County of Haliburton celebrates inaugural Accessibility Awards

Subject: County of Haliburton celebrates inaugural Accessibility Awards  
Date: June 4^th, 2026

County of Haliburton, June 4, 2026 – The County of Haliburton is proud to announce the recipients of the first Haliburton County Accessibility Awards, recognizing individuals, businesses, and organizations whose efforts are helping to build a more inclusive, welcoming, and barrier-free community.

Presented through Haliburton County’s Joint Accessibility Advisory Committee, the Accessibility Awards program celebrates residents, businesses, and organizations that are making a meaningful difference in the lives of people with disabilities and advancing accessibility across the County. The program highlights achievements in areas such as the built environment, customer service, information and communication, and other efforts that remove barriers and promote inclusion.

“Accessibility is about more than physical access; it is about creating spaces, services, and opportunities where everyone can participate fully, independently, and with dignity,” said Warden Dave Burton. “These awards recognize the leadership, compassion, and practical action that help make Haliburton County stronger and more connected for all.”

This year’s recipients were honoured in the Community Member, Business, and Organization categories at the May 27^th County Council meeting.

Community Member Award – Curtis Eastmure

Community Member Award recipient Curtis Eastmure was recognized for his leadership in improving accessibility at the Northern Lights Performing Arts Pavilion. After being approached about the need for hand railings in the Haliburton theatre, Curtis as NLPAP board chair acted quickly to support their installation, helping make the venue safer and more accessible for patrons who experience barriers related to balance, vision, hearing, or mobility. His actions continue to benefit community members and visitors by improving confidence, dignity, and access to cultural experiences.

Business Award – Sir Sam’s Ski/Ride

Sir Sam’s Ski/Ride received the Business Award for its longstanding commitment to accessible recreation and inclusive customer service. The business has made improvements such as a barrier-free washroom and wheelchair ramp in the chalet, and has demonstrated leadership through its support of CADS (Canadian Adaptive Snowsports), helping provide adaptive skiing and snowboarding opportunities for people with disabilities. By reducing financial and physical barriers and fostering a welcoming environment for participants and families, Sir Sam’s continues to make recreation more accessible in Haliburton County.

Organization Award – Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 129 – Haliburton

The Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 129 – Haliburton was honoured with the Organization Award for major accessibility improvements that have made its community hub more welcoming and inclusive. Recent upgrades include an accessible elevator, hands-free entrance doors, accessible parking, an entrance ramp, and a universal washroom, along with other features that support dignified and independent access. These enhancements have opened the space to more residents and visitors for events, programs, and community gatherings, including activities for older adults and people with mobility challenges.

The Accessibility Awards also recognize the many nominees whose efforts are helping to remove barriers and strengthen inclusion throughout Haliburton County. By shining a light on local achievements, the program helps raise awareness, celebrate leadership, and encourage continued action toward a community where everyone can participate fully.

Haliburton County extends its thanks to the community members who submitted nominations and helped highlight the people and organizations making a difference. Their efforts help demonstrate that accessibility is a shared responsibility and a shared achievement.

Congratulations to all of this year’s recipients for their outstanding contributions to a more accessible Haliburton County.

Media Contacts:

Warden Dave Burton                                      
dburton@haliburtoncounty.ca                    

Accessibility Committee Chair, Councillor Jenn Dailloux
jdailloux@haliburtoncounty.ca