Mine rescue competitions are a key part of Ontario Mine Rescue’s training and preparedness efforts. Every year, a new, standardized simulation challenges teams of mine rescue volunteers, evaluating their skills, providing real-life experience, and generating constructive feedback. Industry professionals also take part by creating detailed scenarios, such as building props to replicate mines, applying special effects makeup for injured victims, and designing hazards for teams to manage. In addition, winners are commemorated on district and provincial trophies, honouring the courage and commitment behind every response to the world’s most high-risk emergencies.
District Competitions
Active mines in each district send their top-performing mine rescue teams to compete at the district level. This local competition, annually held in May, is open and free for the public to spectate. Eight finalists are named at an awards banquet, advancing them to the provincial level against other district teams.
The 2026 District Competition will take place from Wednesday May 6 to Friday May 8* in the following arenas:
- Red Lake & Thunder Bay districts – Cochenour Arena, Cochenour,
- Red Lake District, May 6
- Thunder Bay District, May 7
- Algoma District – Marathon Recreation Complex, Marathon, May 6-7
- Southern District – Event Centre at LaSalle Landing, LaSalle, May 6-7
- Sudbury & Onaping districts – I.J. Coady Memorial Arena, Levack
- Onaping District, May 6
- Sudbury District, May 7
- Timmins & Kirkland Lake districts – Joe Mavrinac Community Complex, Kirkland Lake, May 6-8
*Schedule and duration will vary by district. For details about the tentative schedule, please send an email inquiry to FaheemaVelji@workplacesafetynorth.ca.
Provincial Competitions
In June, the best eight teams across the province face a new simulated scenario. While the same rules apply, a real Ontario mine is used as a setting, increasing the stakes, immersion, and challenge for the teams. The overall winning team receive gold hard hats and a chance to represent Ontario at the international level.
The 2026 Provincial Competition will take place in Sudbury, June 10 to 12.
Participants, sponsors, and location TBA.
Flickr Photo Albums
Ontario Mine Rescue Competitions 2023-Present
Ontario Mine Rescue Competitions 2009-2019