Southwest Saskatchewan Weekly Roundup — Apr 19–25
- 18 hours ago
- 5 min read
This week’s roundup covers local crime updates, new business milestones, infrastructure notices, and a full slate of spring events across the southwest — plus your weekend weather outlook. Updates include items from Apr 19–25, along with recent developments of ongoing public interest.
Regional News
Break & Enter Reported at Gull Lake Esso
Swift Current Rural RCMP are investigating a break and enter at the Gull Lake Esso in the early hours of Apr 10. An unknown individual forced entry through the front door and took a small number of items, including cigarettes and snacks. File: 2026‑462249. Crime Stoppers reports the suspect was wearing dark clothing and carrying a large duffel bag. The investigation remains active.
Gull Lake History Series Released
The Gull Lake Tourism/Economic Development Committee premiered a new six‑part history series at the SWT Lyceum Theatre during National Canadian Film Day. The videos highlight early prairie music machines, one‑room schoolhouse life, the origins of the museum building, the work of water hauler George “Slim” Willman, the art of early film projection, and the century‑long resilience of the Lyceum Theatre. The full series is now available online.
Empire Diner Moves Forward With New Ownership and Familiar Faces
The Empire Diner in downtown Gull Lake is entering a new chapter under owner Akash Karwal, who purchased the business about six months ago. Manager Jamba continues to oversee day‑to‑day operations, providing continuity as the team explores menu updates, themed nights, and potential interior and exterior renovations. The diner is also looking to hire locally as new offerings roll out.
Southwest Artist Gifts Portrait to Brett Kissel
Shaunavon artist Andrew Robertson created a portrait for country singer Brett Kissel during a Medicine Hat concert last weekend. Inspired by Kissel’s song Close to You, the piece depicts Kissel with his late grandfather. Kissel was visibly moved when Robertson presented the finished painting. Robertson, who recently completed a new mural in Gull Lake, is now preparing for this year’s Southwest Mural Fest.
Maple Creek Receives Increased Funding for Highway Connectors
The Town of Maple Creek will receive $2,560 in provincial support for maintaining its 1.6‑km highway connector corridor under the Clearing the Path program. The Saskatchewan Ministry of Highways and SARM increased the rate to $1,600 per kilometre for 2026–27, up from $1,185. The increase is reflected in the town’s budget.
Cabri — Boil Water Advisory Lifted
The Town of Cabri confirmed that water quality met all Saskatchewan Health Authority safety requirements following repairs and testing. The advisory has now been lifted.
Highway Closure — Trans‑Canada West of Swift Current (Apr 24)
A collision involving at least two semis closed the Trans‑Canada Highway between Gull Lake and Swift Current early Friday morning. RCMP blocked the westbound lanes near Webb while emergency crews responded. The highway reopened around 7:50 AM, though the incident remained listed as blocking lanes.
Shaunavon Collision — Apr 22
Shaunavon RCMP and EMS responded to a vehicle–cyclist collision near Christ the King School on Wednesday, Apr 22, at approximately 4:40 PM. The cyclist was transported to hospital with non‑life‑threatening injuries. No charges were laid.
Severe Weather — Apr 22–24
Environment and Climate Change Canada issued multiple alerts as a strong spring system moved through the southwest. Forecasts included 90 km/h wind gusts, thunderstorms, a risk of freezing rain, and 5–10 cm of snow for parts of the region. Freezing rain contributed to travel disruptions on the Trans‑Canada Highway and Highway 4.
STARS Fundraiser — Apr 6
A memorial fundraiser in Shaunavon raised $1,000 for STARS Air Ambulance through the sale of Harley Davidson gear belonging to the late Walter Oesch. Remaining items will be made available at the Shaunavon Mother’s Day Craft & Trade Show (Apr 24–25), with proceeds supporting long‑term care.
Southwest Weekend Weather Outlook
Stormy conditions continue through Apr 24–25 with below‑seasonal temperatures and a risk of freezing rain. Gradual improvement is expected by Apr 26.
Local Government & RM Notices
Town of Gull Lake
Council Approves Water System Upgrades and Spring Operational Items Published Apr 22 Council approved several water‑system upgrades and spring operational items at its Mar 11 meeting, including hydrant work, well‑line maintenance, and the purchase of a new distribution pump. A demolition permit was issued for Lot 15–16, Block 39, and seasonal staffing preparations continued for the upcoming pool season. Council also reviewed correspondence from RCMP, SaskPower, and Heritage Saskatchewan, and approved regular monthly accounts.
Joint Municipal Meeting — Health Centre Upgrades
Held Tuesday, Apr 21 The Town of Gull Lake and the R.M.s of Carmichael, Gull Lake, and Webb held a joint town hall to discuss potential upgrades to laboratory and X‑ray equipment at the Gull Lake Health Centre. The session outlined early‑stage options and next steps in the regional effort to maintain local diagnostic services.
RM of Gull Lake — Assessment Roll Open
The 2026 assessment roll is open for public inspection until May 12. Appeals must be filed by the deadline with a $25 fee, refundable upon a successful appeal.
Events (Next 60 Days)
Verified events across the southwest.
This Weekend — Apr 25 & 26
Gull Lake
Canadian Independent Bookstore Day — Yellow Canary Books & Stationery Sat, Apr 25 — Yellow Canary Books & Stationery A full day of book‑loving fun, surprises, and community spirit.
4th Annual Dodgeball Tournament Apr 24–25 — Rec Complex Fundraiser with beer & wing night and beer gardens.
Maple Creek
Maple Creek Spring Tradeshow Apr 25–26 — Maple Creek Armouries Local vendors, handmade products, and a full spring market atmosphere.
Cabri
Community Garage Sale Sat, Apr 25 — Cabri A community‑wide garage sale day across town.
Shaunavon
Shaunavon Mother’s Day Craft & Trade Show, April 24–25 — Shaunavon A two‑day spring market leading into Mother’s Day.
Swift Current
Harley Davidson Clothing Sale — LTC Fundraiser Apr 25 Fundraiser supporting long-term care.
Roller Derby Home Opener Apr 25 SWSRDA 2026 season opener.
Upcoming Regional Events
Gull Lake
Spring Tea at Autumn House — Mother’s Day Gathering Sun, May 3 — Autumn House Independent Living Facility A gentle Sunday afternoon tea hosted by the Autumn House Auxiliary.
Community Spring Fundraiser — The Junction Sat, May 23 — Gull Lake Community Hall A community fundraiser supporting The Junction youth drop‑in.
Swift Current
AbilityBowl 2026 — Roll, Rally, and Make an Impact Sat, May 9 — 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM — The Social Bowl A high‑energy day of bowling supporting SaskAbilities.
Dorie’s House 5K Color Run—Walk, Run, Bike, Roll! Sat, Jun 13 — 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM — Kinetic Exhibition Park A vibrant 5K raising funds for youth.
Shaunavon
Me Time: Composting Made Easy — Apr 27
Spring League Basketball Games — Apr 28
Grand Coteau AGM — Apr 29
Cabri
Wellness Clinic — Apr 30
Eastend
T.rex Discovery Centre Opening Day Sat, May 16 — 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM Explore Scotty — the world’s largest T. rex.
Share Your News
Did we miss an event in your town, village or RM? Send us a message to be included in next week’s roundup.
Gull Lake Events
💡 This is just one of the many stories shaping life in Gull Lake.
👉 Explore more news, events, and community highlights on the Gull Lake Events Homepage.
Brought to you by: This local update was captured and shared by Gull Lake Events. Support for our site is provided by Campbell’s Accommodations—your local choice for short-term stays in the heart of Southwest Saskatchewan. [Check Availability Here].
Comments