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.

The post Repair Café A Resounding Success In Township Of Georgian Bay appeared first on Muskoka411.

Since joining the Township’s Fire and Emergency Services team in 2018, Dowell has demonstrated steady, thoughtful leadership and a strong commitment to community safety. His experience, professionalism, and forward‑focused approach have strengthened operations across the department, and the Township looks forward to the vision and expertise he will bring into this new role.

Reflecting on his upcoming role, Dowell shared, “I am honoured to accept this position and am grateful for the guidance and support I’ve received from Tony Van Dam during my time here.” He continued, “I look forward to the challenges this new role will bring and to continuing to serve the unique community of the Township of Georgian Bay. I would also like to extend my sincere best wishes to Tony as he embarks on a well‑deserved and fulfilling retirement.”

This leadership transition follows Chief Van Dam’s decision to retire after an extraordinary career dedicated to public safety, including 10 years with the Township of Georgian Bay and an impressive 41 years in the fire profession. His leadership, mentorship, and steadfast commitment have shaped the department into what it is today, and the Township extends its deepest gratitude and best wishes for a fulfilling retirement surrounded by friends and family.

Outgoing Fire Chief Tony Van Dam reflected on his career, stating, “I am deeply grateful for all my years in the fire service and for the unwavering support I’ve received along the way. It has been an honour to serve the community, and I look forward to my next chapter in retirement. I leave knowing the fire department is in excellent hands, guided by a dedicated team who will continue to serve the community with integrity and compassion.”

As the Township prepares for this important leadership transition, Council and staff extend their full support to both Chief Dowell and outgoing Chief Van Dam. The Township of Georgian Bay remains committed to fostering a safe, resilient, and well-supported community, and looks forward to continuing this work under Chief Dowell’s guidance. The Township encourages residents to join in congratulating Chief Dowell on his new role and in expressing heartfelt appreciation to Chief Van Dam for his dedicated service.

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Moose Deer Point First Nation will consult directly with community members over a three-month period to choose and propose up to three potential new road names for Twelve Mile Bay Road. A new name will then be recommended by a tri-council committee involving elected officials from the three governing bodies and proposed to Muskoka District Council for a formal resolution, which is required by the Ministry of Transportation.

Road names can reveal a lot about a community – and how they want their history to be remembered.

The Muskoka Area Indigenous Leadership Table felt renaming Twelve Mile Bay Road provided an opportunity to strengthen the broader community’s understanding of the Moose Deer Point First Nation history, language and culture and help non-Indigenous residents on their path to reconciliation.

This project represents the second road renaming project the District of Muskoka has undertaken. The first road renaming project saw Muskoka Road 38, which runs through Wahta Mohawk territory, renamed in 2023 to Kanien’kehá:ka Iohatátie, which translates to “Mohawk People Road” in the Mohawk language.

The partnership to rename Twelve Mile Bay Road anticipates benefits from this renaming effort to include:

• Increased community awareness of Moose Deer Point First Nation culture, language and history;
• Increased community awareness of, and commitment to, Truth and Reconciliation, as well as the Truth and Reconciliation Committee’s 94 Calls to Action; and
• Stronger Indigenous-municipal relations.

Twelve Mile Bay Road will soon have an important new name but retain its formal number.

Similar to other District roads throughout Muskoka, Twelve Mile Bay Road will retain its number – Muskoka Road 12 – but will showcase a new name. For example, Muskoka Road 26 is also known as Mortimer’s Point Road.

While this is an exciting project and undertaking, the partnership recognizes there will be questions and impacts to community members who own properties along Twelve Mile Bay Road. The District has established a working group to guide this project and offer resources and support during this road renaming.

The District of Muskoka, in partnership with Moose Deer Point First Nation and the Township of Georgian Bay looks forward to updating the community in late 2026 when a new name is selected. For more information on the Road to Renaming project, and to stay updated on the latest news – please visit www.engagemuskoka.ca/mr12

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This year’s campaign was anchored by an extraordinary commitment from the MacMillan Family, the program’s Matching Donor Family, who first stepped forward three years ago with a vision rooted in food security and community wellbeing. With a deep love for Georgian Bay, Mr. MacMillan approached Trisha Walton, Communications and Sustainability Officer, with an idea to support the Port Severn/Honey Harbour Food Bank and inspire others to give.

In 2025, the MacMillan Family raised the bar again, challenging the community to raise $25,000 with a promise to match every dollar.

Township staff responded with energy and creativity, developing new campaign visuals, launching a donation thermometer to show real-time impact, and engaging community groups and partners to help spread the word. Together with the Baxter Ward Lions, the Southeast Georgian Bay Chamber of Commerce (SEGBAY), and the Georgian Bay Historical Society, the community didn’t just meet the goal, it surpassed it.

By the end of the campaign, Sleighing Hunger raised $28,000, which was generously matched by the MacMillan Family, bringing the total impact to $56,000 in direct support for our local food bank.

“Our family loves Georgian Bay, and it is wonderful to see the community coming together to support the people who live here,” shares the MacMillan Family.

Mayor Peter Koetsier praised the campaign’s success and the community spirit behind it:

“Sleighing Hunger shows what is possible when compassion, leadership, and community partnerships come together. The generosity of the MacMillan Family and the incredible response from residents and local organizations demonstrate the very best of Georgian Bay. This campaign directly supports our neighbours and strengthens the fabric of our community.”

The need for food bank services in the area continues to grow. Over the past three years, usage has nearly tripled, with the food bank now providing essential groceries and necessities to more than 40 households every month. The success of this campaign will allow us to provide services to more households in our area facing food insecurity.

Township staff are looking ahead to hiring a dedicated support staff member to assist with the day-to-day operations. This will help restore bi-weekly distribution and allow for more consistent, responsive support for residents facing food insecurity. This position was approved through the 2026 Annual Budget.

The Township of Georgian Bay extends its sincere gratitude to the MacMillan Family, campaign partners, donors, volunteers, and everyone who participated in Sleighing Hunger. Together, this community has once again proven that when neighbours lift one another up, the impact is lasting and meaningful.

For more information about the Port Severn/Honey Harbour Food Bank or future community initiatives, please visit the Township website, www.gbtownship.ca or connect with Trisha Walton, Communications and Sustainability Officer at twalton@gbtownship.ca.

The post Sleighing Hunger Raised $28,000 In The Township Of Georgian Bay appeared first on Muskoka411.

The Community Grant Program is designed to encourage projects that enhance community well-being, promote engagement, and create meaningful local impact. In addition to financial assistance, eligible applicants may also receive free or subsidized use of Township facilities and/or equipment, helping to reduce the costs and maximize impact.

“Community-led initiatives play an essential role in bringing people together and improving quality of life,” said Mayor Peter Koetsier. “These grants are one way the Township supports the creativity, dedication, and hard work of our local groups.”

Grant Details:

–      Grants are awarded up to $1500 per project, depending on the number of applications

–      Open to all eligible community groups, organizations, and Cottage Associations

–      Additional non-monetary support may include access to Township facilities or equipment

–      Funding is subject to available budget and program guidelines

–      Application deadline March 31, 2026

–      Apply on-line: https://eservices.gbtownship.ca/

–      View details on our website: https://www.gbtownship.ca/municipalgrants/

Interested groups are encouraged to apply early and review eligibility criteria to ensure their project aligns with program objectives.

For further information regarding this subject please contact Jasvinder Rattigan, Director of Financial Services/Treasurer jrattigan@gbtownship.ca or by calling 705-538-2337 x243.

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On January 4, 2026, at approximately 7:00 p.m., the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Southern Georgian Bay Detachment responded to an emergency call involving four hikers at McCrae Lake Conservation Reserve in Georgian Bay Township.

The hikers had been snowshoeing and were returning to the trailhead after nightfall when one individual fell through the ice approximately 10 meters from shore. The submerged male was eventually able to pull himself from the water; however, during the rescue attempt, a second hiker became stranded on a piece of ice that broke free.

General patrol members on foot and on snowmobile, including OPP Emergency Response Team, OPP Aviation Services, as well as, Georgian Bay Fire Department, and Muskoka EMS, responded promptly. Two hikers were transported by OPP helicopter to a local hospital for treatment of cold exposure and are expected to make a full recovery. Weather conditions at the time were extremely challenging, with temperatures near -15°C and recent heavy snowfall.

The OPP is thankful that all individuals were rescued without loss of life or major injury. However, this incident serves as a reminder of the importance of knowing your limits and capabilities when venturing into remote areas. Rescues of this nature require significant resources and place first responders at risk.

Safety Reminder

·        The OPP urges anyone planning outdoor activities to take precautions:

·        Carry a fully charged mobile phone and spare battery

·        Use a navigation app such as what3words.

·        Pack water and food.

·        Inform someone of your route and expected return time.

·        Dress appropriately for weather conditions.

·        Avoid hiking at night or in low-light conditions.

·        Stay on marked trails.

The post Ice Rescue In Georgian Bay Township Highlights Winter Safety Risks appeared first on Muskoka411.

Currently, rental fees do not fully cover the costs of operating Township facilities. Depending on the type and duration of the rental, a portion of those costs is subsidized by taxpayers. The Township is seeking community input to help determine how much of these costs should be covered by public funds and under what circumstances fee waivers may be appropriate.

“We want a policy that is fair, transparent, and reflective of our community’s needs,” said Mayor Peter Koetsier, Township of Georgian Bay. “Your input will help us ensure that Township facilities remain accessible while maintaining financial sustainability.”

Current Facility Rental Rates:

• $40.00 per hour – Community member rate
• $60.00 per hour – Commercial business rate
• $3.00 per adult – Not-for-Profit program rate

After reviewing similar policies from neighbouring municipalities, several potential models have been identified. Community feedback will help shape the Township’s final policy to ensure it reflects local values and priorities.

Residents are encouraged to learn more and share their input by visiting Facility Survey by November 30, 2025.

Thank you for taking the time to help guide a fair and sustainable facility rental policy for Georgian Bay.

If you have any questions regarding this please contact Mara Engel, Director of Operations at mengel@gbtownship.ca or call 705-538-2337 x 230.

The post Township Of Georgian Bay Invites Residents To Help Shape Facility Rental Policy appeared first on Muskoka411.

These seasonal efforts bring our community together to support local families and spread holiday cheer across the Township.

Annual Toy Drive
The Township is once again collecting new, unwrapped toys for children of all ages. Donations will help ensure that every child in Georgian Bay experiences the joy of the holiday season. Drop offs are available at Township Administration Office, your local Georgian Bay Library branch as well as MacTier Home Hardware. Last day for drop off is Friday, December 12, 2025.

Sleighing Hunger
This year, Sleighing Hunger comes with an extra reason to give! A generous local family has pledged to match community donations dollar-for-dollar, up to $25,000, now through December 31, 2025.

All funds raised will go directly toward supporting local food programs and helping families put nutritious meals on their tables this winter. Donations can be made:

• By cash or cheque: delivered to the Township Administration Office
• Online: through the Township’s Charitable Donation Form at https://forms.gbtownship.ca/Charitable-Donation-Form

Every contribution, big or small, will be doubled in impact thanks to this incredible matching opportunity.

New This Year – All Aboard for Giving (MacTier)

MacTier residents can look forward to a new holiday tradition with All Aboard for Giving! This event encourages the community to support the arrival of the CPKC Holiday Train on Sunday, November 30 at 3:00 p.m. at the MacTier Memorial Community Centre.

Even better, all donations to this campaign will be matched dollar-for-dollar, up to $7,000, by the CPKC Train, helping to double the impact of every contribution. Residents are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items or make a monetary donation — cash, cheque, to the MacTier Food Bank.

This matching opportunity ensures the community can make an even bigger difference, helping local families in need while celebrating the excitement of the Holiday Train.

“These campaigns are a wonderful example of how Georgian Bay comes together during the holidays,” said Mayor, Peter Koetsier, “Whether it’s a toy, a can of soup, or a kind word, every act of giving makes a difference.”

For more information on how to participate or donate, visit www.gbtownship.ca or contact Trisha Walton, Communications and Sustainability Officer, twalton@gbtownship.ca or 705-528-2437.

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The Township of Georgian Bay is excited to announce the launch of Refresh MacTier, a new community engagement project designed to reimagine and enhance four key areas of MacTier:

• Stewart Lake Beach Area 
• The Downtown Core,
• Mrs. C Park,
• and the MacTier Memorial Community Centre/Arena.

On Friday, September 19, 2025, Township staff will be out in the community, meeting with residents, stopping into local spots, and engaging the young residents to hear directly about their ideas for the community.

Residents are encouraged to share their ideas and perspectives by completing the Refresh MacTier Survey, available online at:
https://www.gbtownship.ca/RefreshMacTierSurvey/

“Refresh MacTier isn’t just about changes, it’s about building a community that reflects who we are today and who we want to be tomorrow,” states Peter Koetsier, Mayor of the Township of Georgian Bay. “We can’t do that without the voices and ideas of the people who call MacTier home.”

In addition to the survey, the Township will be hosting an interactive stakeholder meeting later in September. This session, by invitation only, will bring together community representatives to help focus priorities and explore creative ideas.

To ensure all voices are heard, a Community Connects session will be held later this fall, where the findings will be shared, and residents will have an opportunity to provide input before the vision is finalized.

Let’s imagine MacTier together.

The Township of Georgian Bay is grateful for the support of FedNor, whose commitment to community growth and development is helping make the Refresh MacTier project possible.

For more information regarding this project please review the webpage or connect with Jennifer Schnier, Director of Sustainability at jschnier@gbtownship.ca or 705-818-0323

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This initiative includes an interactive online survey and budget allocator tool designed to help residents understand how their municipal tax dollars are spent and to gather input on funding priorities for services directly provided by the Township.

“We want to hear from our residents about what truly matters to them,” says Mayor Peter Koetsier. “Your feedback will guide Council as we make decisions about investments and service levels that reflect the needs and expectations of our changing community.”

Residents are encouraged to:

1. Review the details of the 2025 Budget
2. Complete the interactive survey – use the budget tool to allocate a hypothetical $100 across Township services.
3. Stay engaged – Public comments are welcomed at upcoming Council budget deliberations. Meeting details to follow.

Key facts:

For 2025 each tax dollar supports a range of services. Of every dollar:

• $0.34 goes to the Township of Georgian Bay
• $0.48 is allocated to the District of Muskoka
• $0.18 supports education

This survey focuses only on services provided by the Township of Georgian Bay.

Let’s build the future of Georgian Bay—together. Complete the survey by September 15, 2025.

Survey link: https://portal.laserfiche.ca/k4738/forms/Pjy9l

For further information regarding this subject, please contact Director of Financial Services/Treasurer at jrattigan@gbtownship.ca or call the office at 705-538-2337.

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