From restored vintage tractors to hand-knitted crafts and cattle shows, the 71st annual Lundar Agricultural Fair proved once again that rural pride and volunteerism are alive and well in Manitoba.
Held over a packed two-day weekend, the fair attracted visitors from across the Interlake region and beyond. Whether you were for the home-living exhibits, the 4-H cattle display, or the bustling parade, the fair offered something for everyone, made possible entirely by the tireless efforts of local volunteers.
"This fair could not be done without hundreds of volunteers," said Diane Lynch, longtime volunteer and now the parade coordinator. "We've got judges, people in the horse shows, the 4-H, the cattle exhibits, face painters, and more. It's nonstop all weekend. It's just fantastic."
Lynch has been volunteering at the fair for over a decade, starting with the Fair Friday morning breakfast for the 4-H Club. Now in her second year coordinating the parade, she said she's more inspired than ever by the dedication of the community.
"This year's parade was the longest I've ever seen," said Virgil Johnson, Reeve of the RM of Coldwell. "There were 61 floats, and volunteers were coming out of the woodwork. It makes me proud to be part of this community."
Community pride was front and centre across every corner of the fairgrounds, from the Home Living exhibits showcasing everything from canning to quilting, to the new Discovery Zone for kids offering free educational and entertainment activities.
Derek Monkman, Secretary-Treasurer of the Home Living section, said entries for the home living exhibit came from all over.
"We had people from Gimli, Fisher Branch, Inwood, Ashern, it's not just Lundar anymore. Everyone wants to show off their talents, from baking to photography to crafts. We get trained judges from Winnipeg to make sure it's all judged professionally."
The 4-H program, a staple of the fair since the 1950s, was also out in full force. Young exhibitors showcased their steers and heifers, many of which they had been raising for years.
"These kids are staying in the farming industry and that's huge," said Lynch. "Because everything starts with a farmer."
This deep agricultural connection was echoed by Member of Parliament James Bezan, who is also a cattle producer himself.
"I really do believe that our agriculture base is something we need to continue to promote," Bezan said. "When people come here and see the horse show, the cattle show, and all the rural talent, it's a way to celebrate the country way of life. These fairs are becoming rarer, and what's happening in Lundar is something truly special."
That sentiment was shared by MLA Derek Johnson, who attended the fair as both a politician and a proud local alumnus.
"I went to school here in Lundar. Coming back fills your heart. It's not just an event, it's a homecoming."
The fair has also embraced youth involvement through its school outreach. Monkman emphasized the importance of starting young: "We want to encourage the younger generation to take part. The earlier they start, the more likely they'll stay involved year after year."
Colleen Kostyshyn, Treasurer of the Lundar Agricultural Society, said the fair has grown steadily and continues to better.
"Every year, it gets bigger. We're adding more events, and it's so nice to see families having fun, entering home exhibits, or enjoying the Discovery Zone."
Despite its long history, the fair's success still hinges on one key ingredient: volunteers.
"You can't pay people to come here and cook in our concession or bring cattle," Lynch said. "They do it because they care. That's what community is.”
When asked what she would say to the community, Lynch didn't hesitate:
"Thank you. Thank you for coming out, for supporting us, for spending money here, and for keeping this going. It's all about community staying together."
If there was one message echoed by every speaker at the Lundar Fair this year, it was simple but powerful, volunteerism is the heart of small-town success, and in Lundar, that heart beats strong.
