April 27 to 29, 2026
Her Excellency the Right Honourable Mary Simon, Governor General of Canada, returned to Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, from April 27 to April 29, 2026.
April 27, 2026
Upon her arrival, she was welcomed by His Worship Darryl Krakowka, Mayor of Tumbler Ridge, and by councillors and members of the municipality.
While in Tumbler Ridge, Her Excellency met with members of the community, taking time to hear about their individual journeys and experiences over the past few months.
Within the mountains of British Columbia lies the Roman Walkway Memorial Site, a place that has brought—and continues to bring—the community of Tumbler Ridge together.
On behalf of Canadians, Governor General Mary Simon laid a paper heart at the base of a tree at the site, to honour and remember those who are no longer with us.
Written on the heart is a word of hope in Inuktitut, “ajuinnata.” It means “to never give up.”
April 28, 2026
In Tumbler Ridge, Governor General Mary Simon met with Chief Rudy Paquette, Saulteaux First Nations; Chief Roland Wilson, West Moberly First Nations; and Chief Harley Chingee, McLeod Lake Indian Band.
Together, they discussed how moments of loss are felt across Indigenous communities and how collective support can contribute to healing and recovery.
This morning, Her Excellency the temporary high school in Tumbler Ridge where she had the opportunity to meet with students and school staff, and discuss resiliency, care and ambitions.
Taking part in an English First Peoples class, the Governor General also joined students in a conversation on reconciliation in Canada.
At the Tumbler Ridge Health Centre and Tumbler Ridge Strong Youth and Mental Health Centre, Her Excellency connected with teams whose tireless dedication and compassion support the community every day.
As mental health has been a central focus of Governor General Mary Simon's mandate, she spent time with mental health providers to reinforce the message that care goes beyond physical health, and that supporting mental and emotional well-being is just as important for a strong community.
During her visit, the Governor General personally thanked the RCMP members who came together on the day of the tragedy in Tumbler Ridge, to help a community in need. From Tumbler Ridge to Chetwynd, every one of these individuals embodied true courage.
Her Excellency also had the honour to spend time with first responders, including firefighters and paramedics, to express her gratitude for the work they do every day in support of the residents of their community.
