Kawartha Lakes spirit shines at International Plowing Match and Rural Expo

The International Plowing Match and Rural Expo (IPM) wrapped up on October 5, and we are thrilled to share that the event was a tremendous success, attracting over 50,000 attendees!

The IPM event truly showcased the spirit of excellence and innovation of our local agricultural community. With engaging exhibits, educational workshops, and lively entertainment, there was something for everyone to enjoy. We are grateful to all those who played a role in making this event possible for our community.

Mayor Doug Elmslie shared, “It was inspiring to see leaders from all political parties come together in our community to support the IPM. This event provided Kawartha Lakes with another valuable opportunity to discuss firsthand the issues we face and how we can work together towards solutions. I couldn’t be prouder of staff, volunteers and community partners for making this event such a resounding success!”

We also want to express our appreciation to the many community partners who joined us in Showcase Kawartha Lakes, a 10,500 square foot exhibit. Your support was crucial to the event’s success. Together, we demonstrated the power of collaboration and community spirit, making this event a memorable experience for everyone involved.

Thank you to our Showcase Kawartha Lakes Partners and Contributors:

Kawartha Conservation, Pineneedle Farms, Rockwood Forest Nuseries, Fenelon Falls & District Chamber of Commerce, Bobcaygeon and Area Chamber of Commerce, Lindsay + District Chamber of Commerce, Coboconk, Norland and Area Chamber of Commerce, Lindsay Downtown BIA, Fleming College, Ontario Clean Water Agency, Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority, Ampere, Kawartha Choice Farm Fresh, Board & Nibble Catering Co., Ducks Unlimited Canada, Make Stuff Move, Bee City Kawartha Lakes, Kawartha Lakes Fire Rescue Service, Ganaraska Conservation, Bistro 93, Bird Friendly Kawartha Lakes, Kawartha Arts Network, Mariposa Dairy, Naylor Systems, Sunderland Co-operative Inc., Rural Tourism Organization 8 and Kawartha Dairy.

Kelly Maloney, Economic Development Officer – Agriculture, as well as Showcase Kawartha Lakes Coordinator and Liaison with the Ontario Plowmen’s Association and 2024 IPM Local Committee on behalf of Kawartha Lakes noted, “We achieved our goal of presenting a broad representation of our community. This success would not have been possible without the strong partnership between the City of Kawartha Lakes, the Kawartha Region Conservation Authority, and all the contributors and volunteers who delivered content. Our pride for this community shone brightly at the 2024 IPM.”

A special thank you goes out to the dedicated volunteers. With over 400 helping hands, their hard work and commitment ensured that everything ran smoothly, creating a welcoming atmosphere for all.

Bob Armstrong, Chair of the IPM 2024 Local Organizing Committee, reflected, “There were just so many great moments! Our volunteers deserve special recognition as they were truly the heart and soul of the IPM. Many visitors commented on how welcoming and organized everything was—a true testament to our volunteers’ dedication. This event was a shining example of what can happen when a community comes together. The partnerships we built, the connections made, and the positive impact on the local economy all made this event a resounding success!”

Charlie McDonald, Kawartha Lakes Deputy Mayor and IPM Visitor Experience Director was in charge of traffic and emergency management, and parking for the event and took care of all wagon and bus shuttles to the various sites.  “I had the privilege of working with such an amazing and exceptional volunteer team. I was so proud to work alongside such amazing people, who have now become my friends beyond this event. I also want to say kudos to the Kawartha Lakes OPP and Kawartha Lakes Police Service for all of their support at this event for keeping everything flowing and everyone safe.”

A visitor from Peterborough provided this comment: “My family and I went to the 2024 IPM and I just wanted thank all involved for putting together such a memorable event. I was really impressed how smooth everything went and how professional and courteous all involved were -volunteers, exhibitors, competitors.”

Kawartha Lakes Ward 6 Councillor and IPM Special Features Director, Ron Ashmore shared, "This was a once-in-a-generation event that showcased how our community came together to demonstrate to the province, the country, and the world what a great place Kawartha Lakes is. I also want to recognize the valuable contributions of my Special Features and Special Events Co-Chair, Charlie Clarke, as well as the many sub-chairs who did an amazing job!"

Thank you to everyone who contributed, attended and supported this event. Be sure to check out our Facebook and Instagram pages for some of the memories and moments from the event.