4-H Members Gather in Bridgewater for Provincial Show

Young people from across the province will gather in Bridgewater to present more than 40 projects completed through the 4-H program, participate in various competitions and have fun during the annual Nova Scotia 4-H show.

From Friday, Sept. 29, to Sunday, Oct. 1, 4-H members and their families will take part in the provincial 4-H show at the South Shore Exhibition Grounds in Bridgewater.

"The 4-H program is a first-rate program that prepares our youth to become future decision-makers and leaders," said Brooke Taylor, Minister of Agriculture. "The various 4-H activities help young people increase their self-confidence and public speaking skills. The annual show is an excellent opportunity for 4-H members and volunteer leaders to work co-operatively as a team and show good sportsmanship."

The three-day event includes livestock competitions, a fashion show, a floral arranging competition, dog obedience and handling trials, a tug-of-war competition, livestock auctions, displays and selections for the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair in Toronto.

"The 4-H show is a wonderful way to show the public what skills our youth have learned through the 4-H program," said Arthur Pick, acting manager of 4-H and rural organizations with the Department of Agriculture. "Nova Scotia's 4-H program has been in place for 84 years, providing opportunities for our young people to develop confidence in their abilities, meet new people, expand their interests and become leaders in their communities."

A national survey of 4-H alumni found that 4-H has a lasting and positive impact on the lives of its members and families. Seventy-eight per cent of those surveyed believed the knowledge and skills gained in 4-H continue to benefit them in their adult years, while 69 per cent said parents and families benefited from the 4-H experience.

This year 2,400 4-H members, 1,000 4-H leaders, plus their families are eligible to attend. Competitions begin in the evening on Friday, Sept. 29, and continue until noon on Sunday, Oct. 1. The public is welcome to attend and admission is free.