Snow riders
Snowmobile club set to show off new clubhouse
Four and a half years after their previous clubhouse burnt to the ground, members of the Pictou County Snow Riders officially have a place to call home.
At about 1,500 square feet, the new building is more than three times the size of the old building and features both a bathroom and kitchen for members to use as well as a social area that includes a wood stove and seating for visitors.
The building also is being used to house a groomer, which grooms about 350 kilometres of trails in the area the snowmobilers use. The groomer can be removed and a divider raised if they want to open up the full building for more space.
Construction of the building started in fall 2015 on land the club purchased from the town of New Glasgow. The clubhouse is visible from the road to add to the security. The construction work on the clubhouse was done by club members, community volunteers and support from local businesses who provided in-kind services.
While there are still some finishing touches to be done including putting drywall on the ceiling and tile in the kitchen and bathroom, it is ready for public use.
The Snow Riders hope to show off what’s been accomplished this weekend as they hold an open house and poker rally (provided the weather cooperates).
To show their appreciation for their supporters, the snowmobile club will be hanging a wall of honour plaque.
John Charlton, chair of the building project, said they’re looking forward to the weekend.
“If the weather doesn’t work for the rally, we’re still going to have a little open house so people can come and have breakfast and at least have a chance to look at the facility,” he said.
Those interested in attending can follow the Pictou County Snow Riders on Facebook for updates on the plans.
In the future, Charlton hopes the building will become a popular stopping place for visitors. He said it’s ideal for snowmobilers who might want to travel from places like Antigonish. He said if they make contact ahead of time with the Pictou County Snow Riders, they can arrange to have gas for them to refuel at the clubhouse as well as snacks for them to purchase.
The snowmobile club is also open to the idea of other groups using the building in the offseason.
The events on Saturday are scheduled to start at 9 a.m. at the clubhouse located on 994 Brookville Road in Pictou County.