They saw a need for a major agricultural
fall show in Western Canada, and in 1970 proceeded to acquire the support
of various municipal, provincial, and federal governments and livestock
associations. The coordinated effort of the agricultural industry has contributed
greatly to the phenomenal success of "Canada's International Agricultural
Marketplace", Agribition.
"Canadian Western Agribition
was a dream envisioned by two
Saskatchewan livestock men . . ."
Regina was the chosen site of Agribition, primarily because its founders
were Saskatchewan breeders, and the City of Regina is located centrally,
not only to Western Canada but to Canada as a whole and North America generally.
As well, Regina was one of the few locations with facilities to house a
winter stock show of this magnitude.
The development of the first Agribition was explosive. Everyone's interest
was ignited due to the tremendous change in livestock production that had
occurred in the previous twenty years, the excellent reception of the Show's
concept by overseas buyers, and by the increasing volume of export trade.
Word rapidly spread across the country and when the doors opened in 1971,
the enthusiasm surpassed all expectations with over 2,500 entries. This
included shows in Aberdeen Angus, Charolais, Galloway, Hereford, Red Poll,
and Shorthorn, along with a Commercial Cattle, and Steer Show. Some breeds
did not have a show or sale but did put together a display. Over the years,
this concept has evolved to include a Herd Sire Alley and Barn Booths. In
1991 a Barn Trade Show Concept was introduced in the Charolais and Hereford
barns and allowed individual breeders and breed associations to promote
their own programs. In 1992 the program was expanded to offer the opportunity
to all breeds. The program has since amalgamated into what is known as The
Livestock Trade Show with all breeds being displayed in one area.
"In 1991 a Barn Trade Show Concept
was introduced ... [that] allowed
individual breeders and breed associations
to promote their own programs"
In December, Agribition was the talk of the livestock industry - plans
for the 1972 Show began before the 1971 Show was over. Over the years, the
list of breeds has changed, and now includes 16 breeds, a record eleven
of which held their national show at Agribition '95.
In 1972, the Canadian Western Agribition Association became incorporated
under the Societies Act of the Province of Saskatchewan, with the objects
of promoting the expansion, development, and interests of agriculture in
Canada. An agreement was signed between Agribition and Regina Exhibition
Association for the perpetual use of the City of Regina's exhibition grounds
and facilities for the period of time necessary to stage the Show. This
arrangement was re-negotiated and a new joint agreement was signed by R.E.A.
and C.W.A. in the spring of 1989. This ensures the presentation of Agribition
in Regina until the year 2000.
Because of the success of the first show, it was apparent more space would
be required in the future. The first of a series of constructions, funded
by provincial and federal grants, was initiated in 1972 with a substantial
grant from Saskatchewan Agriculture, supplemented by the Regina Exhibition
Association, towards the construction of the Agribition Building. This building
was completed in time for the 1973 Show, and provided much needed space.
Since then, over $25 million in grants to Canadian Western Agribition and
Regina Exhibition Association have resulted in the construction of the Agridome,
the Ag Ex Pavilion, the Canada Centre Building, the Commercial Cattle Barn
and most recently, the Queensbury Centre. In the past, government funding
was also provided to maintain and upgrade the existing facilities.
Beginning in 1993 the profits from the Silver Sage Casino have been earmarked
for capital improvements to ensure upkeep of the present buildings is looked
after.
The Exhibitors' Reception was introduced in 1972 with 550 people present.
This event has proven quite popular with livestock and commercial exhibitors
alike over the years - in 1995, over 2,500 were in attendance!
"By 1978, this rodeo had reached
the position of the second largest
indoor rodeo in Canada."
The action did not stop at night either, with the staging of the Canadian
Western Agribition Rodeo. By 1978, this rodeo had reached the position of
the second largest indoor rodeo in Canada. Agribition has always tried to
include new and different events, such as the Exceptional Rodeo, and Bullfighting
Competitions, in addition to its regular events, namely; Saddle Bronc and
Bareback Riding, Calf Roping, Steer Wrestling, Ladies Barrel Racing and
Bull Riding. It's a single go-round rodeo with no finals and that means
the best times and scores can be recorded any night. Champions share the
purse offered in one of the richest professional rodeos in Canada.
When Agribition was first established, plans were made to co-ordinate the
livestock show with the government sponsored MEXabition. This combination
of agricultural events made for a better Show with more to see for everyone.
Even in 1972, all available space was filled to capacity, with some potential
exhibitors turned away. Ninety-seven exhibits - agricultural and for the
first time, home interest - were on display. In 1986, the reins were handed
over to Agribition, and MEXabition became Canadian Western Agribition's
Trade and Technology Show. With the addition of various facilities over
the years, the trade show has greatly expanded, resulting in a total of
over 600 spaces utilized by approximately 375 exhibitors at the '95 Show.
"In 1986, . . . MEXabition became
Canadian Western Agribition's
Trade and Technology Show."
The Canadian Western Agribition membership was informed of a $28,921
profit at the Annual Meeting in 1973. The staff and office of Agribition
had become a full-time job, involving detailed planning on a year-round
basis.
Records were set again at the 1973 Show with $2 million worth of Maine-Anjou,
Limousin and Simmental sold in one day. Beef entries reached an all-time
high for any show in Canada. Even at such a young age, Canadian Western
Agribition had made a mark on the agricultural industry.
By the time the 1974 Show opened, the Canadian Government had called Agribition
"Canada's International Livestock Show". Attendance by international
guests was rapidly mounting, as the publicity of the Show began to reach
the four corners of the world.
Viscount Davidson from the Royal Agricultural Society, opened the Show in
1975. Agribition is one of the two Canadian members of the Royal Agricultural
Society of the Commonwealth, a society dedicated to the betterment of world
agriculture.
In 1992, Agribition again co-hosted the Royal Agricultural Societies of
the Commonwealth Conference, bringing over 200 visitors from around the
world to Regina and Calgary.
1975 was also the first time an International Dinner for the ever-increasing
numbers of international visitors was held, hosted by the Government of
Saskatchewan. This prestigious event has now become a stand-up reception
for over 400 guests, including international visitors and Canadians interested
in supporting the industry. It provides an excellent opportunity to display
the famous western hospitality, as discussions are held on international
markets.
Golden Jet Hockey Star and Hereford breeder, Bobby Hull, officially opened
the 1976 Show. There were 16 breeds shown that gave out $75,447 in prize
money, and the 25 livestock sales tallied $1,669,452.97.
1977 proved to be a special show. HRH Prince Philip, who was attending the
Show in conjunction with the Royal Agricultural Conference hosted in part
by Agribition, officially opened the Show. Two new facilities, the Agridome,
and the Ag Ex Pavilion, meant extra space that was dearly needed.
In 1992, Agribition again co-hosted the Royal Agricultural Societies of
the Commonwealth Conference, bringing over 200 visitors from around the
world to Regina and Calgary.
A 4-H Judging Competition was introduced in 1977, to encourage the agricultural
people of tomorrow. The program generated a great deal of interest, with
32 young people from the four western provinces participating. By 1982,
the seminar had expanded to include teams from Ontario, the Maritimes, and
Montana. Other activities have been added to the 4-H component, including
an international 4-H Heifer Show, introduced in 1990. 1994 saw the Youth
Heifer Show entries reach an all-time high, partly due to the introduction
of a new calf class.
As Agribition continued to grow, new areas were introduced to cover other
areas of agriculture. In 1978, an Egg Show was established and has, like
the entire Show, undergone a great deal of expansion with the inclusion
of poultry carcass classes in '86. A world record was set in 1987 when two
dozen eggs sold for $8,000!
In 1979, for the first time ever, Agribition charged admission to help cover
increasing costs. The attendance did not appear to suffer, and the passes
sold were a much sought after souvenir. Other firsts that year included
an hourly bus service to and from the grounds, and celebrity ostrich races!
"Ten Years Serving Agriculture" was the theme of the 1980 Show.
Looking back made any Agribition supporter proud, and proud with justice.
This was truly an agricultural show - there were no midways or circus, but
rather a showcase of the best agricultural products on the world's market.
"In a few short years, the Grain Show has become one
of
the largest of its kind
in North America . . . "
The Grain Show began in 1980, as a special feature in the celebrations,
to promote yet another area of the agricultural industry. In a few short
years, the Grain Show has become one of the largest of its kind in North
America, and now includes an International Seed Display which demonstrates
the success of the Canadian seed industry. In 1988, the name of this program
was changed to Grain & Forage Show to better describe the components.
Since the beginning, a youth sheaf making competition has been an attractive
part of the Grain Show. In 1989, the youth activities were expanded to include
a Junior Seed Processing Competition that has gone over well.
The Youth Team Grooming Competition was established in 1982 with 19 three-member
teams participating. This event was altered in 1984 by splitting the competition
into junior and senior classes to give the younger competitors a better
chance. The interest in the Show has not changed as the experience gained
is invaluable.
Another major undertaking was accomplished in 1983 with the completion of
the Canada Centre Building for the housing of livestock and the home of
the Grain Show. There was an increase in entries in almost every breed,
and the new building came at a critical time. The building also meant a
new office for the Association.
"The first fully organized
international tour of a party of thirty
came from the British Isles
to visit Agribition in 1985."
1984 marked the year that will be remembered as the "real"
start of the heavy horse participation at Agribition, with 92 entered. In
three years, this number had more than tripled with 299 entries, a record
high. The horse pulls again were a big attraction at Agribition '95 on the
opening weekend.
The first sponsor auction at the International Horse Pull Competition was
introduced in 1994, providing an opportunity for local businesses to get
involved, and continues to generate approximately $11,000 in prize money.
Record low temperatures tested everyone at Agribition '85, but the adverse
weather conditions did not affect the quality of the Show. |
The first fully organized international tour of a party of thirty came
from the British Isles to visit Agribition in 1985. Another first occurred
with the sheep and swine being exhibited at the Show for the entire week
in the Canada Centre West barn. Sheep and swine have been part of the Show
since the beginning and have gradually built up their shows. The Canadian
Swine Journal called Agribition's swine show "Canada's top purebred
swine show" in 1986 - another feather in Agribition's cap.
To increase public interest in these shows, unique features have
been added such as the Hog Wash in 1991 and the Sheep Junior Costume Class
in 1993.
In 1977, Agribition added a class for commercial bred heifers to the Commercial
Cattle show. Again in 1980, Agribition showed leadership by adding a class
for commercial open replacement heifers, bringing the total number of classes
offered to four, namely; feeder steers, feeder heifers, bred heifers and
replacement heifers.
Yet another government grant provided for the construction of the Commercial
Cattle Barn which was officially opened during the '85 Show. This part of
Agribition had definitely come a long way from its location outside south
of the Harlton Barn! The Purebred Pens of Bulls Show was added to the commercial
section in 1982. In 1986, the Green Tag Program was introduced, ensuring
that quality preconditioned cattle were available to interested buyers.
Currently, over 1200 commercial cattle are featured at Agribition, making
it the largest indoor commercial cattle shows in the world.
As part of the Grain Show, a mini Food Fair was introduced to round out
the agricultural food chain to the consumer. In 1987, the Food Fair, The
Home Theatre, and the home interest displays were combined to form the Western
Lifestyles Showcase. Food samples, demonstrations, entertainment, a restaurant,
and various home-related displays made for a real drawing card for the urban
and rural consumer. The stage showcases western Canadian fashion designers,
underlining the Western Canadian theme.
"The 1991 Show saw the largest dairy show in Agribition's
history . . . "
Taking the program a step further, the Canadian Western Cuisine Food
Court was introduced in 1993. The Food Lot, as it is now known, includes
four kiosks featuring everything from beef barley soup to prime cut beef
to the taste of buffalo chili. Good food at a reasonable price made this
area a very popular place.
One of the most talked-about events at Agribition '86 was the Sale of Champions
which opened the Show. A new format of not announcing the Grand and Reserve
Grand Champion Steer until this event, was implemented which created an
atmosphere of anticipation and suspense. In 1991, the official opening 'elements'
of the Sale of Champions were split off, and the sale was on its own again.
The 25th Anniversary celebrations in 1995 saw the return of the official
opening to Sale of Champions. 1995's Sale saw more record prices, reaching
total sales of over $83,000.
Dairy cattle have been at Agribition since the beginning, in the form
of Ayrshire, Jerseys, and in the most part, Holsteins. As the Show developed,
Holsteins became the only breed in the dairy show. The 1991 Show saw the
largest dairy show in Agribition's history, and a new home for the dairy
cattle was found in the Harlton Barn.
The completion of the Queensbury Centre in 1987 meant that premium space
was now available to accommodate expanded and new events. The extra 135,000
square feet added a whole new dimension to the Show with the expansion of
the Grain & Forage Show, and the introduction of the Chuckwagon, a restaurant,
and the Western Lifestyles Showcase.
"The cooler in the Prairie Building
has become quite a display to see
and learn more about the different
cuts of meat."
Because the Queensbury Centre allowed more flexibility in space, another
new feature, the Agri-Ed Showcase, was established. This was a non-commercial
area designed to teach young people from both rural and urban areas about
all aspects of agriculture. The hands-on approach appealed to the teachers
and kids, and a resource package for teachers distributed prior to the Show,
enhanced this educational activity. In 1990, the Agri-Ed Showcase was endorsed
by Saskatchewan Education as part of the curriculum. Activities are constantly
being added and improved: in 1991, the Reach for the Top Farm Game was introduced
and was a big hit with the students. A new program was introduced to the
Showcase in 1994. Agri-Ed Town game was a successful program designed to
assist students in making connections in the Food Story between the producer
and the consumer.
Growing pains meant a move to the Prairie and Pasqua Buildings in 1993.
More room and a new look and the inclusion of the carcass cooler and live
champions, enhanced this award winning educational program. Approximately
10,000 school children tour the Agri-Ed Showcase annually, and the program
will no doubt grow in the future.
As the show grew, the International program became more and more important.
In 1988, an International Business Centre was introduced, in addition to
the International Lounge. This facility provided services such as photocopying,
typing, faxing, and import/export information. In 1989, the two areas were
combined to allow international visitors the chance to discuss business
opportunities, and then enjoy the relaxed atmosphere.
In 1995, over 450 visitors from 23 countries registered at the I.B.C. Twenty-eight
American states were also represented at last year's Show.
To better organize and promote the Carcass show and display at Agribition,
a Committee was formed in 1989. The cooler in the Prairie Building has become
quite a display to see and learn more about the different cuts of meat.
In 1993 the cooler was expanded to include other champions from the poultry
carcass competitions and the butter and cheese winning entries.
While business is the most important feature of the Show, any entertainment
that can be added, is appreciated. In 1989, the non-pro cutting horse finals
were introduced at the Show, and has consistently drawn good crowds. The
cutting horse open finals were added to CWA's schedule in 1993 as they were
looking for a new home. The additional competitions have continued to enhance
this already popular event. These finals include contestants from across
the country, and demonstrate the ability of cutting horses to remove, without
direction from the rider, a pre-selected animal from a herd of cattle.
All efforts in 1990 were geared towards the celebrating of twenty years
of building for the future. A history book detailed the successes and fun
Agribition had seen; the Presidents' Reception took place at Government
House and was hosted by the Honourable Sylvia Fedoruk; and every committee
incorporated the theme in their events/programs.
1991 saw the introduction of the Kick-off Concert. Held in the Agridome,
this program allowed Agribition to formally kick off the show for the public.
This program was continued until our Silver Anniversary when the opening
was moved back to the Sale of Champions
As mentioned earlier, the official opening came into its own in 1991 when
a Kick-off Concert was introduced. Held in the Agridome, this program allowed
Agribition to formally kick off the show for the public and further the
recognition for our Major Sponsors.
Another new feature at the '91 Show was the Working Ranch Horse demonstration
and sale. There was a great deal of interest in this program, and people
were literally hanging from the rafters for the Sale. Stock dogs were also
up for bid and the stock dog trials held for the first time at Agribition
were enjoyed by many. Since 1992 the stock dog finals have been featured
during the Wednesday evening rodeo performances in front of record crowds.
A special feature in the '93 Stock Dog Sale was one of Britain's top young
prospects, participating through a joint promotion with the Royal Show in
Edinburgh, Scotland. This popular endeavor continues today with a stock
dog from Ireland selling for $4800 at the 1995 Show.
"Another new feature at the '91 Show
was the Working Ranch Horse
demonstration and sale."
Agribition's new Draft Horse chore team sale was a positive addition
to the 1994 show including the sale of a top priced team for $4,000.
In 1994, the RCMP Training Academy Drill Station was the setting for the
International Reception. This continues to be excellent backdrop for the
evening and affords international guests with the opportunity to meet with
Canada's own Royal Canadian Mounted Police.
New events to the Show in 1992 included a Reining Horse Competition, Agribition
Youth Hoedown, Junior Steer Show, Championship Ladies' Cart Classes, Pitchfork
Fondue, Buffet locations, and a Video Library. Expanded Beef Trade Show,
baby comfort station, shoe shine service and souvenir locations were added
services to the Show.
Canadian Western Agribition set a record- breaking profit in 1992 of $222,000
with attendance up by 15% over '91.
In the continuing tradition of change, more events were added in 1993 to
enhance the profile. Team Cattle Penning, Canadian Western Cuisine mentioned
earlier, the Bison Show and Sale, the Poinsettia Show and the "Prairie
Alphabet Musical Parade", all added to the success of the Show. Agribition
also reached further into the community with the "Agribition Today"
daily newsletter.
In 1990, Agribition approved a five-year Long Range Plan, some ideas of
which have been implemented and proven successful. This plan was re-visited
in the spring of 1994 to ensure the programs and the Show in general are
going in the right direction.
1994 was a record year at Agribition. Records were set in attendance at
160,000 visitors and with all-time high numbers in our Western Lifestyles
and Advance Technology Showcases.
As well as records, 1994 saw the introduction of a number of new programs.
The "Cow Patch" was established as an on-site entertainment venue;
the Agribition Outriders, a promotional group was formed; as well as a new
souvenir program was launched.
"An all-time attendance record
was set in 1994 with approximately
160,000 visitors"
1994 also saw the introduction of the breed "Belgian Blue"
to the Show.
1995 marked the Silver Anniversary of Canadian Western Agribition. The celebrations
started off at the Sale of Champions with anniversary cake, a special salute
to Agribition's founders and entertainment by Saskatchewan Express.
Other highlights at the Sale included the auction of the number one 25th
Anniversary silver belt buckle. The limited edition souvenir sold for $4,000.
As well new sales records were set for the Grand Champion Turkey (Tom),
the Pen of Market Lambs and for the Heifer Carcass.
Attendance for the '95 show was 145,000 with international attendance continuing
to be strong. The International Business Centre registered 463 visitors,
an increase over 1994 and included a one-day registration record of 142
which was set on Monday.
Agribition's auction ring continued to service the needs of the agricultural
industry with 1995 sales totalling close to $2.5 million. This year's rings
also saw a new addition. Agribition's first ever Elk sale garnered huge
crowds - no surprise considering the interest in the ever increasing market
of specialty livestock.
Agribition constantly strives to be a leader in the agricultural marketplace
and 1995 was no exception. The use of satellite auctions were made available
to all livestock breeders. Both the Simmental and Elk hosted satellite sales
with more breeds expected to take part in 1996.
Agribition's Pro Rodeo continued to attract enthusiastic crowds. The addition
of a Sunday afternoon performance proved successful with a sell-out crowd
taking in the show.
New marketing ventures in 1995 included the "Green Horn Challenge",
a competition between platinum sponsors and "Duds on for Agribition"
a promotion which asked companies to dress in western apparel to show their
support for the show.
Agribition's marketplace concept works - for livestock exhibitors, trade
show exhibitors, agricultural organizations, buyers and the rural and urban
audience. Agribition is a show to be proud of, and everyone involved, including
the volunteers, the committee members, directors and staff can take the
credit as they form the team that makes it all possible.
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