JOEL BROSSEAU

My snowmobiling journey began in the late 1980s, when my dad would take me along on trail rides and ice fishing trips around our home in Sudbury. I first learned to ride on our family property along the Vermillion River and could hardly wait to turn twelve to sign up for Mrs. Burton’s driver training program. From the very start, I loved the freedom and sense of adventure that snowmobiling brought. I even rode my sled to school, and after class, my friends and I would stay out riding until the streetlights came on—or until my mother’s patience wore thin.

One of the best decisions I ever made was in 2003, when I checked the box on my permit application that read: “I would like to be contacted to volunteer.” That simple choice opened the door to a lifelong commitment. With a few friends, I began volunteering with the Onaping Falls Snowmobile Club—brushing, staking, and installing signage. Balancing a young family and a career in the mining sector, I eventually rose to the position of Club President at the age of 27. My childhood mentor, the incomparable Brenda Welsh, would often check in to ask how our little club was doing, which always reminded me how connected our community is.

From there, I was fortunate to serve on the OFSC District 12 Board, and later as District President and Governor. Along the way, I became a student of the history of our organization and a firm believer in servant leadership. I truly believe our greatest strength lies in the collective efforts of our thousands of dedicated volunteers, and I remain committed to building and maintaining bridges—both across our trails and among our people.

When I’m not volunteering or riding Ontario’s white ribbons, you’ll find me outdoors across Northern Ontario, sharing new adventures with my son, Charles.