Borden Blast 2025 Sees Huge Success: Thank You to Our Sponsors!

Members and their families participating in various activities including: the zip-line, petting zoos, duck pond, bouncy castles, rock climbing, VR experience, and more at the 2025 Borden Blast at CFB Borden (Caleb Hooper/Borden Bugler)

On Saturday, 20 September 2025, the Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Borden came alive as over 1,000 families, friends and newly posted members gathered for Borden Blast 2025, presented by Georgian College and BMO! From thrilling zip-line rides and wildlife shows to local vendor booths and live entertainment, the event was a celebration of community spirit and a warm welcome to those beginning their posting at CFB Borden.

Running from 1000 to 1500 hrs, the day was filled with activities for all ages. Children enjoyed inflatable play zones and interactive games, while adults explored information booths, sampled food from local businesses, and connected with community organizations. The event highlighted the unique bond between the Base and its surrounding towns of Angus, Barrie, and Simcoe County!

“Borden Blast is our way of saying welcome,” said event organizers. “Every year, we use this opportunity to open the gates to the community, show what Borden has to offer, and make sure our newly posted members and their families feel at home.”

Various vendor booths set up at the 2025 Borden Blast on 20 September 2025 at CFB Borden (Caleb Hooper/Borden Bugler)

Members and their families enjoy static vehicle displays at the 2025 Borden Blast on 20 September 2025 on CFB Borden (Caleb Hooper/Borden Bugler)

Sponsors Make It Possible

This year’s success was made possible thanks to the generous support of community partners and sponsors. The Borden Blast was presented by Georgian College and BMO with additional support from The Personal Insurance, McDonald’s Angus, KOOL FM, and Rock 95 who contributed to making the event free and accessible for families. Their commitment underscores the strong relationship between local organizations and the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) community.

Georgian College, BMO, The Personal Insurance and McDonald’s Angus receiving “Thank You” gifts from PSP at the 2025 Borden Blast on 20 September 2025 at CFB Borden (Caleb Hooper/Borden Bugler)

Base Borden Community Council barbeque outside of Andy Anderson Arena serving up hotdogs and burgers for the 2025 Borden Blast on 20 September 2025 at CFB Borden (Caleb Hooper/Borden Bugler)

Welcoming New Members

Base Commander Col Ramessar and Formation CWO Peters addressing all in attendance at the 2025 Borden Blast on 20 September 2025 at CFB Borden (Caleb Hooper/Borden Bugler)

With the fall posting season well underway, Borden Blast served as both a celebration and an orientation for many arriving at the base for the first time. Military families had the chance to meet local PSP staff, discover recreational opportunities, and build connections that will support them throughout their time at CFB Borden.

As the day wound down with music, laughter, and a strong sense of camaraderie, the event once again proved why CFB Borden is not just a Base but a community.

On behalf of the Borden Bugler and the Personnel Support Programs team, we extend our thanks to the sponsors, volunteers and attendees who made this year’s Borden Blast an unforgettable success. To our newly posted members—welcome to CFB Borden. We’re glad you’re here!