This week, the Rotary Club of Barrie held our annual Presidential Changeover, an important tradition where we reflect on the year past and set our sights on the path ahead. Outgoing President Brian Galbraith opened the meeting by sharing Rotary’s powerful vision:

“Together, we see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change, across the globe, in our communities, and in ourselves.”

Brian highlighted the Club’s incredible impact this past year, including raising over $400,000 in support of local programs and initiatives. He expressed deep gratitude to the Board and Club members for their contributions, earning a standing ovation for his steady and thoughtful leadership.

The spotlight then turned to incoming President Todd Tuckey—our 80th Club President. Introduced by PDG Peter Dean and PP Jody, Todd’s story reflected decades of service and deep connections to Rotary and the Barrie community. A meaningful moment came when PDG Jim, Peter, and Sgt-at-Arms Jacklyn presented Todd with the Chain of Office and President’s Pin in a multigenerational show of Rotary continuity.

PP Betty Ann shared heartfelt remarks recognizing Brian’s contributions, noting how his leadership strengthened the Club through collaboration, balance, and quiet determination. She then presented him with his Past President’s Pin and gavel.

Taking the podium as President, Todd thanked his new Board of Directors and outlined his vision for the year ahead: a renewed focus on member engagement, connection with families and the broader community, and highlighting the good Rotary continues to do every day.

A Barrie native, Todd’s service journey spans decades—from launching Tamarco Contracting in 1989, to chairing Kempenfest and the Barrie Chamber of Commerce, to surviving a life-altering aneurysm. Through it all, Todd has shown resilience, heart, and an unwavering commitment to making a difference.

Thank you, Past President Brian Galbraith, for a year of incredible leadership. And to President Todd Tuckey, we look forward to supporting you as we continue living Rotary’s values and making an impact together.

President Brian proudly presented this year’s Aber Award to our Treasurer, Chris Van Niekerk, recognizing his outstanding work behind the scenes keeping the Club’s finances in order. Chris’s quiet dedication and attention to detail have not gone unnoticed. In accepting the award, he shared his gratitude and humbly acknowledged that many others in the Club are just as deserving. Congratulations, Chris!

In a meaningful step toward reconciliation, the Rotary Club of Barrie allocated $10,000 to support Indigenous initiatives within our local community. President Brian designated these funds to take tangible action in line with our Club’s commitment to reconciliation. Indigenous Club member Kerry Weatherbie was asked to lead the effort and provide recommendations for where the funds could have the greatest impact.

Over the past year, Kerry formed and led an advisory committee, working closely with local services and the Barrie Métis Council to ensure the funds would reach underserved members of the Indigenous community. The Barrie Métis Council, a volunteer-run organization serving over 1,000 registered citizens, was selected as the primary partner for this initiative.

Funds were distributed as follows:

1. Food Bank Support – $4,600
   The Barrie Métis Council supports over 200 families per month with fresh produce and meat. As they do not accept food donations due to quality concerns, funds are used to purchase fresh items directly.
   
2. Youth Camp Funding – $1,400
   Rotary supported access to the Barrie Métis Council’s youth camp, covering registration costs for several children to attend this important cultural and educational experience.
   
3. Post-Secondary Bursaries – $4,000
   Bursaries will be provided to Métis youth entering their first year of post-secondary education, helping to remove financial barriers to higher learning.
   

This presentation and donation took place during National Indigenous History Month. Representatives from the Barrie Métis Council, including President Roxanne Shank and Chair Tony Muscatt, accepted the cheque. Roxanne thanked the Club, noting that Métis and other Indigenous communities continue to face systemic challenges related to income, education, and employment. These donations directly support a brighter future through education and food security.

On behalf of the Barrie Métis Council, Roxanne offered a heartfelt message:

“Maarsî, Chi Miigwetch, thank you. These contributions have a huge impact for the families who receive them. For hundreds of years, Métis citizens have been part of our community and continue to be proud Barrie residents.”

Special thanks to Kerry, Chris Gariepy, Michael Hesson, Roxanne, and Toni for making this initiative a reality.

What a run, Barrie! 🏃‍♀️☀️🌧️

The 38th Annual Barrie Fun Run was another incredible success—rain and all! On Wednesday, May 28, the community came together at the General John Hayter Southshore Community Centre for a day filled with energy, smiles, and a whole lot of heart.

Whether you ran, skipped, walked, or danced your way to the finish line, your participation helped raise funds that go directly back into local initiatives and charities. This is what community looks like—people showing up, giving back, and having fun while doing it!

A special shoutout to our cheer squads, volunteers, and of course, crowd favourites Bob and Sprocket, who brought even more spirit to the day. 💙

Shout out to our medal winners of the day! Well done, everyone!

And we couldn’t have done it without the generous support of our sponsors. Thank you for helping us keep this beloved community tradition going strong for 38 years.

👏 Thank you for running with heart, Barrie. See you next year!

The Rotary Club of Barrie is pleased to welcome Adam as the newest member of our club.

A financial advisor with a passion for staying active, Adam enjoys all sports, except cricket, which he admits he hasn’t tried yet. He brings a vibrant, outdoorsy spirit and a clear enthusiasm for community involvement.

After spending nearly a decade away from Barrie, Adam returned and connected with Rotaract. It was during a District Conference in Muskoka that his Rotary journey truly began. As he put it, “It was a huge dance floor and it was so packed. It was at that point, I knew I was going to become a Rotarian.”

Adam was formally inducted by Past President Chris Gariepy, and we look forward to the energy, ideas, and commitment he brings to our club.

Welcome, Adam!

Despite a little rainy weather on Saturday, this year’s Spring Tonic was a resounding success, raising a record $50,000 in total profit. After expenses, the net profit came to $25,000, which was shared equally with our valued partners at the Nottawasaga Conservation Authority (NCA).

We were proud to present a cheque for $12,687 to the NCA in recognition of their essential role in making this event possible. Darren made the presentation, joined by Kyra, Jennifer, and Mike from the NCA.

Thank you to everyone who contributed to another great year for Spring Tonic!

The Rotary Club of Barrie was proud to present the Vocational Service Award to Sarah Fleming for her outstanding dedication to supporting youth and families in our community.

Sarah is a Vision Resource Teacher with the Simcoe County District School Board and the Managing Director of Glowing Hearts Charity. Through her leadership, the charity delivers vital programs including psychoeducational assessments, tutoring, mental health counselling, the Calm Homes initiative, fresh food deliveries, music, and hygiene support. In 2021 alone, these services reached more than 5,300 youth across Simcoe County.

Many of these supports fill critical gaps not covered by school boards or OHIP, making a meaningful difference for low-income families.

Sarah called her work a “labour of love” and thanked Rotary for the recognition. The award was presented by Chuck Boldt and Michael Hesson, with President Brian joining for the photo.

Congratulations, Sarah, and thank you for the incredible impact you continue to make.

Our annual Wheels for Wellness fundraiser, paired with the always-popular Charity Euchre Tournament, brought energy, fun, and incredible community spirit to the General John Hayter Southshore Community Centre.

Throughout the day, teams of cyclists pedaled it out on spin bikes and trainers, with DJs, healthy snacks, and games keeping the crowd moving and motivated. That evening, our euchre players shuffled up for a cause, rounding out a full day of fundraising and connection.

Together, these events raised $15,225 for wellness-related charities and projects right here in our community. Thank you to all participants, donors, and volunteers who made it possible. We couldn’t have done it without you!

And a BIG thank you to our amazing sponsors! We appreciate your continued support.

SAA Jon kicked off a recent meeting with a twist—challenging members to take on the frigid waters of Kempenfelt Bay in the now-infamous Polar Plunge. A crowd of Rotarians gathered on the dock and inside the General John Hayter Southshore Community Centre to witness this unforgettable event. After some playful hesitation and a lot of cheering from the crowd, Colton and Shane took the plunge, staying in the icy water for a jaw-dropping 3 minutes and 42 seconds. As jokes and questions flew among the cozy indoor onlookers (“Are they still moving?” “Would you like a coffee?”), the brave pair emerged victorious—and very cold.

The plunge wasn’t just for fun: half the proceeds went to Camelia and Jody as winners, and the other half was donated to two amazing local charities—the SPCA and Seasons Centre for Grieving Children. A big thank you to our fearless participants for reminding us all what community and commitment really look like.

We’re excited to welcome Richard Turner to the Rotary Club of Barrie, warmly introduced by Past President Ian Pavlik and sponsored by Past President Chris Gariepy.

Richard grew up in Milton with his twin brother Jonathan, whose euchre skills are apparently unmatched. After attending Georgian College, Richard met his wife Jordyn in Toronto. Eventually, the couple decided to leave “The Big Smoke” behind in favour of Barrie’s community charm, where they’re now raising two boys, Jack and Rhett.

Richard is also the founder of Modern PURAIR, a growing business specializing in indoor air quality and duct cleaning. His values align strongly with Rotary’s—his company policy commits to donating 1% of revenue to local charities. Naturally, we’re looking forward to seeing some of that generosity directed toward our Club’s causes!

During the welcome, Chris couldn’t resist reminding Richard that while he may be a rising star in business and community, there’s still work to be done if he wants to claim any squash titles. Welcome aboard, Richard—we’re thrilled to have you!