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Motorized boats are returning to Clear Lake this summer.
If you have a motorized boat, you'll need a tag. To stay away from the quarantine period, you must get your boat inspected and tagged by June 7. The inspection station at the Boat Cove in Wasagaming is open 8:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Watercraft with a valid 2023 tag do not need to complete the quarantine period.
Beginning on Monday, all motorboats and trailers tagged and registered with Parks Canada staff at the Boat Cove must go through a 45-day quarantine period before entering the water.
During your inspection, Parks Canada staff will review watercraft rules for Riding Mountain National Park. They'll ensure you understand the Clean, Drain, and Dry protocol. They'll also issue you your annual permit. Inspections take between 10 and 30 minutes. If decontamination is needed, that's an additional 30 minutes to two hours.
For the 2026 boating season, there is an expanded 150 metre no-wake zone from the shore. No motorized boats will be on the lake on Mondays and Tuesdays. Motorized boats aren't allowed between 8:30 p.m. and 8:30 a.m.
These measures help protect park waters and reduce the spread of aquatic invasive species while balancing user experiences.
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- Contributed by Darnell Duff
On Tuesday night at 9:10, the Dauphin RCMP responded to a break and enter on the 100-block of 1st Avenue Southwest in Dauphin.
A 35-year-old man had smashed multiple windows, entered the home, and assaulted a 24-year-old before fleeing.
About 25 minutes later, the RCMP located the suspect, but he took off running. Marook was called to the scene near the intersection of 3rd Street Southwest and 4th Avenue Southwest.
The suspect was found hiding in hedges and turned towards an officer with a metal-edged weapon. Marook apprehended the suspect. A search resulted in the seizure of a blade from a lawnmower. He was taken to the hospital for treatment of multiple dog bites, then was taken into custody, where he remains.
Sidney Nepinak of Dauphin faces a slew of charges, including assault causing bodily harm, assaulting a police officer with a weapon, and resisting arrest, among others.
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- Contributed by Darnell Duff
Today (Thursday) marks a significant milestone for a program heard nightly here on 730 CKDM since 2021.
It is the 2,000th episode of Compass Point since it was first created by Pete Smith in December of 2020, as what he calls "daily guidance from God's word".
Also the creator and host of Anchor Point, another program heard regularly on CKDM, Smith was asked to reflect on the significance of hitting 2,000 episodes.
"I was just trusting the Lord to give the wisdom and help that I needed. So I would just remark on the faithfulness of God over these 5-1/2 years since the first broadcast went out."
Compass Point is currently heard on nine radio stations in Manitoba, as well as one in the Caribbean.
Smith was asked about future expansion plans for the program.
"If there is one area that I would like to see it reaching into, that would be our Northern territories and across northern Canada. But as with many things, it was much easier producing the program and advertising during COVID, when other things were set aside."
Compass Point is heard nightly on CKDM just prior to 6 pm.
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- Contributed by Jeff Henson
Erickson Collegiate is going to be a very busy place tomorrow. Students of their horticulture program are holding their annual plant sale.
Gwen Smid, Erickson Collegiate's Horticulture Teacher, said every plant you can buy at the sale was carefully grown by students in the program. In past years of the sale, there have been a lot of people showing up to support the students.
"We grow them from seed all the way to selling them, and then whatever's left over, we plant some of the flower beds around Erickson too...the community is super generous, we have people lining up 45 minutes before we open the doors. It's a well-established tradition at the school and in town," said Smid.
This year's horticulture class has been working hard all year to grow their plants. Smid said thanks to the community, the students always get to see that work pay off...literally. Proceeds usually top $1,000.
"We always sell a couple thousand dollars worth of plants, which for a tiny little greenhouse, this year we have 16 kids, so pretty amazing how much we can raise. And then that goes towards maintaining the greenhouse, buying the dirt and buying the seeds and fertilizer, and all the fun stuff. Then part of it goes to a last day of school pizza party for the kids cause they've worked really hard," said Smid.
If you're planning to attend, Smid recommends getting there early. Last year, their stock went pretty fast. They have a large variety of flowers and plants, and this year even some herbs and vegetables.
"Last year our flowers sold out within the first 45 minutes. So we tried to do more this year, the Wave Petunias are always super popular, we have everything. Not a lot of perennials, because those are harder to grow in a greenhouse," said Smid.
Erickson Collegiate's Horticulture Program is made up of students of a few different grades. Smid said for the older students, they've started to really nail down the process of growing and caring for the plants, and the newer students always show real interest in the program. It's always fun watching them see their first bloom.
"They really like it, it's such a nice calming space, especially on a rainy day, you're in the greenhouse, get your hands dirty, you're up on your feet and doing something super tangeable...the biggest excitement is when they plant the seeds and all of a sudden they start sprouting, cause it's always that sense like, especially the first year kids, not that they don't believe the plants aren't going to grow, but it's that sense of, oh my goodness they're growing," said Smid.
The sale takes place on Friday at Erickson Collegiate, starting at 10:00 AM. Smid recommends getting there early to make sure you get what you want.
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- Contributed by Ian Gillingham
He was passionate, he gave it his all, he was loved by so many, and was one of the finest around.
Al Gaines moved to Dauphin and began working at 730CKDM on September 28, 2009. Host of the popular Al Morning Show, he celebrated his 10-year anniversary and worked at the station until October 30, 2023.
On top of his contributions at the radio station, Al was fully immersed in the community. He was the public address announcer for the Dauphin Kings for 13-plus seasons.
He was also the PA announcer for the Dauphin Clippers, Parkland U18 Rangers, and minor hockey tournaments throughout the years.
Al suddenly passed away earlier this week. He was 49.
Al made minor hockey players feel like superstars with his goal calls and excitement. The Kings fed off Al's energy and great music playing.
He devoted thousands of hours over the years to the Kings, Clippers, Rangers, and so many minor hockey tournaments.
Since the Dauphin Kings' post on Wednesday night, hundreds of people expressed their condolences.
"Such shocking news! Al was such a wonderful community spirit and a staple at the rink for all of us hockey families. He will be greatly missed."
"Al will always be remembered for his "put the fans first" and for his incredibly kind heart. All the hockey kids will remember him as the legend in the sound booth and his famous phrase, "Dauphinnnnnn Kings Goal."
"On behalf of the Dauphin Rec Hockey Jr., it’s very sad to hear of Als passing. He did many years at our home tournament and was a great voice for the kids to hear."
Christian Laughland, Director of Business Operations for the Kings, and Deputy Mayor spoke on the passing of Al.
He said Al was the voice of Credit Union Place.
"He had been working for the Kings alongside Terry Murray since 2013," said Laughland. "He was the voice of Credit Union Place for so long. He had a really good heart and he wanted everyone to enjoy themselves when at Credit Union Place."
Christian and Al grew a deep bond over the years and he will forever miss him.
And he knows so many others in the community will as well.
"It will be tough to come to the rink without him around to do games," ended Laughland. "He touched a lot of lives in a really good way."
Al Gaines is gone, but will never be forgotten.
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- Contributed by Darnell Duff
The Super Mom competition has raised almost $15 million for the Children's Miracle Network.
The network connects corporate partners, fundraising programs, and individuals to help local hospitals meet their most urgent needs. Kelsey Pulock of Grandview didn't know about the competition until she recently saw it online, and now, she needs your help.
Pulock is currently in the quarterfinal phase and needs your help to advance. Kelsey has three children, aged four, seven, and nine.
For Kelsey, the most rewarding thing about being a mom is everything; she wouldn't change anything in the world.
"Just really watching my kids grow and overcome challenges," said Pulock. "That's the most exciting part."
Kelsey is in the running for the $20,000 grand prize. If she wins, she would put some of that money towards her kids' education fund. Kelsey and her husband are all for the community and would put some of the funds towards giving back.
Pulock is on the ice plant committee in Grandview as they prepare to install a new ice plant that will serve the GACC and the curling rink. She's also on the minor baseball association's board of directors. If there are other volunteer opportunities in the community, you can guarantee Kelsey will be there.
On top of the $20,000 grand prize, Kelsey and her family will receive a dream family vacation.
"We don't really go on vacations unless it's for a hockey tournament or something like that," continued Pulock. "It would be really special to share that time with my family."
The deadline to vote for Kelsey in the quarterfinal stage is 9:00 on Thursday night. She said it's been an exciting process to be a part of. While she doesn't necessarily think that she's a super mom, she appreciates having so many people in her corner.
The grand prize winner will also have a feature in NewBeauty Magazine.
Kelsey needs your help, and time is running out. If she were to come out victorious, it would mean everything to her.
"It would mean the village aspect of parenting that I've been trying to lean on and foster is coming through for everyone," she ended. "It would be really great to feel that support and the success of winning."
To vote for Kelsey, head here.
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- Contributed by Darnell Duff
The RM of Dauphin, in partnership with several other municipalities in the Parkland, is hosting a Regional Candidate Information session for anyone thinking about running for council this October.
Grady Stephenson, Chief Administrative Officer for the RM of Dauphin, said council jobs are very different than what most people think.
"Some of the bigger topics are going to be roles and responsibilities for council members and heads of council, in a general aspect because we have 7 other municipalities participating as well, time commitment, responsibilities, the different levels of government and what their roles are...some of the bigger [misconceptions] are what the role of council actually is, and the line between council and administration is always a cloudy one, and council members aren't necessarily the boots on the ground for getting things done, it's more they're navigating the ship, that administration and staff," said Stephenson.
Though it's a complex job, Stephenson said his experiences as part of local governments have been very rewarding. He worked as the CAO of the Town of Carberry for 6 years, before joining the RM of Dauphin 10 months ago. He said it's been rewarding to see positive changes within the community up close. And if you're considering running for council this october? There's not a lot of limitations on who can run.
"Canadian citizen, 18 years of age or older on election day, resident of Manitoba, qualified voter, that's where it comes whether you live or own property in the municipality for at least 6 months prior to the election, not disqualified under the Municipal Act or any other Acts...municipal governments are both challenging and rewaring at the same time, and I think it's important that people coming into it understand that there needs to be a level of patience involved. Things can't always change overnight, and there's processes for different things, whether it's bylaws requiring public hearing or municipal board approval, things like that," said Stephenson.
The Regional Candidate Information Session takes place at the Countryfest Community Cinema on Monday, June 8th at 7:00 PM.
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- Contributed by Ian Gillingham
Construction of a new trail system at Steep Rock Beach began last year.
Construction is complete, and now, it's time to show off the trails. On Sunday, as part of Manitoba Trails Day, there will be a trail trot starting at 10:00 a.m. There is no registration fee; just head to Steep Rock Beach Park Pavilion and join the fun.
Already an incredibly picturesque area in the province, the trails only enhance the beauty.
Samantha Hampton is the recreation director for Steep Roch Beach Park.
"I think that it's going to be a great way to bring in all sorts of community. Not just Steep Rock itself, but surrounding communities," said Hampton. "Probably what excites me most is creating an experience that brings people together, whether you're five or 85 years old. Recreation has a way of creating connection and memories."
The five-kilometre route is scenic, fun, and achievable for all. There's also a 10-kilometre route that's challenging, beautiful, and rewarding. The event will take place rain or shine. There are marked trail routes and water stations.
There will also be door prizes and giveaways. In future years, this event will turn into a fun run to raise money for a cause to be determined.
For this year, it's about launching the trail and celebrating Manitoba Trails Day.
"Cutting the ribbon and giving people an opportunity to participate in an event that is accessible to all," continued Hampton. "You can roll down in your golf cart, bike, pull your kids in a wagon, walk, run, whatever suits you."
It's a chance to connect with the community. It's a chance to connect with nature. It's an opportunity to make some new friends. It's a chance to stay active and take in all the beauty at Steep Rock Beach Park. The 2026 Trail Trot goes down on Sunday, starting at 10:00 a.m., rain or shine.
The trail trot is the first of many events that'll take place this summer at Steep Rock.
"I think people are excited to have something planned to do with family and friends," ended Hampton. "The fact that this will be an annual event gives us a chance to grow it. There's a good buzz out there of people looking forward to taking part."
To stay up to date with everything happening at Steep Rock Beach, keep it locked to their Facebook page.
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- Contributed by Darnell Duff
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- Contributed by Jeff Henson
Yesterday's severe weather around Dauphin and in much of southern Manitoba is just scratching the surface of this year's severe weather season for the Prairies.
Danielle Desjardins, Warning Preparedness Meteorologist with Environment Canada said yesterday saw 3 confimred tornadoes in Manitoba, with a 4th unconfirmed sighting near Dauphin.
"Still have not confirmed the Dauphin tornado at this time, did receive a report of a tornado about 10 kilometres southeast of Dauphin. If anyone has any pictures or damage reports from the area, we are actively seeking pictures of the suspected tornado...that will help us determine exactly what it was, whether it was a tornado, sometimes there are different types of clouds that may or may not look like a tornado, but this is a suspected tornado," said Desjardins.
If you have any pictures or video of yesterday's suspected tornado near Dauphin, you can contact Environment Canada by email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or by using the hashtag #MBStorm on social media. Environment Canada uses pictures or video of tornadoes and severe weather in a lot of ways.
"That also helps the forecasters potentially warn others of inclement weather, so it's also very important to also report severe weather, that can be done by either phoning us, over email, or hashtagging on social media as well...especially with a situation such as a possible tornado, getting a warning out even minutes earlier could potentially save lives," said Desjardins.
We can definitely say yesterday's storm and severe weather was the worst of the year for Dauphin...so far. Desjardins said we're just at the start of severe weather season for the prairies, and it usually lasts a while. When you get the kind of weather we have been lately, it's usually not a great sign for severe weather.
"This is the beginning of severe weather season for the southern prairies, southern Manitoba, typically starts around May sometimes and lasts through until about the end of August or so, with peak being end of June, early July...with all the really hot weather we've been having, the moisture that came in yesterday, this was anticipated for yesterday, and we're expecting that this is just the beginning of severe weather season, so there's likely more to come as the season progresses," said Desjardins.
With severe weather a concern this season, Environment Canada recommends preparing an Emergency Preparedness Kit. Click here to visit their website for an Emergency Kit Checklist.
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- Contributed by Ian Gillingham
In 22 days, the party of the summer begins.
Dauphin's Countryfest returns south of Dauphin from June 25 to 28, and what a weekend it'll be. While you've missed out on your chance to get VIP passes and select campgrounds if you haven't yet, tickets are still available to join the fun.
Four-day general admission tickets are $418.95. There's also a great promotion going on right now, "Two Step & Stay". For $738 plus taxes and fees, you can get two weekend passes, plus a free campsite in Fisher regular.
"You know what, things are going well. We're getting the site all ready, guys are working hard to make sure everything is shiny and ready to go," said Duane McMaster, president. "Tickets and wristbands have been shipped out since the end of last month. People are starting to get excited. It's going to be an incredible weekend."
The four-day party opens on Thursday with the Rockin' Kick Off Party. It'll feature The Haileys, Leddwyn, and JJ Wilde.
Tyler Hubbard shuts down the main stage on Friday from 10:30 to close. Jelly Roll headlines the main stage on Saturday, and Nate Smith shuts down the party on Sunday night.
Hunter Brothers, Cameron Whitcomb, Brett Kissel, and Owen Riegling. A star-studded lineup that McMaster is very proud of.
"We probably haven't had anything this good in the last eight to 10 years," continued McMaster. "We really pulled out all the stops this year in response to our patrons wanting the big names; they have been missing them. They want big-name entertainment, we found them, and we brought them in."
No day passes are being sold this year. That means the only way to access the grounds is to purchase a weekend pass.
Then once you do arrive on Thursday, you don't have to worry about going anywhere. There are some great food trucks, on-site booze, and entertainment from day to night.
There is no party quite like Dauphin's Countryfest, and you can be a part of the magic.
"The problem of having a drink or two and worrying about how you'll get home," ended McMaster. "It's just one stop. You go in, park yourself, and enjoy yourself for four days. Come Monday, you pack everything up and then head home. You leave with great memories, and everyone gets home safely."
Get your tickets here.
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- Contributed by Darnell Duff
