Cochrane

The Canadian Institute for Health Information says more surgeries are being performed than before the pandemic — but wait times have still grown longer. 

The report released Thursday looked at wait times for hip and knee replacements, cataract procedures, cancer surgeries, MRIs and CT scans in 2019 and in 2024.

A major milestone is being celebrated today at Cochrane Home Treasures.

From 2020 to mid-2025, the Treasures for Your Home Society has donated $1 million to worthy causes through its community funding, gifting, and building programs.

The machines were buzzing, the ink was flowing, and the team at Sink or Swim Tattoo Co. was all smiles after being surprised with the McCafé Coffee Break.

The team was nominated here and it was these kind words that won the entire team fresh coffee and cookies.

"They are the nicest group of people ever! They all work so hard! I think they all could use a little coffee break!"

As preparations continue for the 2025 G7 Leaders’ Summit, the RCMP Integrated Safety and Security Group (ISSG) is advising residents and visitors in the Kananaskis area to stay informed and plan ahead, with heightened security measures now in effect.

A Controlled Access Zone (CAZ) has been established around key summit venues and will remain in place until June 18. Only authorized personnel, local residents, and businesses will be permitted to enter, and delays should be expected. The public is encouraged to avoid the area where possible.

Parks Canada has closed the Mount Coleman picnic area in the northern part of Banff National Park due to a bear exhibiting "bold behaviour" and actively seeking human food.

The day-use site, located along Highway 93 North, also known as the Icefields Parkway, was closed on June 10 and will remain off-limits until further notice.

Officials have not confirmed whether the bear is a grizzly or black bear.

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Texas BBQ Night - Cochrane Lions Rodeo Grounds

Get ready for our mouthwatering smoked brisket, pulled pork, Texas Hot Links, and all the fixin’s—coleslaw, baked beans, and homemade cornbread on Friday June 13th. Beat the rush and pre-order now at thebutcheryblock.com/store or call 403-400-2150

A flurry of meetings, briefings and updates has led up to tonight's non-statutory public hearing on YMCA Calgary’s proposed operational takeover of the SLS Centre.

The meeting, set for 5:30 p.m., comes amid rising tensions, largely fuelled by concerns raised by the Cochrane Curling Club (CCC) about the future of the On The Rocks lounge and whether the YMCA’s model is the right fit for the multi-use recreational facility.

For Alice Zeng, graduating from Springbank Community High School isn’t just the end of a chapter, it’s a celebration of a high school career filled with involvement, achievement, and heart.

The 18-year-old was recently named valedictorian for the Class of 2025, an honour that came as a surprise to her, despite encouragement from those around her.

“Everyone around me sort of thought it was going to be me,” said Zeng. “But I was like, no, it’s not, there’s always a chance it’s going to be someone else.”

Residents in and around Cochrane are now under an Air Quality Warning, as smoke from wildfires continues to impact the region, significantly reducing visibility and air quality.

Environment and health officials say the situation has worsened from a previous advisory, with conditions now posing a health risk to all residents, regardless of age or health status, especially during periods of heavy smoke.

Ottawa’s efforts to prepare the country for the impacts of climate change have stumbled out of the gate, Canada’s environment commissioner said Tuesday.

In a new report, Jerry DeMarco concluded the National Adaptation Strategy was not effectively designed, did not prioritize Canada’s climate change risks and only established one of its three components since its release in 2023.