Representatives from the Bruce County Museum & Cultural Centre, the Saugeen First Nation Amphitheatre Restoration Project, and Marine Heritage Society celebrate community collaboration. Photo submitted.
Hub Staff
A recent win at the Marine Heritage cardboard boat races has been paid forward to the Saugeen First Nation (SFN) Amphitheatre Restoration Project.
Paddling for Bruce County Museum and Cultural Centre (BCM&CC), Savannah Stoll rowed her way to a win in the Corporate Challenge at July's Marine Heritage Festival and the $300 win was in turn donated to the restoration of a cultural and community space.
Brittany Roote, Coordinator for the SFN Independent Business Association said that the amphitheatre was a unique location for all communities to connect. "Even while under re-construction, this donation already exemplifies its role in fostering partnerships that help us all work and grow together," Roote said.
On behalf of BCM&CC, Museum Director Cathy McGirr said that the amphitheatre was a special place and holds many memories and connections for people. "We are proud to support the revitalization project with this donation which will assist in preserving stories, protecting heritage and creating spaces for community."
Marine Heritage Chair Wayne Kaufman, also known at the annual festival as Captain Wayne Sparrow, said the donation was a great example of local collaboration. "From the friendly competition on the water to meaningful impact on the shore," he said, calling the move "the kind of goodwill that makes Saugeen Shores and Bruce County such a caring place to be."
The SFN Amphitheatre represents centuries of Indigenous history and the renewal project features traditional drystone construction, walking paths, and community gathering areas. The gardens, Gzhe-Mnidoo Gi-Ta-Gaan (Saugeen First Nation Creator's Garden) are also designed to preserve and share Indigenous knowledge of local plants and traditional medicines. Learn more at saugeenfirstnation.com/amphitheatre-restoration.
Savannah Stoll paddles the Bruce County Museum cardboard boat to victory at the 2025 Marine Heritage Festival. Photo submitted.
