MELFORT — The Kinsmen and Kinettes Club of Melfort presented a proposal to replace the aging Dale Frier Memorial Outdoor Rink with a larger, modern facility by fall 2025 at the May 12 Melfort council meeting.
The plan included expanding the rink’s footprint, adding a heated storage and warm-up shack, and requesting a used Zamboni from the city. Rob Lok, community services director for the City of Melfort said, “No decision was made; the matter was referred to administration for review and recommendation.”
In the report submitted by the Kinsmen and Kinette’s it said, “The project would be slated for completion by fall 2025, just in time for the 2025–2026 winter season. The outdoor rink, which has served the community for over 25 years, is due for replacement. The goal is to construct a professionally built facility that will enhance recreational opportunities, encourage youth involvement in outdoor sports, serve as a community gathering space, and continue to honour the legacy of Dale Frier.”
The new rink will be built on the existing site, the report said, and was chosen for its central location, accessibility and established utility connections. The project plans include purchasing rink boards and components from OmniSport, the report said.
The report recommended, “The current rink is approximately 100’ x 50’, but the proposal calls for a larger footprint to accommodate growing community use. Rink sizes under consideration range up to 200’ x 85’.”
The Kinsmen Club is asking the City of Melfort for two key supports:
- Approval to expand the rink footprint; and
- Approval of a used Zamboni to maintain the new, larger surface.
The Kinsmen club has committed to managing operations, including securing a qualified Zamboni operator. The Kinsmen Club also plans to include building a heated Zamboni storage and user warm-up shack, modeled after a similar facility in Nipawin, it said in the report.
The Kinsmen Club of Melfort and Melfort Kinettes are optimistic about the project's impact.
“With support from the city and the community, we can build a facility that will serve generations to come,” the clubs stated. “As always, our mission remains: To serve the community’s greatest need.”
