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April 7, 2026

Grindstone Summer Events 2026 – Full Event Calendar

If you are planning your summer at Grindstone, the 2026 event calendar offers a full season of community gatherings, family activities, local markets, live music, and seasonal traditions from May through September. This year’s lineup includes everything from a spring clean-up and potluck to makers markets, art shows, open mic events, concerts, and Grindstone Days.

The season begins on Saturday, May 2, 2026, with the 2nd Annual Spring Community Clean Up and Pot Luck, along with a Fire Prevention Info Event, running from 2 PM to 6 PM. It is a practical and meaningful way to start the season, bringing people together to prepare for summer while supporting a safer and more connected community.

On Saturday, June 13, 2026, the calendar continues with Ninon’s 5th Annual Spring Tea Party and the 1st Annual Makers Market, scheduled from 12 PM to 4 PM. This event adds a social and creative element to the summer season, with an opportunity to enjoy the afternoon, connect with others, and support local makers.

A major highlight of the calendar is Grindstone Days, taking place from Saturday, August 1, through Monday, August 3, 2026. Activities include a pancake breakfast, vendors, volleyball registration, silent auction, kids’ games, and a poker derby, followed by a kids’ race, volleyball tournament, and hot dogs. This multi-day event stands out as one of the biggest weekends of the summer, with activities for families, visitors, and long-time cottage owners alike.

On Saturday, August 8, 2026, the calendar continues with the Grindstone Gravel Hop Dance at Blacks Point Shelter from 7 PM to 10 PM. Events like this help round out the season with a more relaxed evening gathering built around music, conversation, and summer fun.

September brings one of the busiest stretches of the season. On Saturday, September 5, 2026, the schedule includes a Farmers Market and Craft Show, an Open Mic from 12 PM to 4 PM, and a General Store Parking Lot Sale. Later that same day, the 4th Annual Cottage Concert featuring @snackiemusic and jessrae.ca takes place at 7 PM at 25 Blacks Point Road, with $20 admission and proceeds going to the artists.

The final major event day of the season is Saturday, September 26, 2026. The day includes Ninon’s 7th Annual Art Show from 12 PM to 4 PM, followed by Ninon’s 2nd Annual Cottage Concert at 7:30 PM, featuring @hottacowpg. Together, these events close the summer with a strong mix of local art, live music, and community participation.

For anyone spending time in Grindstone this summer, the 2026 event calendar provides a helpful guide to the season’s key dates and activities. From family-friendly programming and community events to live entertainment and local vendors, the schedule reflects the kind of summer experience that makes Grindstone memorable year after year. For vendor participation, open mic details, or event-specific questions, the published calendar includes organizer contact information for each event.

March 28, 2026

Save the Date: 2nd Annual Grindstone Spring Clean-up and Pot Luck

Join us on Saturday, May 2, 2026, from 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm for the 2nd Annual Grindstone Spring Clean-up and Pot Luck, along with a fire prevention and information event.

This community gathering is a great opportunity to come together, help keep Grindstone Provincial Park clean, and learn more about fire prevention ahead of the season. It is also a chance to connect with neighbors and do our part to make the park a cleaner, safer place for everyone.

Please note that the event is weather permitting.

For more information or to sign up, contact Nicole Schnell at [email protected]

March 10, 2026

Wildfire and Emergency Preparedness Event in Riverton

Residents are invited to attend a Wildfire and Emergency Preparedness Event designed to help homeowners better understand wildfire risk and learn practical steps to protect their properties and communities.

The free information session will introduce the FireSmart Home Ignition Zone concept, which explains how small changes around a home can significantly reduce the risk of wildfire damage. Attendees will gain insight into how to manage vegetation, maintain defensible space, and prepare their property for wildfire season.

Event Details

Date: Saturday, March 21, 2026
Time: 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Location: Riverton Community Hall, 175 Reggie Leach Drive

Coffee and snacks will be provided for attendees.

Learn from Wildfire Professionals

The event will feature presentations from experienced professionals working in wildfire prevention and emergency preparedness, including:

Sandra Davies, Park District Manager
Cam Meyers, Area Fire Manager with Manitoba Wildfire Service
Delilah Bergen, FireSmart Liaison with Manitoba Wildfire Service

These experts will share practical guidance on wildfire mitigation, emergency planning, and how communities can work together to reduce risk.

Attend In Person or Online

Community members are encouraged to attend in person, but an online option will also be available for those who cannot attend the event. Participants who register will receive a Teams link for virtual attendance.

To register, please contact the Parks Office at 204-378-2261.

Why Wildfire Preparedness Matters

Wildfires are becoming increasingly common across many parts of Canada. Learning how to prepare your property and respond during emergencies can make a significant difference in protecting homes, families, and communities.

This event offers residents an opportunity to learn directly from wildfire experts and gain practical knowledge that can be applied immediately.

February 23, 2026

Seasonal Opportunity: Join the Manitoba Parks Team at Hecla/Grindstone

Manitoba Parks is seeking dedicated, energetic individuals to join the team at Hecla/Grindstone Provincial Park for the 2026 summer season. This is a fantastic opportunity for those who love the outdoors and want to contribute to the vibrant community within the Riverton Park District.

Job Overview: Park Attendant 2 (KA2)

Classification: KA 2 Park Attendant.
Job Type: Seasonal Departmental.
Term: May 11 – September 4, 2026 (17 weeks).
Salary: $1,500.00 – $1,722.40 bi-weekly.
Location: Hecla/Grindstone Provincial Park, located 176 km north of Winnipeg.

Key Responsibilities

Working under the supervision of the Supervising Park Attendant, you will be responsible for service delivery at the Gull Harbour Campground. Core duties include:

Registering park users and managing occupancy for campsites, vacation cabins, and group sites using the computer-based Parks Reservation Service.
Collecting park vehicle permits and camping fees while accurately managing revenue records.
Providing visitors with essential information regarding park facilities, rules, and activities.
Preparing deposits and handling revenue remittance.

Requirements & Qualifications

To be successful in this role, candidates should possess:

Experience: Previous experience in revenue collection, cash handling, and public-facing service roles.
Technical Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft Office or similar applications.
License: A valid Manitoba Class 5 driver’s license.
Physical Ability: Must be able to lift approximately 50 pounds and work outdoors for extended periods in various weather conditions.
Availability: Ability to work evenings, weekends, and statutory holidays.

How to Apply

The application deadline is March 23, 2026. Your cover letter and resume must clearly demonstrate how you meet the qualifications. When applying, please include the advertisement number (#44986) and the position title in your subject line.

Email your application to: [email protected].
Mail: Department of Environment and Climate Change, Parks and Trails, Box 70, Riverton, MB R0C 2R0.

Manitoba Parks is committed to an inclusive and representative civil service; employment equity is a factor in selection. Note that bunkhouse facilities may be available for the successful candidate.

April 16, 2025

Grindstone Cottage Owners Association Announces 2025 AGM

Mark your calendars for an evening of community connection and planning: the Grindstone Cottage Owners Association will hold its Annual General Meeting on Thursday, May 15, 2025. We’ll gather at the Maranatha Evangelical Free Church (910 Sturgeon Rd., Winnipeg, MB) for registration beginning at 6:30 PM, with the formal meeting starting promptly at 7:00 PM.

This AGM is your opportunity to catch up on last year’s developments, review financials, and help shape the Association’s priorities for the season ahead. Coffee and light refreshments will be provided, and the meeting agenda—along with minutes from the 2024 AGM—will be shared with members in advance so you can come prepared.

Your voice matters. Whether you’re a long‑time cottage owner or newly joined, we encourage you to attend, ask questions, and share your ideas. Stay tuned for the pre‑meeting packet, and don’t forget to save the date: May 15, 2025. We look forward to seeing you there!

September 16, 2024

Join Us for the 5th Annual Art, Music & Maker Show – September 28, 2024!

We’re thrilled to invite you to the 5th Annual Art, Music & Maker Show happening right here in Grindstone, Manitoba! This exciting community event will take place on Saturday, September 28, 2024, from 12 – 4 PM at 73 Mountain Maple Lane.

Discover the vibrant talents of 29 local artists and artisans alongside performances from 19 musicians. There will be plenty of fun for all ages, with an open mic/jam session, massages, and delicious cotton candy cones to enjoy!

This event is free and open to everyone, so feel free to drop by and explore an afternoon filled with creativity, music, and great company. Whether you’re interested in visual arts, handmade crafts, or live music, there’s something for everyone!

Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate our amazing local community. See you there!

August 30, 2024

Reviving the Grindstone Legacy: A Conversation with Kim and Taylor Gerbinski

We’d like to introduce Kim and Taylor Gerbinski, long-time Grindstone enthusiasts and community entrepreneurs. In 2019, they set out to revive the original Grindstone clothing line their family had cherished years ago. We had the pleasure of speaking with them and asked a few questions.

What made you decide to do a line of Grindstone Clothing?

Our family still had a few of the 80’s sweatshirts kicking around our cabin, that we wore regularly. We talked about how fun it would be to bring some of these retro items back to Grindstone. Originally we were just going to design and order some sweatshirts for ourselves. After speaking to some of our friends, we realized there was a much larger want for the clothing that just our cabin. It was important that if we were going to take this project on that we provided quality products and reasonable prices, so that our community could keep supporting us yar over year!

Where did you get the inspiration and designs for the clothing?

I have a three ¼ zip sweatshirt sitting in my closet, and Uncle Don always sports his retro Grindstone hat. We put those two items together and decided to bring items back in their full glory, upside down birds and all! Fortunately my husband is handy in Photoshop. We were able to take a picture of the logo on my old sweatshirt and he manipulated it so that we had a high resolution file to use for production!

I understand the profits from the sale of the clothing are used for park enrichment, can you tell us a bit more about that?

Yes, Grindstone Clothing proudly donates all profits back to the cottage community. When my husband and I started this fun project we simply wanted to bring some fun and joy to Grindstone, while contributing to the improvement of the park. Over the last 5 years we have happily donated $5,000 back to the Grindstone Cottage Owners Association, and some of those funds went directly to building the play structure at Blacks Point Beach.

And finally, what was the most popular item you have sold?

I think our most popular item has been the “original logo” hoodie. Nothing says Grindstone more than those 3 trees in front of the sun with upside down birds in the distance. If you know a Grindstoner you think should be featured, email [email protected]

June 28, 2024

Celebrate August Long Weekend at Grindstone Days 2024!

Looking for an exciting way to spend the August long weekend with your family? Join us at Grindstone Provincial Park for Grindstone Days 2024 on August 3rd and 4th! This event is designed with families in mind, packed with activities, delicious food, and entertainment for everyone.

Saturday, August 3rd: Start Your Weekend Right

Begin your Saturday at 9:00 AM with a hearty pancake breakfast at Black’s Point Shelter. Enjoy the morning with vendors offering unique goods and register for the volleyball tournament.

At 10:00 AM, the fun continues with a silent auction, kids’ games, and membership opportunities. There’s something for everyone to enjoy, whether you’re looking to bid on some great items or let the kids have a blast with games.

By noon, the excitement heats up with a Poker Derby. Test your card skills and enjoy the competitive spirit!

Sunday, August 4th: Beachside Fun

Head to North Cliffs Beach at 10:00 AM for kids’ races, a fun way for the little ones to start the day. Then, at 12:00 PM, indulge in a hot dog sale, bounce around on the bouncy course/castle, and join the volleyball tournament for some friendly competition.

Cap off the weekend with a talent show at 7:00 PM back at Black’s Point Shelter. We invite you to showcase your talents and be a part of this perfect way to end the weekend, enjoying the community spirit and celebrating local talents.

Don’t Miss Out!

Grindstone Days 2024 at Grindstone Provincial Park promises a memorable August long weekend with something for everyone. If you’re interested in being part of the action and making a difference, consider volunteering. It’s a great way to meet new people, gain new skills, and contribute to your community. For more information or to volunteer, email [email protected].

Please mark your calendars and join us for a weekend of fun, food, and festivities!

June 12, 2024

A New Membership Committee is COMPLETE!

At the GCOA Annual General Meeting on April 24th, 2024, we welcomed an additional cottager to the Board and Membership Committee. The committee is now led by Howard Thiessen and Darlene Dean. Over the past year, the GCOA has diligently developed a process for maintaining and updating our cottager contact database. With this system now in place, the new Membership Committee will have no trouble keeping the GCOA membership and contacts list current. This will ensure that all cottagers are well-informed and actively involved!

See below the summary of the Membership Committee’s Roles and Responsibilities.

GCOA Membership Committee

This detailed outline provides a clear understanding of the committee’s operations and procedures, ensuring efficient management of membership affairs within the GCOA.

Introduction / Background:

The Membership Committee was established alongside the GCOA board to support the organization financially through membership fees.
Members have rights including attending meetings, voting on motions, receiving newsletters, participating in events, and accessing other benefits.
Membership fees are annual, due at the beginning of the calendar year, and are tied to cottage addresses.

Roles and Responsibilities:

Maintain a contact list of members and track contact information for other cottagers.
Organize, track, and collect membership fees.
Maintain an email distribution list for communication purposes.
Obtain cottage owner/lessee lists from the Real Estate Services Branch for updates.

Committee Procedures:

Contact List:
- Utilize Microsoft Excel for now, with plans to transition to Membershipworks.
- Maintain various tabs for tracking membership status, additional emails, email distribution, advance payments, and subdivision lists.
Real Estate Services Branch Cottager List:
- Obtain the list annually, containing lessee names and home addresses.
- Board is responsible for obtaining email addresses and phone numbers.
Membership Email Address:
- Use designated email address for membership matters, including receiving e-transfers.
- Notify Treasurer of received e-transfers and file corresponding receipts.
Payment Collection & Canvassing:
- Collect payments via cash, cheque, credit card, or e-transfer.
- Provide receipts for cash/cheque payments, track payments received.
- Use credit card scanning device for credit card payments.
- Supply flyers for marketing and information purposes during canvassing.
Membership Incentive Program:
- Manage the incentive program, ensuring members receive their discount cards upon payment.
- Track members who have paid but not received their incentive cards and ensure delivery.

May 8, 2024

2024 Annual General Meeting Minutes

The following content is accessible for members only, please sign in.

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