After an accidental kitchen fire severely damaged the premises, the Carleton Heights Curling Club has reopened its doors. The club welcomed back its members on Saturday, marking 18 months since the devastating overnight blaze in April 2025. When firefighters extinguished the flames, the aftermath included debris hanging from the ceiling, shattered glass, and water flooding the basement.
Despite the significant damage, the ice shed remained largely intact. Club President Michael Gendron expressed the club’s devastation, emphasizing the unexpected scale of the fire. While insurance covered structural repairs, the club managed to raise $100,000 for the building’s refurbishment.
The reopening saw the unveiling of renovated spaces, including a new bar and kitchen area, updated change rooms, and locally sourced artwork. Gendron highlighted the community spirit that drove the restoration efforts, praising the thousands of volunteer hours invested in the project. The club now sees a 25% increase in membership compared to pre-fire levels.
Featuring the newly adopted symbol of a phoenix rising from a curling stone, the Carleton Heights Curling Club stands as a testament to resilience and unity. Board member Judy Demillo, a 20-year club veteran, expressed the sentiment of rebirth and unity, stating that the refurbished space already feels like a second home. The club, home to 500 members since 1956, now proudly showcases its symbol of transformation on the ice, embodying the spirit of overcoming adversity.