Chippewas of Georgina Island active in developing their economy

Chippewas of Georgina Island Chief Donna Big Canoe, Councillors Bill McCue, Pat Big Canoe, Benson Big Canoe and Lauri Hoeg - Williamson.
Chippewas of Georgina Island Chief Donna Big Canoe, Councillors Bill McCue, Pat Big Canoe, Benson Big Canoe and Lauri Hoeg – Williamson.

By Joey Krackle
The Chippewas of Georgina Island commends the opening of a new culinary venture called Mnookmi.

The restaurant will open its doors in March. Mnookmi hosts 1296 sq ft of dining space with a meeting or special function area. A huge patio with a gorgeous view overlooks Lake Simcoe and Georgina Island.

Chief Donna Big Canoe says the progressive business strategy of Georgina Island First Nation is due to changes in the 1997 Land Code. “The Land Code assisted us to get started in the management of our lands and resources so that our membership may benefit and we are continually striving to improve our economy.”

There are now over twenty businesses by the Chippewas of Georgina Island that promote tourism and environmental stewardship while providing supplies and quality services.

Mnookmi is located in brand new Island View Business Centre, also with retail spaces and offices. Chief Big Canoe praised the business hub and Mnookmi Restaurant as a boost to the economy with employment and growth opportunities. “This facility will be a key attraction for visitors and tourists.”

Chief Big Canoe thanks the past leadership for clearing the road for economic prosperity by bringing Land Management forward for our First Nation.

The Chief is strongly committed to developing the economy on Georgina Island. “The Land Code assisted us to get started in the management of our lands and resources so that our membership may benefit and we are continually striving to improve our economy.”

The Land Code for The Chippewas of Georgina Island, with a total band population of about 725 people, was ratified in 1997. It sets out management of lands, resources and the environment under the First Nations Land Management Act.

This First Nation manages three islands: Georgina, Snake and Fox Island. Their citizens live on Georgina Island which has 98 homes and 200 leasing properties. Snake Island has 227 cottage leases and Fox Island has 64 properties.

Chief Big Canoe and the Council recently updated the Strategic Economic Plan. Chief Donna Big Canoe stated, “In order to continue towards our goal of self-sustainability, we must continue to act in a sustained and concerted way that promotes the standard of living and economic well-being of our community.”

Generating partnerships; infrastructure development; financial growth; and Nation building is part of the strategy.

Chief Donna Big Canoe invites the world to visit. “We are excited and proud to showcase this beautiful building as a tribute to the people of Georgina Island and our heritage.”