06/29/2026
Chief Pinesi Paddle – July 5 (11:30-1:30 PM)🚣♂️🌅
The 2026 paddle honouring Algonquin Chief Pierre-Louis Constant Pinesi begins on July 5 at noon at the Canadian Museum of History in Gatineau and concludes July 10 on the Kahnawà:ke reserve (south of Montreal). In its third year, ONEC’s Paddling Director, Karen Butterfield, will be among the 34 paddlers travelling 180 km in three traditional 34-foot Montreal canoes.
The Chief Pinesi Paddle commemorates Algonquin Grand Chief Pierre-Louis Constant Pinesi (1768–1834), a respected leader who advocated for his people’s land and rights during a period of profound change; the journey retraces historic canoe routes along the Kichi Sibi (Ottawa River) and is rooted in recognition, reconciliation, and shared heritage (learn more about Chief Pinesi and the Pinesi Paddle initiative and the 2024 inaugural paddle).
Thank you to Karen Butterfield for representing ONEC and contributing her leadership and passion to this meaningful journey!
🛶Join the Paddle in Honour of Chief Pinesi and Indigenous Waterways:
As part of the New Horizons for Seniors Big Canoe program, ONEC is offering free spots for those aged 55+ to participate in a local outing recognizing and supporting this event.
Time: 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM (including 1.5–2 hours on the water)
Includes: Post-paddle social with refreshments at the ONEC waterfront room
Registration: Email [email protected] (first come, first served; confirmation by return email)
☀️Other ways to participate:
* Attend the launch at the Museum of History on July 5 at noon
* Watch from the boathouse or along the river as the canoes travel between the Museum, the falls, and the Quebec and Kettle Island shores