General Unsung Hero: Joan Hamilton is a volunteer queen on Big Hawk Lake, Ont. By Cottage Life Published: May 15, 2026 share Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Pinterest Copy Link Cancel Photo Courtesy Peter Mackintosh Joan Hamilton (seated at left) tackles many volunteer projects on Big Hawk Lake, Ont. She organizes the annual Float the River in Style water parade; she co-authored a book on local lake history; and she brought the Bondar Challenge—an event introducing kids to nature photography—to the area. “Through my involvement with the lake association, I’ve made wonderful friends,” says Joan. “There are so many benefits to volunteerism.” Tell us about the unsung hero on your lake. Email edit@cottagelife.com. This article was originally published in the Spring 2026 issue of Cottage Life. Related Story This team of volunteers is dedicated to saving lives on the lake Related Story This lake association successfully eradicated invasive Eurasian watermilfoil. Here’s how they did it Related Story How do you get community buy-in on environmental issues at the lake? Sign up for our newsletters By submitting your information via this form, you agree to receive electronic communications from Cottage Life Media, a division of Blue Ant Media Solutions Inc., containing news, updates and promotions regarding cottage living and Cottage Life's products. You may withdraw your consent at any time. Dockside Weekly The latest cottage-country news, trending stories, and how-to advice The Key Weekly Need-to-know info about buying, selling, and renting cottage real estate Family Matters Five-part series Untangle the thorny process of cottage succession with expert advice from lawyer, Peter Lillico
Related Story This lake association successfully eradicated invasive Eurasian watermilfoil. Here’s how they did it