Recreational/VisitorsArena and Community Centre
Recreational/Visitors
Recreational Banner

Arena and Community Centre

South River – Machar Arena & Community Centre

Facility Information, Programs, Rentals & Community Events

📍 Arena Entrance
1A Lincoln Avenue
South River, Ontario P0A 1X0

📞 Phone: 705-386-2622

The South River–Machar Arena and Community Centre is an important gathering place for residents and visitors in the Almaguin Highlands region. The facility hosts a wide variety of sports, recreation, cultural events, meetings, and community celebrations throughout the year.

The arena operates with ice from July to March and the community centre space is available year-round for meetings, celebrations, and special events. The facility is designed to accommodate both recreational activities and private rentals, making it a versatile venue for the community.


Community Hall


 

The Community Hall is a spacious and flexible venue located on the second floor of the facility. The hall is suitable for a variety of events including meetings, banquets, presentations, workshops, and celebrations.

The hall includes:

• Seating capacity of up to 150 people
• Raised stage area for presentations or performances
• Built-in sound system with speakers
• Projection capability for presentations and videos
• Tables and chairs available for events
• Elevator access to the second-floor space
• Bright and open layout suitable for multiple event setups

The space can easily be arranged for:

• Banquet-style seating
• Conferences and workshops
• Theatre-style presentations
• Community meetings
• Celebrations and receptions


Audio & Presentation System

The hall includes a built-in audio and presentation system, allowing event organizers to host presentations, performances, and meetings without needing additional equipment.

Features include:

• Wall-mounted hall speakers
• Audio mixer and control system
• Microphone connectivity for speeches and presentations
• Projection system capability for slides, videos, and presentations

This system is ideal for:

• Community presentations
• Workshops and training sessions
• Conferences and meetings
• Cultural performances and events


Commercial Kitchen

The facility includes a fully equipped commercial kitchen, making it suitable for community dinners, catered events, banquets, and large gatherings.

Kitchen features include:

Commercial electric stove and oven
Industrial dishwasher
Large commercial stainless-steel refrigerator
• Additional refrigerator/freezer unit
• Food preparation counters and workspace
• Kitchen island preparation area
• Dishware including plates, bowls, and serving dishes
• Ventilation hood system
Serving window connecting the kitchen to the hall

The kitchen allows event organizers to prepare and serve food conveniently during community events and private functions.


Community Events

 

(Photo courtesy of Women Own Resource Centre Facebook Page – Women’s Day Event 2026)

The Community Centre regularly hosts a wide variety of community events, celebrations, and gatherings.

The flexible layout allows the space to be transformed for different occasions including:

• Community celebrations
• International Women’s Day gatherings
• Banquets and dinners
• Fundraising events
• Public presentations and workshops
• Community meetings and conferences

With its stage, sound system, kitchen, and spacious seating area, the hall is well suited for both formal and casual events.


Snack Bar & Vending Area

The arena also includes a small snack bar and vending area where visitors can purchase refreshments during events and recreational activities.

Available items include:

• Chips and snacks
• Chocolate and candy
• Cold beverages and sports drinks
• Bottled water

The vending area is especially convenient during arena events, hockey games, tournaments, and community programs.

 


Facility Amenities

The South River–Machar Arena and Community Centre offers:

• Ice arena (seasonal)
• Community hall event space
• Stage for performances and presentations
• Built-in sound and projection system
Commercial kitchen for event food preparation
Snack bar and vending machines
• Tables and chairs for events
• Elevator access to second-floor community space
• Clean, accessible, and welcoming environment


Facility Rentals Information

The Community Centre is available for a wide range of private and community events including:

• Weddings and receptions
• Banquets and community dinners
• Meetings and conferences
• Workshops and training sessions
• Fundraising events
• Community celebrations


South River–Machar Community Centre & Arena Rental Rates (2025–2026)

All rates include applicable HST

Facility & Hall Rentals

Facility / Service Description Capacity / Details Rental Rate
Main Hall Large event hall with stage, sound system, and projector Up to 150 people $35 per hour (min. 2 hours)
Small Meeting Room Private space for meetings and workshops Small groups $25 per hour
Non-Licensed Event Hall rental (no alcohol) Based on 8 hours $190 per event
Licensed Event Hall rental (alcohol permitted with license) Based on 8 hours $270 per event

Kitchen Rentals

Facility Description Details Rental Rate
Commercial Kitchen – Luncheon Use Coffee pots, fridge access Light catering $50 per hour
Commercial Kitchen – Banquet Use Full kitchen, appliances, dinnerware Large events & catering $160 per hour

Arena & Ice Rentals

Facility Description Details Rental Rate
Ice Surface (Winter) Skating, hockey, recreation Adult groups $140 per hour
Ice Surface (Youth) Youth programs & teams Youth groups $110 per hour
Summer Ice Ice rental (July–August) All ages $140 per hour
Arena Floor (Ice Removed) Events, markets, sports Large open space $45/hour or $350/day

Outdoor Facilities

Facility Description Details Rental Rate
Ball Field (Youth Use) Tee-ball / softball programs Youth programs $2 per child
Ball Tournament Weekend tournaments (Fri–Sun) Multi-day events $375 per event
Tennis / Pickleball Courts Outdoor courts Public use No rental fee

 

To book the facility, schedule ice time, or inquire about availability, please contact the arena directly.

📞 705-386-2622



Please call the facility directly to schedule your event or ice time.

Click to see a list of User fees. Arena and Community Centre Rates 2025-2026

Pickle Ball is available at the arena

Almaguin Minor Hockey Association (boys youth hockey)

Almaguin Gazelles   (girls youth hockey)

South River Figure Skating Club

The Hockey Opportunity Camp (Video)