The Grand - Film Premiere in Brantford

Discover Brantford is excited to present the premiere of The Grand, From Source to Mouth, a film by Thomas Ostapchuk, on Saturday, June 17, 2023 from 6:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. in Harmony Square. The public is invited to attend the pre-screening event in Harmony Square before enjoying the film which will premiere at dusk (approximately 9 p.m.).

The 20-minute film showcases Ostapchuk kayaking 300 kilometres along the Grand River on a solo, self-supported journey. Along the way he meets passionate paddlers who share their words and wisdom to help guide his journey. As Ostapchuk rediscovers his place in these lands, he reminds us about the importance of celebrating the natural wonders that exist in our own backyard. This poignant film has already been shortlisted for the 2023 World Tour Paddling Film Festival.

Ostapchuk grew up in Southern Ontario and moved home during the pandemic, after having spent several years living in Vancouver.

“This is a story about discovering adventure in your backyard, and rediscovering what it means to find home,” Ostapchuk says. “I hope that people walk away from this film saying, ‘Wow – I didn’t know that this wilderness existed in this capacity in Ontario.’ And I hope that people are inspired to explore it themselves, whether that’s a paddle or a walk or a bike.”

“The serene Grand River, a designated Canadian Heritage River, is a paddler’s paradise and one of the city’s largest tourism assets,” says Kara Davey, Manager of Tourism, Culture and Sport for the City of Brantford. “It also links Brantford to neighbouring communities of Six Nations of the Grand River, the County of Brant and beyond. We are delighted to be part of Tom’s journey and share his story.”

Prior to the screening, Grand Experiences will be hosting a guided paddle down the Grand River with Thomas, which will culminate close to downtown at Brant’s Crossing. Those interested in joining the paddle can contact Grand Experiences at 519-442-3654 to register.

Beginning at 6:30 pm, booths from various community organizations will be set up at Harmony Square, including Discover Brantford, Six Nations of the Grand River Tourism, County of Brant Tourism, Grand River Rafting, Two Row on the Grand, and the Grand River Community Play Project.

 Free popcorn will be provided, and parking is available at the Market Centre Parkade located at 59 Icomm Dr. in Brantford. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs. Enjoy!