Eganville Leader to Close in 2026 After 123 Years of Reporting

The Eganville Leader, a cornerstone of local journalism in Ontario, is set to cease operations on February 28, 2026. Publisher and editor Gerald Tracey announced the closure, attributing it to his advancing age, health concerns, and the inability to find a successor. This decision marks a significant moment in the history of community newspapers in the Ottawa Valley and serves as a reflection of the wider challenges facing the industry.

Tracey, who has devoted over five decades to journalism, is known for his hands-on approach. He often assigns, writes, photographs, and lays out the weekly paper, while also managing advertising sales. His commitment to the community has earned the Eganville Leader the affectionate nickname “Eganville Bleeder,” highlighting its focus on impactful local reporting.

During a recent interview, Tracey recounted the latest stories that have dominated the local news cycle, including a serious fire at the Smith’s Bay Campsite and several tragic incidents involving local residents. “The news never stops,” he remarked, illustrating the relentless pace of journalism in a small town.

Despite its profitability, with $1.3 million in revenue last year and a solid subscriber base of 3,800 in a town of 1,200, the Leader faces difficulties that many community papers have encountered. The decline in advertising revenue, particularly from institutional advertisers in the region, has made sustaining the paper increasingly challenging. Tracey noted a drop of more than $20,000 annually from local government advertising, which is crucial for funding journalism.

Tracey’s reflections on the impending closure evoke a sense of nostalgia and concern. “I’d rather plan our own funeral,” he stated, emphasizing his desire to see the paper close on his own terms rather than witnessing it decline under new management. He expressed worries about leaving his wife to make the difficult decision of shutting down operations.

In the context of his impending retirement, Tracey’s career offers insight into the evolution of local journalism. His father, Ambrose Tracey, purchased the Eganville Leader in 1944, and the family has been at the helm ever since. Gerald’s journey in journalism began at a young age, learning the trade from his father. He has witnessed firsthand the transformation of the media landscape over the decades.

The challenges faced by the Eganville Leader are not unique. A report by the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives highlighted that Canada has lost approximately 25 print media outlets annually since 2014, particularly affecting small towns. This trend has created significant news deserts, leaving millions of Canadians without reliable local news sources.

As the Eganville Leader prepares for its final chapter, the community’s response underscores the importance of local journalism. Longtime subscribers express their sorrow at the impending loss. Many residents, like Elaine Reinert, aged 82, share fond memories of reading the paper and engaging with its content. “It’s just something we’ve done all our lives,” she remarked, illustrating the paper’s integral role in community life.

Tracey’s commitment to public service extends beyond journalism. He has been actively involved in fundraising for local initiatives, including assisted living facilities and community parks. The renaming of Centennial Park in his honor is a testament to his dedication to the Eganville community.

As the Eganville Leader approaches its closure, it serves as a reminder of the vital role local newspapers play in fostering community connection and providing a platform for local voices. Tracey’s legacy will be remembered not just in the stories he told but in the relationships he built throughout his career.

The future of journalism, particularly in small communities, remains uncertain. The digital landscape continues to evolve, and as Tracey noted, “the future of our business is online, not in print.” While the thump of a newspaper on the doorstep may become a relic of the past, the essence of storytelling endures, showcasing the importance of truth and community engagement in any format.