The Town of South Bruce Peninsula has officially launched community engagement initiatives to shape the Sauble Beach Integrated Destination Marketing, Branding and Economic Positioning Strategy.
With support from a third-party consulting team, the Town aims to develop updated resources that reflect the spirit and character of the Sauble Beach community. These resources will then be used to promote tourism and support economic development in the area. The project follows recent changes to the ownership and official name of the 2.4-kilometre beach along Lake Huron, now officially recognized as Saugeen Beach, formerly known as Sauble Beach.
“We recognize that Sauble Beach holds deep meaning for many people — as a home, a livelihood, and a place of lifelong memories,” said South Bruce Peninsula Mayor Jay Kirkland. “As we move forward with this strategy, it’s important that we listen carefully and work collaboratively, particularly in light of the beach’s official recognition as Saugeen Beach. This process is about ensuring our economic future reflects our shared history, evolving identity, and the opportunities ahead. I encourage everyone to take part and help shape the next chapter of Sauble Beach.”
The Town is inviting community members, business owners, investors, and past visitors to take part in several engagement opportunities. A digital survey is currently live and will take approximately eight to ten minutes to complete. Five participants will be randomly selected to receive a $50 gift card to a Sauble Beach business of their choice.
Residents can also participate in Community Visioning Events. A virtual session is scheduled for March 26 from 6 to 7:30 p.m., where facilitators will lead interactive exercises to gather insights from those most familiar with the community. An in-person pop-up event will be held on April 1 from 4 to 7 p.m. at Fretz’s Your Independent Grocer, allowing residents to drop by at their convenience to take part in creative exercises and speak with the engagement team. No registration is required for the in-person event.
The project team is also seeking Community Animators to assist with on-the-ground engagement. Residents with strong social skills can express interest, and honorariums will be provided for their time. Project updates and opportunities to get involved are being shared through the Town’s OpenMic platform and Facebook page.
“This strategy is about more than marketing — it’s about defining a clear and authentic economic position for Sauble Beach in a changing landscape,” said Danielle Edwards, Manager of Economic Development and Communications. “Through meaningful engagement with residents, businesses, Saugeen First Nation, and visitors, we will identify what differentiates this community and how we tell that story in a way that supports sustainable tourism and year-round economic vitality. The stronger the participation, the stronger the outcome.”
