Ontario rural affairs minister recognizes 10 Huron-Bruce women during Rural Ontario Week

By: Huron-Bruce MPP Lisa Thompson's office  October 4, 2026  141

During Rural Ontario Week, Huron-Bruce MPP Lisa Thompson, minister of rural affairs, recognized 10 women from across Huron-Bruce for their contributions to agriculture and their rural communities as part of the International Year of the Woman Farmer.

Those recognized, included Kristie Gilchrist, Amanda Hammell, Becky Maus, Christine MacIntyre and Barb Zettler of Bruce County, and Tara Terpstra, Emily Morrison, Carol Leeming, Miranda Klaver and Margaret Vincent of Huron County.

“Women have always been an integral part of agriculture and rural life here in Huron-Bruce, and this year provides a special opportunity to recognize the women who continue to strengthen our farms, businesses and communities,” said Thompson. “I am proud to recognize these 10 women for the leadership, dedication and hard work they bring to our rural communities. Their contributions are helping build a strong future for agriculture and rural Ontario.”

From working on the farm and supporting local food production to taking on leadership roles in their communities, women contribute to every aspect of Ontario’s agricultural sector. The International Year of the Woman Farmer is an opportunity to shine a light on these contributions and ensure the stories and achievements of women in agriculture are celebrated.

Following the recognition ceremony, Bonnie Sitter shared her reflections from her book, "Onion Skins and Peach Fuzz: Memories of Ontario Farmerettes," which captures the experiences and contributions of the women who participated in Ontario’s Farmerette program during the Second World War. The stories in Sitter’s book provided a meaningful connection to the 10 women recognized in Huron-Bruce, highlighting how the role of women in agriculture has continued to evolve while their dedication, resilience and commitment to rural communities remain constant.

Huron-Bruce MPP Lisa Thompson, minister of rural affairs, recognizes 10 women with congratulatory scrolls at the Bruce County International Plowing Match and Rural Expo; from left, are Carol Leeming, Margaret Vincent, Emily Morrison, Ontario associate minister of women’s social and economic opportunity Charmaine Williams, Miranda Klaver, Thompson, Becky Maus, author Bonnie Sitter, Barb Zettler, Christine MacIntyre, Kristie Gilchrist and Amanda Hammell; absent, is Tara Terpstra

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