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:

City council weighs options for new ward boundaries

Barrie city council reviewed five proposed options for redrawing the city’s ward  boundaries during a Finance and Responsible Governance Committee meeting on April  30. 

Barrie student reflects on what it meant to be a student mayor

Municipal politics may not typically excite elementary students, but for Olivia Goglidze of Ferndale Woods Elementary School, serving as Barrie’s student mayor for three...

Barrie Public Library seeks community input on proposed northwest branch

The Barrie Public Library is plotting its next chapter by inviting the community to give feedback for the new proposed branch in the city’s northwest Letitia Heights area.

Conservatives Brassard and Shipley re-elected in Barrie ridings

Barrie-area Conservative incumbents John Brassard and Doug Shipley have secured re-election in the 2025 Canada Federal Election. Brassard will return to Ottawa to represent the riding of Barrie South–Innisfil, whereas Shipley will represent Barrie– Springwater–Oro-Medonte.

Mayor Nuttall believes proposed downtown sports stadium could be a game-changer for Barrie

Mayor Alex Nuttall is voicing support for a proposed sports stadium at the former Barrie Central Collegiate site, stating the project could bring widespread...

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...