The Coombs Farmers’ Institute will be hosting its signature event, the Spring Farm Auction, on Sunday, April 23, at the historic Coombs Fairgrounds.
This marks the 39th straight year that this event will attract consignors and bidders from all over the Island, the Sunshine Coast and the Gulf Islands. Attendees are attracted by a wide array of farm tools, machinery and equipment, plants, livestock, poultry and new items donated by local businesses.
Large equipment may be dropped off on Saturday, April 22, between 10 a.m. and noon.
On Sunday, gates open at 8 .a.m. to receive consignments. Cut-off for consignment of tools, equipment, plants, etc. is 10 a.m. and livestock consignment cut-off is noon, or as space permits. Viewing begins at 10 a.m. and the auction begins at 11 a.m.
Small items, plants and machinery are sold first; livestock sales begin at 1 p.m.
Funds raised by the auction support the CFI’s scholarships and bursaries program, local and provincial 4-H programs and various other community endeavours related to agriculture.
Last year’s auction raised more than $6,000. In 2016, CFI gave out $4,000 in scholarships to students proceeding to agriculture-related post-secondary studies, and $500 is given annually to 4-H.
Incorporated in 1914, the CFI represents and advocates on behalf of local farmers and promotes education and awareness about the importance and benefits of self reliance and local production of food. Those engaged in the growing trend towards self-sufficiency will find much of interest, and many networking opportunities at this well-attended agricultural event.
Those who plan on buying small livestock, such as chickens, geese, ducks, rabbits, etc. should bring an appropriate container, such as a cardboard box or dog crate, to safely transport your new family member home.
There is no buyer’s fee. Consignors’ and bidders’ cards are $2 each. Lunch and snacks will be available on the grounds.
For more information, please contact auctioneer Glen Hersley at 250-468-7094 or Janet Thony, president, at 250-738-0888. More information is available at coombsfarmersinstitute.ca or visit on Facebook at Coombs Farmers’ Institute.
— NEWS Staff and CFI submission
