The Quilchena Community Centre project as of July 2025 (Image credit: Upper Nicola Band).
Quilchena Community Centre Fire

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

Oct 22, 2025 | 11:28 AM

QUILCHENA, B.C. — 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.