Of the many unique and beautiful features of my riding, Pelee Island maintains a special place in my heart. At 42 square kilometres, Pelee Island is the largest island in Lake Erie and the southernmost populated place in Canada. Pelee Island is a peaceful, nature lover’s paradise and one of the most species-rich biodiverse regions in Canada.

The brilliant sunrises over Pelee Island’s 200-year-old lighthouse and natural beaches have been enjoyed and photographed for generations, while the evening sunsets over the west shore are shared with family and friends at the popular Pelee Island Winery Pavilion. With a tradition of grape growing and winemaking that dates back 170 years, Pelee Island is the birthplace of Canada’s wine industry. Here, Pelee Island Winery sustainably operates and cares for over 700 acres of meticulous farmland in Canada’s warmest wine-growing region, and many of the carefully curated wines have won international awards and continue to be the favourites of connoisseurs around the world.

Accessible by ferry, private boat or plane, the island’s charm, hospitality and tranquility inspired our legendary Margaret Atwood to take up and maintain a residence there.

Although permanent residents number less than 300, seasonal tourism that includes open air music festivals, an annual half marathon, and the famous fall pheasant hunts currently ongoing and dating back to 1932, grow the population to nearly 1,500 during peak times.

This year, Pelee Island made history again by electing its first female mayor, Cathy Miller. Mayor-elect Miller is a seasoned media professional turned innkeeper of the beautiful and historic Wandering Dog Inn. The community and the entire region are fortunate to have such a capable, caring and hard-working community advocate to serve as leader.

If you’re in need of some respite from the city and are seeking fresh lake air and a unique, affordable and family friendly holiday, I encourage you to consider the jewel of Lake Erie, where you can set your watch to island time, explore eco-tourism at its finest by bicycle or golf cart, and enjoy the food, wine and warm hospitality of our special community.