08/12/2026
Today, we are excited to share incredible news about the future of our recreation complex and the North Shore Arena in Tatamagouche.
The O’Neill Foundation has committed $400,000 over the next 10 years, providing long-term financial support that will help ensure our arena remains a vibrant community hub for years to come.
This generous gift honours the legacy of Gary O’Neill, who passed away in 2024. Gary was born in our community and had a lifelong passion for minor hockey. He was a successful Tim Hortons franchisee and the visionary behind the National Timbits Minor Sports Program (Timbits Hockey), which he founded in 1982. For more than 45 years, the Timbits program has introduced countless children across Canada to the game of hockey.
Many of you may also remember Gary’s extraordinary generosity in 2024, when he made the largest single donation of $100,000toward the new arena floor.
Following Gary’s passing, his son Craig and the O’Neill Foundation approached us with a desire to continue supporting the North Shore Arena and to honour Gary’s deep connection to the community where he was born. In recognition of his legacy and his lasting impact on minor hockey, the rink will be renamed the Gary W. O’Neill Memorial Arena.
We are working with Craig and the O’Neill Foundation to plan a grand opening celebration and unveiling of the new arena signage, with a tentative date in early September. More details will be shared as they become available.
This investment is an exciting milestone for Tatamagouche and the surrounding communities. It helps ensure that future generations will continue to have a safe, welcoming place where families can gather and enjoy sports and recreation for years to come.
