Let’s start with upcoming events around the Port:

🌽 August 22: Corn Hole & Corn Roast

🛠️ September 7: Labour Day

🚌 September 8: Back to School!

Have something to add? 📩 portpostnewcastle@gmail.com

A Look Back

It’s hard to believe that August marks a full 12 months of the Port Post! Thank you to all of our neighbours for making it a success that continues to grow in readership each month.

Volunteers needed! We need neighbours to help keep the Port Post going. Whether you’d like to write stories, coordinate the newsletter layout, or manage our Instagram account, we’d love to have you join the team and help keep our community connected.

Get in touch: portpostnewcastle@gmail.com

COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT: Seeing the Port Through a Different Lens

For Port of Newcastle resident Eddie Jara, photography is more than capturing beautiful images. It’s about sharing a sense of wonder.

Eddie and his wife, Marianne, have called the Port home for the past three years. A lifelong amateur astronomer and member of the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada, his fascination with the night sky began as an eight-year-old growing up beneath the dark skies of British Columbia’s Rocky Mountains. Photography followed when he bought his first SLR camera at 18, eventually leading to a career in wedding photography before discovering a passion for wildlife and landscapes.

“The Port is an incredible place to explore with a camera,” says Eddie. “Being between the Samuel Wilmot Nature Area and the marina means the scenery is always changing. I especially love photographing the little lighthouse in winter.”

While many assume he photographs through his telescopes, Eddie says astronomy and photography are two separate passions. Instead, he enjoys hosting informal telescope viewing sessions for local families.

“It’s all about the children,” he says. “If I can inspire just one child with what they see through the telescope, it’s all worthwhile.”

One of Eddie’s favourite memories came on a bitterly cold February morning when he photographed the Port’s lighthouse in nearly -30°C weather. Without gloves, his hands became so cold he worried about frostbite, but the image made the experience unforgettable.

His favourite photograph, however, was captured at the Samuel Wilmot Nature Area on a dark, rainy day. After spotting an owl perched in the distance, he nearly deleted the image before later discovering what he describes as a photograph that “looked like a painting.”

Eddie regularly watches for clear skies and invites local residents to join him for impromptu stargazing evenings. If you see a telescope set up around the Port, stop by and say hello. You might leave with the same sense of wonder that first inspired Eddie all those years ago.

Eddie Jara

Follow along: @eddiejara

If you’d like to share your favourite photos of the Port of Newcastle or have a story to tell, we’d love to hear from you for a future Community Spotlight.

Eyes on the sky!

Summer storms can roll across Lake Ontario with surprising speed, often transforming calm waters into rough conditions in a matter of minutes. Warm, humid air meeting cooler air over the lake creates the perfect recipe for fast-developing thunderstorms, bringing sudden wind gusts, lightning, heavy rain and reduced visibility.

Storm safety reminder: Experienced boaters, paddlers and anglers keep a close eye on the forecast and the horizon, knowing that dark clouds like these are often a sign it's time to head for safe harbour.

Municipal Election 2026 Update

Voting takes place ONLINE or by phone October 20-26

Your mayor and councillors decide:

• Where new homes, businesses and neighbourhoods can be built.

• The condition of local roads, sidewalks, streetlights and snow clearing on municipal streets.

• Parks, playgrounds, sports fields, trails, arenas and recreation programs.

• Fire services and municipal by-law enforcement.

• Libraries, arts, culture and community events.

• Property tax rates and how Clarington’s portion of your tax dollars is spent.

• Economic development and attracting new businesses and jobs.

• Long-term planning that influences traffic, neighbourhood growth and the character of your community.

Whether you've lived here for decades or just moved in, taking a few minutes to vote is one of the simplest ways to help shape the future of Clarington.

In the last municipal election, only 28% of eligible Clarington voters cast a ballot.

RegisterToVoteON.ca is an online service available to Ontario residents. Using registertovoteon.ca, electors can confirm and update their electoral information for the upcoming municipal and school board elections.

Exploring the beach

While exploring the Lake Ontario shoreline in search of the best rocks, these young explorers found a large fish washed up on the beach, and a baby turtle!

Our beaches and trails are a great place for kids (and adults) to observe nature and discover the plants and wildlife that call the lakeshore home.

By-Law Reminders: Division Fences

Clarington's Division Fences By-Law provides a process for resolving disputes when neighbouring property owners cannot agree on the construction, repair, replacement, or cost of a fence along a shared property line.

Under the by-law, neighbours are generally expected to share the cost of a standard division fence equally. If one owner wants a fence that is taller, more decorative, or more expensive than the standard, they are responsible for the additional cost.

Property owners are encouraged to reach their own agreement on the type of fence, contractor, and cost-sharing arrangement. However, if an agreement cannot be reached, either owner can apply to the Municipality. Municipal staff will determine whether a division fence is warranted, what constitutes the standard fence for cost-sharing purposes, and how the costs should be apportioned.

The by-law does not require property owners to install a fence; it simply establishes a fair process for resolving disagreements when one is proposed or needs to be repaired or replaced.

RSVP: brandonhebert.myflodesk.com/cornhole

PET PROFILE: Meet Dolly! 🐾

Dolly is a 1.5 year old Golden Retriever who has lived in the Port her whole life. Dolly is a social butterfly who loves the pet store, the dog park, and making new friends. If you see Dolly out with her parents, she would love to say hello. Dolly is still working on her manners as she gets very excited when meeting new people or seeing old friends so expect lots of kisses when you come to say hello! You can find Dolly most days at the dog park with her friends Oliver, Freya, Autumn, Star, Winston, Lewis, and Mickey or at the Newcastle Pet Store seeing her favourite personal shoppers! Dolly's favourite things include Starbucks Pup Cups, car rides, and of course her LAMBY!

Guess what? Newcastle Pet Supply has hopped on board to provide a swag bag for each month’s pet profiled! Featured friends can stop in to the store to pick it up!

The Port Post is on Instagram! 📷✨ Follow along here.

THANK YOU🙏 to our generous and encouraging sponsors: Sensational Seams, Newcastle Pet Supply, Sandra Squires, Paradigm Plumbing and Brandon Hebert.

Take a look at this month’s real estate blog brought to you by Port resident and realtor Brandon Hebert.

The Families Moving to the Port Are Already Looking

PureGard is back in stock at Newcastle Pet Supply! This popular natural botanical, DEET-free tick and mosquito repellent is a great choice for helping protect both you and your dog while enjoying walks, hikes, camping and cottage weekends. Currently available in 60 mL and 240 mL sizes, PureGard sold out quickly last time, so be sure to grab yours while supplies last. Shop in-store with us or online at: https://newcastlepetsupply.ca/collections/puregard

Information about sponsorship opportunities can be found here.

You can find a print edition of the Port Post in your mailbox, and we’ll be back here with another digital edition soon.

Did you like it? Let us know:

Subscribe now

Share Port Post

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Let’s start with upcoming events around the Port:

☀️ August 3: Civic Holiday

🌽 August 22: Corn Hole & Corn Roast

🛠️ September 7: Labour Day

🚌 September 8: Back to School!

Have something to add? 📩 portpostnewcastle@gmail.com

A note from the Editor…

August will mark 12 months of the Port Post! Thank you to all of our neighbours for making it a success that continues to grow in readership each month.

August will also be my last issue. A change in personal circumstances is keeping me busy, and my work in post-secondary will be ramping up in the fall as well.

I feel fortunate to have had the chance to share my favourite aspects and memories from each month of the year living in the Port. 🫶

Sharon Grant-Young

That leads us to… volunteers needed! If anyone out there is interested in getting involved to keep the Port Post running, even if only to contribute one article per month or to coordinate the work of others, please reach out to portpostnewcastle@gmail.com

Popsicle PSA

Need to cool off? Don’t forget that the Brig at the marina is just a short walk and has popsicles for the kids and beverages for the adults (among other things). It's an easy destination for a family stroll or a quick bike ride with the kids on a warm summer day.

Lions Memorial Pathway

Many Port residents may be aware of the memorial forest at the end of the Samuel Wilmot Trail near Cobbledick Road, consisting of 200 trees dedicated to the memories of loves ones. A memorial pathway was also started once the forest was full. The Lions have now made six more stones available for purchase. Each stone is 8x16 inches, three lines of text with a maximum of 33 letters, for $250.

For more information, please contact Helen Simpson.

helensimpson1944@gmail.com

Municipal Election 2026 Update

Nominations are open until August 21 to run for our local Ward 4 Councillor, the Durham Regional representative for Wards 3&4, and the Mayor of Clarington.

So far, here’s who’s registered:

Local Councillor Ward 4

• Denise Robinson

• Andrew McVey

Regional Councillor Wards 3&4

• Kannan Nair

• Kevin Taylor

Mayor of Clarington

• Adrian Foster

• Tom Dingwall

RegisterToVoteON.ca is an online service available to Ontario residents. Using registertovoteon.ca, electors can confirm and update their electoral information for the upcoming municipal and school board elections.

By-Law Reminders: Election Signage

With Clarington’s municipal election coming up in October and related signage forthcoming, here’s a reminder of the by-laws:

• Election signs cannot be displayed before September 6 (45 days before the first advance voting day)

• Signs may only promote candidates within their own ward

• Signs must not obstruct driver visibility or create a traffic hazard

• Signs are not permitted on public infrastructure, medians, or traffic islands

• Signs are not permitted on fences or retaining walls visible from a road.

• On private property, only one sign per candidate or registered third party is permitted, with the property owner’s consent.

Summer has a way of spreading everyone out. Camps, cottages, vacations, and a few well-timed rainouts have made for some lighter Saturday mornings on the trails. But the core group keeps showing up and the camaraderie has been great. Highlights from the past few weeks include freezies in the forest, a growing WhatsApp group keeping dads in the loop on weekly meetups and weather calls, and a few new faces joining the crew. If you haven’t made it out yet, there’s still plenty of summer left. We meet Saturday mornings at 9:30 AM at the entrance to the trails or at Pearce Farm Park.

—Brandon Hebert

Pearce Farm Park Upgrades

Exciting update for families in the Port of Newcastle!

Pearce Farm Park on Shipway Avenue is getting some great new upgrades, including a new playground, splash pad and basketball court.

Construction is expected to begin this summer, bringing even more space for local kids, families and neighbours to enjoy close to home.

Port Baby Boom!

Summer has brought some very special new residents to the Port of Newcastle. A pair of swans has been spotted proudly guiding their cygnets through the marina, while a mourning dove has raised two chicks in the unlikely shelter of a hanging basket on a local porch.

It’s a reminder that our neighbourhood isn’t just home to people—it’s home to a remarkable variety of wildlife. If you come across nests or young birds, admire them from a distance and give their parents the space they need to keep them safe.

brandonhebert.myflodesk.com/cornhole

PET PROFILE: Meet Minnie! 🐾

Minnie is a 1 year old Aussiedoodle. She loves all the things, water, snow, long walks, car rides, people and animals. She is working on her manners still, so we ask everyone to just wave from a distance while she works on being neutral. One day she may train to be a therapy dog and work with mom. She loves scent games, learning new tricks, and giving hugs.

Guess what? Newcastle Pet Supply has hopped on board to provide a swag bag for each month’s pet profiled! Featured friends can stop in to the store to pick it up!

The Port Post is on Instagram! 📷✨ Follow along here.

THANK YOU🙏 to our generous and encouraging sponsors: Sensational Seams, Newcastle Pet Supply, Sandra Squires, Paradigm Plumbing and Brandon Hebert.

Take a look at this month’s real estate blog brought to you by Port resident and realtor Brandon Hebert.

The Hardest Part of Selling in Port of Newcastle Has Nothing to Do With the Market

New Monthly Dog Nail Trim Clinics Hosted at Newcastle Pet Supply!

Keeping your dog’s nails trimmed just got easier. Newcastle Pet Supply has partnered with certified local groomer Hollie from Hollie Paws Grooming & Boutique to offer a convenient monthly dog nail trim clinic right here in Newcastle. Appointments are just 15 minutes long and cost only $15, making it an affordable option for pet owners who don’t require a full grooming appointment.The Next Nail Trim Day is Sunday August 9th.

To Book Now click the following link newcastlepetsupply.ca/pages/nail-trims, stop by the store, or call Newcastle Pet Supply at 289-600-9498 for full clinic details. Spaces are limited and tend to fill quickly.

And because every good pup deserves a reward, dogs attending any of our summer nail trim clinics can enjoy a Frozen Yogurt Treat for just $2! A special clinic-day price, regularly $3.99.

Information about sponsorship opportunities can be found here.

You can find a print edition of the Port Post in your mailbox, and we’ll be back here with another digital edition in August. 🍉🍦🏖️

Did you like it? Let us know:

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Let’s start with upcoming events around the Port:

♻️June 13: Curbside Giveaway

💙June 21: Father’s Day

🚌June 25: School’s out!

🍁July 1: Canada Day

🎈July 11: Kids Fun Day @ The Brig

Have something to add? 📩 portpostnewcastle@gmail.com

Breaking News ‼️⚠️ Bear Sighting Reported in Port of Newcastle 🐻

A resident reported seeing what appeared to be a young black bear near Baldwin Street and Port of Newcastle Drive yesterday, June 9.

According to a post shared on Facebook, the animal was described as “not a cub, but not fully grown” and was seen jumping back into the bushes.

Black bears are known to occasionally pass through Durham Region, particularly in late spring and early summer when young bears leave their mothers and search for new territory. These wandering bears can travel surprisingly long distances and may move through residential areas before continuing on.

If you encounter a bear, remain calm, keep your distance, and give it a clear escape route. Do not approach the animal for photographs or attempt to feed it. Most black bears are naturally wary of people and will move away if left undisturbed.

Residents are also encouraged to secure garbage, bird feeders, and pet food, which can attract wildlife into neighbourhoods.

TOMORROW:

Purple blooms are lighting up local trails and woodlots right now. This plant is Dame's Rocket, a European species that has become a familiar part of Ontario's spring landscape. Large patches like this are common along woodland edges, roadsides, and stream corridors throughout Clarington in late spring.

Port Purge Success

Port Purge was a great success overall with a strong turnout from both the neighbourhood and surrounding communities. Despite the colder weather and rain later in the day, the energy throughout the morning was fantastic.

A big thank you to everyone who participated and helped make the event happen. The response was so positive that we are already looking at bringing it back again next year, along with a few more community events throughout the summer. Stay tuned.

—Brandon Hebert

Flashback to Canada Day 2020 and 2022 COVID drive-bys.🍁

One month into Dadurdays and it’s already become a great Saturday routine for a lot of local dads and families.

We’ve had sunny trail walks, playground pit stops, coffees in hand, and enough rainy weekends for the group chat to unanimously vote for staying home instead.

What started as a simple way to get the kids out of the house has turned into a solid group of dads connecting with other guys in the same stage of life.

We’ve now started a Dadurdays WhatsApp group for weekly updates, weather calls, and meet up reminders.

—Brandon Hebert

Turkey Time

If you've ventured down Toronto Street in the morning recently, there's a good chance you've seen these neighbours! Wild turkeys are characterized by their large, dark bodies, long legs, and relatively small heads. During the spring, they often forage in open agricultural fields—especially those that have been freshly worked—feeding on seeds, insects, and waste grain. They frequently move between nearby woodlots and farm fields in search of food.

The larger bird appears to be an adult male, or tom, recognizable by its dark plumage and distinctive bare red head. The smaller bird could be a hen or a younger male. At this time of year, hens are often nesting nearby while males continue roaming and displaying during the breeding season.

Once rare in Ontario, wild turkey populations have made a remarkable comeback and are now a common sight across rural Durham Region. Their return is considered one of Ontario’s wildlife conservation success stories.

The Samuel Wilmot Nature Area Management Committee hosted their first ever Wildflower Walk on May 9.

Approximately 20 people participated and, judging by their enthusiasm, we expect to make this an annual and larger event. Participants were divided into two groups. The first was led by Maria Prisciak, a teacher and member of the Durham Region Field Naturalists who has guided many such walks throughout Durham, and by new Committee member Michael Henderson, an arborist for the Town of Whitby. The second was led by Committee Vice-Chair Prof. Tom Hossie of Trent University.

Written by Brian Reid; Photo by Kate Potter

Our bylaw reminder this month relates to Backyard Chickens🐓

Clarington's Exotic Animal By-law was updated in 2024 to permit urban chickens in certain areas, including Newcastle and Orono.

Residents may keep between two and four hens for personal egg production, provided they live on the property and meet coop size, setback, and maintenance requirements. Roosters are not permitted, chickens cannot be raised for meat, and eggs cannot be sold. The rules are intended to allow small-scale backyard flocks while minimizing noise, odours, and impacts on neighbouring properties.

PET PROFILE: Meet Willa! 🐾

Meet Willa (affectionately known as Willa Zilla), a two‑year‑old bundle of sweetness whose small size is matched only by the enormous love she carries around with her.

She adores snuggles, happily socializes with all her pup friends, and never turns down a long walk where she can greet every neighbour—human, canine, or otherwise. Willa loves her toys, especially the ones that let her show off her playful side, and she’s wonderfully devoted to her family. She has a gift for making new friends wherever she goes, offering a warm hello to everyone she meets. Though she may be little, her heart is anything but—Willa brings joy, love, and smiles to our neighbourhood every single day.

Guess what? Newcastle Pet Supply has hopped on board to provide a swag bag for each month’s pet profiled! Featured friends can stop in to the store to pick it up!

The Port Post is on Instagram! 📷✨ Follow along here.

THANK YOU🙏 to our generous and encouraging sponsors: Sensational Seams, Newcastle Pet Supply, Sandra Squires, Paradigm Plumbing and Brandon Hebert.

Take a look at this month’s real estate blog brought to you by Port resident and realtor Brandon Hebert:

Newcastle Pet Supply is launching a new canine wellness clinic in partnership with Paws and Prana, a Clarington-based canine bodywork practice. Certified massage therapist Chelsey Mater will host in-store sessions offering massage therapy, myofascial release, and laser therapy for dogs of all ages. Clinics run one Sunday and one Wednesday each month at 361 King Avenue East, Newcastle.

45 minute sessions are $70. For more information or to book now click the following link: newcastlepetsupply.ca/pages/canine-bodywork

Information about sponsorship opportunities can be found here.

You can find a print edition of the Port Post in your mailbox later this month, and we’ll be back here with another digital edition in July. 🍉🍦🏖️

Did you like it? Let us know:

Subscribe now

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Let’s start with upcoming events around the Port:

👑May 18: Victoria Day

🌼May 30: SWNA Wildflower Planting

🥍May 30: Bottle Drive Pickup Date

♻️June 13: Curbside Giveaway

🎈July 11: Kids Fun Day @ The Brig

Have something to add? 📩 portpostnewcastle@gmail.com

Operation Clean Sweep

Thank you to the event organizers, sponsors and volunteers who made this year’s event a success! Approximately 990kg of trash was collected.

Curbside Giveaway Day

Residents place unwanted items in good condition—clearly marked FREE—on their curb for anyone to pick up. At the end of the Giveaway Day, residents return unclaimed items to their home.

Please ensure items are safe and meet current regulatory requirements.

See you June 13!

A monarch butterfly tagged at the Samuel Wilmot Nature Area in September 2024 has been recovered in Mexico!

Read more here. 🦋

May 9 was our first meet up, continuing every Saturday until the weather turns. We start at 9:30 AM at Pearce Farm Park.

Bring the kids and get out on the local trails. Walk, run, ride, bike, scooter, or stroll with a coffee in hand. It’s a simple way to get moving, get the kids outside, and give mom a bit of a break.

See you there. If you have any questions, reach out.

—Brandon Hebert

Swan Story

There are three species of swans in North America: the Trumpeter Swan and Tundra Swan are native to North America while the Mute Swan is a Eurasian species first introduced to North America in the late 1800s for ornamental ponds and estates.

-Trumpeter Swan Society

A pair of swans frequently seen at the Samuel Wilmot Nature Area are mute swan. Recognizable by their orange bills with a black knob and gracefully curved necks, mute swans have established wild populations along the Great Lakes after escaping or being released.

Unlike migratory swans, many mute swans remain year-round where open water is available. Along the Lake Ontario shoreline, a bonded pair can occupy and defend the same stretch of wetland for years, which explains why visitors often see the same two birds throughout the seasons. Their presence offers a consistent sight in the landscape, even as other waterfowl come and go with migration.

Run club update from Katie

The Newcastle Run Club has been off to an amazing start this spring, with a great turnout over the past couple of weeks and plenty of new faces joining in. We typically meet on Thursdays at 6pm, shifting to 7pm as the weather warms up, and we’re also starting to organize some casual weekend meetups.

The club is truly for everyone - no matter your pace or experience - and it’s been great to see such an inclusive, welcoming group come together and support each other. Looking ahead, we’re hoping to plan a 5k fun run and a 1k kids’ run around the Port, and we’ve got a collaborative event with another running club coming up in June, so stay tuned.

The run club is completely free and a great way to meet new people, move your body, and enjoy the sunshine (when it finally arrives!). If you’d like to join us, check out Instagram, find us on Strava, or join our new WhatsApp chat to stay in the loop. We look forward to seeing and running with you! 🏃‍♀️

The Port Prose Book club is also still going strong (also thanks to Katie!!)

Upcoming reads:

May: “Strangers” by Belle Burden

June: “Into the Blue” by Emma Brodie

As always, meeting details can be found on Facebook! 📖

Our bylaw reminder this month relates to Signage🪧

If you plan to erect a sign in Clarington, you must fill out and submit a sign permit application form. This is required for both permanent and temporary signs. Your sign must comply with the sign by-law.

Posters and small event notices can be displayed for a maximum of 21 days and must be removed within three days after the event. Signs cannot be located near intersections or driveways, or attached to trees, fences, or public infrastructure. The Municipality has the authority to remove non-compliant signs, particularly if they are on public land.

Port Purge

The Port Purge community garage sale was a strong success overall. We had a solid turnout not just from within the neighbourhood (30 participating addresses), but from surrounding communities as well, which brought great energy throughout the morning.

A big thank you to everyone who participated and helped make it happen. The number of homes involved is what really made the event work.

The cold weather was not ideal, and the rain brought things to an early close closer to mid day, but the response and turnout were still very encouraging.

There has already been some interest in running it again later in the summer, but we will likely bring it back next year and aim for a date closer to the end of the month with hopefully better weather.

We are also planning a few more community events throughout the summer, so stay tuned.

PET PROFILE: Meet José! 🐾

From Playa del Carmen to the Port: Rescued from Mexico 9 years ago, José is now 10 years young, full of puppy energy, and always out exploring on his walks.

Guess what? Newcastle Pet Supply has hopped on board to provide a swag bag for each month’s pet profiled! Featured friends can stop in to the store to pick it up!

The Port Post is on Instagram! 📷✨ Follow along here.

THANK YOU🙏 to our generous and encouraging sponsors: Sensational Seams, Newcastle Pet Supply, Sandra Squires, Paradigm Plumbing and Brandon Hebert.

Take a look at this month’s real estate blog brought to you by Port resident and realtor Brandon Hebert:

Information about sponsorship opportunities can be found here.

You can find a print edition of the Port Post in your mailbox later this month, and we’ll be back here with another digital edition in June 🌞

Did you like it? Let us know:

Subscribe now

Share Port Post

Leave a comment

Let’s start with upcoming events around the Port:

🚮 April 18: Port Cleanup!

🏷️ May 2: Community Garage Sale

Have something to add? 📩 portpostnewcastle@gmail.com

April showers bring May flowers 🌸

April snow brings… what? Who knows!

Spotted in the Port: Springtime (maybe?)

The blue colour of a robin’s eggs comes from the pigment biliverdin, which is applied to the shell during formation. Robins typically lay 3–5 eggs per clutch, and incubation lasts about 12–14 days, carried out mostly by the female. The species often produces two or three broods in a single breeding season. The appearance of robin eggs is commonly associated with spring because nesting begins soon after temperatures rise and food sources like worms become available.

Beginning in May, meet your neighbours each Saturday at 9:30 AM at Pearce Farm Park and take the kids through the local trails for an easy walk, ride, run, bike, stroll, scooter, etc. It is a great way to get your steps in, get the kids out of the house, and give mom a break for an hour or so.

For more information head to: https://tinyurl.com/2mj2dezb

Sunset in Newcastle:

• April 1 approx. 7:40–7:41 PM

• April 30 approx. 8:16–8:18 PM

Sunset times shift later by roughly 2–3 minutes per day through April.

Our bylaw reminder this month relates to Fireworks.

Clarington’s by-law 2015-047 regulates when and how fireworks can be used & sold in the community:

• Residents are allowed to set off consumer fireworks without a permit only on Canada Day and Victoria Day, as well as the three days leading up to each holiday. Outside of these dates, a permit is required.

• Fireworks may only be used between dusk and 11:00 p.m., and must be handled safely, with proper supervision and fire extinguishing equipment on hand.

• Permits are needed for all fireworks sales, which are limited to short periods before these holidays and restricted to adults.

• The by-law prohibits certain high-risk items such as firecrackers, sky lanterns, and other banned fireworks.

• It also bans use in unsafe locations, including public spaces without permission, near flammable materials, or on someone else’s property without consent.

Violations can result in fines, and permits may be denied or revoked if safety requirements are not met.

Illegal Dumping

With the snow now melted, illegal dumping is evident along Toronto Street and other edges of the neighbourhood. Illegal dumping is a crime. Help keep Clarington beautiful by reporting incidents through the Service Clarington Portal: www.clarington.net/ServiceClarington.

2026 is Municipal Election Year

In addition to voting for the Mayor of Clarington, local Ward 4 Councillor and Regional Councillor (representing Wards 3 and 4 at Durham Region), residents will also vote for School Board Trustees.

Property owners & tenants in Ontario are required to support a school board, even if they do not have children or their children are not currently attending school.

In the 2022 municipal election, the public board had 10 candidates in the run for 3 trustee positions, with Cathy Abraham, Kathleen Flynn, and Paul Brown ultimately elected. The Catholic board saw 3 candidates competing for 2 seats, with Kevin Mackenzie and Joshua Glover elected.

Voters choose representatives who serve across Clarington (not tied to individual wards).

Residents can update their school support designation online at mpac.ca/schoolsupport.

Operation Clean Sweep

Our annual Port Cleanup is taking place Saturday, April 18 from 10am to noon! Register at Admiral’s Walk Clubhouse with coffee & hot chocolate. Bring your family and sign up to clean a designated area of the neighbourhood or waterfront. Gloves and bags are provided. Enjoy a complimentary BBQ lunch beginning at 11:30, courtesy of Palmieri's NoFrills. Community service hours are available for students.

Sponsors & Supporters: Greg Lewis Insurance Agency, Admiral's Walk Clubhouse, Kaitlin Corporation, Algoma Orchards, DJ Concepts, RJN Limited, Samuel Wilmot Nature Area, Municipality of Clarington.

PET PROFILE: Meet “Crazy Daisy”! 🐾

Daisy is a 2 year old Bernedoodle who lives up to her nickname. She has energy for days and loves to say hi to people. She loves her toys, walks along the trail and chasing bunnies and squirrels. She’s a new big sister to a baby girl and takes her job seriously. She loves to nap all day on the couch but is always ready to play or get up for a piece of cheese.

Guess what? Newcastle Pet Supply has hopped on board to provide a swag bag for each month’s pet profiled! Featured friends can stop in to the store to pick it up!

The Port Post is on Instagram! 📷✨ Follow along here.

THANK YOU to our generous and encouraging sponsors, Sensational Seams, Newcastle Pet Supply, Sandra Squires, Paradigm Plumbing and Brandon Hebert. 🙏

Take a look at this month’s real estate blog brought to you by Port resident and realtor Brandon Hebert:

Information about sponsorship opportunities can be found here.

You can find a print edition of the Port Post in your mailbox later this month, and we’ll be back here with another digital edition in May (hopefully it will be Spring?)🌸

Did you like it? Let us know:

Subscribe now

Share Port Post

Leave a comment

Let’s start with upcoming events around the Port:

☘️ March 17: St. Patrick’s Day

🏃 March 13-20: March Break!

🌺 March 20: Spring Equinox!

📖 March 31: Port Prose Book Club Meeting

🐻‍❄️ April 4: Polar Bear Swim

🚮 April 18: Port Cleanup!

🏷️ May 2: Community Garage Sale

Have something to add? 📩 portpostnewcastle@gmail.com

Whistle Cessation

For several years, residents of Wilmot Creek have been advocating to cease train whistles around the Bennett Road and Cobbledick Road CN Rail crossings. Most recently, as a result of observed trespassing on the tracks, CN has identified additional safety requirements estimated at a cost of $925K which the municipality is now working to meet before whistles can stop.

Port of Newcastle Marina and Tennis Club, 1994

The Results Are In!

Thanks to all those who participated in the community event interest survey. To get involved, please contact Brandon Hebert.

Beginning in May, meet your neighbours each Saturday at 9:30 AM at Pearce Farm Park and take the kids through the local trails for an easy walk, ride, run, bike, stroll, scooter, etc. It is a great way to get your steps in, get the kids out of the house, and give mom a break for an hour or so.

For more information head to: https://tinyurl.com/2mj2dezb

Polar Plunge at Bond Head

Due to unsafe conditions on New Year’s Day, Autism Home Base’s Polar Plunge was rescheduled to April 4, 2026 at Bond Head Parkette! Clarington Fire Fighters will be on hand keeping everyone safe. There will be a bonfire and BBQ to warm up! Registration starts at 12:45pm and swimmers will start entering the water at 2:00pm.

Our bylaw reminder this month relates to Responsible Pet Ownership

The Municipality of Clarington’s Responsible Pet Owners’ By-law establishes rules to promote humane treatment of animals, public safety, and responsible pet ownership. It requires all dogs and cats over 12 weeks old to be licensed annually, wear identification tags, and meet minimum care standards, including adequate food, shelter, medical attention, and protection from weather. The by-law limits the number of pets permitted per property (generally three dogs and three unaltered cats), regulates leash-free areas, enforces “stoop and scoop” requirements, and sets specific rules for restricted pit bulls in accordance with provincial legislation.

OFF-LEASH DOGS: A Port resident was bitten on the leg by an off-leash dog while walking in Samuel Wilmot Nature Area in February and required medical attention.

Even well-behaved dogs can react unpredictably, and not everyone is comfortable around dogs. For the safety of everyone — please ensure your dogs remain leashed in accordance with Clarington’s bylaw.

The Spring Melt

As winter snowbanks begin to shrink, the runoff flows into catch basins and storm sewers. If drains are clogged with sand, leaves, or ice, water can back up onto streets and into low-lying areas. Because Newcastle sits along the north shore of Lake Ontario, high lake levels can also slow drainage during peak melt periods. Residents can help by ensuring sewers remain clear, as even small blockages can cause significant pooling when snowmelt is sustained over several days.

2026 is Municipal Election Year

With the municipal election in late October still more than eight months away, Regional Councillor and incumbent Willie Woo announced on February 9 that he intends to seek re-election as Regional Councillor for Wards 3 and 4 at Durham Regional Council.

Willie was first elected as Ward 3 Local Councillor in 2006, later serving multiple terms as Regional Councillor for Wards 3 and 4 before retiring in 2018. After a four-year absence, he returned to politics and was elected by acclamation in the 2022 municipal election, meaning he faced no opponents.

Voter turnout in Clarington in 2022 was just 28%, despite voting being held online over several days.

It’s That Time of Year! Annual Port Cleanup

Now in it’s 13th year, the Port cleanup was started by Leo Blindenbach with only 3 people and has now grown to over 200 people.

Saturday, April 18, 2026, 10:00 am – 12:00 pm

Register at Admiral’s Walk Clubhouse at 10:00 am; enjoy coffee and hot chocolate.

Volunteers sign up for designated areas of the neighbourhood and are provided with bags, gloves, etc.

Complimentary BBQ Lunch at 11:30 am, courtesy of Palmieri’s NoFrills

Community service hours available for students.

Sponsors & Supporters: Greg Lewis Insurance Agency, Admiral’s Walk Clubhouse, Kaitlin Corporation, Algoma Orchards, DJ Concepts, RJN Limited, Samuel Wilmot Nature Area, Municipality of Clarington.

You can also organize your own cleanup by contacting operations@clarington.net. The municipality will provide garbage bags and gloves and coordinate the disposal of the collected waste.

Our pet profile this month is Ollie! 🐾

This is Ollie, a 9 month old German Australian Shepherd! He joined our family last summer. He is extremely smart albeit a little chattier than our golden retrievers were. But he has been a great addition to our family and we are currently doing agility training!

Guess what? Newcastle Pet Supply has hopped on board to provide a swag bag for each month’s pet profiled! Featured friends can stop in to the store to pick it up!

Spotted: An epic snow fort right here in the Port!

The Port Post is on Instagram! 📷✨ Follow along here.

THANK YOU to our generous and encouraging sponsors, Sensational Seams, Newcastle Pet Supply, Sandra Squires and Brandon Hebert. 🙏

Take a look at this month’s real estate blog brought to you by Port resident and realtor Brandon Hebert:

Information about sponsorship opportunities can be found here.

You can find a print edition of the Port Post in your mailbox later this month, and we’ll be back here with another digital edition in April! 🌧️🌸

Did you like it? Let us know:

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Let’s start with upcoming events around the Port:

🌊 February 10: Public Information Meeting - Coastal Process Study

❤️ February 14: Valentine’s Day

📖 February 24 (tentative - vote here): Port Prose Book Club Meeting @ 7pm

Have something to add? 📩 portpostnewcastle@gmail.com

In honour of Valentine’s Day, a love letter to the Port 💙

There are so many reasons we’ve fallen for you, but let’s start with the obvious: those iconic white balconies, standing proudly along the shoreline like a little touch of Cape Cod brought home. Your sunrises and sunsets. The way the first light spills over the lake, soft and peachy, waking the world so gently. The way the evenings burn gold and pink, reflecting across the water. But it’s more than beauty—it’s the heartbeat of the place. The warmth of neighbours who smile before speaking, the familiar faces on morning walks, and the irresistible parade of babies in strollers and dogs living their best lives. Port of Newcastle, you are a coastal dream. On Valentine’s Day and every day, thank you for being the place that feels like home in all the best ways.

The municipality of Clarington is holding a virtual information session for residents to learn about the findings of the Coastal Process Study and design concepts intended to offer nature-based solutions to improve the functionality and resilience of the Graham Creek Jetties and Bond Head Beach.

Tuesday, February 10, 2026 @ 6:30pm

Register at https://www.clarington.net/coastalprocessstudy

Too cool! This backyard rink was spotted right here in the Port. 👀⛸️

2026 is Municipal Election Year

If you’ve noticed increased attention on local politics, that’s because municipal elections will be held across Ontario this October.

The Port of Newcastle lies within Ward 4 of the Municipality of Clarington. Residents here will vote to choose who represents them at Clarington Council, Durham Region Council, and on local school boards.

Clarington has already moved to electronic/online voting, first used in the 2022 municipal election, where residents cast ballots over several days using secure voting codes instead of traditional paper ballots.

Check your info here: https://vreg.registertovoteon.ca/en/home

Candidates can register to run beginning in May. Stay tuned for more Ward 4 updates!

What’s going on here: Vacant, fenced-off waterfront

The empty lakefront land near the marina is owned by the municipality and said to be in a “planning and visioning” stage. As part of Clarington’s ongoing overall Waterfront Strategy, the area is to be reviewed for future public access, environmental protection, and potential mixed-use development. No specific redevelopment proposal has been approved; however, the draft Clarington Waterfront Strategy is now available and will be presented for review at the Planning and Development Committee meeting on February 9, 2026, at 5 p.m.

There is currently no fixed implementation or construction timeline. Any future waterfront improvements would be subject to Council approval, funding availability, further detailed design, and additional community engagement through subsequent phases.

How to get involved:

Join us at Council Chambers, Municipal Administrative Centre, 40 Temperance Street, Bowmanville or attend virtually by watching the live stream at www.clarington.net/calendar.

Should you wish to delegate at the meeting, please pre-register by completing the online form at www.clarington.net/delegations or contact the Clerk’s Division at 905-623-3379 ext. 2109 or clerks@clarington.net by February 4, 2026, at 12 p.m. A link and telephone number will be provided once registered.

Neighbour intro!

Hi! I’m Katie Walker. My husband Matt, our 4-year-old son Chance, and our pup Luna have called the Port home for just over three years now. We moved here from Dundas, ON — it felt like a big leap at the time, but now we can’t imagine being anywhere else. What we love most about living here is the incredible sense of community (and being by the lake definitely doesn’t hurt). Watching Chance make friends, start school, and seeing Matt and me find our people through run clubs and book clubs has been amazing. We feel so lucky to call this place home — the people, the vibe, the lake… it’s all pretty special.

P.S. If anyone has ideas for new clubs — I’m in!

Our pet profile this month is Nugget! 🐾

Meet our little boy Nugget! Nugget is 5 years old. He loves his walks and really loves his treats! He often will not come into the house until he is offered his treat. Nugget loves his family and spends his days going from bed to bed, waiting for us to come home to play! Nugget also loves the snow and rolls around in it, often ruining a very fresh groom!

Guess what? Newcastle Pet Supply has hopped on board to provide a swag bag for each month’s pet profiled! Featured friends can stop in to the store to pick it up!

Why are the roads dirty?

Ontario municipalities, including Clarington, are experiencing a province-wide road salt shortage.

To maintain traction and keep transportation networks moving, communities like Clarington are now using a blend of salt, sand, and other de-icing materials. While these mixtures help improve safety, they can come with trade-offs:

• Increased sand on roads and sidewalks, which residents may notice more than usual

• Less effective melting, particularly during extreme cold, compared to traditional road salt

• More frequent revisits by crews, since sand does not last as long on busy roadways

• Adjustments to snow-clearing timelines, particularly on secondary streets, to make the most efficient use of available resources

The Port Prose Book Club 📖

This month’s book is The God of the Woods by Liz Moore. Book club meeting details can be found by searching for the Port Prose Book Club on Facebook (it’s public even if you do not have an account). Everyone is welcome!

Our bylaw reminder this month relates to boulevards.

By-Law 2013-066 regulates how residents may use, alter, or place items on municipal boulevards—the strip of land between the roadway and private property.

The by-law prohibits planting vegetation, installing hard-scaping (stones, bricks, concrete), erecting fences, altering grading, or placing any objects or obstructions on the boulevard without municipal approval. It also forbids damaging or removing infrastructure such as sidewalks, curbs, drainage ditches, or municipal trees.

Grass and weeds on the boulevard must be kept below 20 cm. The municipality may order unauthorized items removed, restore damaged boulevards, or—if the property owner doesn’t comply—perform the work and charge the costs back to them.

Overall, the goal is to protect public safety, maintain drainage and utilities, and keep roadside areas accessible and uniform.👍

A red sky over the lake in winter often occurs when the low sun shines through cold, dry air, scattering shorter wavelengths and leaving warm red tones. At sunset, this usually indicates that stable, high-pressure air is present, which can signal calm or clear weather ahead. The cold conditions and ice on the water can make the colours appear even more vivid. 🌅

The Port Post is on Instagram! 📷✨ Follow along here.

THANK YOU to our generous and encouraging sponsors, Angela Letterio, Newcastle Smile Dental Centre, Sensational Seams, Newcastle Pet Supply, Sandra Squires and Brandon Hebert. 🙏

Take a look at this month’s real estate blog brought to you by Port resident and realtor Brandon Hebert:

Information about sponsorship opportunities can be found here.

You can find a print edition of the Port Post in your mailbox later this month, and we’ll be back here with another digital edition in March!☘️

Did you like it? Let us know:

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Let’s start with upcoming events around the Port:

⏰ January 15: Admiral’s Walk Clubhouse annual membership dues deadline

🐶 January 17&18: Newcastle Pet Supply Customer Appreciation Event

📖 January 28: Port Prose Book Club Meeting @ 7pm

Have something to add? 📩 portpostnewcastle@gmail.com

2026 Events Outlook 📅

Community volunteers are busy planning a few events for the rest of the year and would love your input! Visit https://shorturl.at/avrU3✔️ to vote for the events you’d be most excited about.

Your picks will help shape the calendar and bring the best ideas to life for all.

If you’re interested in helping out, please contact Brandon Hebert. 🫶

Our natural ODRs ⛸️

You may have seen friends and neighbours out enjoying the Port’s beautiful outdoor rinks (popular choices include the retaining pond off the Toronto Street parking lot and the creek alongside the Waterfront Trail). Outdoor skating can be a wonderful way to enjoy winter, and a little awareness helps keep it safe for everyone. Residents are encouraged to use extra caution, skate with others, and supervise children closely.

Guidelines (not guarantees!) ⚠️

Ice Thickness

• 7 cm (≈ 3 inches) – Walking, ice fishing (single person)

• 10 cm (≈ 4 inches) – Group skating, hockey

• 12 cm (≈ 5 inches) – Small vehicles (e.g., snowmobile, ATV)

• 20–30 cm (8–12 inches) – Medium to large vehicles

These measurements assume new, clear ice. White, slushy, cracked, or snow-covered ice is much weaker and needs significantly more thickness to support the same weight.

Temperature

There are no temperature rules (e.g., “safe after X days below zero”) because:

• Ice forms at different rates depending on water depth, current, wind, and snow cover

• Flowing water (like a creek) may never freeze evenly, regardless of temperature

• Warm spells, rain, or groundwater movement can weaken ice quickly

Our pet profile this month is Declan! 🐾

This enthusiastic goofball is just over a year old and a rescue from the reserves in Northern Ontario. Declan is deeply in love with everything — people, dogs, cats, bugs, sticks, and especially leaves that dare to blow past him.

His top priorities in life are bully sticks, his momma, and saying hello to literally everyone. He’s making great progress with his training, but his excitement sometimes gets the better of him.

If you see Declan out on a walk working hard on a polite sit, please help him succeed by resisting the urge to pet those adorable ears. He’s learning manners — and trying very hard!

Guess what? Newcastle Pet Supply has hopped on board to provide a swag bag for each month’s pet profiled! Featured friends can stop in to the store to pick it up!

What happened to the rink at Pearce Farm Park? ⛸️

Community outdoor rinks in Clarington are built and maintained almost entirely by volunteer resident groups, not municipal staff.

To make a rink happen, volunteers have to:

• Recruit a team (at least four volunteers)

• Attend municipal training on how to set up and maintain the rink.

• Install all rink materials — boards, garbage cans, etc.

• Maintain the ice surface every single day, including snow shoveling, scraping, flooding, and cleanup.

• Complete daily inspection logs twice a day

• Report any injuries or safety concerns

THANK YOU🙏 to the generous neighbours who gave us the Pearce Farm Park rink for several years, including during the pandemic when many other facilities were closed.

Annual bird count 🐦🦅🐤🦆

Again this year, the Samuel Wilmot Nature Area Management Advisory Committee coordinated the Christmas Bird Count in the Newcastle area including: the Nature Area itself, the Wilmot Creek Retirement Community, the communities of Newcastle, the Port of Newcastle and Bond Head, and the surrounding countryside.

Residents were invited to participate on January 3 either by:

• Joining as an individual or part of a team to cover a specific portion of any of the above areas, and/or

• Counting birds that visit their own backyard feeders

The Christmas Bird Count (CBC) is North America’s longest-running Citizen Science project. People in more than 2000 locations throughout the Western Hemisphere participate in the CBC each year, with the information collected forming one of the world’s largest sets of wildlife survey data.

For more information, you can read or subscribe to the SWNA blog at https://swnanews.wordpress.com/

The Port Prose Book Club 📖

The first book club meeting of 2026 will be held on Wednesday, January 28th at 7pm. This month’s book is The Correspondent by Virginia Evans. Book club meeting details can be found by searching for the Port Prose Book Club on Facebook (it’s public even if you do not have an account). Everyone is welcome!

What’s going on here: Tree pruning🌳

You may have noticed roadside trees getting a little (or a large) trim recently. Block pruning performed by the municipality is intended to remove dead, diseased, broken or dangerous branches; improve clearance over roadways, walkways and driveways; and trim branches that come into contact with homes and other structures.

Measuring over 15,000 square feet, the Admiral’s Walk Clubhouse offers residents a local recreational facility, including a spa, fitness room, and indoor pool. There is also a party room, lounge, games room, business centre and private theatre. 🏋️‍♂️🎥

The clubhouse has its own Social Director who arranges a full schedule of activities including movies, karaoke, Euchre, yoga and aqua fit. 🎤🧘

Admiral’s Walk membership is included with every condominium residence, while detached home owners have access and full privileges at the Clubhouse with membership dues.

Our bylaw reminder this month relates to winter parking. ❄️🚗🚙

Parking on the street in the winter months can interrupt or prevent effective snow clearing operations. Snow plow operators clear snow as close to the curb as possible (or end of travelled portion of roadway where no curb exists), but road obstructions, like parked vehicles, prevent this task from being completed.

In Clarington:

• You cannot park on any street between the hours of 3 a.m. and 5 a.m. all year.

• You cannot park on the street during a snow event at any time of day or night.

If you park on the street and interfere with snow clearing operations, your vehicle may be ticketed and towed. Parking on the street during a snow event can slow down snow clearing operations, and in some cases, it can stop all snow clearing on that street.

The Port Post is on Instagram! 📷✨ Follow along here.

THANK YOU to our generous and encouraging sponsors, Angela Letterio, Newcastle Smile Dental Centre, Sensational Seams, Newcastle Pet Supply, Sandra Squires and Brandon Hebert. 🙏

Take a look at this month’s real estate blog brought to you by Port resident and realtor Brandon Hebert:

When the Holidays End, the Debt Often Doesn’t

From Port resident Angela Letterio – Your Local Mortgage Broker🏠

Holiday spending can add up quickly, and for many households, the financial impact lasts long after the season ends.

What many people don’t realize is that holiday debt doesn’t always need to remain on high-interest credit cards.

Depending on your situation, there may be options to:

• Consolidate balances at a lower rate

• Improve monthly cash flow

• Reduce overall interest costs

This isn’t about judgment—it’s about awareness. Many people simply haven’t been shown what options exist or when they make sense.

A brief review can often provide clarity. A conversation doesn’t commit you to anything—it simply helps you understand your choices.

At Newcastle Smile, we are a family dental office focused on comfort, warmth, and forming connections with everyone. We are open late and on weekends. Always accepting new patients. Free whitening for every patient!

info@newcastlesmilecentre.com (905) 446-5500 1-361 King Ave East, Newcastle

Information about sponsorship opportunities can be found here.

You can find a print edition of the Port Post in your mailbox later this month, and we’ll be back here with another digital edition in February!

Did you like it? Let us know:

Subscribe now

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Welcome to the 4th edition of your new community newsletter.

Let’s start with upcoming events around the Port:

🐕 December 7: Pet photos with Santa at Newcastle Pet Supply

📖 December 17: Port Prose Book Club Meeting

⛸️ December 28: Hebert Group Holiday Skate

Have something to add? 📩 portpostnewcastle@gmail.com

Who remembers the waterfront trail pre-Covid? ❄️ The municipality began maintaining our 1.6km stretch of the trail in the winter of 2020/2021 🙌🏼

Clarington now maintains several trails during the winter months, including the paved portion of Samuel Wilmot Nature Area trail and the paved 1.6-kilometre portion of the Waterfront Trail along Lakebreeze Drive. 🚶‍♀️

Thank you, Leo 🤍

Leo Blindenbach was a constant figure in the Port for many years, organizing the annual spring cleanup and countless other community events.

Leo spent his final days at the new Marigold Hospice Care on Cobbledick Road, where he was a valued member of the board and longtime champion.

From Marigold Hospice Care:

It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of our dear board member, Leo Blindenbach, who bravely fought a long battle with cancer.

Leo spent his final days at Marigold Hospice Care, the very place he devoted so much time, passion, and heart to bringing to life. His dedication shaped our organization in profound ways, and his vision continues to guide us. Leo’s positive attitude and unwavering optimism lifted the spirits of everyone around him, even in the most challenging moments.

Leo championed the creation of the Hike or Bike for Marigold Hospice Care, inspiring our community to come together in support of compassionate end-of-life care. He also brought joy and visibility to Marigold by rallying volunteers and building our float for the community Santa Claus parades, efforts rooted in his belief in community connection and shared celebration.

His work in the community was recognized well beyond our walls: Leo received the Ontario Seniors Achievement Award in 2021 and a Paul Harris Fellowship Award in 2024, both celebrating his meaningful contributions.

Leo’s kindness, uplifting spirit, and unwavering commitment to community will be deeply missed. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and all who were touched by his generosity.

May he rest in peace, knowing the incredible legacy he leaves behind.

What’s going on here? 👀🐦‍⬛ Scaup in the water!

If you spotted this huge dark patch on the lake lately — no, your eyes weren’t playing tricks on you. It’s a ‘raft’ of hundreds of scaup, a diving duck that gathers in massive groups on Lake Ontario every November. Even on a 0°C day, the lake is several degrees warmer than the air, making the water a comfortable stopover as they feed on mussels and rest during migration.

Our pet profile this month is Cash! 🐕

At only 4 months old, Cash is 33 pounds and growing by the second! His current nickname is Sharknado because of those little puppy teeth! Cash loves to be outside running around.

Guess what? Newcastle Pet Supply has hopped on board to provide a swag bag for each month’s pet profiled! Featured friends can stop in to the store to pick it up!

Mental health moment 🧠 Mood Maintenance for the Cold Months: How to Support Your Mental Health in Winter

Port resident Breeana Dennis, HBA Psych, Human Services Counsellor (Mental Health and Addictions) and Certified Life Skills Coach

As the days grow shorter and the cold settles in, many people notice a shift in their mood, energy, and motivation. Winter tends to invite a heavier emotional tone - a quiet dip in enthusiasm, a growing desire to hibernate, and for some, symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). But the winter season isn’t just darker; it’s different. And with the right mindset and a few practical tools, these months can become a time of restoration rather than decline.

There are simple, effective ways to support your mental health through this stretch of the year: protecting your exposure to daylight, staying connected to others, moving and nourishing your body, and creating small daily rituals that bring warmth and comfort. Just as important is learning to embrace what winter does offer: slower mornings, softer routines, cozy evenings and permission to rest without guilt. When we understand the science behind how light impacts our brain, we can pair that knowledge with intentional habits and shift winter from something we simply endure to something we move through with more steadiness and self-compassion.

Why Our Brains Feel Different in the Winter

FACT: our brains truly do change when the seasons do! With fewer hours of natural sunlight, the body produces more melatonin, the hormone that signals sleepiness. At the same time, serotonin, the neurotransmitter that helps balance mood, can drop. This natural shift can leave us feeling more tired, less motivated, and more prone to craving comfort foods or retreating inward.

Our circadian rhythm, the internal clock that regulates sleep, appetite, and focus, also gets disrupted with reduced daylight. When the rhythm is off, everything feels just slightly harder: waking up, staying energized, keeping your mood stable, or sticking to routines that feel effortless in the spring and summer.

These biological changes are totally normal, and while year after year, it’s difficult to adjust, understanding them can remove some stigma, shame or frustration many people feel when winter brings a dip in mood or productivity.

Quick Tips for Supporting Your Mood This Winter:

• Chase a little morning light: Step outside for 10 minutes after waking- think of it as plugging your brain into its daytime charger.

• Use a daylight lamp when the sun plays hard to get: A quick morning blast of bright light can nudge your mood back into gear.

• MOVE THAT BODY! A workout, walk, a stretch, dancing while you make breakfast it all boosts your winter energy.

• Eat warm, cozy, mood-loving foods: Soups, hearty proteins, omega-3s… basically anything that feels like a hug for your insides.

• Add micro-moments of cozy to your day: A candle, a soft blanket, warm socks, your favourite mug. Tiny comforts, big impact.

• Keep little pockets of connection: Send a “thinking of you” text, schedule a coffee, or run an errand with a friend. Small social hits count!

• Stick to a sleep rhythm that feels good: Consistent wake/bed times help keep winter grogginess in check.

• Get outside at least once a day (yes, even if it’s quick): Fresh air + outdoor light = an instant mini-reset for your brain.

• Lean into winter’s soft side: Cozy nights, slower routines, reflection, reading, movies, couch time with the fam, winter has its own kind of magic if you look for it!!

Did you know? 🧘‍♀️We’ve got a yoga studio right here in the Port! A variety of classes are offered, including lakeside yoga in the summer and hot power yoga indoors. You can find the full schedule here.

Join us on January 1st, 2026 at Bond Head Parkette in Newcastle, Ontario. Once again, Clarington Firefighters will be on hand keeping everyone safe. We’ll have a bonfire and BBQ to warm up our swimmers!

Organized by the family and friends of Hollylynn Towie to celebrate her life.

Last year, more than 285 hearty supporters started the New Year with a splash in the icy waters of Lake Ontario raising over $37,000 for Autistic adults in Durham Region.

Winter cleanup: Samuel Wilmot Nature Area 🧤🍂❄️

Thank you to members of the SWNA Management Advisory Committee who gathered at the Toronto Street parking lot on November 15 to undertake a cleanup before winter.

Did you know? 👥

The Samuel Wilmot Nature Area Management Advisory Committee is comprised of 12 voting members (eleven citizens and one member of Council) appointed by Clarington Council and one non-voting member (a representative from Ganaraska Region Conservation Authority).

Looking back: While early plans for the Port included a public elementary school, in 2005 Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board withdrew their interest in the block of land that had been reserved. The builder, Kaitlin Group Ltd., then proposed development of 19 lots for 38 semi-detached / linked dwelling units on the land that is now Alldread Crescent. 🏫📚✏️

The Port Prose Book Club 📖🎄✨

The club held their second meeting on November 26 at the Snug, with many new members joining! The next book is The Christmas Wish by Lindsey Kelk. Book club meeting details can be found by searching for the Port Prose Book Club on Facebook (it’s public even if you do not have an account). Everyone is welcome!

SHARPEN YOUR SKATES PORT NEIGHBOURS! ⛸️

Experience the warmth of winter at our charming community skate event! Door prize to be won! Fun for all ages! Sign up for more.

SIGN-UP FOR THE FREE HEBERT GROUP HOLIDAY SKATE!

https://brandonhebert.myflodesk.com/holiday-skate-2025

Our bylaw reminder this month relates to snow clearing. ❄️🥶

Clarington’s snow clearing by-law gives property owners 24 hours after the end of a snowfall to clear snow and ice from sidewalks bordering their property. Residents must clear the sidewalks of snow to their full width, including between snowfalls or when drifting occurs.

You must also clear “corner links”, as shown below:

Failing to clear the sidewalk of snow and ice could result in a penalty of the cost of the Municipality completing the work plus a $50 administrative fee.

It is the property owner’s responsibility to use safety salt or sand on ice and slippery surfaces if necessary.

Related: Winter parking rules are now in effect in Clarington

Winter parking rules are now in effect, with parking on the road between 3 and 5 a.m. prohibited. In addition, vehicles parked on the street during a snow event may be ticketed or towed — temporary parking permits and on-street parking permits are not valid during a snow event or for the duration of cleanup.

Take a look at this month’s real estate summary brought to you by Port resident and realtor Brandon Hebert:

The Port Post is on Instagram! 📷✨ Follow along here.

THANK YOU to our generous and encouraging sponsors, Angela Letterio, Newcastle Smile Dental Centre, Sensational Seams, Newcastle Pet Supply, Sandra Squires and Brandon Hebert. 🙏

Santa’s coming to Newcastle Pet Supply! Join us for FREE Pet Photos with Santa on Sunday, December 7th, 10AM–1PM. Bring your furry friends for a festive photo and some holiday cheer!

Donations welcomed for the Clarington East Food Bank or cash donations for Flights For Hope - every bit helps! Plus, enjoy 15% OFF all Christmas toys & treats during the event — because Santa’s feeling extra jolly!

See you Sunday December 7th for smiles, wagging tails & festive fun!

FHSA Strategy That Could Put Thousands Back in Your Pocket

From Port resident Angela Letterio – Your Local Mortgage Broker🏠

Most first-time buyers have never heard of this: Many people assume that once they buy their first home, their FHSA (First Home Savings Account) benefits end right there. Not true.

Here’s the real opportunity: if you delay your FHSA withdrawal, you can continue contributing even after you’ve purchased your home, earn another tax deduction next year, and still withdraw the entire balance tax-free under the FHSA rules.

Yes — even if your purchase has already closed.
Yes — fully CRA-approved.
Yes — almost nobody is taking advantage of it.

For first-time buyers in Ontario, this can be one of the easiest, most overlooked financial wins available.

Important reminder: Every situation is unique. Always confirm your eligibility with a qualified tax professional before using this strategy.

Want to know if you qualify? If you’d like guidance or want to know whether this applies to your situation, you can contact me directly anytime for help.

Never miss an opportunity!

These small strategies add up fast — and most people miss them. If you want to catch every advantage available to you as a homeowner or buyer, follow me on Facebook or Instagram for ongoing tips.

At Newcastle Smile, we are a family dental office focused on comfort, warmth, and forming connections with everyone. We are open late and on weekends. Always accepting new patients. Free whitening for every patient!

info@newcastlesmilecentre.com (905) 446-5500 1-361 King Ave East, Newcastle

Looking for a last minute gift idea the whole family can enjoy?

Purchase a $1,000 Gift Card for only $750!

Call 905-987-4272 or email info@sensationalseams.com before December 24, 2025.

Information about sponsorship opportunities can be found here.

You can find a print edition of the Port Post in your mailbox later this month, and we’ll be back here with another digital edition in 2026!

Did you like it? Let us know:

Subscribe now

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For further information about the local real estate market, you can sign up to Brandon’s monthly e-newsletter through this link:

https://brandonhebert.myflodesk.com/portpost

Welcome to the 3rd edition of your new community newsletter.

Let’s start with upcoming events around the Port:

👶 Every Monday: Mom & Baby Pilates in the Port

🍁 November 11: Remembrance Day

📖 November 26: Port Prose Book Club Meeting

Have something to add? 📩 portpostnewcastle@gmail.com

Remembrance Day

September’s issue of the Port Post featured Doug Walton.

October’s issue of the Port Post featured Jarvis Belsey.

Both of these names can be found on the Newcastle cenotaph, which will host a Remembrance Day ceremony as always on the morning of November 11.

Lest we forget. ❤️

Spotted 👀 Port resident Pam Gregory decorating our neighbourhood entrance for Halloween! Pam moved to the Port in 2019 with her husband. A semi-retired decorator, her former neighbour Leo Blindenbach soon recruited her to help decorate the entrance for Christmas, Canada Day, and more.

Pam receives decoration donations from local businesses like No Frills, Watson Farms, and Price’s Country Market, and also purchases them herself! She can always use more help - please reach out to her on Facebook or Instagram if you can donate time or decor.

P.S. At least half a dozen cars stopped to say thanks while we were visiting Pam. Please do the same if you see her out there! 🙏

Our pet profile this month is GOOSE! 🐕

Here is “Goose”, age 5 and 92lbs of energy! He is a part-time working dog who loves to hunt, swim, roll in grass and dirt and shadow anything his humans do. He’s very protective over his family/home, so saying “Hi” from afar is perfect for him. He can hear the opening of a snack wrapper from anywhere, and he has a nose that will find any crumb left in pockets!

Guess what? Newcastle Pet Supply has hopped on board to provide a swag bag for each month’s pet profiled! Featured friends can stop in to the store to pick it up!

What’s going on here? Traffic calming 🚗

You may have noticed that the speed cushions at the entrance to the Port of Newcastle were removed last week. Rubber speed cushions are meant to be temporary, in use through the summer months and removed in the winter to allow for snow clearing.

Clarington’s Traffic Calming Manual lists several traffic calming tools used by the municipality, and describes speed cushions as follows:

Speed cushions are a narrower variant of speed humps, strategically placed in the center of each travel lane. They are engineered to reduce the speed of passenger vehicles while permitting vehicles with larger wheelbases (e.g., emergency vehicles and buses) to traverse without hindrance. Speed cushions should be preferred over speed humps on emergency response and transit routes.

The Port Prose Book Club 📖

First meeting in the “books”.

Find details of the book club on Facebook.

The next book is She Didn’t See it Coming by Shari Lapena and the second meeting is taking place November 26 at 7pm at the Snug.

NEW this month! Port resident Amber is offering mom & baby Pilates in the Port 👶

You can reach out directly to amberindiipilates@gmail.com.

Our bylaw reminder this month relates to pet licensing. 🐾

If you own a pet in the Municipality of Clarington, you are required to license them each year.

Pet licensing in Clarington is managed by DocuPet: clarington.docupet.com.

Purchasing a licence ensures that your pet is in compliance with the Responsible Pet Owners By-law. The by-law was enacted to ensure the health and safety of residents and their pets.

Did you know you can look up most vessels you see out on the lake in real time? 🔭Head over to marinetraffic.com to check out the name, route, speed & more!

Coyote season 🐺

It’s coyote season in Durham Region, and sightings around Newcastle are on the rise. Fall is when young coyotes born in the Spring leave their parents to find their own territory — meaning they’re more active, curious, and often visible along greenbelts, fields, and wooded edges (and apparently on PON and Schooner!). They’re also hunting more actively to build up fat before winter.

Coyotes are naturally wary of people, but it’s best to keep pets leashed, secure garbage and compost, and make noise if one wanders too close.

Take a look at this month’s real estate summary brought to you by Port resident and realtor Brandon Hebert:

New neighbour alert🚨❗Meet Noah, who joins big brother Cole as one of our newest little Port residents. 🥰

The Port Post is now on Instagram! 📷✨ Follow along here.

In October, we featured one #portporch per day - showcasing some of the most beautiful (or boo-tiful) porches and yards in neighbourhood!

Port resident, local realtor and father of three Brandon Hebert has free safety signs available! 🚸

Please reach out to Brandon directly and he’ll drop one off: 416-949-7529

Interested in getting involved in the community?

Being part of the Newcastle Lions Club is more than volunteering. It’s about making a real difference in our community. When you join, you’ll connect with caring neighbours who share your desire to give back.

For 78 years, the Newcastle Lions have proudly supported local causes and strengthened our village spirit. Whether you can give a few hours a month or help with one special event, your time and talents truly matter. Meetings are held on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month.

For more information, contact lionsnewcastle@gmail.com.

Neighbour intro! Meet Port resident Angela Letterio – Your Local Mortgage Broker🏠

From Serving the Community to Supporting Your Homeownership Journey

After more than 30 years serving with the Durham Regional Police Service, I’ve carried my commitment to trust, integrity, and accountability into my post-retirement career as a Mortgage Broker with Sherwood Mortgage Group. Having lived in the Port of Newcastle for over 15 years with my family — and our beloved fur baby, Jazz — I’m proud to help friends and neighbours navigate the mortgage process with clarity and confidence.

If you’re thinking about buying, refinancing, or planning your next move, I can help you explore your options and find a solution that truly fits your goals — often with more flexibility than traditional banks. Let’s connect to discuss your next steps.
905-432-4824 | www.mortgagesbyletterio.com

Print edition: With Canada Post resuming delivery, we are hopeful that you will find the November issue of the Port Post in your mailbox, instead of on your porch. ✉️

THANK YOU to our generous and encouraging sponsors, Angela Letterio, Newcastle Smile Dental Centre, Sensational Seams, Newcastle Pet Supply, Sandra Squires and Brandon Hebert. 🙏

At Newcastle Smile, we are a family dental office focused on comfort, warmth, and forming connections with everyone. We are open late and on weekends. Always accepting new patients. Free whitening for every patient!

info@newcastlesmilecentre.com (905) 446-5500 1-361 King Ave East, Newcastle

Refresh your home with custom, made-to-measure window treatments from Sensational SEAMS. From design consultation to installation, we bring style, function & premium fabrics — stress-free. Drapery, shutters, blinds, bedding, automation & outdoor solutions tailored to your vision. Family-owned business since 1986 located in Newcastle, we serve Durham, Northumberland & Kawartha Lakes. Call (905) 987-4272 or visit sensationalseams.com

FREE Soft Touch Motorization Lifting System on all HunterDouglas orders placed by November 30, 2025.

Information about sponsorship opportunities can be found here.

You can find a print edition of the Port Post in your mailbox later this month, and we’ll be back here with another digital edition in December. 🎄

Did you like it? Let us know:

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For further information about the local real estate market, you can sign up to Brandon’s monthly e-newsletter through this link:

https://brandonhebert.myflodesk.com/portpost

Let’s start with upcoming events around the Port:

👟 Every Thursday: Newcastle Run Club

📖 October 22: Port Prose Book Club Meeting

🎃 October 31: Halloween! Little trick or treaters will be out & about.

Have something to add? 📩 portpostnewcastle@gmail.com

Halloween fun under the stars✨

Thank you for making it a night to remember!

What an incredible evening we shared together at Pearce Farm Park! Even with a few hiccups, it was so special to see our community come together for a night of movies, hot chocolate, and laughter.

Our pet profile this month is Clifford the Bernadoodle! 🐕

At 18 months old, Clifford is a fluffy ball of charm straight out of Palmerston, Ontario. He’s basically a toddler in a fur coat—he loves long walks, playing tag with his two favorite humans (ages 4 and 6), and giving unsolicited face washes via enthusiastic licking. Clifford has a quirky hobby: carrying around your shoe like it’s a priceless treasure… don’t worry, he never chews it, he just believes footwear deserves to travel.

Social butterfly? Absolutely. Clifford thinks every dog is a potential best friend and every human is a snack dispenser. He also has a “signature move”: barking until he gets his way—because negotiation is for amateurs. Friendly, goofy, and just a little dramatic, Clifford is living proof that big personalities come wrapped in fluffy doodle curls.

Guess what? Newcastle Pet Supply has hopped on board to provide a swag bag for each month’s pet profiled! Featured friends can stop in to the store to pick it up!

Our street story for October takes us to Belsey Lane.

Corporal Jarvis Belsey was born April 8, 1927 in Dover, England. His father, Edward (Ted), served in the Royal Navy for 27 years. Jarvis left high school before graduation and enlisted with the Royal Marines on his 18th birthday in 1945, just before the end of the Second World War. In 1947, Ted and his wife Gladys immigrated to Newcastle, Ontario. Jarvis served in the Royal Marines in England and could not join the family in the move to Newcastle, but in 1949, he had three months of leave and stayed with his family, helping his father build their home.

Jarvis married Joyce West in August 1950 and was deployed to Korea in November. His unit joined the United Nations advance into North Korea, where they served with the United States Marine Corps. A bitter cold streak plunged temperatures into the minus 30s, causing thousands of casualties due to frostbite.

On November 29, 1950, Jarvis’ unit came under attack. He died when struck by shrapnel while riding in a troop truck. Jarvis was buried in a military cemetery in South Korea.

Although a resident of Clarington for only three months, family members still reside locally. Jarvis’ name is on the cenotaph in Newcastle.

NEW! The Port Prose Book Club 📖

The Port Prose is a gathering place for people who love great stories, good conversation, and a glass of something to sip while we turn the page. We meet to share books that spark connection—whether it’s fiction that sweeps us away, memoirs that hit close to home, or the guilty pleasures we can’t put down. Come for the prose, stay for the laughs, and leave with a few new friends (and probably a longer to-be-read list).

Find details of the book club on Facebook.

The first book is Beautiful Ugly by Alice Feeney, and the first meeting is taking place October 22 at 7pm at the Snug.

Our bylaw reminder this month relates to noise levels. 📣

The Corporation of the Municipality of Clarington BY-LAW 2007-071 states, in part:

3.3 A noise curfew shall apply to any noise from any excavation or
construction work whatsoever, including the erection, demolition, alteration
or repair of any building from 9:00 p.m. until 7:00 a.m. the following day,
(Monday through Saturday), 9:00 p.m. Saturday until 10:00 a.m. Sunday,
and from 4:00 p.m. Sunday until 7:00 a.m. Monday.

Looking back, check out the former Waltona Park, just south of the 401 at what is now our four-way stop. The park had camping, trailer facilities, showers & flush toilets, a swimming pool, hall and store.

Take a look at this month’s real estate trends brought to you by new Port resident and realtor Brandon Hebert:

Monarch tagging event recap 🦋

Did you know? Monarch butterflies migrate 4,500km each year from Canada to Mexico, and, lucky for us, the Samuel Wilmot Nature Area in Newcastle is ideally situated along the migration route.

On Saturday September 13^th, the SWNA Management Advisory Committee held its 9^th annual Monarch Tagging Day. This popular event attracted more than 100 people to assist the Committee in the catching, tagging and releasing process.

Once captured, the monarchs are brought to one of the trained Committee members who carefully remove the butterfly from the net, and affix a tiny sticker or “tag” to the underside of the butterfly’s hind wing. Each tag bears a 7 digit alpha-numerical code which is recorded on a data sheet and submitted to Monarch Watch, the international organization that oversees the data collection and analysis and monitors the annual migration.

The tag numbers of monarchs that are caught again en route to Mexico or recovered over the winter are also submitted to Monarch Watch, who posts this information on its website. This allows participants to determine if, when and where any butterfly that they captured completed its journey.

205 butterflies were caught, tagged and released in less than two hours!

Read the full story by Brian Reid here.

The Port Post is now on Instagram! 📷✨ Follow along here.

Know your representatives! This month we focus on our federal & provincial representation.

Philip Lawrence is our Member of Parliament (MP) for the federal riding of Northumberland–Clarke (formerly Northumberland–Peterborough South).

As your MP, his office can assist with navigating federal programs and services such as Employment Insurance, Canada Pension Plan, Old Age Security, immigration and citizenship processes, veterans’ services, and more.

David Piccini is our Member of Provincial Parliament (MPP) for Northumberland–Peterborough South. He currently serves as Ontario’s Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development.

As your MPP, his office can assist with navigating provincial government programs and services such as healthcare, education, social assistance (like Ontario Works), WSIB claims, and more.

What’s going on here: Newcastle Water Supply Plant

The Newcastle Water Supply Plant and Port of Newcastle Sewage Pumping Station is a multi-level structure with underground water storage facilities and the above ground levels housing water treatment process equipment including chemical, electrical, mechanical, HVAC, instrumentation and controls, and administration facilities.

The project also includes replacement of the existing pumping station for the water supply plant. The new sewage pumping station consists of an underground wet well and an aboveground control building with electrical and mechanical control equipment.

The project was contracted to North America Construction by the Region of Durham.

THANK YOU to our generous and encouraging sponsors, Newcastle Smile Dental Centre, Sensational Seams, Newcastle Pet Supply and Brandon Hebert. 🙏

Information about sponsorship opportunities can be found here. We also have a Port of Newcastle Business Directory.

You can find a print edition of the Port Post in your mailbox (or on your porch…) later this month, and we’ll be back here with another digital edition in November.

Did you like it? Let us know:

Subscribe now

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Did you catch the double rainbow last night?

Let’s start with upcoming events around the Port:

👟 Every Thursday: Newcastle Run Club
♻️ September 13: Curbside Giveaway Day
🦋 September 13: Monarch Tagging NOTE: New location this year.
🚴‍♀️ September 21: Hike or Bike for Marigold Hospice Care

Have something to add? 📩 portpostnewcastle@gmail.com

Our pet profile this month is Freddie! 🐕

Freddie is a 90lb bundle of joy who's equal parts smart and quirky. This 5-year-old Bernedoodle loves nothing more than joining his humans on camping, swimming, and paddleboarding adventures, but he's not a fan of things that buzz or fly - especially house flies, drones, and hummingbirds. His favourite things include frozen broccoli, french fries and his frisbee.

Next, our volunteer spotlight shines on Jacqueline Richardson!🔦

Each spring, Jackie Richardson helps to lead and organize the Port cleanup, rallying neighbours to keep our community beautiful. She also lends her leadership to the Clarington East Food Bank as a board member, helping strengthen food security for local families. Jackie is a Registered Massage Therapist operating out of her house here in the Port.

Our street story for September takes us to Doug Walton Lane.

Douglas Walton was born in Newcastle on June 8, 1923, and served overseas from 1942 to 1945. He married Marilyn Enwright in 1946 and raised a family of four boys. In town, he ran a taxi service and operated a convenience store. In 1950, he was hired by General Motors and worked in Oshawa until retirement in 1980. He was a member of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 178 in Bowmanville and served as president from 1980 to 1984. In the 1960s, he was a committee member responsible for creating a cenotaph in the village of Newcastle. Doug died on March 24, 2002. He was 79.

Our bylaw reminder this month relates to property maintenance standards. 🌱

Looking back, we found an old announcement about the planned construction of the Port of Newcastle neighbourhood, advertising prices starting from $149,990 and a development plan that included a 9 hole community golf course, commercial and office space, and a hotel. ⛳

We also explored the former Newcastle train station, which was located on the south side of Toronto Street, west of Mill Street, from 1856 until the 1960s. It saw a peak of 11 trains per day by 1940, declining following the opening of Highway 401 through Newcastle in 1947. 🚂

Check out this month’s real estate trends brought to you by new Port resident and realtor Brandon Hebert:

Highlights from the latest update from KPRDSB regarding construction of a new K-12 school in Newcastle can be found here:

Know your representatives! This month we focus on our local Clarington council.

Clarington is divided into four wards. Each ward has 2 representatives: a local Councillor and a regional Councillor. The Mayor is the Head of Council and is elected at large by all eligible electors in the municipality.

NEW to the Port: Welcome to the neighbourhood Scott & Amber!

Mini moguls: call for young entrepreneurs! 👧

We’re looking for young entrepreneurs under the age of 18 to feature! If you know a local youth who has started a small business, launched a creative venture, or found a unique way to share their talents, we’d love to highlight their story.

Get in touch: 📩 portpostnewcastle@gmail.com

Lastly, a couple of “what’s going on here” notes:

THANK YOU to our generous and encouraging sponsors, Newcastle Smile Dental Centre and Brandon Hebert. 🙏

Newcastle Smile is a family dental office focused on comfort, warmth, and forming connections with everyone. Located in the Tim Hortons plaza, they are open late and on weekends, and are always accepting new patients. Free whitening for every patient!

Information about sponsorship opportunities can be found here. We also have a Port of Newcastle Business Directory.

You can find a print edition of the Port Post in your mailbox later this month, and we’ll be back here with another digital edition in October. 🎃

Did you like it? Let us know:

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• The first railway to pass through Newcastle was the Grand Trunk Railway in 1856, en route from Toronto to Montreal.

• The station was located on the south side of Toronto Street, west of Mill Street (roughly where Thomas the Train often sits outside of Rona).

• A total of six passenger trains were stopping at Newcastle each day by the time of Canada’s confederation in 1867, increasing to eight by 1869.

To ease congestion on its line between Toronto and Montreal, in 1883 the Grand Trunk announced its intentions to lay a second main track over that entire distance. The segment between Port Union and Port Hope was done last, between 1901 and 1903. As part of this work, the original station at Newcastle was torn down and replaced. The new station was a rectangular wooden structure with a waiting room and station agent’s office at its east end. A long baggage room originally extended outwards from the west side of the building, which took up more than half of the total space inside the station. An additional track ran behind the station to a freight shed where local businesses could ship or receive freight by rail.

• The Grand Trunk encountered financial difficulties during the early 20th century, culminating in its nationalization and subsequent absorption into Canadian National in 1923.

• Newcastle Station reached its peak of eleven trains per day by 1940, shortly after the end of the Great Depression.

• Service to Newcastle remained stable in the postwar era, though the mass adoption of automobiles and air travel during that period would take a toll on passenger ridership broadly.

• This problem was significantly exacerbated at the local level by the opening of Highway 401 through Newcastle in 1947.

• Service to Newcastle Station was reduced to five trains per day by 1960 and it was closed to passengers and demolished later the same decade.

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Source: https://www.trha.ca/trha/history/stations/newcastle-station-grand-trunk-railway/

The Port Post is Newcastle’s brand-new community newsletter—designed to connect neighbours, showcase local stories, and highlight the people, businesses, and events that make the Port of Newcastle special. Each print edition will be delivered by Canada Post directly to hundreds of households in the Port of Newcastle, and our digital edition will reach unlimited audiences online.

What’s inside each issue

📅 Upcoming Events – local happenings and activities

🏡 New Neighbour Introductions – welcoming families and individuals

👀 “What’s Going On Here?” – quick explainers on local projects & changes

🐾 Pet Profiles & Community Spotlights – people (and pets!) of the Port

📊 Local Business Directory & Features – shining a light on small biz

💡 Feature Opportunity: We’re seeking a local realtor to provide a monthly real estate report—an exclusive feature that positions you as the go-to expert for neighbourhood housing trends and keeps your brand in front of readers month after month. [Update: Taken!]

Important deadline

Sponsorships must be confirmed by the first of each month.

Sponsorship options:

• Digital & print: content negotiable

• Digital-only: $50/edition (logo and short description and/or contact info)

How to confirm your sponsorship:

1. Feel free to contact us to confirm there are no conflicting/competing sponsors.

2. E-transfer to portpostnewcastle@gmail.com

3. Email your assets: Send to portpostnewcastle@gmail.com

   • Your logo (hi-res PNG or SVG preferred)

   • Contact details (name, phone, email, website, socials)

   • Short blurb (30–60 words) and any offer/call-to-action

👉 Be part of the stories that matter most to the Port of Newcastle!

THANK YOU for your ongoing support.