Stephen J. Donkers

217 POSTS
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:

Three new tenants to replace former Bay at Georgian Mall

From one department store to three new retailers. RioCan has unveiled plans to redevelop the former Hudson's Bay store at Georgian Mall, replacing the roughly...

Ward 2 race heats up

Ward 2 is shaping up to be one of Barrie's most closely watched races in the 2026 municipal election. Incumbent Coun. Craig Nixon is seeking...

City unveils first rendering of new Letitia Heights library branch

The Barrie Public Library is beginning a new chapter. The City of Barrie has released the first rendering of the future Letitia Heights branch of...

Barrie to plant thousands of trees following 2025 ice storm

One tree at a time. The City of Barrie plans to plant roughly 6,200 trees over the next two years following the major ice storm...

Ward 3 candidate Bryan Jones sees a bright future for Barrie

Nothing but potential. That's how Ward 3 candidate Bryan Jones describes Barrie's future. “I look around this city and all I see is enormous potential,” he...

Breaking

Insiders rank Patrick Brown as top Ontario mayor for public safety impact

From auto theft and bail reform to extortion and...

Simcoe takes over downtown Busby Centre properties

Simcoe County is taking over two downtown Barrie properties...

Ward 5 race pits experience against change

Experience versus change. That is shaping up to be the...

Seniors are a vibrant & interesting part of the community

Submitted by: Gwen Kavanagh, the Barrie Seniors & Accessibility...