Judy O’Malley

How long have you been a Muskokan – As a child, my family would vacation on Skeleton Lake at my grandparent’s one room log cabin. They built it from the logs of an old barn. No running water or electricity. I can still taste the fresh blueberry pie my Mom would bake in the wood burning stove with the berries we picked that morning. “Magical”. My husband Kevin and I bought our cottage on the Joe River in the spring of 1988. For many years we were water access, which made for lots of fun with three small kids in tow.

When did you join the Board of the Ratepayers  – I joined the Board of Directors of the MRA in 2020. It’s been an enjoyable and rewarding experience working with such dedicated and knowledgeable volunteers.

What interested you in serving on the Ratepayers Board – I’ve seen many changes since the late eighties. Some good, some not so good.  I feel the MRA is a very important “watchdog”, informing our members and protecting our precious Muskoka. Progress is inevitable, but good governance is essential.

What do you believe is the most important issue we face here in Muskoka – Preserving the natural elements that are unique to Muskoka.

What is your background – I grew up in Etobicoke in a family of five kids. I’m a part-time resident of Muskoka (summers).  The rest of my family have been permanent residents of Muskoka for many years. Out of school I worked in a law firm in Toronto until my first child was born. I made the decision to stay home with my kids, working part-time in my husbands dental office I was very involved with the PTA at my kids school.  Through my 40s and early 50s, I competed in 9 Ironman Triathlon races with my two best friends. I now have three beautiful grandchildren who keep me busy. Our cottage is a our family meeting place.