Submitted by: Swan River & District Community Resource Council Inc. Service to Seniors Birch River hosted Terry Fullerton with the Canadian Rangers, Amy and Meaghan with Emergency Management Organization, Jessie Lacasse PMH Public Health Promotion, Kyla Scales Swan River Lifeline, Display from Swan Health Care Plus Pharmacy for mobility aids. Jennifer Lavoilette from the Star […]

Submitted by: Jayne Leadbeater For the 33rd Fall since starting, Swan Valley Community Band had their Beginning Day this past 16 September 2026. And, as always, practice was in the SVRSS Band Room. With a promising attendance, new music & new members, it was an enjoyable success. More former members are expected and possibly some […]

Donna Potts, Communities that Care Program Coordinator Mass Registration is an event that has taken place annually for many years in the Swan River Valley to which all families know they can come and sign up for their children’s chosen activities throughout the year. This is always well attended. There were 20 tables that were […]

Submitted by: Community Foundation of Swan Valley The Community Foundation of Swan Valley was pleased to support Swan Valley Youth Baseball with a grant to support facility improvements. Funding was used to purchase new pitching mounds and install a cap along the fencing, improving the baseball facility for local players. These upgrades will provide a […]

The Minitonas and District Lions Club hosted a pancake breakfast in the Swan Valley Co-op parking lot on August 29, 2026 as a kickoff to the Swan River Valley Agricultural Society – Ralley for the Valley. The day was a time for community members to gather together, reconnect and celebrate the resilience and community spirit […]

Submitted by: Lesley Sembaluk, Swan River Valley Agricultural Society President Ralley for the Valley – August 29, 2026 Today was about one thing — our community. Rally for the Valley was made possible because individuals, businesses, organizations, volunteers, performers, vendors, and community members all came together with one common goal: to create something positive for […]

Submitted by: Violet Plett This event went well again this year. We had singers from North Dakota. One family was from south of Winnipeg but only a few miles north from the US border. One family was from close to Austin, MB, and 3 groups were from Alberta. There were 25 main singers plus a […]

Submitted by: Kari Goethe The Swan Valley community came together in a remarkable show of support for local youth sports during the recent Kal Tire Fundraising BBQ, benefiting Swan Valley Youth Baseball and Swan River Junior Curling. Both of these organizations extend a heartfelt thank you to Kal Tire along with everyone who contributed to […]

Submitted by: Swan River & District Community Resource Council Inc. Service to Seniors What a great time we had with Caroline Foster learning about Sourdough. The session started, informing us what a sourdough is and how it is different than yeast made dough. She said it was easy. “right” we have heard that before in […]

Submitted by: Marylin Yacyshn There was a great turnout to the Benito Town Wide Garage Sale & BBQ on May 30, 2026. Thanks to all participants, donators, shoppers and volunteers. The small shoppers got to cool off in the new splash park.

Submitted by: Kamillah El-Giadaa Training & Development Manager, Volunteer Manitoba Volunteer Manitoba was blown away by the support from the Swan River community as we hosted our very first Volunteer Fair in the region! This pilot event brought together local non-profits, students, and community members for a day focused on connection. A huge thank you […]

Submitted by: Charlene Wowchuk We would like to thank the community for coming out to support the Spring Opening of the Swan Valley Historical Museum on May 24, 2026. Great thanks to the dedicated volunteers we have to make this day happen. The bread maker, wagon rides, the train conductor’s and many shop workers kept […]

Submitted by: Jayne Leadbeater This past Wednesday Evening, May 13, 2026, in the new Cultural Arts Centre situated in the SVRSS, an audience of close to 150 people enjoyed a ‘Musical Joy of Spring” performance by the Swan Valley Community Band for their 32nd Spring Concert. Joining them for an interlude of superb musicianship was […]

Submitted by: Carla Werbicki What a wonderful Mother’s Day breakfast! We are so grateful to everyone who came out to celebrate with us. It was amazing to see families, friends, and community members gather to honor all mother figures in our lives, while raising funds for our school initiatives. A heartful thanks to everyone who […]

Submitted by: Marilyn Yacyshyn Another great turnout at the Benito Drop In Center Mother’s Day Tea and Quilters’ Show❤️ Thank you to all who donated, volunteered and attended. Extra big thank you to those who brought quilts and quilted projects to be displayed. Peoples’ Choice awarded to: 1st Faye Summers – quilt 2nd Cindy Miller […]

Submitted by: Judy Mosiondz On the evening of Thursday, April 23, 2026 the Swan Valley Community Choir delivered an impressive performance of three-part harmony songs to an appreciative audience at the acoustically favorable St. Andrew’s United Church. Under the expert direction of Nic Stroud and accompanied by the talented Caroline Zinkiew, the choir showcased their […]

Submitted by: Renate Wille The Little Woody Art Show held May 2, 2026 did not disappoint. The exhibitors were:Naomi Nemez, Barb and Terry Filuk, Peyton Corder, Barbara Labbe, Melody Hunt, Cheryl Sherrer, Louise Jones, Candace Balbo, Katharina Brown, Renate Wille, Margarita Neufeld and Eddi Neufeld. The sunshine and the springlike day made for happy people […]

Submitted by: Savanna McKay A wonderful showcase of dances was enjoyed by all in attendance at the Dolyna Ukrainian Dancers Year End Concert on Saturday, April 25, 2026. The hard work and dedication of the dancers and instructor Wynn Fedorchuk were evident on the stage throughout afternoon. The Pryvit (Welcome) dance was performed by the […]

Submitted by: Henry Barkowski Back: Tim Grazier, Ryan Cooke, Rob Nesbitt, Colin Baldwin, Dallas Andersen, Rodney Redhead, Henry Barkowski, Blair Mosiondz, Faron Cook, John Pasternak, Jett Penner, Austen Peel, Chris Penner, Lyle Eggie, Jax Penner Front: Derek Lukey, Don Formo, Hilbert Nerbas, Chris Thompson, Jarret Gingras, Josh Corder Regulars Missing: Dale Andersen, Faron Genaille, Cam […]

Submitted by: Swan River & District Community Resource Council Inc. Service to Seniors We welcome all for coming out this week to the Coffee and a Chat, the weatherman worked with us, there was the possibility of poor weather. We had a good turnout with rural people getting through the country roads to attend. Good […]

Submitted by: Henry Barkowski Back: Merv Leslie, Dennis Kalynuk, Stephen Natyna, Glenn Nichiporuk, Marc Kunjumpa, Carl Giesbrecht, Steve “Slapshot” Hanson, James Waldner, Henry Barkowski, Terry Fullerton, Randy Mateika Front: Steve Windsor, David Eggie, Eldon Hart, Jarret Gingras, Blair Mosiondz, Faron Genaille, Lyle Eggie Missing: Faron Cook, Reg Ellingson, Rod Ellingson. Kendal Johnson, Pat Morden, Mark […]

Submitted by: Community Foundation of Swan Valley The SVRSS Varsity Girls Basketball (SVSD) received a grant from the Community Foundation of Swan Valley to purchase new team uniforms. These uniforms will help ensure the team can represent their school and community with pride while competing throughout the basketball season. Having proper, matching uniforms supports team […]

Submitted by: Kandie Lagore Adult & Teen Challenge’s Northern Manitoba Sled for Eternity Ride, one of three annual snowmobile fundraising events hosted by the organization, took place February 28, 2026 as riders departed from the Swan Valley Museum for a 230-kilometre journey to Bellsite and back. Participants travelled the scenic trails of the Swan Valley, […]

Submitted by: Michelle Rinsdorf, Executive Director Sunflower Early Learning Centre We are happy to report that Sunflower Early Learning Centre held another successful Trivia Night Fundraiser on February 28, 2026! We had 18 teams register and come out to play! A very special thank you to all of our sponsors and donors for making the […]

Submitted by Swan Valley Snowmobile Club Snowmobile enthusiasts gathered at the Westwood Inn in Swan River on Saturday, February 28, bringing out their vintage sleds for the Swan Valley Snowmobile Club’s annual Vintage Snowmobile Ride. Attendees were treated to a close-up look at some of the finest vintage snowmobiles, with 26 riders taking part in […]

Submitted by: Community Foundation of Swan Valley This year marks an incredible milestone for the Community Foundation of Swan Valley — reaching $5 million in donations. While the number itself is impressive, what truly matters is what it represents: over 20 years of generosity, partnership, and belief in the power of community. Established in 2005 […]

The Bellsite Annual Poker Derby took place on February 22, 2026. There were 104 driver hands sold, 95 machines, and approximately 346 ghost riders. Thanks to all that brought in the ghost riders! The Bellsite Community Centre, along with North Mountain Riders would like to thank those businesses/persons of Swan River, Bowsman, Birch River, Mafeking, […]

Submitted by: Andrea Keller The 17th Annual Open Bonspiel hosted 28 teams for an exciting week of curling. February 11-15,2026 the Rec Centre was buzzing with activities. Wednesday evening the first draw took place with participants coming from near & far! Sunday afternoon participants gathered for prizes with 3 events 1st Event Winners sponsored by […]

Submitted by: Community Foundation of Swan Valley The Bowsman Community Skating Arena received a grant to replace the overhead door in the arena. This replacement improved the safety, security, and functionality of the arena. The Community Foundation of Swan Valley is happy to support this project that sustains the arena as a safe, accessible, and […]

Submitted by: Swan River & District Community Resource Council Inc. Service to Seniors Hello to all, 42 people attended the three days of Coffee and a Chat this month. It was great to see you all again and meet the new people who came. Birch River and Swan River welcomed Kamden Keith as our exercise […]

Submitted by: Teresa Mckay The women of the valley hosted their annual event on January 31, 2026 at the Solid Rock Church in Swan River. This venue is very much appreciated, as it has ample space for eating, an auditorium for worship and speaking, and a library for those interested. The ladies are excellent hosts […]

ValleyBiz Story | On January 24, 2026, the Swan Valley School Division(SVSD) held the grand opening of their new Cultural Arts Centre at the Swan Valley Regional Secondary School. The $16.6 million expansion includes a 4,200 square foot cultural arts centre with a large auditorium and a raised stage, a 2,100 square foot multi-purpose room, […]

Submitted by: Kari Goethe The Swan River Curling Club was buzzing with activity on Boxing Day as families and friends gathered for the annual Family and Friends Funspiel. A total of 12 teams took to the ice, featuring curlers of all ages—from enthusiastic juniors to seasoned seniors, and everyone in between—eager to get moving after […]

Submitted by: Community Foundation of Swan Valley The Community Foundation of Swan Valley (CFSV) held their AGM and Fall Grant Night on December 4th, 2025 at the Westwood Inn. The 2025 fall grants were awarded to local community projects along with the presentation of Donor Advised Funds and Designated Funds. Patti-Henkelman, Board Chair welcomed new […]

Submitted by: Community Foundation of Swan Valley North-West Regional Library Inc., received a grant from the Community Foundation of Swan Valley (CFSV) to upgrade their computers. These upgraded computers will support both public access and administrative needs, improving digital access, reliability, and daily operations at the library. By supporting this project, the CFSV is proud […]

Submitted by: Willetta Hoffman An afternoon spent with songs readings and silences was enjoyed by those who attended Advent In A Minor Key. It was a time to take a break from the busyness of the season and enjoy songs that seem to touch your soul.

Submitted by: Donna Leming A full house enjoyed the Seventh-Day Adventist annual Christmas program on December 13, 2025 followed by a delicious supper. We want to thank everyone for sharing your time, talents, and donated food. Thank you very much for the generous offering received for “The Bags of Love” project. We praise God for […]

Submitted by: Jayne Leadbeater | Photography by Esther Nesbitt Another Christmas Concert is behind the Swan Valley Community Band after 31 years performing. Technically this would be their thirty-second since Christmas of 1994. The musical evening on Wednesday, 10 December 2025 was a resounding success that included a standing ovation! Unfortunately, the new SVRSS Concert […]

Submitted by: Candace Balbo Mistletoe Magic 2025 – brought to you by the Swan Valley Historical Museum. Despite the cold, nearly three hundred people attended the opening night celebrations on December 6, 2025 at the museum, enjoying the beautiful lights throughout the museum complex and warming up with free hot chocolate & hotdogs, AND a […]

Submitted by: Michelle Baudin The Birch River Legion Hall was filled with fun at the Family Turkey Bingo held December 12, 2025. The event was very well attended and it was so much fun for families!

Submitted by: Phyllis Friesen The Christmas Carol Festival took place on December 7, 2025 at Temple Baptist Church in Swan River. The afternoon featured a variety of musical selections from community groups and individuals. It was a great way to start the Christmas Season.

Submitted by Swan Valley Funeral Services Ltd. Our 28th Annual Angels Among Us service was held on December 3, 2025, it was very well attended this year. The evening consisted of singing by the Swan Valley Mennonite Choir, a message by Reverend Kathy Highmoor, placing of carnations and presentations of mementos for families to take […]

Submitted by: Swan River & District Community Resource Council Inc. – Service to Seniors Hello to all, 62 people attended the three days of Coffee and a Chat this November 2025. It was great to see you all again and meet the new people who came. Dave Forbes, the Birch River Fire Chief, gave us […]

Submitted by: Mandi Homeniuk The Benito School Craft Sale & Trade Show was a tremendous success! We welcomed over 25 vendors, all of whom were such a pleasure to work with. Our students were amazing—they sold popcorn by the bag, delivered lunch to the vendors at their tables, and even sold off the last of […]

Submitted by: Community Foundation of Swan Valley The Durban Community Cemetery received a grant from the Community Foundation of Swan Valley (CFSV) to build a Cemetery Information Centre. This new facility will provide visitors with access to information about grave locations, and the cemetery’s history. By supporting this project, the CFSV is proud to help […]

Submitted by: Swan River & District Community Resource Council Inc. – Service to Seniors Hello to all, 58 people attended the three days of Coffee and a Chat this month. It was great to see you all again and meet the new people who came. Donna Martin had a chat with us about the Community […]

Submitted by: Kari Goethe The Swan River Curling Club hosted a Come Try Curling night on Wednesday, November 5th, welcoming about 20 curlers of all ages to the ice. Participants had the chance to learn the basics, throw some rocks, and experience what makes curling such an enjoyable and social sport. A big thank-you goes […]

Submitted by: Diane Rooks | The Minitonas Christmas Market was held at the Minitonas Town Hall on November 1, 2025. It was a great day, with many people supporting our local vendors and picking up unique gifts and treats!

Submitted by: Swan Valley Outdoors Association The Swan Valley Outdoors Association held their 7th Annual Fundraising Banquet and Auction on Saturday, October 25, 2025 to a near sold out crowd. Upon entering the guests were guided to the raffle and auction tables where tickets could be purchased or bids were placed. As guests mingled, appetizers […]

Submitted by: Michelle Baudin The Birch River Legion is fall craft sale and lunch took place on October 25, 2025. The event featured many vendors with lots of delicious food! It was a great event for the Birch River Community!