Brandon Riverbank Inc. officially announced the opening of its Assiniboine Canoe/Kayak Cove on Wednesday, July 20th.

Please listen to the full interview with Riverbank Discovery Centre General Manager, James Montgomery, and CJRB's Barry Lamb below:

'Taking advantage of a created river inlet south of the centre, a paddling cove/docking station at the Brandon Riverbank has been developed that now provides easy access to the Assiniboine River and a safe place to launch canoes and kayaks. The Brandon Riverbank Inc., has been spearheading the long-term process of developing the Assiniboine River Corridor to be a gathering place connecting people with nature since 1995,' states the Discovery Centre's media release.

'For over twenty years, Brandon Riverbank Inc. has not only created a meeting place to celebrate and promote recreation and Manitoba’s breathtaking waterways but has provided residents in the City of Brandon with a serene and beautiful place for families to enjoy and pursue a healthy lifestyle.'

'The area has become the home to many events that contribute to an active and prosperous community including a multitude of charity walks and runs, the City of Brandon’s Canada Day celebrations, meetings, family gatherings and much more.'

'The Assiniboine Canoe / Kayak Cove project will enhance the cove area created by the floods of 2011 and 2014 by constructing a safe and accessible access to the cove for users to launch canoes or kayaks into the Assiniboine River.'

'The Project will include the acquisition and construction of both stationary and floating dock sections, dock anchoring and launch systems and riprap and vegetation on the bank of the river.'

'This project would not have been possible without the support of the Government of Canada, the Province of Manitoba, the City of Brandon, friends and leadership of the Brandon Riverbank, Inc. and the Brandon Area Community Foundation.' 

Quotes

“The last few years have shown us just how important recreational spaces are in promoting healthy lifestyles, keeping people active, and creating vibrant communities. The Assiniboine Canoe/Kayak Cove will provide residents and visitors with a safe and accessible place to explore this majestic river and discover its many scenic viewpoints. Our Government will continue to work in partnership with the province and municipalities to invest in infrastructure that help Canadians stay active, healthy, and safe”, said The Honourable Dan Vandal, Minister of Northern Affairs, Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada and Minister responsible for the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency and Member of Parliament for Saint Boniface—Saint Vital, on behalf of the Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Infrastructure and Communities.

“Infrastructure improvements for recreation are critical in stimulating the economy and supporting communities as Manitoba continues to recover from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Manitoba Labour, Consumer Protection and Government Services Minister Reg Helwer. “This impressive development will enhance the quality of life for residents of Brandon and the surrounding area by providing greater access to the Assiniboine River for recreation and fitness, which are necessary for well-being and health. It is also an investment in cultural infrastructure that will inspire learning and growth, which are key to the creation of healthy communities.”

“The City of Brandon has been pleased to support and work with the Riverbank Discovery Centre on bringing their 20-year master plan to fruition, including this project. The Kayak and Canoe Cove will not only allow water access for canoe and kayak enthusiasts but is another attraction that'll bring members of our community and out-of-town paddlers to the Riverbank to enjoy all it has to offer. The Riverbank Discovery Centre is a beautiful place to spend a morning, afternoon, evening, or day exploring the stunning scenery from the water and from on land. – Bruce Luebke, Deputy Mayor and City of Brandon Councillor for Ward Six

“Brandon Area Community Foundation (BACF) is excited to support this project, states Michelle Hood, Chairperson of BACF. The Brandon Riverbank has a number of recreational opportunities with the Assiniboine River at their doorstep. The BACF has a passion to contribute to such projects that increase accessibility for the public. Our community now has better access to a safe launch site where anyone can enjoy the beauty of the Assiniboine River.”

“This is a very exciting time for the Riverbank as this completed project will be a huge asset to our city residents and visitors,” said James Montgomery, GM of Brandon Riverbank Inc. “We can’t thank our funding partners enough for making this project a reality.”

Please listen to the full interview with James Montgomery and CJRB's Barry Lamb below: