The upcoming Ontario Winter Games in Renfrew County will be a huge boon to the economy and the tourism sector, in particular.
That from Warden Peter Emon, who’s also Chair of the Games, which take place Feb. 2-5 and 9-12.
“It should bring in approximately $5.5 million to $6 million,” he says. “We only have 1,400 hotel rooms in the County and we’ve got a bunch of AirBnBs, as well.
“We want to make sure everyone who can, is able to visit us, so that’s why we’re having it over the two weekends.”
Competitions are taking place across the county, including in Madawaska Valley. The weightlifting competition takes place at the high school on February 10.
Volunteers needed
Renfrew County hopes to recruit about 1,000 volunteers to help with the Games, too.
More than 3,000 athletes and upwards of 5,000 fans are expected in the area, over the time period.
Emon says volunteers are needed for a variety of roles.
“We’re looking for people can serve food, who can help us with parking, who can help us with security at events,” he says.
“I think we’re going to be treating our volunteers very well, because we’re grateful. We want them to enjoy the volunteer experience and build on that when they go back to their own home community.”
Information on volunteer opportunities is on the website for the Games.