Stephen J. Donkers

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Originally from Oshawa and raised in Barrie and Innisfil, Stephen J. Donkers began his career in Ontario’s film and television industry as an assistant director before pivoting to journalism and corporate communications through studies at Humber Polytechnic. With experience in digital marketing and communications, he brings a sharp storytelling lens to every role. Stephen currently works in marketing while reporting for Compass News in Barrie, covering impactful community stories in the city he proudly calls home. He lives in Barrie with his family and two pets.

Exclusive articles:

Progress continues to be made with homeless encampments, says Barrie mayor

Barrie’s homeless encampment numbers have fallen sharply since a state of emergency was declared in early September, Mayor Alex Nuttall said Thursday.  Speaking at a...

Speed cameras removed in Barrie

Barrie’s automated speed enforcement (ASE) program has come to an end, and all cameras have been removed.  Mayor Alex Nuttall previously announced during a Sept....

Barrie council backs Mayor Nuttall’s 2026 budget with zero per cent tax increase

Barrie councillors have approved the city’s portion of Mayor Alex Nuttall’s 2026 budget, maintaining a zero per cent increase to the operating budget for...

Springwater mayor optimistic about township’s future after approving municipal restructuring plan

Springwater Mayor Jennifer Coughlin says she’s confident the township’s future is bright following the approval of a major municipal restructuring plan.  “Change is inevitable —...

Springwater greenlights boundary adjustment framework with Mayor Coughlin using strong mayor powers

Barrie is another step closer to expanding its boundary lines after the Township of Springwater approved the municipal restructuring framework.  The decision did not come...

Breaking

New paramedic post coming to north Barrie

A new paramedic post is coming to north Barrie. Pending...

Ottawa Police Blotter – August 12

Good Morning Ottawa, The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) has...

Barn Burner charity hockey game nets record $702K

The annual Barn Burner charity hockey game in Barrie...

This Week in Barrie: Week of August 10

  Registration for fall recreation programs opens August 25 Mark...