In August 2020, the Department of ITI, in partnership with the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency (CanNor), launched the Growth and Recovery by Investing in Tourism (GRIT) Fund to help tourism operators in the NWT dealing with the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic adapt and position their operations for future growth.
These are their stories…
But with thousands of volunteer hours needed to complete the project, and tourism on hold because of the pandemic, the idea was about to be placed on the back burner last year.For years, the Royal Canadian Legion in Norman Wells has dreamed of expanding their four-hole golf course – a popular destination for visitors to their town.
That is until club President Tim Melnyk heard about the GRIT fund.
Thanks to GRIT Funding, the Legion was able to hire heavy equipment to clear enough space to expand the course to a classic nine holes – reducing the need for hundreds, even thousands, of volunteer hours.
Melnyk and his team will still need to rake, remove rocks, and seed their future fairways but with open space now available, the possibilities for the design and construction of new holes appear unlimited.
“The only thing holding us back is our imaginations. We are finally at a place where we can see this become a reality this year, “Melnyk says.
In time, the Legion hopes to implement a drainage system to keep the course dry while maintaining a primary water source in its centre. Benches and fountains will be added around the water source, as well as a small picnic shelter, pagoda and an adjacent mini-golf course.
“We are thankful for the opportunity to participate in this program,” Melnyk said, “and to advance our goal of a golf course expansion. Not only are we halfway there, we have now added to our dream and what Norman Wells has to offer visitors.”
The tourism industry creates jobs and a healthier economy. It also supports the creation of facilities and services that locals can also enjoy. Last year’s GRIT funding was designed to bring life to new tourism products and ideas. In Norman Wells, it means the Royal Canadian Legion’s vision of a nine- hole golf course is coming to fruition.
The GRIT Fund was both increased and extended before closing in October, 2020. More than 90 individuals and companies have received contributions designed to adapt and position their operations for the future.
- Braeden Cordero