2025 Summer eNews Update

Summer Brings Variety of Events to Brandon

All Canada Sheep Classic

The All Canada Sheep Classic shown here was held at the Keystone from July 10-12 and brought top breeders and producers to Brandon, exhibiting Canada’s finest sheep through shows, sales, and networking. The event highlighted excellence in genetics and production while celebrating the vital role of sheep farming in Canadian agriculture.

Delta Kappa Gamma Canadian Forum Conference

This women’s educational organization met at the Victoria Inn from July 10-12 to further their agenda of promoting the professional and personal growth of women educators and providing excellence in education. We hope they enjoyed their visit to our city!

Salamander Summer Music Festival

Returning for it’s third year, the Salamander Summer Music Festival held from July 18-20 in beautiful Rideau Park provided a three-day stage for local musicians, drawing 21 performing acts from across Manitoba (and one from SK). With a dedicated Kidz Zone, Vendor Village and Makers Market and Food Trucks and stalls, this year’s festival saw growth in attendance and a great festival experience for attendees. Look for announcements soon about the 2026 festival on their website coming soon!

Prairie Cup Lacrosse

From July 18th to 20th, Brandon proudly hosted the Prairie Cup Lacrosse event at the Keystone Centre, drawing teams from across the region for an action-packed weekend. Thank you to everyone who participated, volunteered, and cheered on these incredible athletes!

Canadian National High School Rodeo Finals

Brandon was thrilled to welcome for it’s third and final year of our hosting, the Canadian National High School Rodeo Finals from July 30 to August 2, bringing together top young rodeo athletes from across the country. The Keystone Centre buzzed with excitement as competitors and families experienced our vibrant hosting capabilities, our outstanding venue, and our welcoming community spirit. We’re proud to have supported such an incredible event that not only showcased incredible talent but also allowed us to show off our hospitality to the nation. Thank you to everyone who made this event a resounding success!

Canadas National Arabian Championship

We were thrilled to welcome the Canada’s National Arabian Championship to the Keystone Centre from August 7–16, marking the exciting return of Arabian horses to Brandon for the first time since the pandemic. This brand-new event – inspired by the traditions of the past but offering a fresh experience – drew visitors, competitors, and horse enthusiasts from across the continent. Brandon First is proud to support the hosting of unique events like this, which help position our city as a premier destination for event hosting and bring vibrant energy to our community! Welcome Back Arabians! 

Western Canadian Softball

Last but not least, the Ashley Neufeld Softball Complex hosted the U19 Western Canadian Softball Championships from August 7–10. This four-day tournament brought teams from across the Western provinces for a weekend of competitive play and community spirit. The championships were a highlight for local fans and a proud moment for Brandon as host.

📸  For complete photo galleries of many of our Brandon First supported events, check out our Flickr! 📸

Brandon First Hosts AGM 

This June Brandon First hosted it’s Annual General Meeting at the Backyard on Aberdeen. Featuring a presentation of our financials from BDO, a year in review from our Executive Director Jenn, and a passing of the gavel from now-Board-Past-Chair Chris Heide to our incoming Board Chair Grant Hamilton, this meeting was a chance for us to share with stakeholders and members what we’ve been up to for the last year and what some of our plans are for the future. We want to thank everyone who attended and can’t wait to see you next June for another update! 

New Board Executive Announced

The Brandon First Board of Directors has an Executive Committee comprised of the Board Chair, Vice-Chair, Secretary, Treasurer and where available, Past-Chair. Board and executive terms are two years and so this year was a change-over year. Please join us in welcoming the 2025-2027 Brandon First Board Executive!

Board Chair : Grant Hamilton – Brandon University
Board Vice Chair: Janis Evens – Member at Large
Secretary : Shonah Rathwell  – Pinnacle Event Rentals
Treasurer : Sara Grexton  – T-Birds Food Fun Games
Past Chair: Chris Heide – CAA Manitoba Brandon Branch

Thank you to Chris Heide for many years as Board Chair!

Brandon First, both board and staff, would like to take a moment to recognize Chris Heide for his exceptional dedication and service. Chris, who is the Manager at CAA, has volunteered with numerous organizations and has been an invaluable member of the Brandon community. Known for his quiet diligence, he consistently works behind the scenes without seeking accolades, offering support and enthusiasm for everything that helps Brandon be better. After nearly eight years as Chair of the organization, and two years as Vice Chair before that, Chris will be stepping back to the role of Past Chair. His long-standing leadership and commitment have made a lasting impact, and we are deeply grateful for his guidance and support. While he will remain involved, his colleagues will miss collaborating with him on cheque signings, stakeholder visits, and day-to-day board activities. His contributions have not only shaped the organization but have also inspired those who have had the pleasure of working alongside him. Thank you again, Chris!