The Bayfield BreezeIssue 837 Week 30 Vol 17
July 23, 2025
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TRIBUTE BANDS TO PERFORM IN AG PARK ON FAIR WEEKEND
The Bayfield Agricultural Society and the Bayfield Town Hall are pleased to present “Diamond Mine”, a “Blue Rodeo” tribute in concert on Aug. 16. (Submitted photo)
The Bayfield Agricultural Society and the Bayfield Town Hall are pleased to present “Listen to the Music”, a “Doobie Brothers” tribute band in concert on Aug. 16. (Photo courtesy Listen to the Music)
On the night of Aug. 16, homage will be paid to the “Doobie Brothers” and “Blue Rodeo” thanks to two stellar tribute bands that will be performing in Agricultural Park.
The Bayfield Agricultural Society and the Bayfield Town Hall are pleased to present “Listen to the Music”, a Doobie Brothers tribute band and “Diamond Mine”, a Blue Rodeo tribute.
The Doobie Brothers are one of the most iconic Classic Rock bands of all time, having sold millions of albums and topping the charts with great hit songs such as “China Grove”, “Long Train Running”, “What a Fool Believes”, “Black Water” and, of course, “Listen to the Music”. The highly-skilled musicians in Listen to the Music meticulously reproduce each and every great hit song live to give audiences a true experience of seeing and hearing the Doobie Brothers band perform live.
And anyone who is a fan of Blue Rodeo won’t want to miss Diamond Mine! They don’t just perform the songs – they embody the spirit of Blue Rodeo, creating a truly immersive experience for their audience. From “Try” to “Bad Timing” to “Lost Together,” Diamond Mine transports listeners to a different time and place, evoking memories and emotions with every note. Audience members are invited to close their eyes and they are sure to hear Jim and Greg singing those unmistakable harmonies.
This is a ‘bring your own chair’ rain or shine event. Cash Bar. Gates open at 6:30 p.m. with the concert to follow at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $40 and can be purchased online at www.bayfieldtownhall.com.
PLENTY OF SUMMER HIKING OPPORTUNITIES OFFERED
More Summer hikes have been announced by the Bayfield River Valley Trail Association (BRVTA) and the first is scheduled for this coming Saturday!
On July 26, all are welcome to just go for a hike hosted by the BRVTA on the Woodland Trail. This is a great opportunity to meet new people and to explore the beautiful and diverse Woodland Trail with a guide.
The trail is approximately 5 km long going through a beautiful woodland setting. Participants are asked to meet at the David Street entrance to the trail at 10 a.m. From the Mill Road/Hwy 21 intersection, take Sarnia Street to Mactavish Crescent, then right onto David Street. Please follow the signs to the trail parking.
On Saturday, Aug. 9, “Love Your Greats” will celebrate its tenth year by hosting their annual Clean-Up Day.
Love Your Greats was established in 2015 and they hosted their first Clean-Up of the shoreline, in the water and along the riverbanks the following summer. This year they are celebrating a decade of caring and the BRVTA team will be joining in and cleaning up the riverbank shoreline. Participants are asked to meet at the Bayfield River Flats parking lot just east of Hwy 21 and south of the bridge at 10 a.m. Those who take part are asked to bring gloves and a pail, if possible.
To learn more about the Clean-up visit: Love Your Greats.
Also on Aug. 9, people are encouraged to take part in a Night Hike at the Bannockburn Conservation Area where Cassie Greidanus from Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority (ABCA) will lead a night hike.
The hike will start at 8:30 p.m. Participants will have the opportunity to be active in nature, to listen for owls and to learn about local animals that are active at night. Be sure to wear sturdy footwear and some listening ears. Please do not bring lights as red lights will be provided.
The Bannockburn Conservation Area is located at 76249 Bannockburn Line, Bluewater. Take Mill Rd/Rt 3 east from Hwy 21. Travel 10.4 km, then turn left onto Bannockburn Line. Please note that Mill Road/Rt 3 is “closed” at Varna but cars can go past that sign to access the conservation area. Turn left onto Bannockburn Road just before the construction area at the Bannockburn Bridge. Travel 1.8 km on the gravel road; the trail parking area is on the left. Alternatively, people can take the longer route using Bayfield Road east 10 km to Bannockburn Line and turn right. Travel 5.5 km on the gravel road to the trail parking area on the right. This Google Map link may help as well: Bannockburn Conservation Area – Google Map.
On Saturday, Aug. 23 the BRVTA will hold a second “Just a Hike” but this time the location is Naftel’s Creek Conservation Area. This guided hike will be held in this beautiful, mature forest with well-maintained, mostly flat trails. Participants are asked to meet at the entrance at 10 a.m.
The parking area is located at 79152 Bluewater Hwy, on the east side of Hwy 21 just north of Kitchigami Road.
Beware of ticks! A reminder that ticks are present on the trails and a bite by the deer tick may result in Lyme Disease. Some precautions that can be taken before embarking on a hike:
- Wear light-colored clothing, so it’s easier to see ticks
- Wear closed-toed shoes
- Wear long-sleeved shirts
- Wear long pants, tucked into your socks
- Use insect repellent containing DEET
- After outdoor activity put your clothes in the dryer
Learn more by visiting Huron Perth Public Health at Lyme disease.
Memberships keep the trails open for all of us. To become a member of the BRVTA visit: Bayfield Trails and click “subscribe.” Annual membership is $20 per individual, $30 for a family.
For more information contact Ralph Blasting at 519 525-3205 or rjblastingjr@gmail.com.
BAYFIELD LIBRARY BUZZING WITH FUN ACTIVITIES
Friends of the Bayfield Library are sponsoring two activities at the Bayfield Branch Library over the Summer that will result in two lucky individuals winning fabulous LEGO prizes! (Submitted photo)
The Bayfield Branch Library has some fun activities planned to keep their visitors engaged over the remainder of the summer.
People may hear shouts of “Bingo” in the garden adjacent to the Bayfield Library this Summer as all ages are invited to explore the library’s beautiful pollinator garden and play “Buzz & Bloom Bingo”! Participants are invited to pick up a bingo card from the library anytime in July or August and see how many garden wonders they can find. Completed sheets are due back to the Branch by Sept. 6 for a chance to win a fun LEGO prize. This Bingo activity has been generously sponsored by Friends of Bayfield Library (FOBL).
“Slimy & Scales with the Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority (ABCA)” will be held tomorrow (July 24).
Starting at 1:30 p.m. discover why these cold-blooded creatures that are as old as dinosaurs are disappearing fast. Learn why they are so sensitive, their key role in the environment, and what people can do to keep their populations thriving.
Please register for “Slimy & Scales with ABCA” by contacting the Bayfield Branch by email bayfieldlibrary@huroncounty.ca or by phone 519 565-2886.
Offered independently of library staff by some passionate community members will be “Make and Take Bayfield Fair Edition” on Tuesday, Aug. 5. Bayfield Agricultural Society volunteers will be on hand to assist those who wish to get crafty and then enter their creations into the Bayfield Community Fair. This session will be offered for one hour starting at 5:45 p.m.
Registration for “Make and Take Bayfield Fair Edition” is required by calling the Goderich Library at 519 524-9261 or emailing: goderichlibrary@huroncounty.ca
On Fridays in July and August kids can drop by the Bayfield Library between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. for a new LEGO building challenge each week! Participants can complete a challenge to earn a stamp on their LEGO Challenge Card. Once they’ve collected four stamps, they can submit their card for a chance to win the LEGO Grand Prize! This program is also generously sponsored by FOBL.
The Bayfield Branch Library is located at 18 Main Street North in the village.
DAY CAMP WELCOMES PARTICIPATION FROM COMMUNITY PARTNERS
Day Camp organized by the Municipality of Bluewater is back in Bayfield for Summer 2025. (Submitted photo)
Day Camp organized by the Municipality of Bluewater is back in Bayfield for Summer 2025.
“We’re thrilled to announce that Day Camp has returned to Bayfield,” said Denver Boertien, Community Recreation coordinator for Bluewater. “Thanks to the incredible generosity of local businesses and organizations, our campers are enjoying exciting programs, in-kind donations, the use of wonderful community spaces and working with such organizations as the Bayfield Library, Bayfield Town Hall, Bayfield Agricultural Society, BFIT, BACPA, OPP, The Village Bookshop, and Huron Area Search and Rescue.”
Boertien went on to say that they are especially excited to welcome guest visits from Seeds Rooted in Youth’s Janneke Vorsteveld as well as Gabby Parejo of Crichet Handmade Designs. The day campers are also looking forward to a special trip to the Bayfield Berry Farm!
Day Camp organizers are always on the lookout for new adventures and special guests. Any individual or organization who would like to get involved is asked to please reach out to the Day Camp Coordinator at daycamp@municipalityofbluewater.ca.
KITTEN PALOOZA ADOPTION EVENT THIS SATURDAY
Mama, ‘Cat Benatar’ and her son, ‘Benvolia’. (Submitted photo)
Bayfield’s Forgotten Felines (BFF) is at “cat-pacity”, both funds and fosters are required before more cats and kittens can be accepted at the Rescue.
Two felines, with a very unfortunate story, that were fortunate to be accepted into the Rescue recently are the Adopt a BFF cats of the week.
“This mother and son team were abandoned when their family moved away and left them behind. Neighbors had been feeding them even before their family left as they were often coming over looking for food,” said Deb Penhale, representing BFF. “Once they were abandoned the people started feeding them regularly as they were extremely thin and a little fearful. Once trust was established and a feeding routine set in place these people worked on building trust.”
Penhale went on to say that they did try to find a home for the pair but had no luck. They are now at BFF.
“They will need a little time to gain some weight and when finances and spots are available, they will be spayed and neutered in order to be ready for adoption,” said Penhale. “These kitties are very loving. They are also vocal and love to chat. We have named Mama, ‘Cat Benatar’ and her son, ‘Benvolia’.”
BFF currently has more than 60 kittens to spay and neuter as well as 15 adults in need of veterinary care.
“So as always raising funds and getting appointments for this many cats and kittens is very challenging. It’s so hard to say no to those who ask but we just have nowhere to put any more cats at this time,” said Penhale.
Hopefully, this coming weekend’s “Kitten Palooza – Adoption Event” will help some of the 20 kittens that are ready to go to their forever homes find a family, and thus opening some space at the Rescue.
Kitten Palooza will be held from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday, July 26 at 16 Keith Crescent in Bayfield. The Main Shelter will also be open for anyone wanting to visit or adopt an older cat.
Please reach out to bayfieldsforgottenfelines@gmail.com to learn more about adopting Cat Benatar and her son, Benvolia and others. The adoption fee is $250. Adopted cats are vetted, shots are up-to-date and they are also spayed or neutered. Can’t adopt or foster at this time? Consider donating for medical care and food to the email address listed above via E-transfer or mail financial donations to P.O. Box 33, Bayfield, ON, N0M 1G0.
In addition to accepting monetary donations, BFF has an Amazon wish list. This list contains items they need for the day-to-day care of their cats and kittens as well as some truly “wish” items. Items are marked as to their priority, number needed, and many explain what their use will be. There is a wide variety of prices and BFF appreciates whatever you can supply. Items need not be purchased through Amazon, the list is merely a guideline.
To view the items on the list please visit: BFF Wish List.
Want to see and learn more about the felines at the shelter? This can be done easily by visiting their website! Included on this website is lots of helpful information on how people can help feral kittens. The site, www.bayfieldsforgottenfelines.ca, features a searchable index of all the cats and kittens available for adoption. This includes pictures and descriptions of their personalities. Plus there is a new option for making donations by credit card. The website also includes online forms that automate the adoption and volunteer application processes as well as testimonials from previous adopters who found their purrfect matches at BFF.
RATEPAYERS’ ASSOCIATION
The Bayfield Ratepayers’ Association will hold their Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Saturday, Aug. 2nd featuring a special guest speaker.
The AGM will be held upstairs at the Bayfield Community Centre and Arena starting at 10 a.m.
Jeff Graham, owner of The Albion Hotel, will be providing an update on the restoration project at the hotel. He will share successes, as well as small setbacks they’ve encountered along the way, as they work toward what will be a grand re-opening of this iconic Bayfield landmark.
The Bayfield Community Centre and Arena is located at 4 Jane Street.
PIONEER PARK
Saturday, Aug. 9 is the date set for the Pioneer Park Association’s Annual Meeting for 2025.
The Annual Meeting will begin at 10 a.m. (rain location Bayfield Community Centre, 4 Jane Street). Participants are encouraged to bring a lawn chair.
For further information please email: info@pioneerpark.ca.
HEARTS & HEROES
Laura Gagnon (Submitted photo)
The Ashwood Inn will be hosting a “Hearts & Heroes” Concert on the evening of Aug. 9 with a portion of the proceeds going to Huron and Area Search and Rescue (HASAR).
Tickets are $20 plus service fees and are available at Hearts & Heroes. Dinner and drinks will be on offer for an extra charge from the Bayfield Bistro. Doors will open at 5:30 p.m.
The concert will feature Canadian artist Laura Gagnon known for her soulful voice and uplifting stage presence.
Money raised will be directed to HASAR toward the purchase of an integrated Raymarine chart plotter and Forward Looking Infrared Radar.
The Ashwood Inn is located at 34777 Bayfield River Road just off Hwy. 21 on the north end of the village.
WE LEND A HAND
“We Lend a Hand: The Forgotten Story of Ontario Farmerettes” has been shown locally in both Brucefield and Goderich and soon to be in Bayfield!
This 50 minute documentary film tells the extraordinary story of the 40,000 young women who volunteered on Canadian farms during WWII doing their part for the war effort.
Tickets for the documentary are available now for $12.50 each plus service fees and HST. Visit We Lend a Hand for tickets. The film will be showcased on Wednesday, Sept. 17 at the Bayfield Town Hall starting at 7 p.m. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m.
Following the screening there will be a question and answer with the filmmakers and a chance to acquire film autographed copies of “Onion Skins and Peach Fuzz: Memories of Ontario Farmerettes’. The book that inspired the film, was authored by Shirleyan English and Bonnie Sitter.
Two years in the making the film is selling out in theatres across the province and has won awards for Best Documentary, Best Canadian Documentary, and Best Film About Women.
The Bayfield event has been generously sponsored by Bonnie Baynham in memory of Scott Rundle.
The Bayfield Town Hall is located at 11 The Square in the village.
UKULELE SOCIETY
Members of the Bayfield Ukulele Society, led by Nancy Moore, held their jam session in Clan Gregor Square on the morning of Saturday, July 5. The session happened to coincide with Bayfield Vettefest providing them with a marvellous number of spectators to watch them perform. (Photo by Melody Falconer-Pounder)
In the fair weather months, the Bayfield Ukulele Society (BUS) holds their jam sessions in Clan Gregor Square.
People will find them there Wednesday evenings from 6:30-8 p.m. and Saturday mornings from 10-11:30 a.m. …except if it is raining.
Folks are encouraged to bring their supper or breakfast to the park to listen to the music, sing along or even dance if they are so inclined.
ART SHOW
Three friends. Three artists. Three visions. That is the theme of an Art Show being held in the village on July 26-27.
The participating artists are Julia Armstrong, Margaret Crosby and Lisa Verbakel.
The public is more than welcome to come and view their work that will be on display from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. both days in the Community Room at 1851 Bayfield Landing located at 21 Bayfield Main Street North.
COME & GO CELEBRATION
Longtime volunteers with the Bayfield Agricultural Society (BAS), Ted and Jean Dunn, are pictured here at the fairgrounds following the 2024 parade. They rode in style in James Armstrong’s 1923 Model “T” Ford. In 2025, the couple are being honored for a combined 130 years of service with the BAS. (Photo by Janet Vogelsang)
The Bayfield Agricultural Society (BAS) will be holding a special “Come & Go” gathering to celebrate and thank Ted and Jean Dunn for their combined 130 years plus of volunteering with the BAS.
The celebration will be held in the pavilion in Bayfield Agricultural Park on Friday, July 25 from 2-4 p.m. Those attending can drive into the fairgrounds through the front gate on Fry Street and park near the pavilion on the far side of the park. Those who attend are asked to please bring a lawn chair. All are encouraged to relax and share memories with BAS volunteers as well as Ted and Jean’s family. Refreshments will be served, and of course, for those who know Ted well, there will be pie!
Ted and Jean have been a big part of the BAS and the fair over the years. Come and be part of this special celebration to honor them. BAS members past and present, volunteers, and community members – all are welcome!
BLUEWATER MARINA
The Municipality of Bluewater invites Expressions of Interest (EOI) from qualified and experienced marina operators interested in managing and operating the Bluewater Marina, located at the mouth of the Bayfield River on Lake Huron. This scenic, Blue Flag-certified marina includes seasonal and transient docks, fuel services, and key marine infrastructure.
This request for EOI is a preliminary step to gauge interest and qualifications. It is not a procurement process and will not result in a contract. However, if sufficient interest is received from qualified operators, the Municipality may issue a formal Request for Proposals (RFP) in Fall 2025. The successful proponent would enter into a sublease agreement starting Jan. 1st, 2027, for a term of five or 10 years, with potential renewal options.
This request for EOI was issued on June 17 and will close on Thursday, July 31st at 12 p.m.
A request for Expressions of Interest package can be obtained by contacting Maggie Off, manager of Facilities, Parks & Recreation at facilities@municipalityofbluewater.ca with the subject line: RFEOI Submission – Bluewater Marina.
CHICKEN DINNER
The Bayfield Agricultural Society (BAS) will be hosting a BBQ Chicken Dinner fundraiser on Friday, Aug. 15th to celebrate the opening of the 169th Bayfield Fair.
The dinner will be held on the grounds of the Bayfield Agricultural Park. Chicken dinners will be served continuously from 5-7 p.m.
Each BBQ Chicken Dinner will include a quarter chicken expertly prepared and grilled by Pineridge BBQ with their own special BBQ sauce, baked potato with sour cream and butter, creamy coleslaw, dinner roll with butter, dessert, and a bottle of water. There will be plenty of seating and live entertainment!
People can choose to dine at the Bayfield Agricultural Park or get dinners to take out.
Tickets are $25 each and can be purchased online at: BBQ Chicken Dinner.
The last date for online ticket sales will be Aug. 7. Tickets at the gate will be very limited. Anyone interested is encouraged to get their tickets early. For additional information, please contact info@bayfieldfair.ca.
Bayfield Agricultural Park is located at 1 Fry Street in the village.
PAINTING AT POPPY’S HAVEN A FUN SUMMER ACTIVITY
SUBMITTED PHOTOS
Poppy’s Haven is planning some activities during the Summer that will allow for some fun interactions with their Newfoundland Ponies and their new Nigerian Dwarf Goats!
Do you remember “Art in the Barn” in Bayfield? Well, instructor Robin Ellis is offering the program at Poppy’s Haven this summer. The first session, held on July 8, was a sell-out and so successful that two more events have now been scheduled.
These new dates are July 24 and Aug. 21, both Thursdays. On July 24 children aged six and up may be dropped off between 9:30-10 a.m. and picked up at 11:30 a.m. The class fee is $35 with advance registration and $45 at the barn door. Participants can register and send an e-transfer payment to poppy@poppyshaven.com. Details for the Aug. 21 session coming soon.
Poppy’s Haven is located at 39148 Mill Road near Varna.
COMMUNITY EMBRACES DISCOVERY HEALTHCARE CAMP
MPP Lisa Thompson, far right, joined Discovery Healthcare Camp attendees and their leaders for a photo on July 11. The students had a short graduation ceremony with MPP Lisa Thompson presenting. The event was held at Camp Klahanie south of Goderich. (Submitted photo)
From July 7-11, Gateway Centre of Excellence in Rural Health (Gateway), in partnership with Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, the Goderich Lions Club, and the Huron Health System, hosted the Discovery Healthcare Camp at Camp Klahanie, just south of Goderich. The camp gave 26 high school students an immersive, hands-on experience in the world of rural healthcare.
Designed to inspire and prepare the next generation of rural healthcare providers, the camp offered students exposure to a wide range of healthcare careers, practical skills training, research opportunities, and personal mentorship from real professionals in the field.
The week began with a warm welcome from Jamie Heffer, warden of Huron County; Trevor Bazinet, mayor of Goderich; and Steven Travale, representative of Ben Lobb MP. Their speeches offered powerful insight into the importance of engaging students in healthcare early and expressed full support for the program’s mission to build Huron County’s future healthcare workforce by empowering local youth.
On July 11 at the Discovery Healthcare Camp held at Camp Klahanie south of Goderich the Goderich Lions hosted a barbecue lunch for parents, grandparents, and partners of the program. Among the Lions who served were Brad Doney (middle) and Jeff Zell (right). (Submitted photo)
Three Western medical students ran the camp with fun and engaging activities and acted as a great resource for the campers.
“I grew up going to camp, I was a camp counselor in my teens, and now getting to lead this camp is so inspiring to see how passionate the campers are to learn and pursue healthcare. I love being able to give them the knowledge and resources that will help them succeed in the future,” stated Allegra Ferrara, a third-year medical student.
Throughout the week, students participated in a wide range of hands-on healthcare skills, guided by local professionals who generously shared their time and expertise. Under the direction of Dr. Tiffaney Kittmer, general surgeon, students learned how to suture; Dr. Ken Milne, emergency doctor, taught the fundamentals of casting; and Tanya Thompson, RN and Diabetes educator, walked them through taking blood sugar readings.
Thanks to equipment provided by Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, students engaged in advanced simulation activities, including drawing blood, listening to normal and abnormal heart and lung sounds, and delivering a baby on a simulation model.
The camp also featured a wide variety of speakers who shared their passion for rural healthcare and their personal journeys in the field. Highlights included presentations from local EMS paramedics, Mike Beazley, pharmacist and researcher at the University of Waterloo School of Pharmacy and Gateway research chair; Brent Meyers, social worker; Dr. Alex Peel, geriatrician and Gateway research chair; and Dr. Shannon Natuik, family doctor. Each provider, rooted in Huron County, spoke about the fulfillment they find in rural medicine and encouraged students to pursue healthcare careers in their own communities. These providers not only taught practical skills but offered mentorship and inspiration to students navigating the many pathways of healthcare.
Dr. Peel, a regional geriatrician serving Huron and Bruce County, reflected on the importance of early exposure, “I actually attended a similar program to the Discovery Healthcare Camp, and it really opened my eyes to the different careers in rural healthcare. It also gave me the experience and the skills that eventually helped me get into medical school.”
Jade, Miles, and Logan attended the Discovery Healthcare Camp held at Camp Klahanie south of Goderich on July 7-11. (Submitted photo)
Throughout the week, the camp had a theme of “One Health”, the idea that animal, plant, and human health are all interconnected. On Friday, the campers presented their research poster based on this idea that they had been working on throughout the week. After the presentation, the Goderich Lions hosted a barbecue lunch for parents, grandparents, and partners of the program. The students had a short graduation ceremony with MPP Lisa Thompson presenting.
As Gateway looks ahead, the Discovery Healthcare Camp is becoming a cornerstone of their youth programming. Rural students often face unique barriers to entering healthcare fields like limited access to mentorship, financial constraints, or misconceptions about their ability to succeed. This camp breaks down these barriers by offering hands-on experience, meaningful connections, and a clear pathway forward.
The camp will run again next summer, reaching more students and continuing to break down the barriers that may prevent them from reaching their goals. Thank you to the Goderich Lions Club, the Goderich Rotary Club, Brussels Lions, Alexandra Marine and General Hospital, the Town of Goderich, the Brennan/Spano Fund Foundation, Holly Smith, Charles Oliver, and Tom and Brenda Daley for directly supporting the camp. Thank you to the medical students for running such an amazing camp, and thank you to the parents and campers for taking the opportunity to engage in the program.
HSAT BUS SHELTERS COMING TO BLUEWATER LOCATIONS
Huron Shores Area Transit (HSAT) is updating the locations of several bus stops in the Municipality of Bluewater to prepare for the installation of new transit infrastructure later this year. These changes are necessary to accommodate the addition of bus shelters, benches and bike racks, which require more space than just a bus stop sign.
The original stops were installed in 2020 with basic signage. With the addition of concrete pads, shelters, and other passenger amenities, HSAT reassessed locations to better serve the community while ensuring enough room for the improvements.
In Zurich, the bus stop at Mill Avenue in front of the Bluewater Municipal Office has moved to Victoria Lane near Main Street, beside the parking lot. This location is closer to key community amenities such as Bluewater Area Family Health, Blessings Community Store, the library and pharmacy, and allows space for a shelter installation.
In Hensall, the bus stop sign was attached to the library building and has now moved to the parkette at 120 King Street (Stop #2220), servicing westbound passengers heading to Grand Bend. A new eastbound stop (#3300) has been added on the south side of King Street near D&D Variety for travel to Bayfield and Goderich.
In Bayfield, the Cameron Street stop (#3100) has been removed from service, with service continuing from the more centrally located stop #3200 beside the Bayfield Town Hall at 11 The Square.
A new stop has been added at Ellen Street South and Mill Road in Brucefield but will not be active until January 2026 due to ongoing road and bridge construction on Mill Road/CR 3. Once operational, it is anticipated this stop will extend access to HSATs bus service to the nearby communities of Vanastra and Clinton.
All new shelters will feature solar-powered lighting, built-in benches, and poster-sized advertising panels to help offset operating costs through ad revenue. Bike racks will enable residents who live beyond a comfortable walking distance to cycle to the stop and secure their bikes before boarding.
For complete details on routes, schedules, fares, and Smart Cards, visit HuronShoresAreaTransit.ca.
To speak with a live operator about trip planning or service updates, call 1-888-465-0783 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. daily.
Huron Shores Area Transit (HSAT), partially funded by the Government of Ontario and its transit partners including Bluewater, Kettle & Stony Point First Nation, Lambton Shores, South Huron, and Wyoming, provides public transit between these communities and the regional centres of Sarnia and London.
BLUEWATER NEWS
The office of the Municipality of Bluewater Council has submitted the following to the Bayfield Breeze as highlights of their regular meeting of council held on July 14.
- Donated one hour of non prime ice time at both the Hensall and Zurich arenas, to be used during the 2025-2026 season, to Huron Hospice as a Silent Auction Item for the “No Place Like Home Dinner and Auction” taking place on Sept. 20, 2025.
- Passed a By-law to reduce Development Charges by 45 per cent. This reduction will remain in effect until the 2027 Background Study is reviewed.
- Entered into a contract agreement for three years for by-law enforcement and animal control services with Tenet Security Group.
- Scheduled a Special Council meeting for Tuesday, Oct. 14, 2025 at 6:30 p.m. at the Council Chambers in Varna for a streetlight levy review and reserve and reserve funds workshop.
- Adopted a Municipal Alcohol Policy, Flag Policy and Workplace Health and Safety Policy.
- Approved one permanent full time Community Recreation Coordinator position effective Jan. 1st, 2026.
- Directed staff to apply to the Enhancing Access to Space for Everyone (EASE) grant for accessibility upgrades at the Zurich and Hensall arenas.
- Entered into an Agreement with the Minister of Infrastructure supporting the reconstruction of Lorne Avenue, Hensall.
- Appointed Aird & Berlis as the Integrity Commissioner and Closed Meeting Investigator for a term of four years.
GODERICH ART CLUB
The Goderich Art Show and Sale as it looked in 2023 ready for visitors! (Submitted photo)
The 2025 Goderich Art Club Show and Sale will feature 25 artists and over 300 works of original art, in addition to original art cards, at The MacKay Centre from Aug. 8-10.
Started in 1952, the Goderich Art Club has been active for over 70 years and currently has 49 members. This year the feature artist is Kim Dumont.
“It is a great community of painters,” said Cindy Fisher, representing the club. “This is a show and sale, so there is no pressure to purchase when you attend the event.”
The Show and Sale will run Friday and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. There is no charge for admission and all are welcome to come and view what should be a pretty fabulous display of art! Cash, cheque, debit and credit cards are accepted.
Fisher went on to explain that the Goderich Art Club and Mackay Centre do not take a commission or percentage of sales from each artist. If a piece of art is sold, the entire amount goes to the artist.
“This is not a ‘money making’ venture for either the art Club or MacKay Centre. Each artist pays a fee to be in the show and that fee supports the programming of the art club and the MacKay Centre for Seniors which is a non-profit organization,” concluded Fisher.
The MacKay Centre, an accessible, air-conditioned building, is located at 10 Nelson Street East, Goderich (corner of North Street. and Nelson).
BUTTERFLY RELEASE
Huron Hospice is pleased to invite the community to the Ninth Annual Butterfly Release, taking place on Sunday, Aug. 24, in the beautiful gardens at Bender House.
Each summer, this cherished event brings families together to honor loved ones through the symbolic release of butterflies. The butterfly represents transformation, hope, and renewal, making this ceremony a meaningful way to celebrate lives remembered and lives lived.
When asked what the event means to her, long time supporter of Huron Hospice Cathy Semple said, “As I hold my butterfly in my hands and begin to feel its wings fluttering, it brings me joy”.
The afternoon will include a commemorative ceremony, where the names of loved ones will be read aloud in a heartfelt tribute. Participants may choose to release their butterflies during the event or at a special place of personal significance.
Proceeds from the Butterfly Release help fund hospice palliative care, grief, and bereavement services for families across Huron County. This event remains one of Huron Hospice’s most important annual fundraisers and continues to offer comfort and connection to those experiencing loss.
Semple went on to say, “This special day provides support for those who are there to remember and honor their loved ones… In these shared moments of beauty, reflection and remembrance, we honor those we have loved and lost, knowing love and memories continue on.”
Butterflies can be purchased for $40 each by visiting www.huronhospice.ca/butterfly-release. Orders can also be placed by contacting Kaitlyn Mathers at kaitlyn.mathers@huronhospice.ca. The deadline to order is Aug. 15.
Be sure to follow Huron Hospice on social media, where they will be sharing heartfelt stories and testimonies from community members who have participated in past Butterfly Release events and experienced the meaningful impact this day provides.
TURTLE RELEASE
The Turtle Hatchling Release has been set for Aug. 28. (Submitted photo)
Huron Stewardship Council (HSC) and Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority (ABCA) will join together with other community partners to hold the 10th Annual Turtle Hatchling Release event on Thursday, Aug. 28.
The event will take place east of Exeter at Morrison Dam Conservation Area from 1-4 p.m. To reserve a spot, visit Eventbrite for Turtle Release Tickets.
Admission is free and people are welcome to drop in at any time during the event. Organizers encourage visitors to donate. Net proceeds support turtle conservation in Ontario. The event includes live reptiles on display; family-friendly activities; educational displays and more. There will be merchandise for sale as well.
The turtle release event has taken place since 2016. It was held as a virtual event in 2020 and 2021. Many hundreds of people have attended the event over the past ten years.
“It’s amazing how many people have learned about turtles at this event,” said Sheldon Paul, HSC Fieldwork coordinator. He said the event is a great way to educate the young and the young at heart about Ontario’s eight freshwater turtle species which are all at risk.
In advance of the event, trained personnel, with required permits, collect the turtle eggs at the site of the release and then incubate them. The eggs are not likely to hatch successfully if left on their own.
Staff releasing the hatchlings back into the wild in the area they were found are trained and authorized with required permits to release them.
People attending the turtle release will not be able to hold the turtles. This is to protect the animals and reduce their stress. Those attending can see the turtles as they are released and learn about them. Organizers remind the public to never release species, especially non-native species, into the wild.
Ontario’s native freshwater turtles face many threats including habitat loss and road mortality – death by cars and other vehicles. Hundreds of turtles in Ontario are hit by cars each year. These could be gravid (pregnant) females looking for a place to lay eggs, or turtles looking for new habitat and mates. People can help turtles by creating and enhancing habitat on their properties, helping turtles cross the road in the direction they are heading, when it is safe to do so; and working with their local municipalities and communities to erect turtle crossing signs and build safe passages. People can also arrange for transport of injured turtles to the turtle hospital.
Turtles are important links in food webs and provide essential ecological services, said Hope Brock, Healthy Watersheds specialist at ABCA. Snapping turtles, for example, help to control aquatic vegetation and clean creeks and wetlands by eating algae and dead and decaying fish and other organisms. They also cycle nutrients and spread seeds which benefit other organisms.
People can protect turtles, she said, by watching for turtles on roads when driving, helping them safely cross roads in the way they are headed, protecting nests from predators, and reporting turtle sightings to community monitoring projects. Enhancing turtle habitat is also vital.
“Preserving and creating habitat for turtles and other species is one of the most important things we can do to sustain our turtle species,” Brock said. “There has been a huge increase in the interest in turtles and protecting turtles in our watershed, so I also want to thank people for these efforts.
Thank you for your continued curiosity, for attending this event, and for your desire to help these at-risk animals.”
To learn more visit the Huron Stewardship Council and the ABCA Turtles webpage, or email HSC at huronstewardship@gmail.com.
Morrison Dam Conservation Area is located at 71108 Morrison Line, Exeter.
Remember This
The Huron County Museum is home to thousands of artifacts that illustrate the history of both the rural and urban populations of the area. Space dictates what wonderful curiosities the public regularly gets to see when they visit the museum located at 110 North Street in Goderich. But where there is wifi, there is an opportunity to time-travel with over 6,700 pieces of the museum’s collection now available to view online at huroncountymuseum.pastperfectonline.com.
“Remember This” highlights items from the collection of the Huron County Museum and Historic Gaol. Items that have shaped the fabric of the county and the people who have lived here since before the county became the county in 1835 up until more recent times.
With just 43 days left of summer vacation, students’ thoughts will soon turn to purchasing school supplies. With this in mind, our featured museum artifact would likely be the envy of anyone with aspirations of higher learning…
TWIN INKWELL
This is a clear glass and black metal twin inkwell. The snail shaped glass wells are joined to a metal stand. The wells tip down for use and up for closure of the open mouth.
The twin inkwell belonged to the Eilber and Fritz family of Exeter, Zurich and Crediton. It was used by Conservative MPP Henry Eilber who served the South Huron District for 22 years from March 1, 1898 to September 23, 1919.
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Glass and Metal Inkwell
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Back View
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Side View
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Top View
PIONEER PARK ASSOCIATION
IT TAKES A VILLAGE OF VOLUNTEERS WITH HUGE HEARTS
PHOTOS BY MELODY FALCONER-POUNDER
One could think of Pioneer Park as Bayfield’s outdoor cathedral. It is open for all to enjoy their unique form of worship, be it breathtaking sunsets, a yoga class, painting lessons, meeting with friends and family for a picnic, or just sitting quietly to contemplate or to read a good book while surrounded by nature.
It takes a village to provide upkeep and maintenance of this oasis on the lake. This year’s Pioneer Park Rummage Sale and Silent Auction is proof of that. Well over 200 volunteers came together to ensure the success of the sale. It is the largest fundraiser for Pioneer Park.
Team Rummage, the organizing committee composed of nine people, is the bedrock of the Pioneer Park Rummage Sale and Silent Auction. The team began work in late January to ignite the planning process and to begin attending to the hundreds of details that are involved in guaranteeing a successful sale. Under the strong leadership of Catherine Tillmann, who has held the reins for a number of years now, in tandem with a dedicated and enthusiastic team, the committee ensures that the planning runs like a well-oiled machine. Each member has a clear idea of their role, and how it plays into the final product, the Rummage Sale!
As the Rummage Sale draws closer, more volunteers come forward, from table captains and their mighty teams for specific categories of the event, to those willing to help with donation intake, transportation, the Silent Auction, baking, safety, accounting, the actual set up and take-down at the Bayfield and Community Centre and Arena, and more. Six months of preparation culminate in a three hour extravaganza of sales and treasure hunting.
It does take a village, one with a huge heart and a common goal to preserve Pioneer Park. Volunteers who come together year after year because of the joy they feel from the shared effort and experience. Generous donors from the community, retail and private sectors, and of course the many hundreds of treasure hunters all contribute directly to the success of the Rummage Sale and the ongoing enjoyment of Bayfield’s own natural wonder.
The Pioneer Park Association Board of Directors and Team Rummage would like to extend their sincere appreciation to all donors, volunteers and shoppers who participated in this year’s Rummage Sale and Silent Auction. See you at the Park!
![](https://www.bayfield-breeze.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/img_9703_54655627693_o.jpg "Those volunteers on Security and Safety were given a "badge" of honor.")
Email your photo in Jpeg format to hello@bayfield-breeze.com with the subject line Subscriber Photo of the Week. or…Upload your photo to Flickr.
I am looking for the Bayfield that is a delight to the eye – please share photos with a touch of whimsy, beauty, humor or a sense of fun. If you are to include people in your photos be sure to have their permission to publish their picture on-line and also send in their names and where they are from. And don’t forget to tell me who took the photo for proper credit to be issue
SUBMISSIONS
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Melody Falconer-Pounder
One of my goals for Summer is to revisit the Anne stories crafted by my favorite author Lucy Maud Montgomery. I’m now on book four. With the exception of a couple in the series I haven’t read them since I first discovered them in my early 20s. I am pleased to share that despite the passage of time Anne remains a kindred spirit. She had a strong need to name places as a child and so did I. In fact, most corners of the two properties my father farmed when I was younger had names that were only known to me. I had christened them when I was out exploring and imagining in the fields and forest. Sadly, most of those names are lost to childhood memory. But similarly to my favorite fictional character I still like to indulge in the occasional ramble and yesterday was the perfect Summer’s day to do just that.
Once where dairy cattle roamed, a “little forest” is growing down in the valley. I leave that area for the wildlife at this time of year and walk the ridge above where there is more wild orchard and meadow. In the past 25 years, or so, several apple trees have flourished and their flowers are deliciously pretty in Spring. On my walk yesterday, I found them to be heavily laden with an abundance of tiny apples, likely best left for the birds and the bees but an attempt at a pie in the coming Autumn may yet to be.
On my walk I stopped for a few minutes on the ridge surrounded by Cedar and Pine and Apple trees and listened to the birds call. One thing that Anne would have certainly marvelled at is the technology that we have at our fingertips via the smart phone. She would have surely loved the birding app. It was in this spot that I opened my preferred app and was thrilled to see the list of nearby birds grow longer: Red-eyed Vireo; Vesper, Song, Grasshopper and Clay-Colored Sparrows; Barn and Cliff Swallows; an Eastern Kingbird and an American Crow all shared their songs with me.
It was a lovely opportunity to tune into nature on a perfect Summer’s day that could have been inspired by Anne herself. – Melody
Ideas and contributions to the Bayfield Breeze are always welcome.
Deadlines for submissions are Sundays at 4 p.m.