Funding will ensure community has a space for recreation and gathering

NESTOR FALLS — The Ontario government is investing $135,000 through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) to help the Nestor Falls Curling Club modernize its curling arena and improve facility amenities. This funding is part of the government’s plan to protect Ontario by making strategic investments to help revitalize important local infrastructure that helps communities connect and lead healthier, more active lives.

“Community spaces for sports and physical activity are essential to build a stronger and more resilient Northern Ontario,” said George Pirie, Minister of Northern Economic Development and Growth. “Our government is proud to support the Nestor Falls Curling Club in renovating its facility to preserve its longstanding legacy as a cornerstone of the community and an inclusive space for recreation and community events.”

The Nestor Falls Curling Club is using NOHFC funding to renovate its 69-year-old facility, which has not seen upgrades in over four decades. The club will undertake key updates including a new roof and windows, flooring replacement and kitchen and bathroom improvements. These renovations will ensure member safety and renew a valued community hub that hosts leagues, bonspiels and winter activities for all ages.

“The Nestor Falls Curling Club is currently in renovations with the help of the NOHFC to update the clubhouse. The upgrades include modernizing the building’s electrical system, installing new windows, renovating the club room with new walls, and installation in the kitchen and bathrooms. A new roof will also be added on the clubhouse in the Spring,” said Glen Helliar, Ice Maker/Technician at the Nestor Falls Curling Club. “Working with the Nestor Falls Curling Club for over 40 years, this one-of-a-kind natural ice curling club started in 1957, and these renovations will help improve the clubhouse and ensure it will continue hosting the local community for years to come.”

“For nearly 70 years, the Nestor Falls Curling Club has delivered natural ice, annual bonspiels and winter activities for all ages,” said Greg Rickford, Member of Provincial Parliament for Kenora-Rainy River. “We are proud to leverage funding available through the NOHFC to keep one-of-a-kind facilities modern, safe and accessible for community members here in the Northwest.”

The Ontario government is committed to prioritizing investments through the NOHFC that protect northern industries and jobs, mitigate the impacts of U.S. tariffs and trade disruptions and secure new opportunities for the long-term prosperity of Northern Ontario. The renewed focus is boosting competitiveness and ensuring the North remains a leader in Ontario’s economy. This new direction is in addition to the province’s investment of an additional $30 million over the next three years, bringing the NOHFC’s annual budget to a total of $110 million. Together, these initiatives will benefit communities of all sizes, both rural and urban, including Indigenous communities.

“Curling is a beloved sport in Ontario that helps strengthen communities and promote healthy lifestyles,” said Neil Lumsden, Minister of Sport. “From athletes pursuing high-performance goals to people curling for enjoyment, quality facilities make participation possible at every level. Our government is proud to support sport infrastructure in Northern Ontario so people of all ages can get involved and stay active.”

Quick Facts

• Through its funding programs, the NOHFC offers support to public and private sector economic development projects across Northern Ontario.

• Since June 2018, the NOHFC has invested more than $1 billion in 8,079 projects in Northern Ontario, leveraging more than $3 billion in investment and creating or sustaining over 12,500 jobs.

Additional Resources

• The NOHFC, Northern Development Offices and Small Business Enterprise Centres support northern communities, businesses and other stakeholders in identifying economic development opportunities and government funding programs.