The Simcoe and District Chamber of Commerce celebrated the region’s top businesses, leaders, and community champions last night during its annual Outstanding Business Achievement Awards Gala, held at the Delhi German Home.
The venue was packed as residents, business owners, and community partners came together to recognize these outstanding achievements.
MPP Bobbi Ann Brady opened up the awards, talking about the amazing resilience in Norfolk.
Deputy Mayor Alan Duthie spoke next, talking about how important evenings like this were.
One of the highlights of the evening was the introduction of a brand-new honour — the Edward Jones Women in Business Award.
The inaugural award went to Kaley Horton of Kaley’s Restaurant, recognizing her leadership, entrepreneurial drive, and the strong community presence her business continues to build.
The accolades continue to roll in for Darryl Granger as well.
He earned the JRL Private Wealth Entrepreneur of the Year Award for his acclaimed film Netting the Waters, a production that has drawn national attention while shining a spotlight on Norfolk County’s rich culture, landscape, and fishing heritage.
He was surprised and honoured to get the award, and told the crowd to keep an eye out for what comes next.
But the emotional core of the night belonged to Dan Johnson, who received the Tatjana Burcul Citizen of the Year Award.
The room fell silent—and then emotional—as Johnson was honoured for his extraordinary work raising funds for the Norfolk-Haldimand Community Hospice.
Johnson has already brought in nearly $500,000, specifically from his cross-country cycling journey in memory of his son, Luke.
Johnson shared that the award truly belonged to his son, whose memory continues to inspire generosity and community spirit across the region.
The event also recognized excellence in tourism, agriculture, young leadership, accessibility, community service, and more — showcasing the breadth of talent and impact found across Norfolk County’s business landscape.
Full List of Award Winners
Edward Jones Women in Business Award – Kaley Horton, Kaley’s Restaurant
JRL Private Wealth Entrepreneur of the Year Award – Darryl Granger, Netting the Waters
Tatjana Burcul Citizen of the Year Award – Dan Johnson
Toyotetsu Outstanding Business Achievement Award – Retail/Service – The Barrel Restaurant
Good Redden and Klosler Outstanding Community Service Award – Cancer Support and Resource Program
NACL IDEA (Inclusivity, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility) Award – Real Canadian Superstore
Fanshawe College Young Leader Award – Klynn and Kcie Walker
Norfolk County Tourism Hospitality & Tourism Award – Long Point Eco Adventures
Stelco Legacy Award – Apple Hill Lavender
Millards Outstanding Business Achievement Award – Agricultural or Industrial – Sawaya Gardens
The Chamber’s annual gala continues to be one of Norfolk County’s signature business events, highlighting the innovation, resilience, and community commitment that define the region’s economic landscape.