From Field to Conversation: Huron & Perth County Farmers Unite for a Gateway CERH Fall S.H.E.D. Talk

(L-R) Gateway CERH Volunteer Tom Melady & Stratford Mayor Martin Ritsma

On November 26, members of the Huron & Perth community gathered at Mayor Martin Ritsma’s barn in Stratford for the latest S.H.E.D. Talk: Celebrating the Fall Harvest, an event hosted by Gateway Centre of Excellence in Rural Health (Gateway CERH) in partnership with Mayor Ritsma. The gathering brought together farmers, neighbours, and community members from across Huron and Perth County to reflect on the season and strengthen community connections. 

S.H.E.D. Talks (Sustaining Healthy Farms through Empowerment and Dedication) were developed by Gateway CERH as a way to provide farmers with a safe, welcoming space to share their experiences and discuss the realities of agricultural life. This fall’s event continued our mission by offering a meaningful opportunity for connection after the demands of harvest season. 

Attendees were welcomed with a morning program that blended insight, reflection, and community spirit. Peter “Wheat Pete” Johnson delivered thoughtful commentary drawn from his extensive agricultural experience, while Rod Beattie, a well-known local comedian and actor, brought energy and lightness to the discussion. Together, they set a tone that was both informative and uplifting. 

Beyond the speakers, the event featured a locally sourced BBQ lunch (burgers provided by Wild Hog, Stratford), live music, a wellness fair, and a variety of door prizes. Participants had the opportunity to relax, meet new people, and recognize the collective effort it takes to bring a harvest to completion. 

Reflecting on the success of the day, Gwen Devereaux, President of Gateway CERH, shared her appreciation, “What a great morning with an amazing group of people. We are glad we were able to celebrate the fall harvest with so many local farmers and community members. Thank you, Mayor Ritsma, for hosting a great S.H.E.D. Talk.” 

Mayor Ritsma highlighted the significance of the gathering as well, noting, “I can’t stress enough just how important S.H.E.D. Talks are. What a great way to provide farmers a safe space to openly discuss challenges with other farmers who understand.” 

Gateway CERH extends sincere thanks to all attendees, contributors, donors, and volunteers whose efforts helped make the event a success. Special appreciation goes to Mayor Martin Ritsma for generously providing his barn and for his continued support in fostering community well-being. 

About Gateway Centre of Excellence in Rural Health  

Founded in 2008 in the community of Seaforth, ON, Gateway CERH is a not-for-profit rural health research organization run by a community-based volunteer board of directors. Gateway CERH's main mission is to better the health and quality of life of rural residents through research, education and communication. Learn more on the Gateway CERH website at: https://www.gatewayruralhealth.ca/ and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Bluesky, LinkedIn and YouTube.