Bonnie West Named 2019 Woman of Excellence in Agriculture Award Winner
October 4, 2019 [TORONTO] - The Royal Agricultural Winter Fair, in partnership with the Federated Women’s Institute of Ontario, has announced the winner of its Woman of Excellence in Agriculture Award for 2019. Long-time community volunteer Bonnie West of Bradford West Gillimbury, Ontario, a member of the Tec We Gwill Women’s Institute, is this year’s winner. “Bonnie has been an exceptional leader in our community,” said Donna Jebb, the Women’s Institute member who nominated Bonnie West. “In her own quiet way, Bonnie just gets things done – and done to perfection.”
Bonnie West is also a partner in the family farm, which she manages with her husband Lloyd. The family transitioned out of dairy farming to cash crop in 2001, and according to Jebb, “to say Bonnie is full partner in the farming operation would be an understatement. If a Women’s Institute meeting conflicted with farm chores like planting or harvesting, Bonnie’s replacement as chair would have to be ready to fill in.” Although the family is no longer in the dairy business, Bonnie still is interested in and supports her grandchildren (seven in total) in dairy competitions at local fairs.
Despite her active role in the farm operation, Bonnie has dedicated herself tirelessly to volunteering in the community, including the Women’s Institute, the International Plowing Match (held in Simcoe County in 2014), 4-H, St. John's Anglican Church in Cookstown, leading workshops on preparing and preserving food and organizing regular community luncheons for local seniors.
“Bonnie is very committed to agriculture, and together with her husband Lloyd, they have been partners in life and in business for over 40 years,” says her nominator Donna Jebb. “She is truly a worthy recipient of this award.”
The Women of Excellence in Agriculture Award began in 1996 to recognize the significant contributions made by women in agriculture. The 2019 winner will be honoured at the Excellence in Agriculture luncheon scheduled for Wednesday, November 6 at The Royal Agricultural Winter Fair in Toronto.
“Dedicated, public-minded individuals like Bonnie West are the backbone of Ontario agriculture and rural life. The Royal is proud to be associated with this prestigious award,” says Charlie Johnstone, Chief Executive Officer of The Royal. “We congratulate Bonnie on her exemplary service to the community.”
About The Federated Women’s Institute of Ontario
For over 120 years, Women’s Institute (WI) members have actively worked together for family, home, community and country. The Federated Women’s Institutes of Ontario (FWIO) was organized in 1919, giving members a stronger voice by working together as a united group. Through education and support programs and services, FWIO’s original focus expanded to include personal growth opportunities, government lobbying and health and community wellness projects.
About The Royal Agricultural Winter Fair
Every year in November, more than 300,000 guests visit The Royal Agricultural Winter Fair, which is the world’s largest combined indoor agricultural and equestrian show. Held at the Exhibition Place in Toronto, the Fair showcases Canada’s leaders in agricultural, food, and equine excellence.
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