Maberly Fair gets a boost from 4H participation this year

Craig Bakay | Aug 30, 2017

For those unfamiliar with 4H programs, the rearing and caring for of farm animals like sheep constitutes a big part of their programs.
This year, 4H found a willing partner in the Maberly Fair, which became became the final piece for 4Hers to finish their achievement.

“There is a requirement for the achievement to show their sheep,” said 4H leader Melissa Ferguson-Renaud. “And this is the first time we’ve been at the Maberly Fair for their final show.”
The lambs are all born after Jan. 1, she said. In April, the students begin caring for them and spend three days a week practising for the show. If they kids (ages 9-21) don’t have sheep of their own, 4H will arrange for them to ‘borrow’ one to look after.

She said the Maberly Fair is a good match for her dozen or so kids in Lanark County.
“I like supporting the small fairs and this is a fun little fair,” she said. “They’ve go the space and they bring in the people and animals.
“The kids enjoy it and we’ll definitely do it again.”

Paul Pospisil, one of the Fair Coordinators, said the fair board is good with that and will be happy to welcome the 4Hers back.
“This is the first time we’ve had this activity,” he said. “And it’s been a real boost.
“Animals are a big drawing card, especially for young people.

“Young farmers are the future because without them, and 4H, you’re not going to keep farming alive, so I think this is great.”
Pospisil said the Fair has also experienced a growth in the number of cattle being shown, and takes that as an encouraging sign.
“Fairs have had to change over the years but we’ve always been an agricultural fair and it’s good to see the tradition continue,” he said. “That’s not to say we won’t try new things like, for example, this year we’re having an all-day barbecue instead of the evening meal.

“And we’re pleased that Parham isn’t having its fair on the same days as ours.”