Farewell to a Beloved Leader: RFABC President Dick Irving
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of RFABC President Dick Irving, who left us in October of 2024 at the age of 92.
Dick served the Association with distinction as President from 1985 to 1986 and was honoured with an RFABC Lifetime Membership in 1996, a reflection of his significant contributions and unwavering dedication to our community.
In his memory, RFABC has made a charitable donation to Diabetes Canada. We invite members who wish to honour Dick’s legacy to consider making a contribution to this meaningful cause as well.
Dick will be deeply missed and fondly remembered, not only for his invaluable contributions to RFABC but also for his incredible ability to build lasting friendships with everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
His spirit of camaraderie and service will remain an enduring part of our organization’s history.
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For more about Dick’s life and legacy, you can visit his obituary: | |  |
To make a tribute gift in honour of Dick to Diabetes Canada: | |
New Code of Conduct for Members
We’re excited to share that we’ve rolled out a brand-new Code of Conduct for our community! It’s all about creating a space where everyone feels respected, included, and supported.
This new guideline lays out some simple principles and expectations to help us all interact in ways that keep RFABC the amazing organization it is.
We’d love for you to take a few minutes to check it out. Understanding these guidelines helps us all work together to uphold the values we care about.
Thanks for being such an important part of RFABC and for helping us make this community the best it can be!
You can find the Code of Conduct here:
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2025 Course Fee Adjustments
We want to take a moment to thank all the amazing recreation staff—both current and future—who take our courses. Your dedication keeps our community thriving, and we’re so grateful to be a part of your journey.
That said, as a not-for-profit
association, rising operational costs mean we need to make some small adjustments to our course fees starting January 1, 2025. Most courses will see a modest 4% increase.
For the Ice Facility Operator (IFO) course, there will be a bit more of an increase. Why? Because we’re now including the CSA B52- Code as part of the course. Each student will get their own copy to keep, which will be super helpful for studying and acing the Technical Safety BC Provincial Exam.
We’re still committed to giving you the best experience possible, and we’re here to answer any questions you have about these changes. Feel free to reach out to info@rfabc.com.
Thank you for your understanding and continued support!
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Celebrate Excellence in Recreation
Do you know someone who goes above and beyond in the recreation industry? Whether it’s their innovative ideas, outstanding leadership, or dedication to making a difference, now is the time to recognize their impact!
Nominate them today and give them the spotlight they truly deserve.
To make it even more exciting: By submitting a nomination, you’ll automatically be entered into our Awards Nominations Contest for a chance to win a $100 Visa gift card! It’s a win-win—celebrate a deserving individual and have a shot at an awesome prize.
Don’t wait—nominations close February 15, 2025.
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2025 RFABC Golf Tournament Registration is OPEN!
Tee off on Monday, April 28, 2025, at the stunning Nk’mip Canyon Desert Golf Course in Oliver, BC. Whether you’re a pro or a beginner, this relaxed BEST BALL format event is perfect for everyone.
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2025 Conference Schedule is Here!
The 2025 RFABC Conference is shaping up to be an event you won’t want to miss. The schedule is now live, packed with engaging sessions, inspiring speakers, incredible entertainment and plenty of networking opportunities.
Keep an eye out for registration details and get ready to secure your spot!
Don’t miss this chance to connect, learn, and grow with fellow recreation operators from across the province. Stay tuned for more updates!
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Vancouver Island
● February 27, 2025: VICTORIA
Zone Director, Shawn Bourgoin: RSVP
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Combined Northern BC Regions
● February 27, 2025: Online via ZOOM
RSVP to your Zone Director:
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North - Kylah Bryde: RSVP
- Cariboo - Brandy Links: RSVP
- Skeena-Bulkley - Tamara Gillis: RSVP
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Port Alberni council warns service cuts could be coming for 2025 budget | City staff will also look at closing city facilities or reducing service hours, which includes buildings like the Alberni Valley Multiplex, Echo Centre and Echo Pool | | |
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Council approves $1.2M demolition contract for North Surrey Recreation Centre | A significant step in the development of the much-anticipated Centre Block that includes two high-rise commercial office towers, ground-level retail units, and a vibrant public plaza in the heart of the downtown City Centre. | | |
City of Delta to launch 'Free Child and Youth Recreation Pass' | The City of Delta announced the creation of the Free Child and Youth Recreation Pass (also known as the Youth and Kids Pass), making access to recreation opportunities free for residents 18 years of age and under. | | |
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City of Penticton moving to next step of forward-looking recreation facility plan | The City of Penticton's Sports & Recreation Needs Assessment is heading into its next phase ahead of a full draft plan to be presented to council in spring 2025. | | |
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B.C. town not waiting for Mother Nature to have some snowy winter fun | Williams Lake adds snowmaking equipment to extend snow play season in its main park, if temperatures stay below zero | | | |
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Do you love sharing your knowledge and expertise? Are you passionate about making recreation facilities better for everyone? If so, we’ve got an exciting opportunity for you!
We’re expanding our team and looking for enthusiastic, dedicated professionals to join us as instructors. This is your chance to make a real difference—helping others learn, grow, and improve the spaces where communities come together.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or someone with unique insights to share, we’d love to hear from you. Let’s work together to inspire the next generation of recreation leaders!
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Pool Operator - ONLINE
All 2025 Course Dates and Registration for Level 1 and 2 is now OPEN on our website!
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Pool Operator (in person)
Level 1
Chilliwack
Saanich
Vancouver
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Chlorine Safe Handling
Vancouver
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Building Service Worker (BSW)
Level 1
New Westminster
Comox
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Refrigeration Safety Awareness (RSA)
Richmond
Fort St. John
Vancouver
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Ice Facility Operator (IFO)
Burnaby
Duncan
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The Canadian Inclusive Green Spaces Symposium:
Enhancing Access to Municipal Parks in Canada, is taking place June 11–13, 2025, in Saskatoon, SK. The Symposium will take place adjacent to the proposed Meewasin national urban park site. This event is hosted by CPRA and SPRA and organized in partnership with Park People and the Canadian Parks Council with valued support from Parks Canada.
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The search is on for Kraft Hockeyville 2025!
Want a shot at $250,000 in arena upgrades and the opportunity to host an NHL preseason game?
Nominate your community today!
- Visit krafthockeyville.ca
- Share your community's story
- Really your friends and fam to join the movement
Nominations close March 2, 2025
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CARHA's Outdoor Rink Program is back soon!
The Outdoor Rink Program celebrates the tradition of outdoor rinks across Canada and recognizes the individuals who invest their time and effort in maintaining these spaces.
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Parks Professional Pathways: Innovation and Resilience in Action
BC Recreation and Parks Association (BCRPA) brings you BC’s one-and-only conference designed just for parks professionals—whether you’re in maintenance, planning, leadership, or driving change.
This is the go-to event for anyone in local government or the private sector who wants to stay ahead of the game. From best practices and cutting-edge tech to the latest trends, this conference has everything you need to tackle the ever-changing demands of your work.
Don’t miss out—stay informed, get inspired, and connect with others who are just as passionate about parks as you are!
February 26 & 27, 2025
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We understand that life is full of unexpected twists and turns. If your email address has changed, don't worry! Take a moment to send us a message so we can stay connected and keep you up-to-date with all the latest news.
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