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:

Barrie residents to help shape the future of Centennial Park

Dance, dine and play. That’s the vision city staff have for the future of Centennial Park along Lakeshore Drive, with feedback from residents set to...

Ambitious highrise plan on Bradford Street could reshape Barrie’s skyline

Call it a towering reimagining of Barrie’s future skyline. A $1-billion mixed-use development proposed for 145 Bradford St. and 48 Ellen St. was unveiled at...

New affordable housing planned for Barrie’s north end

More affordable housing is coming to Barrie’s north end. Mayor Alex Nuttall, Coun. Ann-Marie Kungl, Coun. Nigussie Nigussie, JD Development Group officials and other dignitaries...

Barrie grants $4.5M toward new Tollendale Village retirement development in Innisfil

A new retirement community development in Innisfil is getting a boost from the City of Barrie, which is providing a $4.5-million grant to support...

Province invests in Barrie programs supporting at-risk youth

The Ontario government is investing $400,000 through the 2026-28 Civil Remedies Grant Program to support programs aimed at helping at-risk youth in Barrie. Funding will...

Breaking

This Week in Barrie: Week of September 7

  New City portal makes it easier to check and...

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...