News Letters
Derived from our monthly minutes, Thanks Gayle!
Derived from our monthly minutes, Thanks Gayle!
A Message from President Julianne
I am so proud of all the energy and teamwork happening at the Wiarton Propeller Club. Together, my fellow board members, volunteers, and community friends are helping us grow stronger every day. With new programs, fun events, and exciting opportunities for families and members, I know we will continue to make a difference. Thank you to everyone who gives their time, ideas, and support, we couldn’t do this without you!
Finances & Grants
David Elliott shared that the Club is on Track to finish the year with a healthy surplus.
The SEED Grant has been applied for, and we’re waiting to hear back.
Plans for Building Improvements are in discussion, including big projects like the hydro pole replacement.
Supporting Local Schools
The Club is Donating $500 to School Nutrition Programs, Amabel Sauble, Hepworth, Peninsula Shores and Nawash!
Events & Fundraising
Jackie’s Redneck Dance is happening Saturday, November 1st. Tickets are now on sale, and Country 93 will promote it for free.
The Pie Booth at Wiarton Homecoming was a success—thanks to everyone who baked, bought, or volunteered!
Lunch & Learns continue to be popular and educational.
New Membership Options
Kim presented three new membership levels:
Family Membership – parents and kids join together, with discounts and one vote.
Junior Membership – for under 18, free with volunteer hours.
Corporate Memberships – Bronze, Silver, and Gold levels for businesses.
These were approved and will soon be available.
Food & Beverage
Rhonda Smith is our new Lunch Convener—thank you, Rhonda!
Andy Kindly Donated his personal kitchen supplies to the Club.
Facilities & Safety
Hazardous items are being safely stored.
Renovations will be discussed at the upcoming Facilities meeting.
A Workplace Safety Audit will be completed in September.
Youth Programs
Scientists in Schools is booked for October 18th for kids ages 4–12.
Cost will be covered by the Youth Programming Fund.
Equipment & Rentals
The Club will be purchasing 10 New Lightweight Tables to replace the heavy wooden ones.
Bar tables will now be available at no charge when renting the Club.
Rental deposits will be enforced more consistently.
New Faces
Welcome to new member Gayle Campbell!
Six potential new members were introduced, and we look forward to welcoming them soon.
Congratulations to Kerina Elliott, who is stepping into the new Grants & Activities Director role.
Member Recognition
Long-time member Norm Deakins received a certificate of appreciation.
Lorraine Blacklock’s family will also receive a certificate honoring her service.
Other News
The Club will not take part in the “Sharecrows” program this year.
A new Pie Booth Sign will be purchased for next year’s events.
Discussions are ongoing about rodent control, blue box recycling changes, and equipment rentals.
A community suggestion to become a beer can return depot was declined due to space and cleanliness issues.
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Thank You
Thank you to everyone Who Attended the BBQ and meetings—it was a wonderful turnout. Special thanks to all the volunteers who keep our Club active, welcoming, and fun.
Next Meetings:
Board: Tuesday, October 7, 2025 at 5:30 p.m.
General: Tuesday, October 7, 2025 at 7:00 p.m.
Wiarton Propeller Club, 575 Edward Street, Wiarton
A Note from President Julianne
What an exciting month for our club! I’m so proud of how we’ve been stepping up, working together, and saying “yes” to opportunities that help our community. Whether it’s opening our doors to the Town on rainy days, planning fun new events, or building membership options for all ages, our team spirit is shining through. With your energy, creativity, and kindness, we’ll keep making our club a place where people feel welcome, valued, and inspired.
Rain or Shine – We’ve Got the Town Covered!
Great news! The Wiarton Propeller Club is now the official rainy-day backup location for the Town’s outdoor concerts. If bad weather hits, the show can go on right here in our space. We’ve already hosted one small but lively concert for about 30 people, and it was a hit. We’re also thinking about opening the bar for these events - no alcohol, just cold drinks, water, and tasty snacks - so everyone can relax and enjoy. We’ll have volunteers on hand to keep things running smoothly.
Membership News
· No changes to Regular Active, Regular Inactive, Honorary, or Friends memberships.
· New Ideas Coming:
· Family Membership: Two parents + up to 6 kids, one shared vote, volunteer hours, and discounts.
· Junior Membership: Under 18, free, volunteer hours required, no vote.
· Corporate Tiers: Bronze, Silver, and Gold sponsorship levels with great perks for our supporters.
· Next Steps: Create junior membership guidelines, find a youth program leader, and start planning fun monthly youth nights.
BBQ – September 2, 2025
Mark your calendar! We’ll fire up the grills for members and their guests. Expect burgers, sausages, fresh salads, desserts, and good company. Watch for invites on email and Facebook.
Making Meetings More Fun
Starting this fall, we’re adding:
· An MC to open with a warm welcome and intro for the President.
· Volunteer of the Month shout-outs (with prizes!).
· Fun touches like games, icebreakers, member spotlights, and seasonal themes.
· Social vibes – open bar (with non-alcoholic options), light snacks, and background music.
We’ll test this format from September to November and ask for your feedback.
Events & Activities
· Lunch & Learns: Four successful sessions so far – healthy food, great topics, and happy guests. Next workshops are ready for August and September.
· August 2–3: Pie booth & WPC booth at local events – Over 200 Pies SOLD!!!
· August 7: Schneider's Van visit – maybe next year for us!
· September 9: Bid euchre tournament.
· September 26: PA Day activities at OEC being considered.
· Ideas in the works: Family budgeting classes, youth programming, and turning the club into a Community Hub (grant available!).
Behind the Scenes
· Bartender scheduling for August events is underway.
· Lunch pricing ideas are being reviewed to keep things competitive.
· We’re keeping burnout in check – if you need a break from volunteering, just say so.
Your energy and support make all the difference – let’s keep the good times rolling! Every step we take together makes our club stronger, warmer, and more fun. Can’t wait to see you at the next event!
Your WPC Team
575 Edward St, Wiarton | 226-217-3704
A Message from President Julianne
Hello, everyone!
As your president, I’m so excited to share all the amazing things happening at our club. Our team has been working hard to make improvements, plan fun events, and create opportunities for everyone to get involved. From awesome Lunch & Learn sessions to facility upgrades and fresh membership ideas, we’re building a stronger, more welcoming club—together! Thank you for your support as we continue to make a positive impact in our community.
Even though I couldn’t be at this meeting, I’m thrilled with the energy and ideas flowing from our fundraising crew. They’ve been cooking up great plans, learning from past events, and brainstorming exciting new ways to bring people together and support the Club. My amazing team continues to show what’s possible when passionate people work together. Thank you all for your creativity, commitment, and can-do attitude – we’re on the right track to making great things happen!
Let’s keep the momentum going!
What’s Happening at the Club?
1. Seniors Luncheons & Fun Events
Thanks to a generous grant, we’re hosting 12 info luncheons for seniors! First up: Fraud Prevention on June 18th with Constable Lyons (50+ in attendance!). More dates include July 10th, Aug 7th, and more—check the schedule!
BBQ Alert! Save the date for September 2nd to celebrate with members and Friends of the Club.
Shuffleboard fans: We might switch to Fridays—Gayle’s checking the best day.
2. Lunch & Learn Updates
Kerina has 25 cool speakers lined up (like line dancing, Bruce Trail talks, and dementia care info).
Our first event was a hit with a small budget surplus! Speakers get thank-you gifts capped at $100–$150.
Volunteers needed! Help with setup, posters, or emails—contact Kerina or Kim.
3. Propeller Club Upgrades
Big renovations are coming to the Heritage Room and Freezer Room (safety first!). We are getting quotes.
New air conditioner and hot water tank in the works—more comfort for everyone!
We are sketching plans; stay tuned for updates.
4. Membership Perks & Changes
Your $25 dues support events, discounts, and voting rights—spread the word!
New categories: Family/Junior memberships (kids free!) and Corporate tiers (benefits coming soon).
Meetings getting a refresh: More fun, less stress! Think games, shout-outs for volunteers, and better chats.
If you’re a volunteer working through meal time, you’ll get one free meal – it’s only fair!
5. Fundraising Past Events – Recap Time!
Jackie's Sailors Farewell Dinner & Dance, A huge success with a nice little surplus! Just a note – we won’t be using the “Sailors Farewell” name again, since it caused a bit of confusion.
Linda's Fish Fry, Another win for the Club! Big thanks to everyone who helped make it happen.
6. Redneck Dance Coming This Fall!
Tickets will be $20, Snacks on the tables, Simple decorations (think hay bales!)
Posters and tickets out by August 25, No lunch or prizes this time.
Mark Your Calendars!
Next Meetings:
Membership: July 8 @ 10:00 a.m.
Facilities: July 8 @ 11:00 a.m.
Rentals/Activities: July 8 @ 2:00 p.m.
Pitch In!
Help with luncheons, events, or renovations? Reach out to Gayle, Kerina, or Kim.
Ideas? We’re all ears—let’s make our club even better!
Thanks for being part of this awesome journey – let’s keep the momentum going!
Together, we’re building a club we love. See you soon!
Your WPC Team
575 Edward St, Wiarton | 226-217-3704
A Message from President Julianne
Hello everyone!
Leading this amazing club is such an honour, and I’m so proud of what we’ve accomplished together. Our team has been busy with grants, events, and improvements, all to keep our club thriving. From senior wellness seminars to fun fundraisers, we’re making a real impact in our community. A huge thank you to all our volunteers and members for your hard work. Let’s keep this momentum going. we’re stronger when we work as one!
What’s New at the Club?
Exciting Events Coming Up!
June 13: Trial Lobster Dinner Limited spots! Contact Jackie if interested.
June 18: Fraud Prevention Seminar (free lunch included!).
June 21: Seniors Wellness Fair at Sauble Community Centre.
Canada Day: Cake & ice cream at 6:30 PM volunteers needed!
Grub Hub & Sharecrows
We donated $500 to the Grub Hub (a free lunch program in Bluewater Park).
Sharecrows (a fun fall fundraiser) will be discussed in our September meeting.
Grants & Funding
We received a Community Foundation Grey Bruce Grant for senior programs—12 events planned this year!
Thanks to a generous funding from the Community Foundation Grey Bruce Capital Grant, we’ve made two big improvements that are already making a difference! A bright new "Wiarton Propeller Club" sign has replaced the old one, helping visitors find us easily, while roof repairs (soffits and fascia) keep pests out, making our space safer and more welcoming. These upgrades are especially helpful for seniors, kids, newcomers, and everyone attending our free seminars and community lunches. Whether you're from Wiarton, South Bruce Peninsula, Owen Sound, or nearby First Nations, we’re thrilled to offer a better experience for all. A huge thank you to Community Foundation Grey Bruce for helping us strengthen our club and our community!
Trillium Grant update coming in July. Fingers crossed!
School Support
$500 each will go to three local schools for nutrition programs in September as a donation from the Wiarton Propeller Club.
Club Updates
Food & Beverage
Funeral luncheon prices staying at regular prices for 2025, no increase.
New bartender policies: Smart Serve certification required.
Lobster dinner test run on June 13—feedback welcome!
Facility Upgrades
New kitchen cart installed (thanks, Julianne!).
No emergency exit on patio (too much snow in winter).
Wooden tables may be replaced with lighter ones—stay tuned!
Volunteer Shoutouts
Big thanks to Linda for the successful Fish Fry ($1,300+ raised!).
Huge thank you to Linda Bain for donating some Wall Dividers.
Yet another wonderful thank you to Melissa Myles McLean for donating her design services for our new roll-up Display Banner!
Certificates of appreciation awarded to long-time members: Sheila, Elsie, Cheryl & Sally.
How You Can Help
Volunteers Needed!
Canada Day (cake serving, setup).
WHW Pie Booth (selling delicious pies!).
Seniors Seminars (June 18 & future dates).
Got Ideas?
Share your thoughts on events, rentals, or improvements!
Next Meetings
Board Meeting: September 2, 5:30 PM
General Meeting: September 2, 7:00 PM
Let’s keep making our club the best it can be—see you at the next event!
575 Edward St, Wiarton | 226-217-3704
Captain's Log - President Julianne's Update!
What an amazing time for our Club! Thanks to our incredible crew of volunteers and members, we're sailing full steam ahead with exciting events, facility upgrades, and community projects. Your energy and dedication are what make this Club special - together, we're creating a welcoming harbor for all. Big thanks to everyone who helps keep our ship sailing smoothly!
Dock Talk: What's New? Big Wins
Jackie’s Sailors Farewell Dinner raised great funds - huge thanks to Jackie and Sue for rocking the bar!
Student Grant approved! $3,700 to hire summer help (plus some Club funds for equipment).
New blue street signs ordered - coming in 3 months to help visitors find us.
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Food & Fun
Linda’s Fish Fry coming May 25 - for tickets, Contact Linda
Jackie’s Halloween Dance booked for Oct 31 - mark your calendars!
Freezer reminder: Please don't block the fire extinguisher
Club Improvements
Donation box installed - ask others to give if they can!
Key box system upgraded (more side door keys added)
Kitchen cart replacement coming soon (old one is repaired)
Big dreams list started (new kitchen, parking lot, displays & more!)
Community Connections!
$1,000 donated to Brakewinders Sailing Club
Wellness Fair booth June 21 - volunteers needed!
Canada Day ice cream convener needed - contact Joanne
Special Shout-Outs!
Sue Brown – Amazing job running the bar!
⭐ Jann - Thanks for years of luncheon coordination!
⭐ Long-time members - We'll be sending appreciation certificates
Coming Up
May 13 - Heritage, Fundraising, Rental, Bar & Kitchen Committee Meeting
June 3 - Board Meeting (5:30pm) & General Meeting (7pm)
No meetings July & August - summer break!
Exciting Upgrades at the Club – Thanks to Community Foundation Grey Bruce!
We’re thrilled to share that two important improvements have been made to the Wiarton Propeller Club, thanks to the generous support of Community Foundation Grey Bruce through their capital grant program.
New Sign Installed
Our old sign has been replaced with a clear, welcoming one that proudly displays Wiarton Propeller Club. No more confusion—now everyone can find us easily for events, meals, and gatherings.
Soffit & Fascia Repairs Complete
We’ve also completed much-needed repairs to the roof edges to keep out birds, squirrels, and other pests. This helps make our building safer and more comfortable for all, especially seniors and families.
These upgrades support our mission to provide a safe, accessible, and welcoming space for the community.
A heartfelt thank you to Community Foundation Grey Bruce for helping us invest in the future of our club!
Mark Your Calendars!
"Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much." - Helen Keller!
Let's keep making waves! 🌊
President Julianne's Double Dose of Good News!
What an incredible month for our club! I'm bursting with pride at what we're accomplishing together. From exciting events to facility upgrades and community recognition, your dedication is making waves. A special thank you to every volunteer and member – you're the heart of this club! Let's keep this fantastic momentum rolling as we sail into an even brighter future.
Honoring Lorraine Blacklock
The Wiarton Propeller Club fondly remembers honorary member Lorraine Blacklock, who passed away peacefully on March 21 at age 93. A dedicated community volunteer and former Gateway Haven employee, Lorraine was a familiar face at club events and always brought warmth to our gatherings. Her generous spirit and years of service to Wiarton will be deeply missed.
A donation has been made in her memory to continue Lorraine's legacy of supporting our community.
Financial Wins & Future Plans
Financial Update: February showed strong improvement after a challenging January
Grant Good News: Multiple grants submitted (Senior's, Student, Trillium, and more!) – fingers crossed!
Smarter Spending: Learning from the Spaghetti Dinner budget to make future events even better
Electrical Upgrade: Heritage Room panel improvements coming soon, just getting quotes!
Events That Will Make You Cheer!
Jackie’s Sailors Farewell Dinner & Dance (April 12) – Last chance for tickets!
Linda’s Community Fish Fry (May 25) – Get ready for delicious fun!
Jackie’s Spooky Halloween Dance (Oct 31) – Save the date!
Gayle’s Schneider's Van Fundraiser (Aug 2) – Volunteers needed for this tasty event
BrakeWinders Sailing Club – Check out their awesome programs at www.brakewinders.ca
Club Improvements Galore!
New blue street signs coming to help visitors find us
Website updates in progress for smoother bookings
Key box installation underway for better security
Electrical upgrades paving way for future Main Hall A/C installation
Facility enhancements completed (new flag, washroom updates, storage solutions)
Volunteers Who Shine!
Sue Brown – Our fantastic new Bar Steward!
Laverne Carder – For beautifying our space with gorgeous decorations!
Jackie Miller & Gayle Hall – Our well-deserved Volunteers of the Year!
Julianne Hull – Honored with the King Charles III Coronation Medal for outstanding community service!
Important Updates & Opportunities
No rentals Dec 20-25 – Our hardworking team deserves a holiday break!
Canada Day – We need a Cake & Ice Cream Convener (interested? Let us know!)
Seniors Wellness Fair (June 21) – We'll be there representing our club
New donation box coming soon + online donation options
Mark Your Calendars!
April 8 (2:00 PM) – Bar & Kitchen Committee Meeting
May 6 (5:30 PM) – Board Meeting
May 6 (7:00 PM) – General Meeting (Bring your renovation ideas!)
Together, we're not just making waves – we're creating a tidal wave of positive change!
Your Proud Wiarton Propeller Club Team
President Julianne's Message
As your president, I’m thrilled to share the exciting progress we’re making together! My team and I are working hard to improve our club, from facility upgrades to fun community events. We’ve tackled health and safety updates, submitted important grants, and planned fantastic fundraisers. Your ideas and support are what make this club so special. Thank you for being part of this journey—we’re making a real difference in our community, and I can’t wait to see what we achieve next!
Welcome, Brad!
We’re excited to welcome Brad Ironmonger as a new member! Brad is a firefighter, so he’ll be busy with his Tuesday fire hall meetings, but we’re glad to have him on board.
What’s New at the Club?
Facility Updates: Steve is working on fixing the front door handle and installing a new office sign. The kitchen water leak has been cleared, and caulking will happen soon.
Health & Safety: First aid kits are updated and ready to go!
Grants Update
Big thanks to Doug and Kim for submitting grants for seniors, students, and Trillium funding. These grants will help us upgrade our kitchen, locks, and more!
Fundraising Fun
Cindy’s Spaghetti Dinner Success: Despite the weather, we had 98 take-outs and 85 sit-ins! Leftovers went to the Green House, feeding 55 people.
Upcoming Events: Mark your calendars for Jackie’s Sailors Farewell Dinner & Dance (April 12), Fish Fry (May 25), and Halloween Dance (Oct. 31).
March Break Activities
Join us for cooking classes, art workshops, boat building, and Jiu Jitsu on March 11th and 12th, Sold Out!. Jeff and Andy are helping out—come have fun!
New Business
Renovations Brainstorming: Share your ideas for club improvements at our May meeting!
Wiarton Homecoming: Joanne and Kelli are leading the planning—get involved!
Canada Day: We need a convener for cake and ice cream. Contact Jann if you’re interested.
Fun & Games
We wrapped up the meeting with a marine trivia game—thanks, Julianne, for hosting!
Next Meeting: April 1st, 2025, at 7:00 p.m.
Here are a few fun questions from the game:
What’s the front of a ship called? (Answer: Bow)
What’s the right side of a ship called? (Answer: Starboard)
What’s the term for the left side of a ship? (Answer: Port)
What’s the area below the main deck where cargo is stored? (Answer: Hold)
What’s the name of Christopher Columbus’ flagship? (Answer: Santa Maria)
From exciting fundraising events to facility improvements, we are making great progress.
Let’s keep the momentum going!
President Julianne’s Message
As the president of the Wiarton Propeller Club, I am beyond excited about the amazing energy and dedication in our club! Together, we are making great strides in building a stronger, more connected community. A warm welcome to our newest members, Julie and Jim Vail—we’re so happy to have you aboard! A huge thank you to everyone who pitched in over the last month - your hard work and passion truly make a difference. From exciting fundraisers to club improvements, we’re moving full steam ahead. Let’s keep this momentum going and continue to create a vibrant and welcoming space for all. Thank you for being a part of this journey—we’re making waves together!
Welcome Aboard!
We’re thrilled to welcome two new members, Julie Evans-Vail and Jim Vail, to the club! Also, a huge thank you to everyone who helped out over the weekend – your dedication is what makes this club so special.
Facility & Safety Updates
The accessible washroom upgrades are done!
A safety audit was completed, and a fire drill is planned for April.
We’re still looking for a lockable mailbox – stay tuned!
Membership & Events
32 members have renewed their dues – thank you!
Kim's Wake Up Willie was a hit! Thanks to everyone who helped out.
Cindy's Spaghetti Dinner (Feb. 17) is ready to go! Thanks to Jim and Julie for stepping up to serve dessert!
The bar finally has a name: THE WHEELHOUSE
Stay tuned for a Volunteer of the Year celebration on April 17!
Upcoming Fundraisers
Mark your calendars for some fantastic upcoming events:
Jackie's Sailors Farewell Dinner & Dance – April 12
Linda's Fish Fry Dinner and "BEHIND BARS" the Ultimate Band – May 25
Jackie's Halloween Dance – October 31
Bar & Rentals
Andy presented the new bartender policy and it was passed, and Sue is now our Bar Manager with Kelli as her assistant.
We’re getting the hang of using Square for payments, with training coming soon!
The bar will now be open for social time after each meeting!
Financial News
December was a great month! A generous TIP from the Sauble Sandpipers is going directly to our Youth Focus Fund.
What’s Next?
First Aid kits need updating – Sue is on it!
Membership cards are missing—if you have any leads, let us know!
Funeral Assistance Needed for Feb. 13 – volunteers appreciated.
The next General Meeting is on March 4 at 7:00 p.m.
Thank you all for your continued passion and commitment – together, we’re making waves!
President Julianne’s Message:
As the president, I’m so proud of how my team and all our members continue to work together to keep the Wiarton Propeller Club moving forward. Whether it’s organizing events, improving our facilities, or creating new policies, every contribution makes a difference. Thank you for your dedication and ideas – together, we’re making our club stronger than ever!
Welcome, Kelli!
We’re thrilled to welcome our newest member, Kelli Driscoll, to the club. Let’s make her feel at home as she joins our vibrant community.
Club Highlights:
Cleaning Duties: Andy has suggested moving cleaning responsibilities to Facility Management. Share your thoughts so we can finalize this decision.
Bar Manager Needed: Andy highlighted the need for a Bar Manager. If we find someone, he’d like to oversee both Food and Beverage.
Facility Updates:
Shuffleboard lines are being painted Friday at 9:30 a.m. Volunteers are welcome!
A new locked mailbox is in progress.
Exciting Events:
Membership Drive: Mark your calendars for the Willie Winter Warm-Up on Jan. 30! Bring your family and friends for a fun night. Volunteers needed—reach out to Kim!
Jackie's Upcoming Fundraisers:
Sailor’s Farewell Dinner (Apr. 12)
Linda's Fish Fry (May 25)
Halloween Dance (Oct. 31)
Bar News:
We’ve officially secured our permanent liquor license! Policies and signage are in the works.
Over 70 names were submitted for naming the bar. Stay tuned for the shortlist at the next meeting!
Treasurer’s Notes:
November was a great month for the club! A big thank-you to everyone who contributed. Donations were made to support our local Food Bank, the firefighter’s toy drive, and the Chamber of Commerce.
Giving Back:
Leftovers from our Christmas dinner helped feed over 50 people through Tess’s Kitchen. Thank you to everyone who made this possible!
Volunteers Needed:
Craft Sale (Feb. 2): Help set up tables at 6:20 a.m.
Spaghetti Dinner: Cindy is looking for helpers. A meeting will be announced soon.
Bid Euchre Tournament (Jan. 28): Come join the fun!
Odds and Ends:
If you don’t check your email often, let Gayle know to switch you to phone notifications.
Thanks to Kelli for donating a small vacuum for the front carpet!
Let’s keep up the great work and make this year our best yet! See you at the next meeting on February 4, 2025, at 7:00 PM!