The town of Bracebridge was honoured on a provincial stage earlier this month during the Economic Development Council of Ontario (EDCO) Awards.

The ceremony took place Feb. 7 at the Toronto Marriott Eaton Centre Hotel, where the Bracebridge delegation took home top honours in the branding, and product development–infrastructure categories. Bracebridge was also named runner-up for the Lieutenant Governor’s award for marketing excellence.

During last Wednesday’s council meeting, the municipality held a smaller ceremony at the town office to honour those who helped with the projects.

The branding award was presented in recognition for Phase 2 of the Heart of Muskoka branding strategy.

Mayor Don Coates thanked the Bracebridge Business Improvement Area (BIA) and the Chamber of Commerce, who both had representatives present to accept certificates from the town.

When Coates received the award in Toronto he was accompanied by Jamie Hopkins, chair of the town’s community promotion committee, Cheryl Kelley, director of economic development, and Jolene MacDonald, whose Two Blonde Chicks Visual Communications helped design the strategy.

The award for product development–infrastructure was presented for the partnership shown in developing the Bracebridge Community Complex, which includes the Sportsplex, Rene M. Caisse Memorial Theatre and Bracebridge and Muskoka Lakes Secondary School. On hand to accept the award in Toronto were Elaine Beatty, Trillium Lakelands District School Board trustee, and Paul Arril, Bracebridge Arts Council co-chair.

The runner-up finish for the Lieutenant Governor’s award was for the same project.

“This year, 158 entries were judged,” said Patti Watson, EDCO president. “The competition allows local communities to see just how they stack up against other municipalities when it comes to promoting location, investment and tourism opportunities.”

Coates said the fact that a community the size of Bracebridge won two awards in one night is a credit to all involved.

“It is an honour to accept these awards as the competition is very tough,” said Coates. “This recognition demonstrates our effectiveness in establishing excellent partnerships within our community to enhance our economic development efforts to grow our community.”

EDCO is the country’s largest provincial economic development association, with membership close to 600, from both the public and private sectors.