NEWS RELEASE FERGUS AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY
Fergus, ON – On Friday, August 2, local MPP Ted Arnott met Fergus Agricultural Society volunteers to celebrate a $149,800 Capital grant from the provincial government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) that was used to purchase bleacher seating and event equipment. The project will better equip the organization to host large community events, such as the Fergus Fall Fair.
“Our thanks go out to the Ontario Trillium Foundation for its support of the Fergus Agricultural Society,” said Ted Arnott, MPP for Wellington—Halton Hills. “Fall fairs are fantastic celebrations of agriculture and our rural and small-town heritage. The new bleachers will make our events all the more inviting and fun.”
The Fergus Agricultural Society used the grant funds to purchase 14 five-row bleachers, outdoor lighting, pipe and drape kits and a PA system. This equipment will improve the functionality of the event space at the Centre Wellington Community Sportsplex and better accommodate the needs of the growing population by offering more seating, extended programming hours and improved public safety. The new event equipment is expected to be used by at least two other community groups who host events at the same venue.
“This is the largest grant our organization has received to date and the impact is significant,” says Paul Rappolt, president of the Fergus Agricultural Society. “We are located in one of the fastest growing communities in Ontario and we appreciate the need to increase capacity being acknowledged.”
The Fergus Agricultural Society is a non-profit organization that aims to promote agriculture, celebrate community involvement and inspire connection through family-friendly events. The 187th Fergus Fall Fair will take place on September 13, 14 and 15, 2024. Visit fergusfallfair.ca to learn more.
“Whether it’s helping people learn new things, connect with their community, or simply have fun, organizations like Fergus Agricultural Society deliver experiences that make a difference,” said Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. “That’s why grant support through the Ontario Trillium Foundation is so important. This funding will help ensure they remain at the heart of the community for decades to come.”
The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) is an agency of the Ontario government with a mission to build healthy and vibrant communities across the province. Last year, OTF invested more than $110M into 1,044 community projects and multi-sector partnerships. Projects aim to enhance economic well-being, foster more active lifestyles, support child and youth development, provide spaces for people to come together and connect, and create a more sustainable environment. Visit otf.ca to learn more.
