Official Opening Celebration Complete

The Regional District of Nanaimo (RDN) celebrated the official opening of the South Wellington Community Centre with dignitaries, funders, the South Wellington and Area Community Association (SWACA) and the public on Wednesday, August 19.

During the celebration, attendees enjoyed a variety of activities, toured the facility and learned about recreation and community programs available in Electoral Area A.

Prior to the ribbon cutting, speeches were presented by the following dignitaries:

• Tamara Kronis, MP, Nanaimo-Ladysmith
• George Anderson, MLA, Nanaimo-Lantzville
• Jessica Stanley, Director, RDN Electoral Area A
• Tom Osborne, General Manager, Recreation and Parks, RDN (retired)

The new community centre features spaces that can be rented by individuals, groups and businesses for programs, events and workshops, as well as a gathering space where community members can connect in a casual, welcoming setting. Outdoors there is a playground, sport court with basketball hoops and a play field.

Capital work on the building began in 2024 and, on August 1, 2026, the South Wellington and Area Community Association took on the day-to-day operation of the facility. The RDN is responsible for the capital costs of the building and the management, maintenance and planning of the community park (grounds, field and sport court). The $4.4 million cost to bring the building up to the required standards was funded by $2.9 million through the Build Communities Strong Fund Community stream, $360,765 in Growing Community Funds, almost $1.1 million in reserve funds and $60,003 from other funding sources.

Ongoing operational costs will be funded by the Electoral Area A Recreation and Culture Service.