Celebrating the Living Legacy of the Shubenacadie Waterway

The Shubenacadie Waterway has long been a vital corridor of connection—first as a trade route for the Mi’kmaq people for thousands of years and later as a key link during the Industrial Age. Today, it remains a place of deep cultural and historical significance.

We were honored to collaborate with Discover Halifax and the Nova Scotia Indigenous Tourism Enterprise Network on a special project that highlights this waterway’s enduring legacy. This initiative brought together experts, historians, and storytellers to share its remarkable past and ongoing importance.

A huge thank you to everyone who brought this project to life especially Roger Lewis, Robert Bernard, Graham Marshall, Richard MacMichael, and the amazing team at Mirror Image Media.

This waterway is more than just history—it’s a living legacy, connecting past, present, and future.

🎥 Watch the video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zGv0DuH5rx0&t=1s

Exciting Small Business Opportunity

Operate the Lockside Canteen at Shubie Park

Are you a food entrepreneur looking for a prime location in one of Dartmouth’s most beloved outdoor spaces? The Shubenacadie Canal Commission (SCC) is now accepting proposals for the lease and operation of the Lockside Canteen, a seasonal food service located next to the Fairbanks Interpretive Centre at the entrance to Shubie Park (54 Locks Rd., Dartmouth, NS).

About the Opportunity

The Lockside Canteen sits at the gateway to Shubie Park, a popular destination for walkers, cyclists, paddlers, and families enjoying the historic canal and scenic trails. The SCC is looking for a community-focused, experienced operator who will provide high-quality food and beverage options, enhancing the experience for park visitors.

This is a fantastic opportunity for a passionate food vendor to establish or grow their business in a high-traffic, outdoor-friendly environment!

Who Should Apply?

We encourage proposals from businesses or entrepreneurs who:
✔️ Have experience in food service or hospitality
✔️ Are committed to quality, locally inspired menu offerings
✔️ Want to contribute to the vibrant community atmosphere of Shubie Park
✔️ Are excited about serving both locals and tourists in a unique outdoor setting

How to Apply

Interested in learning more? Click the link below to access the full Request for Proposal (RFP) document, which includes details on the lease, submission process, and selection criteria.

📄 View the Full RFP & Apply Now

If you know a food entrepreneur who might be interested, please share this opportunity! We look forward to receiving proposals and welcoming a new operator to the Lockside Canteen.

Celebrating Dedication: The 2024 Lock Keeper Award

Sylvain Allaire (L) presenting Brad Hodgins (R) with a framed Forrestall Print. Brad was recognized with the Lockkeeper award at the June 2024 AGM.

Each year, the Shubenacadie Canal Commission (SCC) proudly presents the Lock Keeper Award to recognize an outstanding volunteer who goes above and beyond to support our mission. This year, we are thrilled to honor Brad Hodgins for his extraordinary dedication, creativity, and leadership.

Brad has been a cornerstone of the SCC for over a decade, offering steadfast commitment and exemplary service. His contributions extend far beyond routine volunteering; Brad’s thoughtful feedback, innovative ideas, and strategic thinking have played a vital role in advancing our work. From crafting robust financial strategies to fostering meaningful connections with SCC supporters and government officials, Brad’s impact is immeasurable.

One of Brad’s most notable achievements includes his work on the Transitions concept and the push for a Heritage River designation, both of which have propelled SCC’s vision forward. His ability to transform ambitious ideas into actionable plans is a testament to his leadership and passion for preserving the Shubenacadie Canal’s legacy.

Congratulations, Brad, on this well-deserved recognition. Your dedication continues to inspire us all. Thank you for being an integral part of the SCC’s journey!

Stay tuned for more updates on our incredible volunteers and the work we’re doing to preserve and celebrate the Shubenacadie Canal.

We Want to Hear from You!

What’s Cooking at the Shubie Park “Lockside” Canteen? We Want to Hear from You!

The park is more than just trails and views—it’s a community, and every bite you take at the canteen is part of your experience. That’s why we’re asking for your input to make the canteen better than ever!

Why Your Feedback Matters

The canteen is here to serve you. Whether it’s a quick snack after a hike or a picnic treat for the family, your preferences and ideas are essential. By sharing your thoughts, you can help us create a canteen menu and experience that fits your needs and makes your park visits even more enjoyable.

How to Participate

We’ve made it quick and easy—our survey takes only a couple of minutes to complete! Use the QR code (see below) or direct link HERE to take the survey!

Your feedback will directly impact our canteen offerings and help us better serve our amazing visitors.