The Grand Opening of the new Muskoka Lumber Community Centre was held today in Bracebridge along with a special ribbon cutting ceremony.
Local political and Indigenous dignitaries were on hand to celebrate the event, along with Town Crier Bruce Kruger and the local Legion Pipe Band.
Bracebridge Mayor Rick Maloney called the new facility a place where families, friends and neighbours can gather and play and build lasting memories:
“It’s a space where children will take their first skating lessons, where athletes will train and compete – where creativity can flow and knowledge is gained,” he said. “And where events will bring us all together time and time again.”
There were nearly 200 people in attendance, including sponsors, supporters and members of the community.
The grand opening featured speeches from key stakeholders including Mayor Rick Maloney, Parry Sound – Muskoka MPP and Minister of Natural Resources, Graydon Smith, Bracebridge Library Board Chair, Barb Hutchinson, Jason Sifft from Muskoka Lumber, and Ted Watson from MJMA, the architectural firm who oversaw the construction of the facility. Each spoke passionately about the importance of the new facility, which has been years in the making and represents a key investment in the future of Bracebridge. The facility is home to state-of-the-art features and amenities that will support the community for generations and play host to a range of activities, from sports to story time, social gatherings, celebrations and more.
The opening ceremony gave the Town the opportunity to thank the many community sponsors and donors whose contributions helped bring the project to life. Thanks to their generosity, the Muskoka Lumber Community Centre received over $4 million in contributions.
In addition to the formal ceremony, attendees enjoyed tours of the new facility, family-friendly activities in the Coulson Family Bracebridge Library, and a reception in the Muskoka Leon’s Auditorium. As Bracebridge continues to grow, the Muskoka Lumber Community Centre is an investment in the community that will enhance the quality of life in Bracebridge and surrounding municipalities, providing new opportunities for recreation, cultural events, and community engagement.
The $78 million facility includes the Muskoka Lumber Arena, Coulson Family Bracebridge Library, and a new indoor field house.
After the ceremony the public went on a tour of the new facility.