A new Petro-Canada has opened on Anishinaabe land in a landmark development led by Pine Creek First Nation and Ebb and Flow First Nation. The project marks an important milestone for community driven economic growth in the region and reflects the long term vision of both Nations to expand Nation led opportunities on traditionally held lands.
Building a shared development on jointly held reserve land
As two Nations working together, Pine Creek and Ebb and Flow required a development structure that honoured shared authority, community priorities, and the practical needs of a major commercial initiative. Establishing this foundation first required setting the land apart as joint reserve land of Pine Creek First Nation and Ebb and Flow First Nation, known as Anishinabe Aki, followed by designating the land for leasing purposes, a process that required approval referendums in both communities.
Brenda Johnston, partner at Cochrane Sinclair, played a central role in the process.
“Creating a structure that supports shared governance across two Nations was essential. It ensured the development reflects their values and their path forward,” she said.
The development brings a modern service station to an important regional corridor, supporting a broader economic strategy designed to bring stable revenue into both communities while serving residents, visitors and neighbouring towns.
Guided by strong community leadership
Leadership from Pine Creek and Ebb and Flow shaped the direction, pace and priorities of the project from the very beginning. Their shared vision focused on employment, stable revenue and long term prosperity that stays within the community.
Reflecting on that partnership, Brenda noted, “Working with Pine Creek and Ebb and Flow First Nations on this project was a powerful example of how strong governance and clear collaboration can move community priorities forward.”
Their commitment to a collaborative process created a clear path for decision making and ensured that every component of the development aligned with the values and aspirations of both Nations. The Petro-Canada station stands as a result of this leadership and highlights the potential of Nation driven partnerships.
Legal framework led by Cochrane Sinclair’s Brenda Johnston
To move the project from concept to reality, Pine Creek and Ebb and Flow First Nations engaged Brenda Johnston to lead the legal structuring required for a shared development of this scale. Her work included:
- Supporting both Nations in setting apart the lands as joint reserve lands, Anishinabe Aki
- Leading the process for designation of the land for leasing purposes, requiring community referendums and federal approval
- Developing the long-term governance and leasing structure to sustain the development for generations
Brenda described her role simply.
“Our role was to create a legal framework that honoured the Nations’ vision and ensured the development could thrive for generations on Anishinaabe land,” she said.
Her leadership helped navigate the complexities of a shared First Nation development and ensured that every step aligned with community priorities and federal approval pathways.
An investment in long term community prosperity
The new Petro-Canada station will bring direct employment opportunities and generate steady revenue that remains within the communities. As a long term asset, it strengthens the economic position of Pine Creek and Ebb and Flow First Nations and demonstrates how Nation led development can shape regional growth.
“Projects like this show how Nation led development can create meaningful economic opportunity that stays in the community and builds long term stability,” Brenda added.
The project also serves as a model for future collaboration between the Nations, creating opportunities for shared investment, local business engagement and broader regional partnerships.
A development rooted in community priorities
For Pine Creek and Ebb and Flow First Nations, this project is far more than a commercial investment. It reflects their ongoing commitment to community empowerment, financial independence and sustainable growth for future generations.
The opening of the Petro-Canada station marks an important milestone on Anishinaabe land and highlights what can be achieved through strong Nation leadership, thoughtful planning and trusted partnerships.