August 8, 2025

Investment will ensure residents and curling enthusiasts have a safe space to stay healthy and active

OLIVER PAIPOONGE — The Government of Ontario is investing $195,427 through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) to help the Kakabeka Falls and Rural District Curling and Athletic Club make necessary upgrades to its local arena in the Municipality of Oliver Paipoonge. As part of the government’s plan to protect Ontario, the province is helping northern communities upgrade and revitalize local facilities that help strengthen the local economy, protect jobs and provide a safe space for residents to enjoy healthy, active lifestyles.

“Our government is proud to support local infrastructure projects across Northern Ontario that help boost the local economy and build stronger, healthier communities,” said George Pirie, Minister of Northern Economic Development and Growth. “We know how important it is for northern communities to have spaces where people can come together and stay active. With these upgrades, the curling club can continue to have a positive impact on the region.”

With the NOHFC’s assistance, the club can make much needed repairs, which will keep the facility safe and allow it to continue welcoming curlers from across Thunder Bay and surrounding areas while it hosts leagues, competitions and provincial tournaments.

“This investment will allow us to continue to deliver programs that bring families together in a welcoming, safe social setting, building lifelong friendships,” said Mike Desilets, President of the Kakabeka Falls Curling Club. “Curling is an athletic and social sport that promotes fitness and mental health benefits through competition and social interaction and is an integral part of the rural and farming community. With a league suitable for any age, gender or skill level, our club’s facility is more than just a place for great curling. Our facility is also a great place to hold family and corporate events – with or without curling in the mix. In the curling off-season, the facility’s amenities and flexibility opens the door for many opportunities. This upcoming season will be our 74^th year serving the community.”

“This investment is a big win for both the curling and Kakabeka Falls community,” said Kevin Holland, Member of Provincial Parliament for Thunder Bay – Atikokan. “By supporting the repairs of the arena as well as the addition of a dehumidifier, we’re extending the season for curlers—while also protecting the proud tradition that makes Northwestern Ontario such a special place to live, work and visit.”

Announced in June 2025, the Ontario government is refocusing the NOHFC to prioritize investments 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 recently announced 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.

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 $939 million in 7,563 projects in Northern Ontario, leveraging more than $2.8 billion in investment and creating or sustaining over 11,900 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.