The Lakeshore Regional Wellness Centre officially opened its doors in Ashern last weekend with local and federal officials, volunteers and community members celebrating the transformation of the former curling rink into a year-round hub for health and connection.
Interlake-Gimli MLA Derek Johnson and Selkirk-Interlake-Eastman MP James Bezan were both on hand to help cut the ribbon and mark the milestone, which capped nearly a decade of planning, fundraising and volunteer work.
In his remarks, Johnson praised the centre as a symbol of community spirit and collaboration.
“This moment is not just the unveiling of a building; it is the celebration of a vision, of countless hours of effort, and of a community that believes in the health and well-being of its people,” he said. “Every contribution mattered, and today we celebrate not just the finished centre, but the power of what a community can accomplish when it comes together with purpose.”
Tim Cameron, past president of the Lakeshore Regional Wellness Centre board, called the opening celebration and Wellness Expo “totally successful,” estimating that between 400 and 500 people walked through the expo and craft show before heading over to tour the new facility and try out activities.
“There was a real feeling of community pride as the former curling rink remains a place for recreation, socializing and active living,” Cameron said. “Several former curling club members were there expressing their approval. I think folks were amazed and appreciated the work that has gone into repurposing the rink. Many will be signing up for memberships, taking up pickleball, working out in the gym or using the walking track — and many also signed up to volunteer.”
The official ribbon-cutting followed a community walk around the Co-op Community Walking Track and was performed by Johnson, Bezan, RM of West Interlake Reeve Arnthor Jonasson and LRWC vice-president Scott Cameron. Afterward, visitors played pickleball, tried floor shuffleboard, checked out the gym and chatted with one another.
The Wellness Expo itself drew more than 35 exhibitors and vendors, offering everything from information on careers with the Interlake-Eastern Regional Health Authority to cancer screening education — including an inflatable educational colon visitors could walk through. Other booths included the Alzheimer Society of Manitoba and Aurora Recovery Centre from Gimli, alongside a host of crafters, makers, authors and artists. The Ashern Day Care also offered a popular food menu.
“The most common reaction from people seeing the centre firsthand was simply ‘wow,’ followed by ‘I can’t wait to use the walking track and gym,’” Cameron said. “We couldn’t have asked for a better day, and we were so happy to see so many people come out.”
While the project is not entirely complete — more gym equipment is on the way, a virtual golf simulator will soon be installed and an addition will enclose the accessible ramp system — the Lakeshore Regional Wellness Centre is already fulfilling its mission “to inspire our community by connecting people to accessible opportunities for a healthier lifestyle.”
“Healthy, active living improves physical and mental health, quality of life and longevity,” Cameron added. “It decreases chronic disease, reduces the need for medication and health-care costs, and improves our mood. The building was built to promote recreation, and we are happy it will continue to be a gathering place that strengthens the community.”
The Lakeshore Regional Wellness Centre features a cardio and strength gym, an indoor walking track, pickleball and shuffleboard courts, a dance and yoga studio, and multi-purpose rooms. Built to serve more than 6,000 residents across the northwest Interlake, the barrier-free facility also offers inclusive programming for all ages and abilities, with membership options and subsidies available.
Johnson called the new centre “a beacon” that will support healthier, stronger communities for years to come.
“Together, we have built more than a facility,” he said. “We have built hope, opportunity and a stronger future for the Lakeshore region.”
