Perth-Wellington MPP Matthew Rae has congratulated a local family for winning an Educational Excellence award.
The provincial government recently recognized 12 winners and seven honourable mentions for the 2025 Excellence in Agriculture Awards.
Frank and Heather Louwagie of Hillmanor Holsteins in West Perth have been congratulated by MPP Rae for winning the Educational Excellence award.
Hillmanor Holsteins, a family owned and operated dairy farm near Mitchell, uses "advanced technology such as robotic milking systems, automated feeders and real-time animal health monitoring to ensure herd health and increase production," according to Rae's congratulatory statement.
The operation was built with an education and demonstration facility as part of the property. The Louwagie family regularly hosts agricultural events there.
"Congratulations to Frank, Heather and the entire Louwagie family on receiving the Educational Excellence award. Their state-of-the-art dairy barn will provide an educational opportunity for our young people for generations to come," said MPP Rae. "Agriculture in Perth County is a $1.5 billion industry and employs over 8,000 people. It is great to see our local farm families being recognized at the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair for their leadership."
"I’m proud to recognize the winners and honourable mentions of the 2025 Excellence in Agriculture Awards for their hard work and commitment to building a stronger, more competitive agri-food sector," said Trevor Jones, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness. "Their contributions drive the success of our sector and pave the way for the next generation, ensuring Ontario agriculture continues to thrive."
