Over two months into the hockey season, the community of Carnduff and each one of their visitors have been able to enjoy the face lift that was completed on the inside of the Fast Centennial Arena.

After five years of fundraising that saw 1.5 million dollars accumulated through various events and grants, the hard work has paid off. 

"It was a real sense of accomplishment for the town and the board, it was a long time in the making," explained the President of the Carnduff Rink Board, Alan Walker. "When we started the project this summer it felt like it was never going to end but it actually came together really well, and we're seeing all the benefits now. I've heard nothing but good things about the ice, it's been all positive."

Rink Board President Alan Walker wears many hats in his role.

During this past summer, the 50-year-old building saw it's rink level cement pad replaced along with new boards and the replacement of pilasters on one side of the building. During renovations, the old bleachers were ripped out and are expected to be replaced sometime in the near future.

"The end of our renovation would be the bleachers. We've kind of changed course a bit and we're going to try and do it ourselves to try and save money. Financially we can do it and we need to get bleachers in here, it will make a much better atmosphere in the rink. It's hard for the fans to watch without the bleachers."

With the new cement pad, Walker also noted the savings the rink has seen. In some places, the old arena slab had heaved so bad that sixteen feet away from the boards, there was a four inch difference in the level of the slab. From the high point to the low point was the difference of six inches.

On the 50th anniversary of the historic rink, the community of Carnduff will look to enjoy their home another 50 years of use. The blood, sweat and tears that were poured into the Fast Centennial Arena won't soon be forgotten.

The hometown Carnduff Red Devils in their new bench during Big Six Hockey League action this season.