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Photo by Claire McCormack. Jan 14 2026
Hundreds of people gathered in Port Elgin Saturday morning, to celebrate the official opening of the Pryde Aquatic and Wellness Centre.
The event recognized donors, sponsors, and partners who made the new gym, fitness centre and pool possible. Mayor Luke Charbonneau performing the first cannonball into the new pool alongside members of the Breakers Swim Team.
The centre is named after Brad and Cathy Pryde, who donated $1 million to the construction of the AWC. Brad Pryde spoke at the event saying, “To me wellness isn’t just about fitness or medical care, it’s about giving people a place to move, to connect, to heal and feel part of a community. When we create those spaces we support people in every stage of life.”
MPP Lisa Thompson was also there to acknowledge the work that the Town has done with the $100,600 capital grant it received from the provincial government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) last summer. Funds from the OTF grant were used to purchase gymnasium equipment, as well as sports equipment for pickleball, volleyball, floor hockey and badminton, in addition to accessible aquatic equipment too.
A new mural was celebrated, created by Saugeen First Nation Ojibway artist Jeanette Ladd. It represents the seasons and can be found along the ramp that links the Plex to the AWC. You can see more of her work at Aniibiish Nibi Art.
The community enjoyed an open house where they took part in a variety of activities, refreshments, posed at the photo booth, and explored the new facility. There was a community mural painting, where participants painted individual tiles that will come together to form a vibrant mural symbolizing community spirit and collaboration. Attendees also had the chance to enter a draw for a one-year All Access Active Pass membership.
Mayor Luke Charbonneau says in a statement, “This facility will serve our community for generations, promoting health, wellness, and connection,” adding, “It’s more than a building. It’s a place where people of all ages and abilities can come together.”
www.saugeenshores.ca/PrydeAWC.
Image from the Town of Saugeen Shores
