Muskoka411 Staff, Author at Muskoka411

New RVH Program Strengthens Homelessness Supports And Addiction Recovery In Simcoe County

Muskoka411 Staff — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 16:52:30 +0000

Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre (RVH), in partnership with the HART of Simcoe County, has opened a new supportive pre-treatment program that provides a safe place to stay and start recovery while awaiting admission to RVH’s live-in addiction treatment program. The program fills a critical gap between withdrawal management and treatment, helping individuals remain connected to care during a vulnerable stage of recovery.

The program provides 11 supportive pre-treatment beds for individuals receiving care through the HART of Simcoe County who are preparing to enter RVH’s live-in addiction treatment program. Clients have access to individual counselling, psychoeducational groups, and life-skills training, supported by two addiction counsellors on-site 24 hours a day.

The service is closely integrated with RVH’s Withdrawal Management Services, located within the same building. Before entering the program, clients complete a minimum 24-hour stabilization period through Withdrawal Management Services, creating a seamless transition between services and helping ensure they are ready for the next stage of care.

“For many individuals, the period between withdrawal management and treatment can be one of the most crucial stages of recovery,” said Brandon Lewicki, Operations Director of RVH’s Mental Health and Addictions Program. “This program helps fill that gap by providing stability, structure and ongoing support while individuals prepare for the next stage of treatment. By working closely with our community partners, we’re reducing barriers to care and helping more people access the support they need when they need it most.”

The pre-treatment program is one component of the HART of Simcoe County, a model that brings together health and social services to support individuals with complex needs, including those experiencing or at risk of homelessness.

“County Council is committed to supporting initiatives, like the HART of Simcoe County, that strengthen access to care and improve outcomes for residents across the region,” said Basil Clarke, Warden, County of Simcoe. “Through strong partnerships, we are connecting people to addiction treatment, mental health supports, primary care, housing and other community services that help support long-term recovery and stability.”

As part of the HART of Simcoe County, RVH provides Withdrawal Management Services, the supportive pre-treatment program and live-in addiction treatment, creating a seamless continuum of care that supports individuals from stabilization through treatment and recovery.

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Gravenhurst High School Senior Boys Basketball Team Received OFSAA Sportsmanship Award – Again

Muskoka411 Staff — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 15:42:22 +0000

Article / Photo Via TLDSB:

The Gravenhurst High School (GHS) Senior Boys Basketball Team was recently recognized for their character, integrity, and respect.

After winning their regional Georgian Bay title for the second year in a row, the team competed at the Ontario Federation of School Athletics Associations (OFSAA) Single A Boys’ Basketball Championships in Timmins, Ontario between March 9 and 11.

Stacking up against other teams from across the province, the Gryphons battled hard and knocked off both the #12 and #14 seeds to advance to the consolation championship game.

Despite not winning, the team was selected for the second year in a row to receive the OFSAA Sportsmanship Award, which is presented to the best team who exemplifies fair play, respect, and camaraderie.

“We are so proud of how our Gryphons represented GHS and Trillium Lakelands District School Board, both on and off the court!” said coach, Gillian Humphries.

“Success on the court is always something to celebrate. But, when our students are recognized for their great character, that is special. It is great to see transferable life skills and meaningful values developed through sport in secondary schools. This award speaks volumes about who our GHS students are and what they represent,” said GHS principal, Trent Willett. “I have been in this school for eight years and know first-hand how respectful, kind, and courteous our students are. It is great to see this recognized at a provincial championship event. Notably, our students are receiving this award for a second consecutive year. It’s simply amazing and worthy of recognition and I am sincerely glad they have received it. I also know that this kind of character doesn’t happen by accident. It takes strong leadership and consistent mentorship to instill these values. So I want to extend a sincere thank you to Coach Humphries, Coach Dickinson, and Coach Tkaczyk – your dedication to modeling and teaching respect, effort, and focus has clearly made a lasting impact. Congratulations players and coaches!”

The OFSAA championships marked the end of the basketball season for the boys, but the team is looking forward to another OFSAA run next season!

Congratulations to the team and coaches–this is well-deserved!

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Driver Charged With Stunt Driving For Going 160 km/h On Hwy. 11 In Orillia

Muskoka411 Staff — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 15:21:46 +0000

Members of the Orillia Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) have charged a driver fwith stunt driving following a traffic stop on Highway 11.

On June 8, 2026, at approximately 5:10 p.m., an officer conducting speed enforcement on Highway 11, in the City of Orillia, stopped a vehicle travelling northbound near Line 15 travelling at 160 km/h in a posted 90 km/h zone.

As a result of the investigation, a 46-year-old from Orillia was charged with:

Drive motor vehicle – perform stunt – excessive speed

The driver’s licence was suspended for 30 days and the vehicle was impounded for 14 days in accordance with Ontario’s stunt driving legislation.

The driver was released and is scheduled to appear at the Ontario Court of Justice on Wednesday, August 12, 2026.

The OPP reminds all motorists that excessive speed and aggressive driving behaviour poses serious risks to everyone on the road. Officers will continue proactive enforcement efforts to promote safe driving across the region.

Anyone who witnesses dangerous driving is encouraged to contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at www.ontariocrimestoppers.ca or by calling 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

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Gravenhurst Cottager Fined $5,716.82 For Starting A Wildland Fire

Muskoka411 Staff — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 00:03:40 +0000

An individual from Southern Ontario has been fined and ordered to pay over $5,700 after unsafe burning practices caused a wildland fire:

Geoffrey Larden of Gravenhurst pleaded guilty to failing to tend a fire under the Forest Fires Prevention Act. He was ordered to pay the Province of Ontario $5,716.82 as partial compensation for the costs incurred to extinguish the fire.

The Ontario Court of Justice heard that on August 4, 2025, a wildland fire was reported adjacent to a cottage located on Gull Lake in the Town of Gravenhurst. No individuals were present at the cottage. Fire crews from the Town of Gravenhurst responded and began suppression efforts until an airborne fire crew from the Ministry of Natural Resources arrived to take over.

The fire was determined to be human-caused, and a subsequent investigation took place. The investigation determined that on July 31, Larden, the cottage owner, had a fire where wood debris was burned on the forest floor and not within a designated fire pit. After burning the debris, Larden poured water on the burned area. Larden then left the property on August 3.

An examination by a forensic investigator with the ministry took place and determined that the fire lit by Larden on July 31 maintained a state of sustained combustion. The weather between July 31 and August 4 was hot and dry, and on August 4, fire weather indices became extreme and favourable for the spread of an out-of-control wildland fire. On this day, the fire grew and threatened nearby cottages in addition to causing a power outage on a portion of the lake. The investigation was supported by eye-witness accounts from residents and cottage owners.

Justice of the Peace Margot M. D. Ballagh heard the case in the Ontario Court of Justice, Bracebridge, on April 1, 2026.

To report a natural resource problem or provide information about an unsolved case, members of the public can call the ministry TIPS line toll free at 1-877-847-7667. You can also call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS. For more information about unsolved cases, please visit ontario.ca/MNRTips.

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One Person Charged For Shoplifting From The Bracebridge Restore

Muskoka411 Staff — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 14:43:28 +0000

The Bracebridge Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) has charged one person after investigating a theft from a local retailer.

On June 11, 2026 at 11:15 a.m., Bracebridge OPP officers responded to a report of a shoplift that had occurred the day prior, from a Habitat for Humanity location on Muskoka Road 118 in Bracebridge. Police received tips from members of the public and were able to locate the suspect at an address in Port Carling. Police have charged 41-year-old Brendan Vanschepen of Clyne, ON with Theft Under $5000, Operation while Prohibited, and suspended driving.

He will appear in the Ontario Court of Justice in Bracebridge, ON for a bail hearing on June 12, 2026 to answer to his charges.

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Two People From Gravenhurst Face Several Drug Charges

Muskoka411 Staff — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 14:21:30 +0000

The Muskoka Community Street Crime Unit (CSCU), with the assistance of Bracebridge Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), has charged two people with drug related offences.

In the spring of 2026, the Muskoka Community Street Crime Unit initiated an investigation into suspected drug trafficking activity in Gravenhurst, ON. On June 4^th, 2026, with the assistance of the Collingwood/Huronia West CSCU, the Southern Georgian Bay CSCU, the OPP K9 Unit, and Bracebridge OPP Detachment members, investigators executed a search warrant at a residence in Gravenhurst located on Muskoka Road South near Main Street, and seized quantities of suspected cocaine, oxycodone, Canadian currency, and other evidence. As a result of the investigation, police arrested and charged:

Kevin Buker, 41-years-old from Gravenhurst with:

1. Possession of a Schedule I substance (cocaine) for the purpose of trafficking

2. Possession of a Schedule I substance (oxycodone) for the purpose of trafficking

3. Possession of proceeds of property obtained by crime under $5000

4. Possession of a weapon contrary to order

Kirsten Veinott, 40-years-old from Gravenhurst with:

1. Possession of a Schedule I substance (cocaine) for the purpose of trafficking

2. Possession of a Schedule I substance (oxycodone) for the purpose of trafficking

3. Possession of proceeds of property obtained by crime under $5000

4. Breach of recognizance

The accused persons will appear in the Ontario Court of Justice in Bracebridge on July 7, 2026 to answer to their charges.

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Community Rallies Behind Soldiers’ Ride Success Momentum Builds To Finish Strong With $240,000 Raised

Muskoka411 Staff — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 14:04:33 +0000

Momentum is building following the success of Soldiers’ Ride presented by TD Bank Group, held Sunday, June 7, as riders, families, and supporters came together for a day of community, camaraderie, and giving in support of Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital (OSMH).

Riders set out on a cool morning that gave way to a beautiful, sunny day for post-ride celebrations. The event raised an impressive $240,000, with fundraising remaining open until Friday, June 19, giving participants, supporters, and the broader OSMH community an opportunity to push this year’s total even higher and make a greater impact for patients and families.

Leading the charge were top fundraising teams, Assante Wealth Management and the Black Swamp Gang, each raising over $40,000. Their dedication reflects the strong community spirit that continues to drive Soldiers’ Ride forward and strengthens access to high-quality, compassionate care close to home.

Inspired by the generosity and energy of this year’s event, McGregor on the Water has stepped forward with a $25,000 matching gift, inviting the community to act now and double their impact for patients and families.

For those who could not participate in the ride, this is a meaningful way to get involved and support healthcare close to home.

“Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital has been there for my family through many important moments, and we are deeply grateful,” said Linda Csumrik, Vice President and Office Manager for McGregor on the Water. “Seeing this community come together through Soldiers’ Ride is truly inspiring. We are proud to offer this matching gift and hope it encourages others to give, knowing their support will have twice the impact for a hospital that means so much to all of us.”

McGregor on the Water is a longtime supporter of OSMH, and this marks their third matching gift of more than $20,000, bringing their total lifetime giving to over $100,000 in support of the hospital’s future. Funds raised through Soldiers’ Ride help advance planning for a new hospital while sustaining excellence in care at the current site.

“We are incredibly grateful to every rider, donor, and sponsor who made Soldiers’ Ride such a meaningful success,” said Joanna Gray, Director, Campaigns & Major Gifts. “This event shows the strength of our community coming together to support local healthcare. We are especially thankful to McGregor on the Water for this generous match and for helping sustain the momentum. Together, we are within reach of a milestone that will make a lasting difference for patients and families across our region.”

With just days remaining, the Foundation is encouraging the community to rally behind riders and help maximize the matching gift before fundraising closes.

Make 2X the difference before June 19. Give now to double your impact for patients and families across our community: SoldiersRide.ca

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Repair Café A Resounding Success In Township Of Georgian Bay

Muskoka411 Staff — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 13:29:56 +0000

The Township of Georgian Bay is pleased to share the success of the Repair Café held on Saturday, June 6, at the Baxter Ward Community Centre as part of Climate Action Week.

The event welcomed approximately 45-50 community members through the doors, bringing together volunteers, repair experts, and residents with a shared goal of reducing waste, extending the life of household items, and supporting local sustainability initiatives.

In partnership with Georgian Bay Mnidoo Gamii Biosphere, volunteer repair specialist successfully repaired 14 items, preventing approximately 65 pounds of material from entering the landfill. An additional 56 items were sharpened, diverting another 96 pounds of material from waste streams. Remarkably, only one item couldn’t be fixed.

The event also served as a hub for pick up of the Georgian Bay Biosphere Native Plant Sale as well as a collection point for several community initiatives.

The Baxter Ward Lions Club hosted a hygiene drive in support of the Port Severn / Honey Harbour Food Bank. They collected well over 80 essential personal care and household hygiene items, including soap, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, deodorant moisturizer, feminine hygiene products, socks, hand soap, aluminum foil, and sandwich bags. Many of these items will be repackaged into smaller portions to help serve a greater number of households accessing Food Bank services. The generous donations will provide much-needed support to local individuals and families facing food insecurity and financial challenges throughout the community.

Additionally, the Lions Club collected:

140 pairs of shoes and boots
100 pairs of eyewear
More than $500 worth of returnable cans and bottles

“The Repair Café is a wonderful example of how small actions can make a big impact,” said Mayor, Peter Koetsier for the Township of Georgian Bay. “Participants keep valuable items out of landfill, and they also supported neighbours in need through generous donations to the Food Bank and other community collection programs. It was inspiring to see residents come together to repair, reuse, recycle, and give back.”

The Township extends its sincere thanks to the volunteers, repair experts, the Georgian Bay Biosphere, the Baxter Ward Lions Club, and everyone who attended and contributed to the event’s success.

Events such as the Repair Café demonstrate that climate action starts at the community level. By repairing instead of replacing, and by supporting local sharing and donation initiatives, residents are helping build a more sustainable and resilient Township of Georgian Bay.

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Community Raises More Than $53M For Huntsville Healthcare, Historic $17.5M Matching Challenge Fully Matched

Muskoka411 Staff — Thu, 11 Jun 2026 18:23:37 +0000

One year after launching the Raise Muskoka Campaign, Huntsville Hospital Foundation announced today that more than $53 million has been raised toward its $70 million goal to support the future Huntsville Hospital, to be named in honour of Bob Hutcheson, and the equipment and technology needed to deliver exceptional patient care.

The Foundation also announced that the $17.5 million matching challenge, led by the Cockwell family and friends and family of Bob Hutcheson, has been fully matched by donors across the community, unlocking $35 million for local healthcare.

“This milestone belongs to our donors,” said Katherine Craine, CEO of Huntsville Hospital Foundation. “It belongs to the child who donated their birthday money. It belongs to every family who made a gift, every volunteer, every business owner and every grateful patient. Together, we have created one of the most significant community fundraising moments in Muskoka’s history. To every person who contributed to this milestone, thank you.”

In just one year, hundreds of donors have made gifts and pledges, helping the campaign reach 76% of its $70 million goal. The Foundation looks forward to recognizing many of these generous donors and sharing the stories behind their support in the months ahead.

“We launched Raise Muskoka with an ambitious goal and a belief that our community would rise to meet it,” said Tom Anselmi, Campaign Co-Chair. “To raise more than $53 million and to fully complete the matching challenge in just one year is extraordinary. This achievement reflects the generosity, confidence and commitment people have for the future of local healthcare.”

The matching challenge, announced in September 2025 in honour of Bob Hutcheson, helped inspire support from across the region and accelerate momentum for the campaign.

“I have always believed in the people of Muskoka, and this campaign is proof of what can happen when a community comes together behind something that matters,” said Bob Hutcheson, Honourary Co-Chair. “I am grateful to the Cockwell family and to my family and friends who helped launch this campaign. While this milestone is worth celebrating, what excites me most is what it will mean for future generations.”

As part of today’s announcement, the Foundation also launched Our Cottage Cares, a new initiative inviting lakefront property owners to make a five-year commitment to support Raise Muskoka.

While today’s announcement marks a major milestone, Campaign Co-Chairs emphasize that the work continues.

“It has been an incredible year, and I am so thrilled to see the outpouring of love and respect for the Hutcheson family,” said Mike Harrower, Campaign Co-Chair. “Every gift is helping build the future Huntsville Hospital and we still have important work ahead. We invite you to join us and be part of this historic campaign.”

Funds raised through Raise Muskoka will help support the future Huntsville Hospital and the equipment and technology required to provide exceptional patient care.

For more information about the Raise Muskoka Campaign, Our Cottage Cares or to make a donation, please visit HuntsvilleHospitalFoundation.ca.

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Double Fatal Collision On Hwy. 400 At Crooked Bay Road In Georgian Bay

Muskoka411 Staff — Thu, 11 Jun 2026 18:21:12 +0000

Two individuals have been pronounced deceased following a vehicle fire on Highway 400.

On Thursday, June 11, 2026, shortly after 3:00 a.m., members of the Southern Georgian Bay Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) responded to reports of a single-vehicle collision involving an SUV that subsequently caught fire on Highway 400 northbound near Crooked Bay Road in Georgian Bay.

The occupants of the vehicle were pronounced deceased at the scene.

The identities of the deceased are being withheld at this time pending notification of next of kin.

Highway 400 remained closed between White Falls Road and Muskoka Road 38 for several hours for the investigation and has since reopened.

Anyone with information or video footage of the incident is asked to contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122, or report anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at ontariocrimestoppers.ca.

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