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Talisman Lodge Forever

Talisman Lodge Forever

102 signatures 148 to reach 250
A
Abby S. signed
A
Andrea P. signed
T
Tracy B. signed
D
David B. signed
C
Caroline P. signed
K
Kristen P. signed
W
Wayne P. signed
R
Rachel L. signed
C
Catherine P. signed
D
Deb C. signed
Started by Talisman Lodge Forever 1 month, 3 weeks ago

We fully support the Bruce Trail Conservancy’s goal of planting trees to enhance the natural beauty of the Beaver Valley. But why do they have to tear down everything that is already here? "Conservation" should include both the natural environment and an understanding of the human history that has shaped these places.

Talisman Lodge has been at the heart of this valley for more than 50 years. It was a destination that generations of families across the province remember and cherish.  It has played an enduring part in the history and character of this community. No need to demolish it and transport all of that material to landfill.  

We believe Talisman Lodge deserves another chance.


The existing lodge should have a simple, practical new purpose -- a family restaurant? hotel? A place people can park, get information, meet fellow hikers and head out onto the trails.  

The public is misinformed about the condition of the buildings.  They can be salvaged.  Leave this to the experts who specialize in renovating older buildings.  Millions of dollars have already been spent on renovations, windows, new roofs.  The buildings are not "full of mould".

We encourage the Bruce Trail Conservancy to explore options of what might be possible with the buildings, properly acknowledge the local heritage, gather restoration proposals in an open process, and host public information sessions. Many of your donors would want restoration over demolition. Ask them.  

Once the bulldozers arrive and the buildings are torn down, they are gone forever. A decision of this magnitude should not be left to a few voices and should involve our whole community. 


Talisman Lodge Forever. Show your support with your signature, leave a comment about your connection to Talisman, and share widely.

Updates

Reached 100 supporters

October 2, 2026

42 Comments

J
Jeff Colgrove Verified
1 month ago Featured

Great memories there for many people. Nice character buildings, particularly the main lodge. Tragic waste to spend millions to tear them down.

B
Barry and Marlene Colgrove Verified
1 month ago Featured

Some (or all) of the Talisman buildings could be repurposed to enhance our community, while still allowing the vast majority of the property to be rewilded. The Bruce Trall could sell the buildings, avoid the cost of demolition, and use all those millions to purchase many times those few acres elsewhere. The community retains a treasured asset, continued taxes, and employment opportunities. And the many millions recently spent on the hotel won't go to waste. Seems like trying is a no brainer!!

N
Nancy D'Amico Verified
1 month ago Featured

It would be a shame to have such a lovely building, which has been at least partly rehabilitated, be demolished. There are other things it could be used for which would also bring business to Kimberly.

P
Peter Benum Verified
1 month ago Featured

My grandparents lived in Talisman estates for many years. During that time I have great childhood memories of walks around the property and during winter we would participate in the tubing activities and other events. Great memories there! I still love the traditional Austria style ski lodge. Hopefully it can be used and for some some purpose such as an outdoor education centre.

C
Carol & Frank Wilson Verified
1 month ago Featured

I agree that the main lodge should be saved and refurbished for visitors/ hikers and be encouraged to share in the beauty of the Beaver Valley.

A
Abby Smith Verified
21 days ago

My best friends parents got married there

T
Tracy Brown Verified
24 days ago

The Lodge and buildings are an important part of this area’s history. These buildings should be repurposed and does not prevent a nature reserve. In fact, it can enhance it, with perhaps a learning and education centre, a cafe, washrooms, and place were education about the Beaver Valley can take place. It should be refurbished.

R
Rachel Lewin Verified
27 days ago

My parents met, worked and got married at Talisman. It’s such a special place for our family and it will be devistating to see it go. If there’s anyway to save parts of it. The building deserves a second chance.

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