Saugeen Shores Celebrates New Fire Training Centre

The Town of Saugeen Shores unveiled its new Centre for Training Excellence with an official ribbon cutting ceremony on Monday, September 8. The two-storey, live fire training facility marks an important step forward in providing top quality local firefighter training and emergency preparedness.  

“Having the Centre for Training Excellence right here in Saugeen Shores is a tremendous asset to our community,” said Mayor Charbonneau. “It ensures our firefighters are trained using state-of-the-art equipment, which enables the protection of our residents, our businesses, and, of course, the volunteer firefighters themselves who work tirelessly to keep our community safe. This facility demonstrates the Town’s commitment to safety and emergency preparedness.” 

Mayor Luke Charbonneau and Fire Chief Ed Melanson were joined by invited guests, the Honourable Michael S. Kerzner, Solicitor General of Ontario, and the Honourable Lisa Thompson, Minister of Rural Affairs, at the ribbon cutting ceremony. The dignitaries participated in a ceremonial ribbon cutting and toured the new facility. 

“We are honoured to have Solicitor General Kerzner and Minister Thompson here to celebrate this milestone with us,” said Chief Melanson. “Their presence underscores the importance of local emergency services and the value of providing access to top quality training services.” 

"I am pleased to see Saugeen Shores take this important step in enhancing local emergency services with the opening of the Centre for Training Excellence," said Lisa Thompson, MPP for Huron-Bruce. "This facility will not only provide our firefighters with the tools and training they need to keep our local communities safe, but it also reflects the dedication and forward-thinking leadership of everyone involved in making this vision a reality. Congratulations to all who contributed to this milestone achievement." 

The training centre was a Major Initiative for Fire Services in the Saugeen Shores 2024 Business Plan (pg. 48).