“We are excited to once again treat the community to several weeks of great entertainment in the beautiful setting along the Muskoka River,” says Matt Huddlestone, Manager of the Algonquin Theatre. “With a wide range of genres, these concerts are a great way for the public to take a mid-week break and enjoy an evening of live music in downtown Huntsville.”

2026 Lineup 

• July 1 – HTC Canadian Cabaret
• July 8 – Northern Lights Steel Drum Orchestra
• July 15 – Muskoka Concert Band
• July 22 – Sean Cotton
• July 29 – Alexis Taylor
• August 5 – Rich Howard
• August 12 – Cameron of Lochiel Pipes and Drums
• August 19 – Leah Leslie
• August 26 – Rob Seymour

The Concerts on the Dock series is a family-friendly event, and anyone attending is encouraged to bring a lawn chair and a donation for the performing artist.

Held on the shore of the Muskoka River, Concerts on the Dock take place just steps away from Huntsville’s vibrant downtown. Enjoy the sights, shops, and restaurants that historic downtown Huntsville has to offer before settling in for an evening of live music.

In the event of inclement weather, the concert will be cancelled and not rescheduled. Any cancellations will be announced on the Town of Huntsville and Algonquin Theatre social media channels ahead of the event.

For more information on the Concerts on the Dock series, visit algonquintheatre.ca.

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Most recently serving as Senior Director, Operations, Taylor brings more than 12 years of
progressive leadership experience at Habitat for Humanity Ontario Gateway North, spanning operations, finance, and communications, coupled with a deep commitment to community impact and organizational excellence. Throughout her career, she has built a reputation as a collaborative leader who combines strategic thinking with a strong focus on people, performance, and organizational growth.

As CEO, Taylor will guide Habitat for Humanity Ontario Gateway North in its mission to bring communities together to help families build strength, stability, and independence through affordable housing and equity-building programs. She will lead the organization’s efforts to expand housing opportunities, including the landmark 21-unit Generation Homes housing project in Bracebridge, in collaboration with Greystone Project Management Inc. and the District Municipality of Muskoka.

“Meghan is an inspiring and values-driven leader whose experience, vision, and commitment to community align deeply with Habitat’s mission,” said Ken Lung, chairman of the Board of Directors. “As the need for affordable housing continues to grow across our region, we are excited to welcome Meghan in her new role and look forward to the leadership she will bring as we continue building homes, communities, and hope.”

Taylor steps into the role of CEO at a time of significant opportunity and momentum. With
affordable housing challenges affecting communities across the province, Habitat for Humanity Ontario Gateway North continues to expand its impact through affordable homeownership, rental housing initiatives, ReStore operations, and community partnerships.

“It’s a privilege to take on this role and continue the important work of Habitat for Humanity Ontario Gateway North,” said Taylor. “Every day, I see the difference safe and affordable housing makes in the lives of individuals and families. Housing provides a foundation for stability, opportunity, and a sense of belonging. I look forward to working alongside the talented staff, volunteers, donors, partners, and supporters who make Habitat’s work possible as we build on our legacy and expand our impact across the communities we serve.”

The Board of Directors extends its gratitude to everyone who contributed to the leadership
transition process and offers its heartfelt thanks to outgoing CEO Kimberley Woodcock, whose commitment and contributions have helped shape the organization and advance its mission.

Taylor has assumed the position of Chief Executive Officer, effective June 17, 2026

The post Habitat For Humanity Ontario Gateway North Appoints New Chief Executive Officer appeared first on Muskoka411.

Following a coordinated and successful transition period, the two fire service departments will officially function separately as of July 1, 2026, and Town of Huntsville fire services will now operate as Huntsville Fire Department.

“The Fire Department Administration Services Agreement marked a strong and successful partnership between the Township of Lake of Bays and the Town of Huntsville for almost 14 years, reflecting the shared values and close relationship between our communities,” says Town of Huntsville Chief Administrative Officer, Denise Corry. “This realignment will allow each organization to better meet the tailored needs of our communities, streamline internal processes, and reduce duplication of administrative requirements.”

While the new service structure will change some internal administrative processes within the Fire Department, it will not change the way the public normally contacts emergency services or the response levels they currently receive.

“I want to strongly reassure residents that this change will not impact the Department’s ability to serve our community. Residents can expect the same high level of service and emergency response they rely on every day,” says Gary Monahan, Fire Chief, Huntsville Fire Department. “The changes are largely administrative in nature – focused on improving efficiency and addressing individual department needs. Mutual aid support will continue to be in place, along with coordination with local municipal and regional fire departments. The Huntsville Fire Department is made up of dedicated, highly skilled first responders, and we are deeply grateful for their continued commitment to public safety.”

Over the past several months, the Huntsville Fire Department has been strategically working on a new brand, as well as planning an exciting community launch event in the Fall. The community will begin to see brand updates and changes to the website and social media channels in the coming weeks.

The Town of Huntsville will provide more details on the Huntsville Fire Department brand and community event later this summer on huntsville.ca.

The post Huntsville And Lake Of Bays To Operate As Independent Fire Departments as Of July 1 appeared first on Muskoka411.

As a result of the investigation, Owen Pare, 23, of Bracebridge, has been charged with:

• Dangerous operation

• Assault

The accused is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Bracebridge on August 4, 2026, to answer to the charges.

The investigation began after police received a report on June 13, 2026, of a Sea-Doo being operated in a dangerous manner on the Big East River in the Town of Huntsville. Minor injuries were reported as a result of this incident.

The Ontario Provincial Police reminds all boaters to operate their watercraft safely and responsibly at all times. Operating a vessel in a dangerous or careless manner puts not only the operator at risk but also passengers, other boaters, and the surrounding community.

The OPP continues to patrol local waterways to ensure public safety and encourages everyone to make responsible choices while enjoying Muskoka’s lakes and rivers.

The post Bracebridge Man Identified And Charged With Dangerous Operation In Huntsville appeared first on Muskoka411.

On Monday, June 22, 2026, at 1:30 p.m., Bracebridge OPP officers responded to a three-vehicle collision that occurred on Muskoka Road 118 near Beaumaris Road in Muskoka Lakes Township. One driver was reportedly driving in an unsafe fashion and struck another vehicle, which caused a secondary collision. Fortunately, no one was injured. Officers attended and subsequently arrested and charged 30-year-old Joshua Nugteren of Welland, ON with the following:

• Operation while impaired (drug)
• Dangerous operation
• Operation while prohibited
• Fail to comply with undertaking
• Driving while under suspension
• Class G1 licence holder- unaccompanied by qualified driver
• Novice driver- presence of drug

He will appear in the Ontario Court of Justice in Bracebridge, ON on July 21, 2026 to answer to his charges.

If you suspect someone is driving a vehicle of any kind while impaired, please call 9-1-1. Police will make every effort to locate the involved vehicle and conduct an investigation, many times, these investigations result in charges and removing impaired drivers from Muskoka roads.

For more information on impaired driving, please visit https://www.ontario.ca/page/impaired-driving.

The post Driver Faces Seven Charges After Collision In Muskoka Lakes appeared first on Muskoka411.

Taking place on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., the project will bring together artists, DJs, dancers, and community members in downtown Huntsville for a uniquely Canadian artistic experience.

The Canoe Mural Project transforms real canoes into striking public artworks inspired by the iconic landscape paintings of Tom Thomson. Throughout the day, seven artists will paint live interpretations of Thomson’s celebrated works directly onto the bottoms of canoes, creating three-dimensional murals that reimagine Canada’s artistic legacy through a contemporary street art lens.

Members of the public will have a front-row seat to the creative process as the artworks come to life during Huntsville’s Canada Day festivities.

“Combining the timeless imagery of Tom Thomson with the energy and creativity of street art allows us to celebrate both our artistic heritage and the diverse voices shaping contemporary Canadian culture,” said Dan Watson, Artistic Director of the Huntsville Festival of the Arts. “The Canoe Mural Project has become a beloved community tradition, and this year’s Street Art Edition brings an exciting new perspective to the experience.”

Following an open call earlier this spring, HfA received 45 submissions from artists across the Province. After a highly competitive selection process, seven artists have been chosen to participate in the 2026 project:

• Shalak – Sunset Clouds
• Bruno Smoky – Piece to be announced
• Anthony Haley – In The Northland
• Mique Michelle – Chill November
• Miguel Albino – Decorative Panel (III)
• Dominic Laporte – Poplars by the Lake (1916)
• Ray Vidal – Red Leaves (1914)

Adding to the atmosphere will be a full day of hip hop culture programming. Dawid “LiftiD” Kujidaj will serve as host and emcee, providing performances and audience engagement throughout the event.

Music will be provided by:

• DJ Shane “LS” Dennis (morning set)
• DJ Marius “DJ M4RS” Pleniceanu (afternoon set)

Representing Mississauga’s Ground Illusionz crew, Marcel “Frost Flow” DaCosta and Jerome “Fresh FX” Villa will present pop-up dance cyphers, breakin’ basics workshops, and hip hop knowledge-sharing sessions throughout the day.

Once completed, the canoe murals will be installed throughout River Mill Park for a summer-long exhibition, allowing residents and visitors to experience the works while exploring downtown Huntsville. The project celebrates creativity, local identity, and Canada’s enduring canoe heritage.

The Canoe Mural Project: Street Art Edition is a free public event and will run alongside the Town of Huntsville’s Canada Day celebrations, featuring live music, family-friendly activities, and community programming in River Mill Park.

The project is made possible through the generous support of Algonquin Outfitters through its bi-annual Paddle Art Auction, as well as funding from the Province of Ontario’s Experience Ontario Program.

For more information and a complete event schedule, visit:
www.huntsvillefestival.ca/canoe-mural-project

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At approximately 7:30 p.m., police observed an eastbound white pickup truck travelling at a high rate of speed on Causley Street. Police activated their emergency lights and attempted to initiate a traffic stop on Highway 17.

At approximately 8:00 p.m., police located the white pickup truck parked on the eastbound shoulder of Highway 17 east of the Highway 108 junction. The white pickup truck was safely stopped and driver arrested.

As a result, a 41-year-old, from Bracebridge, was charged with:

• Fail to stop for police
• Speeding

The name of the accused as not provided.

The accused is scheduled to appeared before the Ontario Court of Justice in Blind River on August 18, 2026.

The post Bracebridge Resident Charged For Failing To Stop For OPP In Blind River appeared first on Muskoka411.

On June 13, 2026, police received a report of a Sea-Doo being operated in a dangerous manner on the Big East River in the Town of Huntsville. No injuries were reported as a result of this incident.

Investigators are asking members of the public to review the attached image and contact police if they can identify the operator.

The Ontario Provincial Police reminds all boaters to operate their watercraft safely and responsibly at all times. Operating a vessel in a dangerous or careless manner puts not only the operator at risk but also passengers, other boaters, and the surrounding community.

The OPP continues to patrol local waterways to ensure public safety and encourages everyone to make responsible choices while enjoying Muskoka’s lakes and rivers.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Huntsville OPP at 1-888-310-1122. Should you wish to remain anonymous, you may call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or submit information online at www.crimestopperssdm.com.

The post Do You Know This Person? Wanted By Huntsville OPP For Dangerous Operation appeared first on Muskoka411.

The extended schedule for up to 16 hours per day is designed to improve access to diagnostic imaging, reduce wait times, and support better patient outcomes across the Muskoka region. This expansion has been made possible in part through the Government of Ontario’s continued investment in healthcare, including $1 million in funding from the Ministry of Health for 2025/2026.

“This is an important step forward for healthcare in our communities,” said Cheryl Harrison, President & CEO of Muskoka Algonquin Healthcare. “By expanding MRI availability, we can serve more patients, sooner, helping accelerate diagnosis and treatment planning closer to home.”

From July 2025 through May 2026, the MRI program has already demonstrated strong impact, completing 2,890 scans. With extended hours now in place, MAHC expects to further increase capacity and better meet growing demand.

Graydon Smith, MPP for Parry Sound–Muskoka, welcomed the expansion as a positive development for local healthcare access. “Our government has been working hard to expand access to essential healthcare services across Ontario, and I’m very pleased to see this investment supporting increased MRI capacity right here in Muskoka,” said Smith. “This is great news for patients and families in our region who will benefit from faster access to important diagnostic care closer to home.”

Patients are encouraged to speak with their healthcare provider about MRI referrals.

To learn more about MRI services in Muskoka, including how to access imaging and what to expect, visit: https://www.mahc.ca/areas-of-care/diagnostic-imaging/magnetic-resonance-imaging-mri/

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Throughout the summer, more than 75 public beaches across Simcoe Muskoka are routinely monitored and tested for E. coli bacteria. Elevated levels of E. coli can increase the risk of illness and infection for swimmers. When bacteria levels exceed Ontario’s recreational water quality guidelines, a swimming advisory is issued and remains in effect until follow-up testing confirms the water is safe for swimming. In rare cases where a significant health or safety risk exists, a beach may be closed.

Because beach water quality can change quickly due to weather and environmental conditions, recent test results may not always reflect conditions at the time of your visit.

“We’re really encouraging people to check in before they get in,” said Karen Kivilahti, program manager, Safe Water. “While our testing provides important information, beachgoers should always assess current conditions and make informed decisions before entering the water.”

Heavy rainfall can wash bacteria and other contaminants, including animal waste and garbage, into lakes and along shorelines. To reduce the risk of illness, SMDHU recommends avoiding swimming for 24 to 48 hours following significant rainfall. If you do enter the water, avoid submerging your head and never swallow lake water.

Strong winds and large numbers of swimmers can also affect water quality by stirring up sand and sediment, which may increase bacteria levels. A simple rule of thumb is: if you cannot see your feet while standing in waist-deep water, bacteria levels may be higher than usual.

Warm, shallow water and wet sand can create conditions that allow bacteria such as E. coli to multiply more easily. Beach visitors are encouraged to wash their hands or use hand sanitizer regularly, especially before eating.

In addition to bacterial testing, beaches are monitored for environmental conditions that may affect public health, including blue-green algae blooms, floating debris, excessive weed growth and cloudy water.

Before heading to the beach, check the latest advisories and beach water quality information on the SMDHU website at smdhu.org/beaches. For more information about beach water safety, contact the health unit at 705-721-7520 or 1-877-721-7520, Monday to Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

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