Paddle Manitoba has had a long relationship with the City of Winnipeg's La Barriere Park. From Open Paddles to Instruction Courses, it has been the scene of many on the water activities over the life of the organization. But much has happened off the water during this time too. Paddle Manitoba worked to get the Canoe/Kayak Launch there improved, and more recently, to make use of the former washroom building near the launch.

Paddle Manitoba has had an old open trailer in a fenced compound at La Barriere Park to store canoes since the 1990s. However, it was the repeated scene of equipment theft, to the point that we were unable to store anything on site at all. This meant that we were also unable to provide canoes, kayaks, or standup paddleboards for events on the water. But an answer was found with that former washroom building. 

Through a partnership with the City of Winnipeg, Paddle Manitoba has garnered use of the former washroom building for a Paddling Centre. Envisioned as a place where equipment can be safely stored on-site, it's hoped that it will help get more people out paddling!

Many improvements have already happened: the roof has been repaired and replaced, soffits and fascia have been changed, holes and other patching work to the walls has been completed, new doors have been installed and the interior has been painted. Further work to come includes interior racking, exterior painting, window repairs, and vegetation clearing. However, it is hoped that it can begin to be used sometime in 2024. 

Many thanks go to the City of Winnipeg, Park Staff, and the Paddle Manitoba volunteers that have been involved with this project so far. 

 

The old canoe trailer: not much for storage security.

 

We're working on it!

 

The Paddling Centre at the Canoe/Kayak Launch drop off area at La Barriere Park.

 

 
Before repairs to the roof, fascia, and soffits. 

 

New doors installed. 

 

New soffits, fascia, and roof. 

 

The interior waiting for paint and racking. 

 

The interior walls and floor painted.

 

Racking installed for canoes, kayaks, or SUPs.