and willing worker. We were sad that she ever had to leave and she is welcome back anytime.
I would be more than proud to call her my… read more
A joy to host, we laughed - a lot! A hard and willing worker. We were sad that she ever had to leave and she is welcome back anytime.
I would be more than proud to call her my… read more
(Excellent
)
16 May 2022
Left by Workawayer (Georgie) for host
What a way to start my Workaway experience. I doubt that any other will live up to the bison ranch! You won't find nicer people than Bob and Lorraine ANYWHERE. I warmed to both of them instantly and they have gone above and beyond throughout my stay. I never thought I could feel so comfortable in and attached to a place after just 2 weeks.
You… read more
You… read more
19 Mar 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Marcelin)
Marcelin was a great asset. Pleasant, hard working and very respectful. We would certainly accept him back...anytime!
(Excellent
)
24 Feb 2022
Left by Workawayer (Till) for host
Dear Lorraine and Bob,
thank you very much for the time I could stay at the ranch. As final destination of my travel in Canada I only had 10 days left to spend with you but it was great!
As a volunteer you sleep and eat at Lorrains place on the property. Be sure she really takes care of you the best way. Her cooking skills are awesome and beside… read more
thank you very much for the time I could stay at the ranch. As final destination of my travel in Canada I only had 10 days left to spend with you but it was great!
As a volunteer you sleep and eat at Lorrains place on the property. Be sure she really takes care of you the best way. Her cooking skills are awesome and beside… read more
9 Jan 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Steven)
Steven is a wonderful young man! He was everything one would want in a volunteer and then (lots of ) some.
A joy to host. A hard worker. We were sad that he only stayed a week and he is welcome back anytime.
I would be proud to call him my son!
A joy to host. A hard worker. We were sad that he only stayed a week and he is welcome back anytime.
I would be proud to call him my son!
(Excellent
)
1 Oct 2021
Left by host for Workawayer (Jo)
What a joyful rough and tumble gal! Jo Jo was up for whatever task she was awarded and did all without complaint (except for the rain😭)!
We hope you enjoyed us a much as we enjoyed you Johanna!
We hope you enjoyed us a much as we enjoyed you Johanna!
(Excellent
)
6 Jun 2021
Left by host for Workawayer (Zuzana)
Zuzanna claims that she likes everyone and everything! Well, as Karma would have it the reverse is equally true! We and two fellow volunteers really liked her and appreciated all of the hard work that she did! Cutting broom is a job that really just sucks (!) But although it was agreed that it was the worst job that ever had to be done here, there… read more
(Excellent
)
22 May 2021
Left by Workawayer (Zuzana) for host
I spent 3 weeks at the ranch and I recommend you to come as well! The place is beautiful and Bob and Loraine are very kind and talkative people. The work can be hard sometimes, but the exchange is more than fair. Yummy food, beautiful place, interesting talks, and regular movie nights. If you wanna take a break from staring at your phone, come… read more
13 Nov 2020
Left by Workawayer (Clotilde) for host
It was very interesting to meet Bob and Lorraine. They are amazing people. They love to share incredible stories. In the same week, one dog, two female bisons and one eagle tried to kill me;) It was a great adventure. Lorraine and Bob, you have the heart on the hand! (I don't know if it makes sense in English) Thank you so much.
21 Dec 2019
Left by Workawayer (Guillaume) for host
If you like Miss Weasley in Harry Potter, this workaway is (almost) for you !
I had a great tough experience in Bob's property. But the success of my stay was not about farming, it was the whole stay, which means :
Staying at Lorraine's house (if you have Miss Weasley in mind that's her), exchanging a lot, sharing ideas, any kind of sense of… read more
I had a great tough experience in Bob's property. But the success of my stay was not about farming, it was the whole stay, which means :
Staying at Lorraine's house (if you have Miss Weasley in mind that's her), exchanging a lot, sharing ideas, any kind of sense of… read more
21 Oct 2019
Left by Workawayer (Yunus) for host
This was my first workaway experience and I'm so glad I did it! I only stayed for one week but I learned so many things about Bison, the life on a ranch and life in general.
Bob is very experienced and you can learn very much about ranch life from him. Even though I couldn't do the job of pruning Christmas trees as well as I was supposed to, Bob… read more
Bob is very experienced and you can learn very much about ranch life from him. Even though I couldn't do the job of pruning Christmas trees as well as I was supposed to, Bob… read more
9 Oct 2019
Left by Workawayer (Adriano) for host
I’ve been to the ranch for almost 2 weeks, this is the second Workaway I’m doing in Canada and I’m very satisfied!
The first time I met Lorraine I felt very good and comfortable with her, she has a very positive and good energy that makes everyone feel good around her. She is also a very good cook and interesting person, she will treat you… read more
The first time I met Lorraine I felt very good and comfortable with her, she has a very positive and good energy that makes everyone feel good around her. She is also a very good cook and interesting person, she will treat you… read more
25 Jul 2019
Left by Workawayer (Franz) for host
I just stayed for two weeks before I continued my travels. But those two weeks were great! My first workaway experience. I worked with Bob on the day and we had some interesting conversations. He has a lot of experience and he knows a lot. The afternoons and nights I spent with Lorraine, who helped me improve my English wish a lot of good movies.… read more
4 Mar 2019
Left by Workawayer (Roland) for host
My very first Workaway experience and definitely one to remember. It was a great time at Bob's ranch. I enjoyed the many tasks Bob gave me, which made the work very diversified. We had great and very surprising conversations over the day and it was always fun to get to know such a character like Bob better and better. I was prepared for hard work,… read more
3 Nov 2018
Left by Workawayer (Pierre) for host
This was my first workaway experience here in Canada, I stayed 2 weeks to give an help before the winter season starts, and it was a great time !!
This is a real farmstay, with some physical work, but the place is amazing, and we learn a lot about the bisons and the farm life in general. Bob is someone passionated, and there is always a lot to do,… read more
This is a real farmstay, with some physical work, but the place is amazing, and we learn a lot about the bisons and the farm life in general. Bob is someone passionated, and there is always a lot to do,… read more
3 Nov 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Pierre)
What a wonderful man! Willing to try anything.....and happy to do so....even afterwards:relaxed: Pierre was a joy in every respect.
Ps: he really likes cheesecake:grin:
Ps: he really likes cheesecake:grin:
(Excellent
)
18 Oct 2018
Left by Workawayer (NIck) for host
Generally a fairly good experience at the ranch. However..! Whilst the work is fairly varied and not too onerous and whilst Bob is what you might call 'an alright old boy' your stay could quite possibly take on a slightly different experience should you happen to: 1) carry a bit too much personality 2) Hold an opinion on subjects of any kind 3)… read more
18 Oct 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (NIck)
In Nicks words: he was a good volunteer, but......
(Neutral
)
19 Sep 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Sven)
Sven is awesome! Because he is a small compact man ( compared to most of the German volunteers we have had ) Bob put him through the paces testing his strength and ability. Sven was up to every task with comfort and ease! A pretty Zen attitude compliments his great sense of humour. An excellent and worthy houseguest willing to help and participate… read more
(Excellent
)
14 Sep 2018
Left by Workawayer (Sven) for host
The Ranch with Bob and Lorraine was my first workaway experience and I guess it couldn't be better than there! :)
I had such a wonderfull time there with a lot of nice and funny moments.
Bob is a real farmer and creator you can learn a lot from him. I had really good moments with him at work and on his veranda after work. :) With Lorraine is it… read more
I had such a wonderfull time there with a lot of nice and funny moments.
Bob is a real farmer and creator you can learn a lot from him. I had really good moments with him at work and on his veranda after work. :) With Lorraine is it… read more
12 Sep 2018
Left by Workawayer (Xavier) for host
A great workaway ! The Ranch is a very nice place to stay ! Works are varied and interesting. Bob is a serious guy at work but a very funny guy after work, I learned a lot about bisons and farmer's work with him. Lorraine takes care about the workawayers, she's a very nice woman, and a very good cooker too.
Thanks for all Bob and Lorraine, I… read more
Thanks for all Bob and Lorraine, I… read more
12 Aug 2018
Left by Workawayer (Daniel) for host
I stayed with Bob and Lorraine for about two weeks in July and it was an awesome experience that was completely different from all the workaways I've done before.
I've learned and saw some very unique things and I wouldn't want to miss any of them. The only thing that did could perhaps be improved is communication.
Best wishes,
Daniel
I've learned and saw some very unique things and I wouldn't want to miss any of them. The only thing that did could perhaps be improved is communication.
Best wishes,
Daniel
1 Jul 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Daniel)
Daniel was a great asset on the ranch here. It was fun to watch his excitement when he came in having done something WAY out of his comfort zone! This young man is refreshing in so many ways! True to his German heritage he gave his all and then some! Thank you Daniel! May all your dreams be fulfilled!
(Excellent
)
5 Aug 2018
Left by Workawayer (Mathias) for host
I worked on the ranch for ten days with a friend of mine. We had fun living with Lorraine who's the nicest person and has a lot to tell and to share. She helped my friend to improve his English for which he is grateful.
Working with Bob is hard both physically and because of his strong personality, but nothing you won't handle. Getting the work… read more
Working with Bob is hard both physically and because of his strong personality, but nothing you won't handle. Getting the work… read more
17 Jul 2018
Left by Workawayer (Martín) for host
I spent just one week with Bob and Loraine. The experience with bison was amazing!!! I had never seen a bison so feeding them was a really good experience. Bob and Loraine are great guys. I really enjoyed working with Bob. He knows a lot about bison. And thanks to Loraine for the food and the movies.
17 Dec 2017
Left by Workawayer (Corne) for host
Awesome place to live and work, Bob and Lorraine are awesome people, and you will learn a lot about the bisons.
29 Nov 2017
Left by Workawayer (Vincent) for host
Sorry for the late feedback. I had a really good time for 3 weeks at bobs farm. Amazing experience to work with the bisons(you will learn a lot about the animals). I had different jobs all the time. Thanks for the awesome time!
5 Sep 2017
Left by Workawayer (Franziska) for host
This Ranch was my first workaway experience in Canada. Located close to Nainamo the spot was perfect for our final days on Vancouver Island.
The work was building, woodwork, pruning Christmastrees and feeding Bisons. 5 hours per day with friendly administration. It was a lot of fun and i enjoyed working with Bob.
The accomodation was at… read more
The work was building, woodwork, pruning Christmastrees and feeding Bisons. 5 hours per day with friendly administration. It was a lot of fun and i enjoyed working with Bob.
The accomodation was at… read more
10 Aug 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Claudia)
What does one day about Claudia? She is so "right on". Willing, far more capable than expected ( she is very strong!) and going the extra mile with a smile! We would welcome her back in....half a heartbeat! Not many ' girls' would be willing to do some of the pooooey things that needed to be done, but willing and smilingly she participated. Thank… read more
(Excellent
)
12 May 2017
Left by Workawayer (Claudia) for host
Wow, I really had a great time at Bob's ranch. I stayed at Lorraines place which is on the other side of the property as Bob's house for around 3 weeks. Everyday I woke up with a stunning view over the fields with the buffalos on it and the mountains in the back - awesome! Lorraine took (and still take) care of me in an awesome way. Great food,… read more
10 Aug 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Florian)
Honest, hard-working, completely versatile with a willingness to do whatever is needed; Florian is an absolute joy to have around! If he were my son.....I would b soooooo proud!
(Excellent
)
7 Jun 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Christopher)
Chris is a lovely, respectful hard working guy and we were very happy with his visit (short as it was). We would welcome him back in a heartbeat! His willingness and efforts were much appreciated!
(Excellent
)
18 May 2017
Left by Workawayer (George) for host
I stayed at the ranch for a week and had a great time! Bob is really friendly and really knows his stuff. We worked on a few different projects such while i was there such as building a shed, feeding the bison and started renovating an old school bus. It was awesome as we were always doing something different and learning new skills. I would have… read more
16 Mar 2017
Left by Workawayer (Emilia & Ania) for host
This ranch is a beautiful place surrounded by nature and animals.
We had a chance to watch Buffaloes every day, spend time around them and learn a lot. Feeding them was definitely a treat and an adventure!
Bob was really patience with us and always explained our tasks well. He shared some interesting stories and told us a lot about bisons and… read more
We had a chance to watch Buffaloes every day, spend time around them and learn a lot. Feeding them was definitely a treat and an adventure!
Bob was really patience with us and always explained our tasks well. He shared some interesting stories and told us a lot about bisons and… read more
16 Mar 2017
Left by Workawayer (Celeste) for host
Ania, Emilia and I stayed for 5 weeks at Bob’s ranch and time there just flyed!
The work at the ranch was hard, but also great. It was an amazing experience! Who else can say: I fed 90 Buffaloes, high fived a golden eagle and rode the traktor.
After this 5 weeks we didn’t have princess hands anymore :P We also got specialized of pruning… read more
The work at the ranch was hard, but also great. It was an amazing experience! Who else can say: I fed 90 Buffaloes, high fived a golden eagle and rode the traktor.
After this 5 weeks we didn’t have princess hands anymore :P We also got specialized of pruning… read more
2 Sep 2016
Left by Workawayer (Ben & Jan) for host
We had a great time at Bob´s ranch!
It was tough but nice work and Bob is a nice, friendly guy, with which you can have fun.
It was tough but nice work and Bob is a nice, friendly guy, with which you can have fun.
26 Jul 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (Janina)
Janina is a hard worker. Her command of the English language is not great so she can misunderstand what's being said sometimes. So take your time and explain things well to her...
Good luck Janina
Good luck Janina
(Very good
)
18 Jul 2016
Left by Workawayer (Janina) for host
