McKenna Family donate $1M for Aquatic Centre naming rights
Frank and Julie McKenna were joined by their son, James and granddaughter, Sophie and City Council as he announced a $1 million donation for the naming rights of the aquatic centre in the city’s multiplex. The aquatic centre will be known as the McKenna Aquatic Centre.
Frank and Julie McKenna have donated $1 million for the naming rights of the aquatic centre in the Arbec Wellness Centre.
It will be officially known as the McKenna Aquatic Centre for the life of the centre.
The McKenna’s were joined by members of their family for the announcement.
“I want to tell you how attached we are to the Miramichi. I think it’s safe to say we view this as our happiest place and all of our family have deep roots here,” McKenna said adding, “It’s been a hugely important part of our life.”
“We feel a deep love - there’s not a better word than that - and sense of loyalty to the Miramichi. Julie and I and our family have resolved that until the day we die, it’s going to be central to everything that we do.”
McKenna continued saying after hearing the impressive pitch from Mayor Adam Lordon about the Multiplex project they knew it would be good for the health of Miramichi and good to bring all the communities together.
“I’m pleased to announce today our family are contributing one million dollars towards the aquatic centre here in Miramichi.”
Watch the announcement here.
During his introduction of McKenna, Lordon said, “We are very happy to claim him as one of our own just as we were when he was here as a lawyer and as our Premier representing one of Miramichi’s ridings. ”
Lordon acknowledged the work McKenna did as the Premier and MLA for the area which included the amalgamation of the City of Miramichi 30 years ago.
“We are a city today because of Frank and we’re celebrating our 30th anniversary this year.”
Lordon presented McKenna with a 30th anniversary commemorative coin to mark the occasion.
The City of Miramichi launched a fundraising campaign in 2024 with a goal to raise $5 million for the Multiplex. A fundraising committee, working DCG Philanthropic Services, increased the goal due to significant contributions. More announcements will be made soon.
There have been three announcements to date and McKenna hinted there would be more good news for the wellness centre in the future.
If anyone is interested in donating to this fundraising campaign for the Multiplex project, they can contact Sandra Gauger at the City of Miramichi.
Multiplex Project
The Arbec Wellness Centre is scheduled to open in September 2026. It will offer an 1860-seat arena, walking track, double gymnasium, 25m/6 lane competition pool, leisure pool as well as enhanced community spaces - all of which incorporate sustainable design features.