For Immediate Release
Major milestone strengthens Musqueam’s long-term economic future on its traditional territory.
Musqueam Traditional Territory (Richmond, B.C.) — June 16, 2026 — Great Canadian Entertainment (“Great Canadian”), Petroglyph Development Group (“PDG”) and Musqueam Capital Corp. (“MCC”), announced today the successful closing of the sale of River Rock Casino Resort (“River Rock”), located in Richmond, B.C. on Musqueam lands, by Great Canadian to a partnership formed by PDG, the economic development arm of Snuneymuxw First Nation, and MCC, the economic development arm of Musqueam Indian Band. This successful closing completes the transition of River Rock Casino Resort to Indigenous ownership and reflects a shared commitment to long-term stewardship, economic self-determination, and intergenerational prosperity for both Musqueam and Snuneymuxw.
Since opening on June 25, 2004, River Rock has established itself as the largest casino resort in Western Canada. Situated along the Fraser River, the property features Gordon Ramsay Steak, the first Canadian fine dining restaurant from Michelin-starred chef and television personality Gordon Ramsay, along with over 1,200 slot machines and electronic table games, more than 80 live table games, a live racebook, poker room, nearly 400 hotel rooms, 1,000-person theatre, marina, 10 food and beverage venues, and a full-service spa. River Rock Casino Resort has long set the benchmark for gaming, hospitality, and entertainment in the Metro Vancouver market.
Strategic Indigenous Partnership
As part of this milestone, MCC and PDG have successfully entered into a partnership resulting in shared ownership of River Rock. The partnership between Musqueam, through MCC and PDG reflects a shared commitment to strengthening Indigenous participation in major economic assets, advancing long-term economic self-determination, and building intergenerational prosperity for their respective Nations Through this collaboration, the Nations are bringing together complementary strengths in governance, investment, and operational experience to responsibly advance this opportunity.
The River Rock acquisition represents an important step forward for Musqueam and Snuneymuxw as they strengthen their presence within major economic sectors. As stewards of the land on which River Rock operates, Musqueam continues its work to ensure that economic activity aligns with community priorities, responsibilities to the land, and long-term wellbeing. Together, the Nations are building sustainable revenue streams that will support employment, community programs, cultural continuity, and future generations.
Operational Transition
To ensure stability and continuity, Great Canadian will continue to assist with providing certain transitional services to River Rock for a one year period of time following the closing of this transaction. During this time, Great Canadian will work closely with MCC and PDG to support knowledge transfer, operational alignment, and a seamless experience for guests, team members, partners and stakeholders.
Leadership Commentary
Chief Wayne Sparrow, Musqueam Indian Band “For generations, Musqueam has upheld our responsibility to care for these lands. This transaction represents an important step in ensuring our Nation directly benefits from the economic activity taking place within our territory. This partnership creates long-term opportunities for our community, strengthens our economic future, and helps build prosperity for generations of Musqueam people to come. We are proud to move forward alongside our extended family, Snuneymuxw as trusted partners in this work.”
Chief Mike Wyse, Xum’silum, Snuneymuxw First Nation
“Today is a historic day for Snuneymuxw and the Canadian gaming and hospitality industry.” “With the closing of the River Rock acquisition, we are taking combined ownership of the most recognized gaming destination in British Columbia, and cementing Snuneymuxw, through PDG, as a leading force in gaming in this province and the largest First Nation-owned casino and hospitality operator in Canada. This is the result of generations of work by our people to build a strong and self-determined future. We begin this new chapter on Musqueam territory with deep respect.
Stephen Lee, Chief Executive Officer, Musqueam Capital Corp. “This transaction reflects a thoughtful and disciplined approach to an important opportunity on Musqueam lands. Through MCC, we are focused on ensuring this investment creates long-term value, supports community priorities, and strengthens Musqueam’s economic foundation.”
Advisors Musqueam and MCC were supported by advisors on this transaction, including Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP (Blakes) and Clark Wilson LLP as legal counsel, and Scotiabank as financial advisor.
About Musqueam First Nation
Musqueam is a Coast Salish Nation whose traditional territory includes what is now known as Vancouver, the Fraser River, and surrounding lands and waters. Musqueam people have lived on, governed, and cared for these lands since time immemorial. As stewards of its territory, Musqueam continues to uphold responsibilities passed down through generations while advancing the long-term wellbeing of its people through strong governance, environmental stewardship, and sustainable economic development. Today, Musqueam is building a prosperous future by ensuring that economic activity taking place on its lands creates meaningful and lasting benefits for its community, supporting self-determination and opportunities for future generations.
Learn more: www.musqueam.bc.ca
Follow Musqueam: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn
About Musqueam Capital Corp.
Musqueam Capital Corp. (MCC) is the economic development entity of Musqueam Indian Band. MCC is responsible for managing and growing Musqueam’s business and investment portfolio in a way that reflects the Nation’s long-term vision and responsibilities to its lands and community.
Through disciplined and values-based decision-making, MCC focuses on sustainable growth, strategic partnerships, and opportunities that generate long-term benefits for Musqueam members. Its work supports economic self-determination while ensuring that development on Musqueam lands aligns with community priorities and stewardship responsibilities.
Learn more: www.musqueamcapital.ca
Follow MCC: Instagram / Facebook / Linkedin
Media contacts:
Ryan Rogers
Marketing and Communications Manager, Musqueam Indian Band
P: 604.902.7357
