Rae Congratulates Local Farm Family on Winning the Educational Excellence Award

November 13, 2025

[Mitchell, ON] – The Government of Ontario is proud to recognize 12 winners and 7 honourable mentions of the 2025 Excellence in Agriculture Awards. Presented across 10 categories, these awards celebrate the outstanding contributions of individuals and organizations that are strengthening Ontario’s $51 billion agri-food sector.

Matthew Rae, MPP for Perth-Wellington, congratulates Frank and Heather Louwagie of Hillmanor Holsteins in West Perth for winning the Educational Excellence award.

“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.”

Hillmanor Holsteins, a family owned and operated dairy farm near Mitchell, Ontario, uses advanced technology such as robotic milking systems, automated feeders and real-time animal health monitoring to ensure herd health and increase production. Their operation was purpose built with an education and demonstration facility where they regularly host industry and public events including ‘Breakfast on the Farm’ in 2024.

“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.”

This year, the province is recognizing excellence in 10 categories:

·       Research and Innovation Excellence

·       Food Processing Excellence

·       Education Excellence

·       Promotional Excellence

·       Supply Chain Excellence

·       Indigenous, Métis or Inuit-owned Businesses or Community Excellence

·       Farm Family Excellence

·       Women’s Excellence

·       Youth Excellence

·       Northern Business Excellence

Ontario’s agri-food sector supports more than 867,000 jobs across the province and continues to be a key driver of Ontario’s economy. From establishing sustainability practices to driving innovation and growth, the 2025 honourees are propelling Ontario’s agri-food industry toward a more sustainable and prosperous future. Through initiatives like the Grow Ontario Strategy, Ontario is supporting farmers, processors and agri-food businesses that continue to drive this growth and ensure a strong, sustainable sector for generations to come.