Rotarian Paul introduced the guest speaker: Jamie Honderich is a longtime resident of Huntsville and teacher at Huntsville High School for over 20 years. He taught geography and developed and taught an environmental stewardship program. He was a voluntary fireman. Jamie studied Wolf Research at University of Waterloo and did his master’s thesis research as a Polar Bear Researcher. Since retiring as a teacher, he created ”Find Your Wild”, for outdoor adventures.
Jamie Honderich: Jamie outlined his extensive educational background. He retired from teaching five years ago and started “Find Your Wild”. He then shared his screen. He said that people come from all over the world to find their wild, right here in Muskoka. From his firefighting training, he decided that people would like to try these activities and he had a “Fire Fighter Challenge”. He even had a firetruck but has since sold it.
The main activity in summer is the “Big Easy” event – going on paddle boards on the Big East River from one beach to another. Year-round there is “Axe Throwing”, the only event of this kind in Muskoka. Participants can strive to win the Four Aces Award. The most popular event is the “Axes and Arrows” program, but there are also Low Ropes, Wilderness Games, and Scavenger Hunts. They cater to many bachelor and bachelorette parties.
In winter, snowshoeing safaris are very popular, also Algonquin backcountry skiing, as well as camping and fire-building.
Questions:
Rob commented that many new activities have been introduced. He asked if Jamie had ever been approached by TV shows? Jamie: Not yet, but he does have a summer and a winter video on Youtube.
Ross asked if outdoor camping was overnight. Jamie: No, but they do “Glamping”.
Paul: It is a real experience to go in the bush with Jamie, as there is so much to learn.
Rob: Where do people meet? Jamie: Small groups go in his truck (before Covid). Now they follow him and find a space to park in Algonquin Park. Jamie supplies the park permits.
Jennifer commented that both her sons did these activities through school, and it was a unique experience. Jennifer suggested the club do axe throwing as a fellowship event.
Hugh took a wildlife tour in Florida one time and asked if these tours are like that? Jamie: We have done wolf tours. The best wildlife experience is in winter, when the tracks are visible. In summer it is best to just sit in one place and wait for the wildlife to come to you.
Tim asked what is the wolf population in Algonquin Park? Jamie said there are about 30 packs of wolves, ranging from 2 to 8 in each pack.
Past President Ron noted that this was a very interesting and educational presentation and thanked Jamie for speaking to the members.
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