Canadian Western Agribition (CWA) is officially underway.
While some events and activities were already underway, the Burning of the Brand officially kicked off the 51st edition of the largest livestock show in the country.
One of the people participating in the Burning of the Brand was President and CEO of STARS Andrea Robertson.
Over the years, CWA has raised $250,000 for the air ambulance and has its logo permanently displayed on a STARS helicopter due to there contributions.
Robertson said it was an honour to kick things off.
“It’s so fun to be here. It’s such an amazing event, and then, in addition, you think about the partnership we’ve had with them since 2014; this association has come together and has supported STARS for a long-time now. We are celebrating over $250,000 through the door.”
For many in rural areas in the province, STARS can be the difference between life and death.
“Your ability to live or not live can come down to us getting there in time, so I think it has a huge meaning to every one of us that lives in Saskatchewan.”
CEO of Candian Western Agribition, Shaun Kindopp, said they hope to see over 100,000 people make their way to Agribition this year.
“We are looking to get back into that six-figure mark of pre-pandemic levels,” he said. “We weren’t far off during the pandemic, so looking forward to getting back to a bit more normal and welcoming those folks back.”
“It’s always the goal to get bigger and better,” he added. “Saskatchewan is the heartbeat of agriculture. This is where you are going to come, and you are going to learn from the best in agriculture.”
Agriculture Minister David Marit also noted that he is excited to see Agribition back in full force.
“That’s really what the show is about, showcasing what the livestock industry has done, not only in the province of Saskatchewan but also Western Canada,” he said. “Obviously, we feel that Canadian Western Agribition is the greatest show, not just in Canada but in North America, but it gives us a great opportunity to showcase worldwide what we are doing here in Western Canada.”
Agribition will run until this Saturday, with plenty of events and activities for those passionate or looking to learn about agriculture to take in throughout the week.
For a full list of events and what’s happening, you can visit the Canadian Western Agribitions website.
