SOUTH RIVER — The Ontario government is investing $600,000 to help the Village of South River make necessary upgrades and repairs to the South River-Machar Arena, allowing the arena to continue to host events and the well-known Hockey Opportunity Camp and other recreational activities, such as hockey and figure staking. This investment supports the government’s plan to protect Ontario by helping local communities revitalize facilities that help strengthen the local economy, protect jobs and promote active, healthy living.
“Our government is making strategic investments to help small towns and rural communities create jobs and a resilient economy that can withstand whatever comes our way,” said Graydon Smith, MPP for Parry Sound–Muskoka. “Investments like this one at the South River-Machar Arena help strengthen local infrastructure and quality of life. Thank you to the NOHFC for recognizing its importance.”
The funding is being given to the Village of South River through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) and will be used to replace key equipment that’s aging, including the arena’s ice pad, chiller, dehumidifier and condenser. A newly renovated arena will draw tourists to the region and help people of all ages living in South River, Machar and the Almaguin Highlands stay active.
“Amidst economic uncertainty, protecting community spaces that not only support municipal economies but also the well-being of Ontarians is crucial,” said George Pirie, Minister of Northern Economic Development and Growth. “People have relied on the South River-Machar Arena for decades and our government’s investment will ensure the arena can get the new equipment it needs to operate at its best and continue serving the public.”
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 driving prosperity, boosting competitiveness, securing new opportunities 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 $905 million in 7,309 projects in Northern Ontario, leveraging more than $2.8 billion in investment and creating or sustaining over 11,210 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.
Quotes
“The $600,000 grant from the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation has been absolutely vital for our community. Thanks to this support, we were able to install a new concrete floor, chiller, condenser, dehumidifier and pumps at the South River-Machar Arena. These upgrades ensure our arena remains a safe, modern and welcoming space for residents and visitors for years to come. We are deeply grateful for this investment in the heart of our community.” – Jim Coleman, Mayor, Village of South River
“We are so appreciative of the funding provided by the NOHFC in conjunction with the Village of South River. As you know in the North, an arena is the hub for all activities, not just hockey or figure skating but many community-related functions. Upgrades to the arena will now provide good, safe and clean facilities for future generations.” – Lynda Carleton, Mayor, Township of Machar
“The Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation grant has provided major improvements to South River-Machar Arena – namely the new arena floor and refrigeration plant. These upgrades, along with the recently added generator, will ensure that the ‘jewel of the North’ remains just that. Hockey Opportunity Camp is thrilled with the improvements, understanding that many people will benefit from them for years to come. We sincerely appreciate the support provided by the NOHFC grant. We would also like to recognize and thank the South River-Machar Arena staff for their work getting the ice back in for us in a timely manner.” – Kevin McLaughlin, Owner and Executive Director, Hockey Opportunity Camp
| Media Contact
Sam McCormick, Minister’s Office Media Desk, Communications Branch
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