Master Warrant Officer Jonathan Nebel, CFB Borden Base Mayor, has been awarded the prestigious Barry Peacock Community Award which recognizes exceptional volunteerism and leadership in fostering community connection within the Canadian Armed Forces.
The award, established by Honorary Colonel Barry Peacock of the Canadian Forces Logistics Training Centre (CFLTC), was designed to highlight the integral role that service members play in supporting their local communities through acts of volunteerism. MWO Nebel, nominated by CFLTC Commandant LCol Tanya Tebbutt, was the first recipient of the revived award since the COVID-19 pandemic paused many of its traditions.
“I wasn’t expecting anything,” said MWO Nebel. “But I’m proud of the work we’ve done—not just me, but the entire council. This award really belongs to the community that makes all this possible.”
Bringing Borden Together, One Project at a Time
MWO Nebel’s impact as Base Mayor can be felt throughout the residential housing unit (RHU) area, where his vision for unity and connection has driven several successful initiatives. Chief among them is the Spring Eggstravaganza, a family-friendly Easter-themed event he conceptualized to bring all ages together after the long winter months.
“We needed something to kickstart spring—something inclusive that cuts across all demographics. Seeing little kids and teenagers all running around, helping each other, really showed me what community is all about,” he said.
Under his leadership, events such as the annual Santa Claus Parade, Festival of Lights and Christmas tree lighting have also thrived, thanks in part to the groundwork laid by his predecessor, CPO2 Denman.
But Nebel’s latest project is the revitalization of the Borden Community Garden.
A Garden Grown by Community
Dormant since the pandemic, the community garden is finally returning to life!
“We built 36 planter boxes last weekend, soil is coming soon, and we’re just waiting on the water line,” said MWO Nebel. “Our goal is to have it fully functional before the end of May.”
Located near the splash pad and skate park, the new garden will offer RHU residents the opportunity to grow vegetables and flowers in a shared space. One that encourages interaction and collaboration.
“For some, gardening at home isn’t feasible. But a central plot provides both the space and the social element. It’s about growing more than just plants—it’s about growing relationships,” MWO Nebel said.
Registration details for those interested in claiming a plot will be released shortly.
Challenges and Collaboration
MWO Nebel acknowledges that building unity within such a large and diverse Base isn’t always easy.
“With so many different backgrounds and units, it’s hard to bring everyone together. We can’t change policies, but we can be a soundboard providing guidance and creating opportunities for connection.”
He credits his success to collaboration with Personnel Support Programs (PSP), Borden Family Resource Centre (BFRC), CANEX, and a wide network of volunteers.
“Nothing we’ve accomplished was done alone,” he said. “The council, ward reps, and community partners are the engine behind all of it.”
Looking Ahead
MWO Nebel continues to promote community involvement, encouraging new ideas from residents and remaining a key connector between military and civilian networks.
He recently joined the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) Association in Barrie and supports events like Military Appreciation Night at Sunset Speedway (7 June) and a cultural celebration in Creemore (19 June).
“In the end, my goal is simple: to make life better here for everyone,” MWO Nebel said. “And if a garden, a spring event, or a shared laugh at a parade can help do that, then I think we’re on the right track.”
Stay tuned to the Borden Bugler and our upcoming community calendar for registration links, event updates, and ways to get involved in the community garden.
