It was Opening Day of the 2019 International Plowing Match and Rural Expo yesterday with sunny weather and warm temperatures helping attract throngs of people to take in the day’s many events.
About 1,200 volunteers are helping in the effort.
The day began with a parade from Verner and through Tented City to the Main Stage for the Opening Ceremony. There were 47 entries, including antique tractors, large equipment, community groups and plenty of dignitaries.
“We are extremely proud of what’s happened here and we’re grateful to the people of West Nipissing for welcoming us,” said Sheila Marshall, President of the Ontario Plowmen’s Association.
This year marks the 102nd IPM. It is held in a different Ontario community each year. This is only the second time it’s been held in northern Ontario.
As is tradition, provincial party leaders, including Premier Doug Ford, made their way to the IPM for Opening Day.
See: NDP leader behind jeers at rural expo: Doug Ford
Interim Liberal leader John Fraser and Green party Leader Mike Schreiner joined Ford and NDP leader Andrea Horwath in Tuesday's competition.
Among the other dignitaries to attend Opening Day was federal NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh, who tried his hand at plowing, alongside the provincial party leaders, for a demonstration event.
“Ontario produce is some of the best in the world,” said Ford, announcing an upcoming trade mission to South Korea and Japan to focus on agriculture. "I have so much respect for the farmers … your success is our success.”
See: Fedeli headed to Japan, South Korea on trade mission
The BMO Celebrating Women program celebrates women leaders – entrepreneurs, philanthropists, and innovators - who are making an impact in their communities.
The Honoree for 2019 is Janet Parsons who is an integral part of her family farm and, along with her husband, created West Nipissing East Sudbury Agricultural Support Projects Inc, which helps farms gain access to government grants.
Results from each day’s plowing competitions are posted here.
