11/21/2025
Congratulations to Tay Township - The Southern Georgian Bay Airboat Rescue fundraising initiative has successfully reached its financial target of raising $350,000 designated for the purchase of a specialized rescue airboat to serve the Southern Georgian Bay region.
This initiative was launched in response to two separate incidents that occurred on January 17, 2021, during which three lives were tragically lost due to unstable ice conditions on Georgian Bay. As a result, a dedicated group of Tay Township residents volunteered to raise funds for the purchase of a specialty airboat to support Tay Fire and Emergency Services (TFES) in conducting safe and timely rescues under hazardous conditions. The airboat is intended to enhance the current system, which is a rapidly deployed, human-powered inflatable craft.
At a formal presentation held on November 21, 2025, in Tay Township Council Chambers, representatives of the Southern Georgian Bay Airboat Rescue fundraising committee announced the official transfer of the raised funds to Tay Township. Mayor Ted Walker, Council and Senior Leadership Team members were in attendance to receive the contribution. Tay Township will administer the funds until the airboat is ready for procurement and delivery.
“The achievement of the Southern Georgian Bay Airboat Rescue fundraising committee is a remarkable example of community spirit and collaboration,” said Mayor Ted Walker. “We extend our sincere thanks to the committee for their outstanding efforts and dedication to this important cause, and to all the supporters who helped make this initiative a success. Tay Township is truly a special community—one that consistently demonstrates care and commitment to the safety and well-being of its residents.”
The rescue vessel is currently under prototype development by Airboat INC., a specialized manufacturer engaged to meet the unique operational requirements of the airboat. The model combines the best features of a traditional airboat and an air-cushioned vehicle (hovercraft), enabling year-round operation in shallow water, marshes, snow, open water, and land. It will feature an enclosed, heated, and soundproof cabin with capacity for up to eight individuals, allowing for effective patient care during transport. The open front deck will support rescue operations and the transport of firefighting equipment with direct access to the cabin.
Due to the specialized nature of the airboat, it is not commercially available and requires a custom build to specification. Following completion of the prototype, rigorous testing will take place to ensure the airboat meets all operational and safety standards.
Tay Township will assume full responsibility for the operation and maintenance of the airboat, which will significantly enhance TFES’s ability to respond to emergencies across water, ice, and island properties. The rescue airboat will service all of the Southern Georgian Bay region as there are currently no four-season rescue boats operated by any municipality or fire department in the North Simcoe area.
“The specialized airboat is a critical addition to our emergency response capabilities,” said Fire Chief Shawn Aymer. “It will provide our firefighters with a safe, reliable vessel equipped with enhanced features designed to perform in the most challenging conditions on Southern Georgian Bay. This airboat will not only improve safety for our responders but also ensure a more secure and efficient rescue experience for those in need.”
The estimated completion and delivery of the rescue airboat is projected for the winter of 2026/2027. Congratulations Sharelle McArthur and Christina Wood and everyone who worked tirelessly to raise the funds!
Portarama Family Festival committee as well as Tay Township Council and TFES extend their sincere appreciation to the Southern Georgian Bay Airboat Rescue fundraising committee for their commitment to raising funds to acquire a specialty airboat. The addition of the vessel will represent a significant advancement in regional emergency response infrastructure.
Southern Georgian Bay Airboat Rescue Initiative Achieves Fundraising Goal and Transfers Funds to Tay Township
Read this article on Tay Township website.
