The Coombs Fair is turning 100. To recognize the contributions the fair has made to the Island's legacy of farming, food and agriculture since 1913, Parkville-Qualicum MLA Michelle Stilwell will present the Arrowsmith Agricultural Association with a Century Farm Award at the fair's opening on Aug. 10.

Century Farm Awards honour agricultural organizations that have been active for 100 years. The Coombs Fair began in 1913, when a group of farmers, who had moved from Saanich, decided to hold a fall fair to show what could be grown and raised in the area. The fair continues to showcase the agricultural diversity, expertise and enthusiasm of the area today, and highlights the next generation of agricultural leaders with one of the largest 4-H shows on Vancouver Island.

To further mark the fair's 100th anniversary, the Arrowsmith Agricultural Association is building the Centennial Stage with volunteer labour and community donations. During the fair, the stage will host musicians and events. Following the fair, the stage will be available year-round for concerts and awards, and as a backdrop for weddings and other celebrations.

The fair includes livestock, produce and garden displays, as well as a midway, arts and crafts and the chance to enjoy local foods and the unique atmosphere of Coombs. In addition to the centennial year, this year's fair will honour Coombs' unofficial patron animal, the goat.

Quotes:

Parksville-Qualicum MLA Michelle Stilwell -

"The Coombs fair has created memories and connections between local foods and people for 100 years, and the Century Farm Award both honours and celebrates that. People from all over the world love visiting Coombs and automatically connect it with goats, food and farming. That is truly one of the legacies of the fair and the community."

Janet Boley, manager, Arrowsmith Agricultural Association -

"The Coombs Fair is a true country fair supporting and teaching, through hands-on opportunities, the old fashioned values based in agriculture and community spirit, necessary for survival. The social gathering of the oldtimers and the young adds to this down-home flavour."

Learn More:

For more information about B.C.'s Century Farm Program: http://www.agf.gov.bc.ca/regional/CenturyFarmAwards/CenturyFarms.htm

To find out more about the Coombs Fair: http://www.coombsfair.com

For a comprehensive list of B.C. fairs: www.bcfairs.ca

Contacts:

Dave Townsend
Ministry of Agriculture
250 356-7098

Janet Boley
Arrowsmith Agricultural Association
250 248-4458