Funding will support renovations to extend life of important community hub and recreational facility
May 20, 2026
PARRY SOUND — The Ontario government is investing $500,000 through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) to help the Parry Sound Curling Club make important upgrades to its facility. As part of the government’s plan to protect Ontario, the province is making strategic investments to help northern municipalities build and revitalize community infrastructure to boost local economic development, keep people working and provide safe, accessible spaces for residents and visitors to enjoy.
“The Parry Sound Curling Club is a vital community space that encourages active living and brings residents together,” said George Pirie, Minister of Northern Economic Development and Growth. “With our government’s support, the club will bring new vigour and vitality to its facility and prolong the life of a very important community asset, being the only curling rink in the District of Parry Sound.”
The Parry Sound Curling Club is a not-for-profit organization located in downtown Parry Sound. Operating since 1954, the club’s facility hosts bonspiels and offers a variety of curling programs and leagues for all ages and abilities. The facility is also home to a dart league and provides space for municipal and private events.
The club is using funding from the NOHFC for renovations and new equipment. The project includes installing a lift, ramp, signage and HVAC system, widening two doorways, upgrading lighting and two washrooms, repairing flooring and the stairway, and purchasing a fridge and dishwasher. Once complete, the facility will be an accessible, modern and safe community and recreational hub with improved amenities and rental capabilities.
“The Parry Sound Curling Club is grateful to the NOHFC for its support in providing funding, assisting the curling club in becoming an accessible venue as well as completing some capital improvements,” said Al Bourgeois, President, Parry Sound Curling Club. “This will benefit all curling members, darters and their guests by providing up-to-date equipment, ensuring programs and events can be maintained for years to come.”
“Our government is committed to making recreational facilities more accessible and inclusive for everyone,” said Graydon Smith, MPP for Parry Sound-Muskoka. “This funding through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation will support the installation of a new lift, improving access throughout the building for curlers, spectators and all users. I’m pleased to see this project moving forward to help ensure everyone can fully enjoy the Parry Sound Curling Club.”
“Local organizations like the Parry Sound Curling Club are at the heart of community sport in Ontario, bringing people of all ages and abilities together to stay active, build friendships and develop a lifelong love of the game,” said Neil Lumsden, Minister of Sport. “This investment will help ensure the club remains a safe, accessible and welcoming place for residents and visitors to participate in sport and recreation for years to come.”
The Ontario government is 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 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 $1 billion in over 8,400 projects in northern Ontario, leveraging more than $3 billion in investment and creating or sustaining over 13,000 jobs.
Additional Resources
- The NOHFC, Northern Development Officesand Small Business Enterprise Centres support northern communities, businesses and other stakeholders in identifying economic development opportunities and government funding programs.
| Media Contact
Sam McCormick
Media Relations
|
