There is a new postmaster in town.
He is orange, with short hair, a pink nose, and long whiskers.
Sid, the 10-year-old cat known to hang out between McFli’s Feed Delivery and the Whonnock Post Office, has been named honourary postmaster.
“Well, he can’t read or write,” laughed Whonnock resident Paul Stanley, who came up with the idea after hearing about Canada Post having to close rural post offices across the country.
He was concerned the historic post office in his community could also be a casualty of Canada Post cuts.
So he had Sid pose for pictures in his new postmaster hat and put the image of the jaded cat on postcards and stickers – free for everyone who comes into the post office.
He is hoping people will send the postcards to family and friends using the post office in Whonnock to increase foot traffic.
Stanley’s idea was inspired by a Japanese cat named Tama who was named Honourary Stationmaster of the Kishi Station on the Wakayama Electric Railway Kishigawa Line, which was slated to close due to low ridership.
Tama drew in so many tourists who wanted to get a glimpse of the famous feline, that ridership increased and the station was saved.
After Tama’s passing in 2015, a shrine to the cat was built on the platform.
Now the Kishi Railway Station has two successors named Nitama and Yontama.
While Sid is not about to sort any letters or packages, he is a great mascot.
About 200 people have already picked up a postcard and sticker so far – all donated by Stanley.
Stanley is hoping even more people come into the historic post office, established in 1885. It’s current building at 26915 River Road was built in 1932.
There are lots of people who depend on the Whonnock Post Office, said Stanley, noting that for some in the neighbourhood it is their only outing of the day. The next closest post office is at 24o Street and Dewdney Trunk Road, a bit of a hike.
“It’s a community hub,” he said.
He nominated the post office for the 2026 Stewardship of a Community Asset Award – one of five awards handed out at the City of Maple Ridge Heritage Awards that took place at the Albion Community Centre on Feb. 19. And Whonnock Post Office won.
And, in February, local resident Mareesa Kelly was appointed the new, official full-time postmaster.
Sid, however, will also keep his position, Stanley noted, until his final day and then another honourary postmaster will be appointed.