14,000 REASONS
inspired by our
14K citizens

A worthy community, strong and committed, customs and cultures that coexist in harmony

Reason #10 011

Relaxing, quiet, and peaceful

Reason #10 011

Olympic athletes

A shared passion for this brother-sister duo

It is possible to thrive in sports and even entertain Olympic dreams without living in a major urban centre. At 17 years old, Xavier is a Canadian Junior Weightlifting champion. His sister Naomie, who is 15 years old, is following in his footsteps as a young athlete and finished third at the championships. Sports serve as a spark for this family who built an incredible gym to allow the duo to train properly on a daily basis, in the comfort of the Pontiac countryside.

Reason #10 464

A hub for local artists

It’s surprising to realize how many artists there are here. We have painters, printmakers, sculptors, digital artists—it’s amazing!

The municipality of Portage-du-Fort is the home of the arts in the region. Through artPontiac, an association that acts somewhat as a cultural centre, Geneviève organizes all types of cultural activities, such as exhibits, art classes, and talks. Through community organizations like this one, everyone can appreciate local artistic talent or discover their own.

Reason #1 385

Love stories that make us want to believe

I was born and raised in Rapides-des-Joachims. I loved my childhood here. I always told myself that I would raise my kids here.

There are many people who, like Kelsey and her husband, were born in the Pontiac region, grew up together, started dating as teenagers, and decided to remain in their home region to provide their children with a childhood as idyllic as their own. It is clear that for Pontiac residents, love conquers all! They have learned how to build and sustain strong relationships, whether they are romantic relationships, friendships, or even connections within the community.

Reason #10 813

A new kind of girls’ night out

Hunting and fishing are not gendered activities

The region’s number one attraction is the outdoors—with hunting and fishing at the top of the list! Nature-related activities attract tourists, but they are also part of the lifestyle of residents, whether they are men, women, or children! All families have at least one ATV. When they bought their outfitting operation 16 years ago, Martin and Danielle wanted to share their little slice of heaven. In addition to accompanying clients when they get out into nature, they now offer accommodations, including a houseboat that is as charming as it is intriguing.

Reason #6 899

The incredible barn and its hinterland

Author and radio host Devina Kaur took over Northfork, an idyllic farm that is one of the most iconic places in the Pontiac region, where beautiful weddings and other events take place. Devina took over the business, which is both a reception “barn” and an inn, but can also take advantage of the calm, inspiring place to write her books.

Reason #8 856

There is nothing more local than this!

The sense of satisfaction associated with choosing your raw materials at the source

I often go to look for white spruce in Nichabau, the hamlet where I grew up.

Andrew came back to the Pontiac region to start his high-quality, handcrafted guitar-making business. His ultimate dream was to produce 100% local Quebec guitars made from materials that he could find himself in the Pontiac.

Reason #12 771

On the beach, in the forest—always outdoors

The perfect place to raise a family

We feel that kids learn not only from the school that they are in, but also from the experiences offered by people around them.

Originally from New Brunswick, Luc and his partner Dalyce came to Sheenboro from across the Ottawa River after working at the Petawawa military base for 10 years and opening a business in Ontario. On the shore of their heavenly piece of land, they built their dream home where their three teenagers can fully enjoy the unique nature surrounding them. They found the Pontiac region to be a place where they could build their family home and thrive, each in their own way.

Reason #12 540

A rich history of diverse heritage

Trading post, Indigenous burial site, Irish heritage

Most of my work is to enjoy and preserve Indigenous and local history, and to protect the natural and cultural heritage and beauty of Sheenboro.

For Joan McCann, a historian specialized in First Nations land claims and member of the Old Fort William Cottagers’ Association for over 25 years, Sheenboro is full of places that are rich in history. Thankfully, there are residents who are as passionate and invested as she is and who can ensure that this unique history can be recounted for generations to come. One of the must-see historical attractions continues to be Fort William, where Hotel Pontiac is now located.

Reason #13 885

Uniting to succeed

A store for artisans

When people help each other and get organized it can lead to wonderful projects like that of Serena and her mother Jane.
In addition to being artisans, they offer in their shop eclectic items and the possibility of making local Pontiac purchases. On the shelves, you can find confectioneries, jewellery, Indigenous art, and much more!

Reason #11 158

Cows are better than video games for these teens

Their compelling story

Laura and Alexander grew up on their family’s dairy farm. Since it was always part of their life, one may think that they felt they had no choice but to work on the farm. However, that is not the case: they love working with the animals, even though it takes up a lot of their free time! While Laura particularly enjoys spending time with the animals and moments spent simply sitting in a field to take advantage of the freedom provided by nature, her brother has a (slight, strong, slightly insane) passion for cattle contests. He hopes to one day participate in these types of events with his own cows. Young people who prefer to play video games or shop in the city can do so, but for this delightful duo, fun is found on the farm!

Reason #2 027

The benefit of two languages

A mainly bilingual Pontiac region

The charming accent that you hear is Mélanie’s; soft and warm, it sounds exactly like that of Pontiac Francophones. Since 52% of Pontiac residents are bilingual, 42% are Anglophones, and 6% are unilingual Francophones, English and French are vibrant and naturally interconnected. In a French province, this contrast makes our region unique and gives it colour. Our neighbours in Ontario, many of whom are European immigrants,share their language as well as a part of their heritage.

Reason #2 109

18 municipalities, 18 personalities

Cultural and recreational activities that are a reflection of the community

Each Pontiac municipality is unique and has its own character. This uniqueness is primarily the result of driven residents who build a community in their image every day. A number of characteristics are common to the municipalities, one of which is the need for entertainment and the pleasure Pontiac residents derive from it. Throughout the region, recreation- and leisure-association initiatives are in full swing. From festivals to skating rinks, celebrations, and fundraising campaigns, there are motivating activities and festive events year-round and across the region. There is truly something for everyone!

Reason #9 538

Building dreams

One home or business at a time

The entrepreneurial community is really tight-knit. They are very helpful—easy to work with. It’s not a competition, it’s more of a community that works together.

There are a number of lots for sale in the region. Thankfully, there are also local entrepreneurs who do business with local suppliers and collaborators to build homes or businesses that reflect their clientele’s needs. Courtney and Eric grew up in entrepreneurial families. In 2011, they started Eric Pilon Construction together. They are proof that it is possible to work with your partner and to collaborate with local businesses; mutual assistance is always beneficial!

Reason #6 036

A sense of belonging

According to the community, Leona has the biggest heart and a wonderful personality! She is involved with all of the committees and associations—volunteering is an important part of her life. While her community involvement gives her life meaning, her laugh makes us want to join her in all of her projects. There are others like Leona, i.e. warm and welcoming residents who contribute to building and strengthening the sense of belonging to communities for both those who were born in the Pontiac region and those who have made it their home. We are so lucky to have them!

Reason #12 229

Premium products in rural areas

Stores that are worth the detour

Shawville is the most urban municipality in the Pontiac region. When you have an urge to go shopping, Shawville’s main street is THE place to go! Thanks to entrepreneurs who have taken risks, like Mélanie who left her stable job to dive into the world of ready-to-wear clothing and now has a beautiful boutique called Jolie Folie, downtown Shawville stands out due to its eclectic offerings.

Reason #11 005

The joy of giving back to the community

I’ve always tried to find different ways to give back to my community, and by running the Community Centre, I feel as though I have helped many people.

Kelsey is originally from Rapides-des-Joachims, also known as “Swisha.” Newly responsible for running the community centre, she took part in its repair, which aimed to make the building, that also homes the Maison des jeunes, attractive and accessible to everyone. It is a large project that has a significant influence on the well-being of this tight-knit community.

Reason #13 083

« Flatten the curve, book an alignment »

You can’t find a good garage on every street corner

I run a garage that focuses on helping people honestly, efficiently and fairly.

A few years ago, Jeremy decided to take over a garage that was closing “because people have always been nice here.” That’s an excellent reason, right? Since then, the garage owner, who is the father of three children and the lead guitarist of a local rock/heavy metal band, puts the pedal to the metal with clients from the region and from Ontario. In addition to working well and very hard, the entrepreneur can also crack a joke! See for yourself by going to Jer’s Auto Service!

Reason #11 327

Namaste

A massage and some yoga, for total relaxation

With its peaceful nature, the Pontiac region encourages relaxation from the outset. Tiziana is a yoga instructor, reiki master, and massage therapist from Maastricht in the Netherlands. She quickly found her clientele when she moved to the region with her family. Offering courses that focus on well-being made her integration easier while meeting a need among children and parents in the area! Namaste.

Reason #10 322

Jacob’s voice

I want to see the region grow and develop for future generations.

When young people return to the region to settle and want to get involved, one could say that the community has done its job! Originally from Otter Lake, Jacob studied and worked in Ontario before returning to the Pontiac region to learn more about how the regional county municipality operates while continuing to do what he loves—being a radio host! Since 2019, we have been happily listening to his voice over the radio waves on the community radio station CHIP fm!

Reason #5 434

A business, a dream

Forming friendships through work

For as long as she can remember, Chantal has wanted to open her own hairdressing establishment in the Pontiac region. For nearly 15 years, she has been able to live out her dream on a daily basis in Bryson. What she values most about her occupation are the friendships she has formed with her clients over the years. The mother of two also shares her entrepreneurial ambitions with her husband who has his own business. By providing services and employing staff, Chantal and her husband actively participate in the economic prosperity of the region and improve its commercial offerings, just by doing what they love.

Reason #7 482

Comforting food and other delicacies

Well-guarded secrets of the Pontiac region

While Shawville is the place to be for foodies, there are a variety of chip stands, bakeries and restaurants across the region. These spaces are true windows into our regional cuisine—spaces that showcase the Pontiac region’s products and culinary talents. Some specialties are part of Quebec’s food culture, while others are more inspired by that of Ontario. Regardless of where it originates from, Pontiac cuisine is always tasty and made with love!

Reason #8 614

The richness of the land

A wealth of ideas

Elie James is a Cameroonian born L’Île-du-Grand-Calumet resident. Since he purchased a farm in the region, he has had an overwhelming desire to put this island, which he loves so much, on the map. With his hundreds of ideas and initiatives, he wants to make a real difference in his municipality. The musician enjoys raising awareness about his culture in the community through his music and the typical food of his native Cameroon. If you hear about a festival or sugar shack that promises to combine African and Quebec culture, it is likely being held at his place!

Reason #7 519

A family winery

Standing behind local products

At first everybody thought they were crazy to try and grow grapes in California. I’m telling you, we are doing crazy stuff down here.

The Little Red Wagon Winery is first and foremost a story of family—and fun! Accompanied by their four children, Scott and Jen produce white, red, and rosé wines that they are proud to showcase along with the region they come from. To make visits even more charming, they also have a restaurant, a tasting counter, a wine cellar, and a hall that is perfect for shows and exhibits. Don’t you want to follow in their footsteps?

Reason #9 729

The Shea firehouse

A long line of firefighters

When there is a fire, those exiting the building need people to enter it. It’s our way of helping out.

The Campbell’s Bay firehouse is like a second home for the Shea family. When Raymond was just 16 years old, he was on the scene of his first fire. He has been involved in the community with his three brothers for 53 years now. Today, his two sons, his daughter-in-law, and even his grandchildren have followed in his footsteps. For them, the firehouse is first and foremost about family!

Reason #5 323

Motorcycle, work, sleep

When telecommuting leads us to the other side of the field

After seven years of travelling, Cindy and Matt, her husband and childhood sweetheart, decided to put down roots. They bought a home with a large piece of land that needed a lot of love in order for them to raise their children there. It was also a place where Cindy could start her photography business. She made use of her home by arranging her backyard to be able to photograph her clients in the enchanting setting. She also built a studio where she can work at her own pace. With space, it is possible to redefine our vision of working from home—and to acquire a vintage motorcycle to help us move around our property! There’s nothing cooler than that!

Reason #7 123

Rémi’s passions

A place for all to come together

The pandemic brought Rémi back to Fort-Coulonge. As a music, coffee, wine, and craft beer enthusiast, he took a gamble and opened a cultural restaurant and bar when everything was closing all over the world! From the start, he got the community engaged with his entrepreneurial spirit. People felt called on and wanted to become involved. Café Downtown met the need of residents to have a gathering space. Does a concert and a drink while enjoying a nice lunch sound good to you? It’s impossible to refuse!

Reason #3 111

A land of projects

For Suzanne, the Pontiac region is first and foremost about family. Hers took root when she left Montréal with her partner when they felt a strong desire to save an ancestral home that was going to be demolished. It took them three years to restore it. Suzanne volunteered with organizations that share her values in order to integrate herself into the community. She found a job with one of these organizations and took part in creating the Festival international du cinéma des femmes de Fort-Coulonge—an international women’s film festival in Fort-Coulonge. There are so many ways to get involved in the Pontiac region, and the doors are wide open for anyone who wants to help out!

Reason #4 579

Affordable homes

Turnkey or to be renovated based on your taste

Everyone (or at least Pontiac residents) says that homes in the Pontiac region are less expensive than those in other areas! Whether the home is enormous or small, with or without neighbours, a waterfront property, isolated in the forest, or in the middle of a welcoming village, there is something for everyone and every budget.

Reason #6 738

From Pakistan to the Pontiac region

I love working in small towns because of the friendliness of the community.

Mazhar Iqbal Dar emigrated from Pakistan in 1994. He entered the workforce at the bottom of the ladder as a dishwasher in Montréal. He worked to earn an income and help his family members who were still in Pakistan, while keeping in mind his dream to start a business. From there, he took over Langfords Grocery in Shawville, which was the beginning of his love story with the Pontiac region. Nearly 16 years later, he is now running three locations in the region with his family by his side.

Reason #8 645

A haven for food producers

A crop-rich region

The rural Pontiac region derives its charm from its land, on which many different crops grow. These endless agricultural landscapes give the region unique rustic charm that appeals to both locals and visitors.

“The land is so rich, you can basically grow anything.” – Scott Judd

Reason #5 191

Peace of mind

When everyone knows each other, it’s reassuring

You can let your children go biking, swim in the creek, play at the park, and fish on the bridge. There is a sense of freedom that comes with living in a small community.

Sydney is from Alleyn-et-Cawood. She decided to come back with her husband after finishing her studies to start a family. She wanted her children to grow up with the same sense of belonging to the community as she had. Her village is the type of place where you feel safe because everyone knows and looks out for everyone else. Peace of mind is valuable, and feeling safe leads to freedom!

Reason #2 888

Music is the heart and soul of the Pontiac region

A largely unknown musical culture to discover

There is a reason that Pontiac folk music still resonates today. Even though most of the large venues of the past no longer exist, music continues to bring together musicians from every generation who live in the region. Music aficionados pour their hearts out in a more informal way, as well as during events and in the bars and restaurants of the region. From fiddle music to country and rock ’n’ roll, only a few notes are needed to get the party started! There is nothing like the winning pair of a guitar and a campfire to help you recover from more festive evenings. That, too, is one of the pros of living in the Pontiac region!

Reason #12 932

20,000 chicken wings

Sold on “Thursday Wing Nights”!

Ladysmith Hotel chicken wings are a big deal! People come from all over the Outaouais region to taste the secret recipe of Ernie and Cathy Pash, co-owners of the restaurant for over 20 years. A true gathering place for Thorne residents and a popular stop for snowmobilers and motorcyclists, it is also the headquarters of the Ladysmith Sportsman Club, an association for local hunting and fishing enthusiasts. The atypical decor of this historic place gives the hundred-year-old institution heart and soul.

Reason #9 477

Entrepreneurship in nature

“The Pontiac region, for me, is pretty much synonymous with freedom.”

Marie lived in Paris when she decided to move to Québec to learn how to make jewellery. She met Andrew there, fell in love, and moved with him to the Pontiac region where he had grown up. They also saw a great business opportunity—the perfect place to start their own respective artisanal ventures. Marie realized how much she loved living in nature and how much having easy access to it changed her life. With a workshop at home, next to that of her partner, in which she makes and repairs jewellery, she’s on her way to the living the dream!

Reason #11

Expertise from near and far

Returning and new Pontiac residents

Among those who were born and who grew up in our beautiful region, some stay here to make a life for themselves, while others leave to spread their wings and go out on their own. However, a number of people come back to settle in the Pontiac region with a wealth of new experiences and expertise. In addition to these inspiring homecomings, there are new residents who truly want to find their place in their new community. These three groups form an entrepreneurial community in which collaboration is key.

Reason #772

Job, employment, or profession

Fulfilling work

The health care, education and municipal sectors employ the most people in the Pontiac region. There are also so many small businesses (stores and service providers) that are looking to expand their teams with employees from all walks of life. New residents who come to live in their little slice of heaven in the Pontiac region don’t have to worry: we have jobs available! For those who prefer to keep their previous job by telecommuting, that’s also possible. If entrepreneurship is your passion, we’re here to support all kinds of ambitions.

Reason #5 282

Green and local

Eco-responsible products adopted by the community

I love the support our community gives to small businesses. People value having things made and sourced locally. They love being able to see where their food comes from.

Since 2019, with their honey house, Natasha and Caleb have made available to the community local crude honey that is produced ethically, as well as merchandise to give a second life to beeswax, such as reusable food wraps and bags, lip balm, and a range of skin care products. It is unsurprising that their work, and that of their 50,000 bees, is appreciated and celebrated by the community.

Reason #8 095

Phare Ouest films

Cultural activities that appeal to Pontiac residents

Born out of a desire to provide diverse cultural activities in order to make various living environments more vibrant by means of arts and culture, the Fort-Coulonge association Phare Ouest, established in2019,offers programming focused on film from Quebec and abroad, as well as other unique shows. Phare Ouest’s outdoor theatre is especially popular in the summer and is open to everyone; while its free popcorn is a hit, its carefully chosen films are the main attraction.

Reason #9 990

A co-op for the love of the outdoors

Because the development potential of the land is huge

In the context of his end-of-studies project, Guillaume came back to the region to start the Aventure Hélianthe co-op with the support of his family. The co-op aimed to change the face of the outdoors in the Pontiac region, one project at a time. His goal was for outdoor projects to come to life by means of the co-op framework through the strength of the group, which now has about thirty members. At barely 25 years old, the young entrepreneur has a good business sense, as well as boundless love for the land that surrounds him. He’s one to watch, with many more projects in the works!

Reason #11 136

An inspiring river

To discover on the water or in a book

The nature surrounding Rapides-des-Joachims is so interesting and unique that it inspired Wally, a former canoe guide on the Pontiac region’s rivers, to write a book, The Last of the Wild Rivers: The Past, Present, and Future of the Rivière du Moine Watershed. Although he is now retired, his passion for the waterways in the west of the region is still present, particularly his passion for the Dumoine River. You can take the man out of the river, but you can’t take the river out of the man! Wally has also contributed in various ways to promoting the outdoors in the region, for example, by converting a former path in the woods to a hiking trail.

Reason #3 523

Spots where you can spend time together

Practically every municipality in the Pontiac region has one or more places—whether they are official or makeshift—to gather, chat, and have a good time. Here, residents have the power to make things happen. Some of these places were established through citizen engagement, such as Bethany Hall, the community centre in Alleyn-et-Cawood. These spaces are necessary for the community, serve as gathering places for committees, and help bring numerous municipal events to life!

Reason #993

Visitors arriving by boat

Four major rivers and hundreds of lakes

In the Pontiac region, all municipalities have access to a body of water. It’s not uncommon for people to go visit others by means of a waterway. That’s why all of the municipalities along the Ottawa River have a municipal pier and a boat launching ramp.

Reason #4 284

The rule of thumb

1. Have fun

When a day camp’s rule of thumb is to have fun, it sets the tone for the summer that awaits the children! Looking at people’s lifestyles, we could say this rule of thumb also applies to parents—and grandparents! When you live in a rural area, at a significant distance from your closest neighbours, you can have as much fun as you want, without having to worry about bothering them. The feeling is priceless!

Reason #6 927

Finding comfort in tradition

I like to keep an old-school, traditional German brewing style. To me, that’s more of a challenge.

When he opened his microbrewery in 2018, Todd wanted to create handcrafted German-inspired beer using Pontiac products and to bring to life a gathering space where locals could go to have a good time. After all, the best beer is consumed in a place where you feel good and are surrounded by good company, and is accompanied by a tasty meal! That’s exactly what Todd provides at his brewery, Brauwerk Hoffman.

Reason #1 024

One resident per km²

Space to thrive!

Vacationers come to the Pontiac region for its many outdoor activities, such as canoeing, kayaking, rafting, hiking, biking, ATV riding, hunting, and fishing! However, for residents who live in this 14,000-km² playground year-round, wildlife is an important feature that they can enjoy every day.

Reason #1 696

Families, neighbours, or both

The sense of community goes well beyond blood relatives

The Pontiac region is characterized by the strength and generosity of its community. People know that they can count on their neighbours in the same way that they can count on family members. (Often times, their neighbours are family members!) People come together to make progress, work together, and unite to celebrate from time to time. In each municipality, there are recreation or community associations that serve as anchors for residents who were born in the Pontiac region or who have made it their home.

Reason #3 282

One-of-a-kind businesses

Here, there are very few franchises

Forget about fast-food chains or big-box stores taking over. In the Pontiac region, most nearby businesses and services are unique and reflect the community they serve. As some municipalities are much smaller than others, the number of businesses varies. However, residents in each municipality have access to all that they need within a reasonable distance. Psst! There will always be room for new businesses!

Reason #7 211

Culbute Museum

A cultural attraction created from citizen engagement

For a project to move forward in the Pontiac region, it takes a driven, invested person who will not take “no” for an answer. Determination is absolutely necessary to see a project through to completion and to engage a ton of volunteers to lend a hand. Donna has determination in spades. Supported by her childhood friend, Sharon, and the entire community, she established the Culbute Museum. The whole community worked hard to renovate the space, organize the exhibit, and gather an unbelievable number of artifacts in order to transform the abandoned building into a museum that is rich in history.

Reason #13 664

A peaceful environment

Nature all around

Picture the mountains of the Canadian Shield serving as a sky line, greenery as far as the eye can see, and the Noire and Ottawa rivers with their charming islands a stone’s throw away from the village—that’s Waltham! Involved residents give meaning, direction, and a strong sense of belonging to the community, particularly through the Waltham Recreation Association.

Reason #4 660

Relaxing, quiet, and peaceful

I am a cheerleader for our municipality!

The rural Pontiac region is rejuvenating and welcoming. There are plenty of stories like that of Sheila, who came to visit the Pontiac region over 30 years ago, met her husband, and never left! Just because the setting is relaxing doesn’t mean that community life is. As a full-fledged member of her new hometown, Sheila works for the municipality and is involved with practically all of the associations— the Bethany Hall Committee, the recreation association, and the church. Driven residents, like Sheila, are invaluable to the community.

14,000 REASONS inspired by our 14K citizens