Morden Golf Course Clubhouse Fire

In a shocking turn of events, the Minnewasta Golf and Country Club clubhouse in Morden, Manitoba, has suffered a devastating fire for the second time in less than four years. The blaze ignited around 1:30 a.m. on a Sunday, right after the facility had recently reopened, marking another heartbreaking chapter for the community.

Club general manager Greg Hesom described the flames as “just absolutely devastating.” Only days before, the community had celebrated the grand reopening of the establishment, which had been meticulously rebuilt following a massive fire in November 2021. The previous restoration relied heavily on the generosity and support of local residents, who rallied around the club during their time of need.

Morden Mayor Nancy Penner expressed her sorrow, stating, “It is a heartbreaking start to 2025.” Initial images from the scene depict thick smoke pouring from the structure as brave firefighters battled the inferno. Both Hesom and Penner commended the tireless efforts of volunteer firefighters, with Penner referring to them as “heroic.”

While the investigation into the cause of the fire is still ongoing, Hesom suggested it may have been accidental, noting, “I very much doubt it’s criminal in nature.” Fortunately, there were no injuries reported, as the clubhouse was unoccupied at the time of the fire.

The damage is extensive, with Hesom estimating the clubhouse to be “probably 70 percent destroyed,” hinting that it could be deemed a total loss. This raises serious concerns not only for the club's operations but also for the employees who relied on the venue for their livelihoods, many of whom are new immigrants adjusting to life in Canada.

“The loss extends beyond the building,” Hesom emphasized, fighting back tears. “We employ a lot of people in the kitchen, and many of them are living paycheck to paycheck. Now, they are left without a job in a new country.”

With the 2025 golf season on the horizon, the loss comes at a particularly challenging time. Mayor Penner remains optimistic, insisting that the community's strength will shine through this setback. “This setback is significant,” she acknowledged, “but I have no doubt that together, the club will rebuild, they'll recover, and they'll come back stronger than ever.

In light of this tragedy, the spirit of community support is once again crucial. Hesom hopes that, just as before, local residents will rally to help rebuild the clubhouse, enabling it to fulfill its role as a cherished gathering place once again. They have overcome challenges in the past, and the determination seen during this difficult time might just be the key to a hopeful future.

Stay tuned for updates on fundraising initiatives and community support efforts as Morden rallies to restore this vital cornerstone of their local life. Could this renewed spirit of solidarity turn the tide for Minnewasta? Only time will tell!