Tay Township raises $350,000 for new specialized rescue airboat

Southern Georgian Bay Airboat Rescue Initiative Achieves Fundraising Goal and Transfers Funds to Tay Township.

The Southern Georgian Bay Airboat Rescue fundraising campaign has reached its goal of $350,000 to buy a special rescue airboat for the Southern Georgian Bay area.

The campaign started after two accidents on January 17, 2021, where three people died due to unsafe ice conditions on Georgian Bay. The Township said local residents came together to raise money for an airboat to help Tay Fire and Emergency Services (TFES) perform safer and faster rescues in dangerous conditions. The new airboat will improve on the current inflatable craft used for rescues.

On Friday, the Township announced the official handover of the funds at a presentation attended by Mayor Ted Walker, council members, and senior staff. The township will manage the funds until the airboat is ready to be purchased and delivered.

“The achievement of the Southern Georgian Bay Airboat Rescue fundraising committee is a remarkable example of community spirit and collaboration,” the mayor said.

Township officials said the airboat is being custom-built by Airboat INC. to operate year-round on shallow water, ice, snow, marshes, and land. It will have an enclosed, heated cabin for up to eight people to provide patient care during transport, plus an open front deck for rescue operations and equipment. It will be the only four-season rescue boat of its kind in the North Simcoe region.

“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 airboat is expected to be completed and delivered by winter 2026/2027, the township added.