Abbotsford Agrifair recently held its annual general meeting, electing Stephanie Nelson as the new president.
Nelson replaces Bob Street, who held the position since 2017 and remains on the board as past president.
Also elected were Matthew Malkin as vice president, Clare Seeley as secretary, Cindy Rowell returning as treasurer and Gwen Settle, Brian Fooks and Darren Sabatino to two-year terms as directors.
Directors Shawn Thorogood and Joanne Smid remain on the board, entering their second year.
Drew Hunt represents the Fraser Valley Antique Farm Machinery Association on the Agrifair board.
The annual general meeting was held March 11 with 34 attendees, including five lifetime members and two city councillors.
Nelson presented a draft of the Agrifair Association’s strategic plan for 2024, which was unanimously approved for recommendation to the new board of directors for ratification.
“The Abbotsford Agrifair Association passionately leads and shares opportunities to access agricultural experiences and education with the broader community,” Nelson said.
“We aim to provide opportunities and promote awareness of agricultural educational experiences through engagement and entertainment. The Agrifair board is excited for 2024. We love this fair and are committed to our vision and inspired by our mission.”
The meeting also included a presentation on the history of Abbotsford’s annual agricultural-themed fair and the contributions of previous board members in the development of Exhibition Park, the home of Agrifair since 1981.
Their involvement included the construction of many of the buildings on the site that Abbotsford residents continue to use and enjoy today.
Street acknowledged the “Agrifair pioneers” who provided a first-hand account of how the fair has evolved.
“We must not forget the contributions of the many community volunteers and local businesses that literally built the fairgrounds that we enjoy today,” he said.
This year’s Abbotsford Agrifair runs Aug. 2 to 4. Visit agrifair.ca for more information.
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