Backpacks, Beaches & Boots and Hearts

Welcome back to What Barrie’s Talking About — your weekly podcast from Barrie 360 that brings you the stories shaping our community. Host Dan Blakeley and the team dive into what’s making headlines right here in our backyard. Here’s what’s in this week’s episode: Lending a Hand for Back-to-School With summer winding down, the back-to-school rush is here — and for some parents, it’s a financial juggling act. From school supplies to backpacks, the costs add up quickly. In Collingwood, one woman is stepping up to help local kids start the year off right. Her backpack drive is making sure students have what they need — and you might be able to pitch in too. Selling Part of Wasaga Beach Provincial Park? The provincial government has floated a plan to sell a portion of Wasaga Beach Provincial Park to the Town of Wasaga Beach. While the public comment period has closed, the idea has sparked backlash from environmental groups. We speak with Tim Grey, Executive Director of Environmental Defence, about why this proposal raises alarm bells — from threats to wildlife to the broader issue of turning public lands over to private hands. Boots and Hearts: Spotlight on Sully Burrows Another Boots and Hearts Music Festival is in the books, and this year’s event at Burl’s Creek brought together some of country music’s biggest names — plus a few homegrown talents. Barrie 360’s Julius Hern caught up with Sully Burrows, a rising artist from Parry Sound, to talk about his festival experience, his music journey, and what’s next for him. Listen to the full episode now and get the stories that matter to Barrie — and beyond. Subscribe to What Barrie’s Talking About on your favourite podcast platform, and don’t forget to rate and review. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices