Upper Nicola Band members extinguish roof fire at Quilchena Community Centre site

The Upper Nicola Band is crediting members and volunteer firefighters for preventing disaster at a future community centre.

A fire ignited at the Quilchena Community Centre site early Tuesday (Oct. 21) night. In a news release, Upper Nicola Band Chief Dan Manuel says the fire was contained to a small section of roofing. Its cause is under investigation.

“While our community members’ quick response likely prevented a more serious situation, this close call also underscores the need for a new community firehall in the area, which is currently in the planning stages,” said Collette Sunday, Upper Nicola Band administrator.

Construction of the $31-million project in the unincorporated community of Quilchena, nearly 25 kilometres northeast of Merritt, began in March 2024. However, it was halted after human remains, determined to be “not recent,” were unearthed.

Sunday says the project contractor, Unitech Constructions, believes the fire will only cause a slight delay in the Quilchena Community Centre’s completion. The building is still expected to be completed in early 2026.