Northern Yacht Club sets sail with significant upgrades

News release

Pictured above from left to right: Jonathan Astephen, Director of Junior Sailing; Jaime Battiste, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Member of Parliament for Sydney – Victoria; Terry Finlayson, Vice Commodore; John Astephen, Commodore; and Jason Cooke, Rear Commodore.

Federal investment helps upgrade dock, power, and water services infrastructure in North Sydney

May 9, 2024 · North Sydney, Nova Scotia · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)

Marine tourism plays an important role in attracting visitors to Cape Breton’s shores, contributing to its economic growth. The Northern Yacht Club in North Sydney acts as a gathering point for boaters from near and far, drawing visitors to the area and contributing to a vibrant community.

Jaime Battiste, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Member of Parliament for Sydney – Victoria, today announced a non-repayable contribution of $147,400 to the Northern Yacht Club to help upgrade the club’s facilities and services. This announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA.

This investment will support a number of upgrades including replacing aging infrastructure and installing environmentally friendly, plastic EZ docks, which are easier to maintain and more resilient against the harsh maritime weather. New power and water pedestals will also replace those lost in recent storms, improving safety and functionality of the marina. This project ensures the club can continue to promote boating in the region and provide the facilities necessary to support visiting vessels from Canada and international ports.

By investing in projects like this one, the Government of Canada is strengthening its commitment to helping communities flourish and pursue opportunities for growth.

Quotes

"We support brighter futures and stronger local communities when we invest in infrastructure. Your federal government is proud to support the North Sydney Yacht Club to ensure that it can continue to welcome both local and international visitors for another 100 years. This will ensure North Sydney's economy sails to greater successes.”
- The Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA

"Situated near Sydney and attractions like the Cabot Trail, the Northern Yacht Club is a prime spot for sailors and tourists. With these upgrades, the club is enhancing its appeal as a destination for all.”
- Jaime Battiste, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Member of Parliament for Sydney – Victoria

“The Northern Yacht Club is very appreciative of the support from ACOA as it strives to make necessary improvements in its docking facilities and services. As a result of this contribution, the club will continue to provide top notch, accessible docking for its members and visiting boaters from Canada and around the world.”
- John Astephen, Commodore, Northern Yacht Club

Quick facts

  • The Northern Yacht Club (NYC) has a rich sailing and event hosting history, including international, national, and regional events. In 2025, the club will celebrate its 100th anniversary with a season full of special events and a week-long regatta.

  • During the summers of 2014, 2015, and 2016, NYC participated in Race the Cape, playing host to keelboats from various ports in the Maritimes and the Eastern United States. In 2022, the club hosted the Mobility Cup, an international regatta for sailors with disabilities.

  • The funding announced today is provided through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency’s (ACOA) Innovative Communities Fund (ICF).

  • The ICF builds on the strengths of communities and provides the tools needed to identify opportunities for sustainable economic growth.

     

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Contacts

Connor Burton
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
Connor.Burton@acoa-apeca.gc.ca
 

Lauren Sinclair
Director of Communications
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
Lauren.Sinclair@acoa-apeca.gc.ca
782-641-6365
 

John Astephen
Commodore
Northern Yacht Club
johnastephen@icloud.com
902-574-4845

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2024-05-09