It’s been a busy week across West Central, from trials in local courts, to late-summer sports competitions, to families preparing for back-to-school.
Check out the top five local stories from this past week below.
Kindersley family seeking support as young son begins brain tumour treatment
A Kindersley family is rallying support for six-year-old Ghio Villanea, who was diagnosed with a brain tumour in August. After surgery in Saskatoon, he is set to begin months of chemotherapy and radiation on Sept. 10. A GoFundMe launched by family friend Karen Casino is helping cover expenses as the Villaneas stay in Saskatoon, with community members offering donations and encouragement.
Traffic stop near Kerrobert leads to firearms conviction for Red Deer driver in Kindersley court
A Red Deer man has been handed a 15-month conditional sentence after pleading guilty to possessing a restricted firearm with ammunition. Johnathon Benusic was stopped by RCMP in May 2024, when officers found a loaded .357 Magnum revolver in his truck during a traffic check. Judge Cardinal said carrying a loaded restricted weapon without authorization posed a serious risk, imposing conditions that include a curfew, counselling, a 10-year firearm ban and 100 hours of community service. Other cases on the Kindersley court docket were adjourned.
It's PBR week in Kindersley!
Kindersley is hosting top bull riders this weekend for the PBR Canada Touring Pro Division Energy Dodge Dakota Buttar Invitational. The event has expanded to two nights, Sept. 5 and 6, with a record $30,000 prize purse, the largest on the Touring Series circuit. Local star Dakota Buttar, who leads the Canadian standings, headlines the competition and is aiming for his first ride in Kindersley in over a decade. Tickets remain available at the door and at Castle Building Centre.
Insane shot leads 'Foot Wedge Warriors' to Kindo Cup victory
The Kindersley Regional Park golf course wrapped up its men’s night season with the Foot Wedge Warriors defeating Kyote Ugly in the Kelly Insurance Kindo Cup final. Jessey Pocock delivered the highlight with a 67-yard hole-out on Hole 2, later adding a hole-in-one on Hole 8 in a separate round. The season featured 20 flights of competition, with organizers and volunteers praised for their efforts. Golf continues for about another month as the course prepares for a new irrigation project.
Saskatchewan schools welcome students back for 2025-26 academic year
Students across Saskatchewan returned to class Tuesday, marking the start of the 2025-26 school year. Education Minister Everett Hindley called it an exciting milestone for students, families and educators. The province said it is prioritizing early literacy from kindergarten to Grade 3 and plans to expand Specialized Supports Classrooms by 200 over the next four years. Officials also reminded drivers to use caution in school zones as fall routines resume.