The Morden fire department is appealing to the community to help fix up its outdoor rink near the courthouse.
For the past 25 years, the outdoor rink beside the courthouse has been more than just a place to skate; it’s been a space for community connection, family memories and even firefighter training.
“We never thought of it having been going that long … 25 has gone by fast,” said Chief Andy Thiessen.
“When we set up the rink initially it was for the community, but selfishly it was for us as well to practice pulling water in the wintertime. It’s a totally different thing than in the summer,” he explained. “So I wanted my pump operators to learn how it works and what needs to be done extra so that things don’t freeze up.
“Rather than just spraying it out in the middle of nowhere, we thought we could make it useful, so we thought why not make a rink … so it was kind of a win-win situation.”
The department received a provincial grant to initially set up the rink, but the ongoing maintenance of the site comes with some costs, and the site needs urgent repairs to replace the aging and worn boards.
“It’s worked great, but we’ve just noticed in the last year or so that there are some noticeable repairs that really need to be done,” Thiessen said. “It’s a small way for the community to help us out a bit.”
The cost of the project is about $36,000. The Morden Area Foundation has offered to match donations if the department can raise $18,000.
“So it’s great to have their support for this project,” said Thiessen.
Donations can be made directly to Morden Fire and Rescue or through the Morden Area Foundation and Access Credit Union. Donations over $50 can receive a tax receipt.
Thiessen looks forward to seeing the rink continue for years and generations to come.
“It’s used quite well … and at this time, because it’s been there that long, it’s already multi-generational … my kids used it, and now when they come home, they take their kids to use it.”
