The engines will be roaring and spirits soaring on Friday, July 12th, as Eden Foundation hosts its 18th annual Tractor Trek, proudly powered by Greenvalley Equipment. This much-anticipated event celebrates both rural roots and the power of community-driven mental health support.
For the first time in its nearly two-decade history, the Tractor Trek is inviting all tractors — vintage, classic, or modern — to take part in the journey. The day kicks off with a “Tractors Through the Ages” Show & Shine and BBQ Fundraiser, running from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Eden Mental Health Centre grounds, followed by the official Trek send-off at 1:15 p.m.
A growing tradition with a purpose
“This is our 18th year running the Tractor Trek, and it’s been such a successful fundraiser, thanks to incredible support from the vintage tractor community in and around Winkler,” says Dave Sawatzky, Director of Development for Eden Foundation. “But this year, we’re opening it up — whether your tractor is brand new or decades old, it’s welcome. Let’s fill the field with 100 tractors!”
The expansion to include tractors of all ages reflects Eden’s goal to broaden participation and bring even more people together in support of mental health programming.
Early bird incentives and new driver discounts
To encourage early registration, Eden Foundation has dropped the entry fee to $100 for those who sign up by June 26th. And for first-time drivers, the fee is just $50.
“We want to get as many drivers out as we can and expand the pool of participants,” explains Sawatzky. “It’s always been a tight-knit group, but we’re inviting new folks to join in and experience what makes Tractor Trek so special.”
Interested participants can register in person at the Eden Foundation office (309 Main Street, Winkler) or online at edenhealthcare.ca.
More than just a trek: community BBQ and show & shine
The community is encouraged to take part even without a tractor. The Show & Shine and BBQ, sponsored by Gardenland Co-op, offers a chance for everyone to enjoy the sights, sounds, and stories behind the machines.
“It’s a great family event. Come out, bring the kids, walk through the line of tractors — old and new — and enjoy a BBQ lunch while supporting an important cause,” says Sawatzky. “Even if you don’t drive, you can still support the event by sponsoring a driver or donating directly.”
Driving change: supporting mental health in Southern Manitoba
Funds raised through Tractor Trek support Eden’s comprehensive mental health services, which extend far beyond the well-known Eden Mental Health Centre.
“When people think of Eden, they often think of the mental health centre on Pembina. That’s where we started, and it plays a critical role for people with severe and persistent mental illness,” Sawatzky explains. “But Eden’s reach is much broader.”
Eden Foundation also supports:
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Recovery of Hope Counseling Services: Available in Winkler, Winnipeg, and Steinbach, offering affordable, professional help for personal, family, or relationship challenges.
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Supportive Housing: With 145 housing units across all three locations, providing a stable home environment for individuals managing mental health issues.
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Segue Employment Services: Helping individuals with barriers to employment find meaningful work through training and vocational assessments.
“Between counseling, housing, employment services, and acute care — there’s a lot going on,” says Sawatzky. “Every dollar raised through events like Tractor Trek helps people access the tools they need to thrive.”
How to get involved
Whether you’re registering a tractor, sponsoring a driver, or just planning to attend the BBQ, your involvement makes a difference.
“This is more than just a tractor ride. It’s about community, support, and hope,” Sawatzky adds. “Together, we’re helping people live healthier, more stable lives.”
To register or donate, visit edenhealthcare.ca or call the Eden Foundation office at 204-325-5355.
Event Snapshot:
- Eden Mental Health Centre Grounds, Winkler
- Friday, July 12th, 2025
- Tractors Through the Ages BBQ & Show & Shine: 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
- Tractor Trek Send-off: 1:15 p.m.
Let’s drive change together — one tractor at a time.