ARTHUR – Community leaders and entrepreneurs were recognized for their contributions to the community during the local Chamber of Commerce’s annual awards night on Oct. 15.
The event, held at the Arthur Community Centre, drew a large crowd that included business owners, political leaders and residents, and served to celebrate the spirit of innovation and dedication that defines the Arthur community.
Following a buffet dinner, the evening began with a warm welcome from chamber board member Faye Craig, who highlighted the resilience of Arthur’s business community, especially considering the challenges faced over the past few years.
“We’re a small but mighty group of approximately 50 members,” she said.
Arthur resident and local historian Jeff McKee entertained the audience with recollection of growing up in Arthur.
Wellington North Mayor Andy Lennox discussed the future and how “growth needs to be shaped into a complete community where people can live, work and play.”
Perth-Wellington MP John Nater and MPP Matthew Rae were on hand to congratulate the award winners in a variety of categories, including Excellence in Agriculture.
This year’s winners were Joan and Elgin Craig. Their nominator wrote a letter that described the couple’s 50-year contributions and dedication to dairy farming in the area.
The Small Business of the Year award was presented to Arthur Cash and Carry.
The business, owned by Fran Turnbull, was commended for helping to draw more business into the area through unique events, for providing employment opportunities, and for fundraising to help benefit schools and the food bank.
The Large Business of the Year award went to Wightman Telecom, which was recognized for introducing fibre-optic internet to the area, helping businesses and residents to stay connected, and for its local community initiatives, including supporting sports and other events that help to enrich the community.
In addition to business accolades, the chamber honoured individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the Arthur community.
The Youth Citizen of the Year award went to Haylie Smith, last year’s Arthur Fall Fair Ambassador.
Smith was recognized for participating regularly as a volunteer in the community, not only helping with the fair, but also with events hosted by the Arthur chamber.
Smith’s volunteering included the SU Sports Camp, serving as a trainer for a youth hockey team and helping with a girls’ ball team.
The final award, Citizen of the Year, was presented to Alaina Lennox.
The current president of the Arthur Agricultural Society, Lennox was credited with helping to secure more funding. And under her leadership, the 2025 fair set a record for attendance.
Lennox also contributed to fundraising initiatives for the Arthur Curling Club, plus she volunteers with the Wellington County Cattleman’s Association, Arthur Minor Baseball, and local schools and churches.
The chamber’s annual awards night not only highlighted the best of Arthur’s business community and volunteers, but it also underscored a commitment to growth, networking and community spirit.
As the town looks ahead to another year of challenge and opportunity, Craig’s closing message was clear: “May we go forward working together”.
