The resort community of Candle Lake has been dealt a devastating blow as firefighters continued to fight the fire into the day at Candle Lake Golf Resort.
The Chief Administrative Officer for the Resort Village of Candle Lake says the call came into the Candle Lake Fire Department around 12:40 a.m. and when they responded the building was in flames. Brent Lutz says they quickly reached out to the Prince Albert Fire Department, the Garden River Fire Department and the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency to provide support.
There are two buildings which are joined and the building which houses the administration offices, retail space, coffee shop and lounge is the side which caught fire. Fire crews brought in heavy equipment to destroy the link between the two buildings in order to protect the hotel side where everyone was safely evacuated. Townhouses, Cabins and RV Park were not affected by the fire. Damage to the conference centre is being assessed.
Brent Lutz notes the impact goes far beyond the golf season because it is a year-round resort which is a hub for winter sports as well as the entire community.
A news release from the Golf Resort says, “Despite this absolute tragedy, the golf course remains open for play. Golfers are invited to visit the resort and support the community during this difficult time.” It also says the Resort is committed to rebuilding and returning stronger than ever.