This year’s Heat Bank dinner and auction is entering a new chapter – with a fresh venue and chefs joining forces from the County’s top restaurants.
Rhubarb Restaurant in Carnarvon has hosted the event in support of Heat Bank Haliburton County for 11 years. After last year’s tickets sold out almost instantly, co-owner Terri Mathews-Carl envisioned expanding the event and invited neighbouring restaurants, Bonnie View Inn, the Post House, Dimensions Retreats, and Juna, to partner for 2025.
“This event has always been about a sense of community coming together,” said Mathews-Carl, owner of Rhubarb and Juna. “Over the years, we’ve shared incredible meals and moments that translated into real community support. It just felt natural to invite more neighbours to the table to build on that sense of friends helping friends.”
With the event relocating to Bonnie View Inn, it is expected to nearly double in size, hosting more than 100 dinner guests.
Mathews-Carl said “in scale, it will be a spectacular community gathering – made possible by the camaraderie between these five local establishments.”
Tina Jackson, of Central Food Network and Heat Bank’s executive director, said, “neighbours helping neighbours is exactly what is at the heart of Heat Bank. We are always stronger when we work together, and it’s so special to see this same spirit reflected in the fundraiser.”
The Post House owner, Heather Milstein, added, “when Terri reached out, we were so excited to get involved. Collaborating with fellow restaurants allows us to combine our strengths and creativity to support the community in a meaningful way.” The night begins at 6 p.m. Nov. 9 with a cocktail hour followed by a four-course dinner; each course by a chef from Rhubarb, Juna, Dimensions Retreats, and the Post House. There will be live music and the evening will conclude with a live auction.
Jackson said that as of July, Heat Bank Haliburton County had already responded to 223 calls for assistance — nearly matching the total for all of last year before the heating season has started for the upcoming winter. She said Haliburton County has one of the highest rates of energy poverty in Canada. Rising costs and financial uncertainty mean that more people are reaching out for support.
Heat Bank provides practical solutions, including: delivering firewood and other heating fuels during cold seasons; assisting with applications for hydro grants and cost savings; advocating with hydro companies to establish fair payment plans; assessment and personalized support. Tickets are $150 each.
To reserve your seat, contact Terri at 705-489-4449.
