Celebrating success: Valley Agricultural Society reflects on 2024

The Valley Agricultural Society (VAS) celebrated another successful year during their annual general meeting in December at the Morris Multiplex. Despite challenging weather conditions, around 40 members and the board of directors braved the elements to attend the event.

VAS General Manager Malissa Dreger Lewis said, “The roads made it hard for a lot of people to get in, considering we have members from across southern Manitoba.”

VAS, currently managed by 12 directors, saw five directors re-elected for a two-year term during the AGM. These directors include President Mike Bellisle, Vice-president Matt Hoffman, Finance Director Tim Lewis, Secretary Kaylyn Edel, along with Ryan Holness, Chris Edel, Donna Lamb, Alex McCarthy, Troy Hoffman, and Brian Wiebe.

During the meeting, reports from each committee highlighted the year’s events. Dreger Lewis proudly noted, “Both Rumble in the Valley and the Manitoba Stampede were very well attended by the public. Rumble in the Valley had great numbers in June, and the Manitoba Stampede brought in some great numbers.”

A significant highlight was the Manitoba Stampede and Exhibition being awarded the 2024 Event of the Year by the Manitoba Country Music Association. Dreger Lewis remarked, “That highlights the hard work and dedication, not only through Manitoba’s only pro-rodeo and the entertainment committee board, but really showcases homegrown Manitoba talent. That’s very important to us as an organization.”

The Manitoba Stampede, the flagship event of the VAS, had several standout moments this year. The RCMP Musical Ride, which features impeccably trained horses and riders performing intricate drills set to music, was a particular highlight. Held over three days, it consistently draws large crowds and has become a beloved tradition. “We always see great numbers when the RCMP Musical Ride is part of the program,” Dreger Lewis said. “It’s a fan favorite and adds a special touch to our event.”

The Stampede not only attracts local residents but also brings visitors from across the province, boosting local tourism and economy, she noted.

In addition to the Stampede, Rumble in the Valley, the region’s largest truck and tractor pull event, continues to grow in popularity. “We are still the biggest and loudest truck and tractor pull in Southern Manitoba. It’s becoming a bigger family-friendly event. More and more people are bringing their kids. Therefore, we are looking at different ways to have children’s activities on the grounds over the two days. This year, we had two bands in the Beer Garden, which went over well,” Dreger Lewis said.

The Gathering of Nations area on the grounds reflects the VAS’s commitment to inclusivity and cultural celebration. This area, dedicated to supporting Indigenous communities, featured pow wow and drum demonstrations, Indigenous artists, and a memorial on Friday.

“It’s a space that honors tradition and provides an enriching experience for all attendees.”

Financial challenges were a key topic, with Dreger Lewis stating, “Our expenses are going up. We’re very limited in our revenue resources, so it’s a very fine balance to run an event and try to still make it family-friendly and affordable while covering the expenses that are ever-increasing.”

Maintenance of the society’s extensive infrastructure, spanning over 40 acres, remains an ongoing cost. “With the accessibility decking in 2023, the extension of the barbecue area in 2024, and upkeep of some of our buildings, we’ve taken a lot of pride and made that safety the primary focus on our grounds over the last couple of years,” Dreger Lewis explained.

A significant financial setback was not receiving the Green Team grant last summer. “It impacts our overall expenses. Every dollar counts when you’re a not-for-profit, your expenses are increasing, and you’re limited on revenue,” she said. However, Dreger Lewis assured members of the society’s sustainability, expressing gratitude for the strong support from Manitobans.

Despite these challenges, the VAS remains committed to its mission and the communities it serves. Dreger Lewis emphasized the importance of community engagement and volunteerism, which are critical to the society’s success.

“We’re very proud of our volunteers and we could not thank them enough,” she said. The dedication of these volunteers is celebrated annually, with this year’s Youth Volunteer of the Year award going to Colton Hoffman, Volunteer of the Year to Kyle Edel, and the Red Hat Membership awarded to Dale and James Buhler.

Looking ahead, Dreger Lewis announced that planning for 2025 is well underway. “We have some projects in the works. Several contracts have already been signed. We are well into our planning season and sessions. In the New Year, there will be some exciting changes to come,” she said.

On behalf of the VAS staff, directors, and membership, Dreger Lewis concluded with warm holiday wishes, “We just wish everybody a happy and safe holiday season. And to our volunteers, thank you so much. We couldn’t do it without you.”