Project Spotlight: The Moosehead Lift

Project Spotlight: The Moosehead Lift 

How Atlantic Crane Brought a Halifax Hockey Icon to Life

We’re excited to share one of the most unique and thrilling projects by our sister company, Atlantic Crane — the design and installation of a massive, custom-engineered crane system that raises the iconic moose head at the Scotiabank Centre, home of the Halifax Mooseheads!

Atlantic Crane are no strangers to ambitious projects — but some lifts go beyond just steel and rigging. Some lifts are about local pride, engineering marvels, and creating unforgettable experiences. One of their most exciting undertakings to date? A crane system that lifts not just equipment — but spirits.

We’re proud to shine a spotlight on the custom mechanical system behind the iconic moose head at the Scotiabank Centre, home of the Halifax Mooseheads hockey team. This project combines mechanical ingenuity with entertainment flair — and it’s already become a legendary part of the Halifax game-day experience.

The Challenge: Bringing an Idea to Life

The concept was bold: design and install a crane system that could safely and reliably hoist a giant moose head high above the ice whenever the Mooseheads score a goal. Not only would the head rise — it would light up, move dramatically, and shoot smoke from its nostrils.

From the outset, they knew this wasn’t just about engineering a lift. It was about designing a showpiece, something that would wow thousands of fans while adhering to strict structural, safety, and operational guidelines inside a busy public arena.

Complex Engineering Meets Creative Design

At the heart of this project was the need for a lifting system that was technically sound, aesthetically seamless, and incredibly reliable. Unlike traditional industrial crane installations, this system needed to operate quietly, efficiently, and safely during high-energy game scenarios.

The team engineered a custom hoist and support structure that met the specific dimensions, load requirements, and motion criteria for the oversized moose head. Factors like weight distribution, ceiling clearance, arena lighting, and pyrotechnic safety were all carefully considered in our planning and execution.

The result? A smooth, dramatic vertical lift that feels like part of the entertainment — not just an engineering mechanism.

A Team Effort: Collaboration in Action

Success in complex projects like this one comes down to more than just great engineering — it’s about great teamwork. We worked closely with:

• The Halifax Mooseheads organization
• Scotiabank Centre arena operations and facility management
• Multimedia and effects teams involved in lighting and smoke integration

From initial design meetings to final installation, every partner played a key role in making this vision a reality.

Despite tight timelines and a challenging environment — including working within a bustling arena schedule — the project came together smoothly thanks to constant communication, detailed planning, and a shared commitment to excellence.

More Than Metal: The Fan Experience

If you’ve ever been to a Mooseheads game, you know how electric the crowd gets when the team scores. Now, with the addition of the massive moose head rising triumphantly into the air, the atmosphere reaches new levels of excitement.

This crane system doesn't just lift a prop — it amplifies the emotional energy in the building. The lighting effects and smoke bursts are synchronized to build drama and celebration. It’s not just a goal; it’s a moment.

It’s the kind of impact that goes beyond function, bringing magic to the fans and giving Halifax something uniquely its own.

Why It Matters: Community and Culture

This project is a testament to the power of local innovation and collaboration. It shows what’s possible when local companies, local teams, and local communities work together to create something special.

For Atlantic Crane, this was more than just a job. Atlantic Crane is a locally rooted business, and it means everything to contribute to a project that will live on in Halifax’s culture for years to come.

Every time that moose head rises — and fans roar — we’re reminded that their work has a real, lasting impact on the community we call home.

Precision in Motion: Safety and Reliability

Of course, no amount of showmanship can come at the expense of safety — and they took that responsibility seriously. The hoist system is:

• Mechanically tested and certified to exceed load requirements
• Equipped with safety redundancies to prevent malfunction or mishandling
• Designed for long-term durability with low maintenance overhead

The team understands that the spotlight may be on the moose — but the trust is on them. That’s why every bolt, weld, and wire was inspected to the highest standards.

Watch the Magic

Want to see the moose head in action? Check out our behind-the-scenes video capturing the entire journey — from concept to reality — and get a glimpse of the engineering behind the excitement.

📽️ Watch the full story below.

Thank You to Our Project Partners

This project wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible people behind the scenes. We extend a huge thank you to:

• Our internal engineers, welders, and installers
• The Halifax Mooseheads organization
• The Scotiabank Centre operations team
• Our partners in lighting, effects, and safety

What’s Next?

Atlantic Crane & Material Handling is constantly pushing the boundaries of what lifting systems can do — whether it's for industry, infrastructure, or unforgettable fan moments like this one.

From overhead cranes and jib systems to complex entertainment lifts, they build solutions that are strong, smart, and unforgettable.

Build Something Incredible Together

Have a unique project in mind? Looking for a partner that can turn bold ideas into reality with safety and precision?

Contact Atlantic Crane & Material Handling today and find out how they can lift your next big idea.

Atlantic Crane is proud to be part of the Hercules Group of Companies — delivering trusted lifting solutions across Atlantic Canada.

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The Hercules Group of Companies encompasses a wide portfolio of products and services across multiple, diverse companies.