GBA 2021 - Fall Flippingbook

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≥ SAE J1970 measures noise while a boat is passing by. The recommended noise level is 75 dB, about as loud as a vacuum cleaner. • This measurement procedure takes more time to perform and is not often used. However, this is the noise we hear when sitting by the water. When sound levels go above 75 dB, conversation is interrupted and you either have to stop talking or raise your voice to be heard. In November 2020, Transport Canada began public discussions on updating the boat mufflers section in the small vessel regulations at their semi-annual Canadian Marine Advisory Council (CMAC). They discussed it again at the April 2021 meeting. The Decibel Coalition is actively engaged with the staff at Transport Canada and this issue will be on the agenda again at the next CMAC meeting in November. Having Transport Canada bring this to the public forum is very

significant as it means they recognize that there is a problem that needs to be addressed. Broad support from waterfront associations and municipalities from across the country give the Coalition tremendous credibility, as does the backing of Safe Quiet Lakes. After the federal election this fall, the Decibel Coalition will start the process of obtaining political support from members of parliament. How Can You Help? The Coalition has started a national petition through change.org . Numbers and representation from across Canada matter, so please visit: https://tinyurl.com/t448cv9x to sign the petition and raise the profile of this important issue. With your support, the Decibel Coalition will make our waterways a quieter, more respectful place for all.

OBITUARY GBA Honourary Life Member William Grenville “Dutch” Davis 1929-2021

By Rolfe Jones, GBA President

A long-time supporter of the GBA, Bill approached the Bay the same way he approached politics - quietly and effectively. While his accomplishments are too many to list, he will be remembered most for the kindness and decency with which he carried himself. Never one to draw attention to himself or his contributions, he always made himself available to provide his counsel or lend quiet advice if it meant the betterment of the Bay or his community. Most of us are unaware of just how many good deeds he helped make happen - but happen they did, because of the quiet stories people tell about how this or that came to be with Bill in the background. Bill was happy that the light and praise should fall on them because he was happy to help and in no hurry to take the credit.

Kathleen and Bill Davis

Photo: Ian Davis

W ith the passing of former Premier Bill Davis this summer, Canada lost a great statesman, Ontario lost a great and highly respected former premier, and Georgian Bay lost a truly great friend. “Dutch,” as he was known to his many friends, loved his family, his home and community in Brampton, and his favourite place: his Cognashene cottage on Georgian Bay.

We have lost a brilliant and humble man, an able politician, a deeply committed family man and a friend. Those who knew Bill were lucky to know him and those who didn’t were lucky to have him pulling for them in his quiet, capable way. Thank you Bill for all the things you’ve done and for the many we didn’t even know about.

www.georgianbay.ca

GBA UPDATE Fall 2021

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