Hamiota family builds impressive rink in old sheep barn

by Staff - December 27, 2021

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Dave Rawlings has put together an impressive skating rink (Rawlings Barn) inside an old unused sheep barn on the family farm in Hamiota. In conversation with bdnmb.ca earlier today, Rawlings said this is the second season for the rink in this format, noting previously they had a smaller, less elaborate setup.

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He wanted to build the rink for his two children (Sam 8, Matt 5) who now spend their evenings skating inside their very own hockey arena. This year Rawlings said the rink was first skated on November and tonight marked the boy’s 18th skate of the year. Last year the boys carved up the ice 58 times.

The ice surface measures 24’x36′ and it has taken 100’s of hours of time/labor to get the rink to it’s current state. Rawling’s was quick to point out that he has had a tremendous amount of help and support from his father (Eric) along the way. The rink board advertising is all hand painted, featuring all the different businesses the family has owned over the years.

While his two boys are the primary tenants, the rink has also played host to weekly family suppers and social gatherings with friends. As with all similar projects, upgrades are a common practice. This year’s edition included painting in the lines and creases. As far as future plans, Rawlings was unsure of what was next on the table but did mention there would be upgrades for sure.