10/26/2026
Welcoming 71,300 visitors to the International Plowing Match & Rural Expo takes more than great attractions and entertainment. It takes an incredible team of people working behind the scenes to ensure everyone arrives safely, enjoys their visit and makes it home safely!
Today, we're recognizing some of the dedicated individuals and teams who helped make that happen!
Traffic – Pete Dulong
Pete and his team worked closely with the OPP, Bruce County, local municipalities and community partners to coordinate the safe movement of thousands of vehicles throughout the week. Their strategic planning, communication and ability to adapt kept traffic flowing through an incredibly busy event.
Emergency Services – Corbin Critchfield
Corbin stepped up to coordinate daily emergency services operations, working alongside the OPP, Bruce County EMS and local firefighters. Their teamwork ensured emergencies were handled efficiently, professionally and respectfully throughout the Match.
Family Centre, First Aid & Health and Safety – Mike Dupuis
From medical assistance to providing a safe and supportive environment for visitors, volunteers and staff, these teams were there when people needed them most. Mike was also instrumental in bringing what3words to our official IPM App! This innovative location system divides the world into 3-metre squares, assigning each one a unique combination of three words. This allowed visitors and emergency responders to pinpoint precise locations across our massive event grounds when assistance was needed. A valuable addition to our safety planning that helped make the Match a safer experience for everyone!
Site Protection & Security – Keith Ellis & Joe Gutscher
Keith, Joe and the Site Protection team worked to maintain a safe and respectful environment across the grounds. Their professionalism and approachable presence earned the respect and appreciation of visitors, volunteers and vendors alike.
Visitor Experience – James Lang
As Co-Chair of Visitor Experience, James helped bring together the many teams responsible for welcoming, transporting, assisting and protecting visitors throughout the event. His leadership, alongside his co-chair Mike Dupuis and Steering Committee representative Willie Dales, helped keep everyone working toward one common goal.
To these incredible leaders and the hundreds of volunteers, first responders and community partners who worked alongside them — THANK YOU!
You weren't just helping run an event. You were helping create a safe, welcoming and memorable experience for 71,300 visitors! ❤️
Bruce County, you truly showed up!
