By John Rohr
2018 marks the beginning of a new chapter for an important commercial establishment vital to West Carling’s lifeblood.
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he Reichenbacher family, after purchasing a small local marina in 1984, have through the hard work of two generations rebuilt and upgraded Killbear Marina into the first-class operation that it is today. A range of docking facilities, boat storage, a seasonal restaurant, as well as grocery and boat chandlery shops have been key to filling the needs of Carling residents, especially our island residents, and passing cruising clientele alike.
This Spring, new ownership was assumed by the Hindson Group who bring with them a proven track record from marina operations in Penetanguishene, Ontario.
We met last week with Walt Wachon who has worked for a number of years as a successful understudy to Ed and Will Reichenbacher and will now provide much appreciated continuity of service to Killbear customers as the new General Manager. Our congratulations to Walt, who we’ve learned is also a recent addition to Carling’s Volunteer Fire Department.
Walt informed us that together with the new owners the intention is to provide West Carling boaters with a broader range of services and attempt to turn the marina into more of a community hub. New services now being offered to help complete this goal include a water taxi service, boat towing, and an increased commitment to in-house boat mechanics, boat repairs etc.
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her area of changing emphasis is the restaurant and grocery which have been subcontracted to the Flynn Irish Pub group that operate existing restaurants in Honey Harbour and Penetanguishene. These two operations just re-opened under the new manager, Paula Hannon who is sure to add some her authentic Irish charm to the new pub. A broad range of food on the menu available includes ribs, burgers, wings, wraps, Guinness battered haddock, and salads. Another new addition will be a takeout menu.
Please join us in welcoming the new managers of these key service operations to West Carling and we wish them all the success in their new endeavours.
Download this story and the entire WCA Summer Newsletter July 2018 in PDF format (1.5MB).