The Lambton Agricultural Hall of Fame is has announced their three 2024 inductees:
James Goodhand
Jim Goodhand, unlike most inductees, wasn’t raised on a family farm. Growing up in London, ON, Jim discovered his love for agriculture while working summers at family friends’ farms outside of Blenheim from ages 10 to 16. He pursued post-secondary education at Ridgetown College of Agricultural Technology, graduating in 1959.
In 1952, Jim and his father purchased the Meat Locker and Abattoir in Alvinston. In 1959, they built a new abattoir. That same year, Jim started renting 50 acres, which he purchased in 1963. From 1963 to 1994, Jim and his family operated an 80-sow farrow-to-finish operation and expanded to 200 acres of cash crops, which he still operates today.
Jim was actively involved with the Lambton Pork Producers for 20 years and served on the Ontario Pork Board for 15 years, including three as chair. His work with the board included international travel to Europe, France, Denmark, and the USA to meet with foreign government officials and lobby on industry issues.
Jim was the only producer on the Canadian Pork Council’s Pork Technology Group committee that reviewed slaughter plant procedures. He also served on the Shur-Gain Research Farm committee and the committee that initiated direct deposits for producers. Jim was instrumental in establishing five new hog shipping yards in Ontario.
Additionally, Jim represented Ontario on the Canadian Pork Council’s Test Station (Record of Performance) Committee, focused on genetic improvements in sows. He was involved with the Lambton County Corn and Soybean Associations, serving on both boards for eight years and as president of the soybean board for two.
Jim also contributed significantly to various local organizations: as an OMHA referee for 20 years, on the committee that built the Alvinston Arena in 1977, as a junior and minor hockey coach for over 10 years, and as an active member of the Alvinston Optimist Club and the Shetland Boat Club. He was a 4H co-leader and volunteer for over 10 years.
Jim is known for his effective leadership, negotiation skills, and ability to analyze issues and develop resolutions. He remains active in his community and enjoys sports, including hockey, baseball, and competitive water skiing. Congratulations, Jim, on your induction into the Lambton Agricultural Hall of Fame!
Jim Duffy
Jim Duffy is a well-rounded individual with a lifetime of business development in crops and hogs, alongside substantial community and producer organization involvement. Growing up on a farm in Alvinston and Watford, Jim completed twenty 4-H projects and served as president of Brooke Township Junior Farmers. He attended Ridgetown College, where he met his future wife, Anne, and graduated in 1969.
Jim began his career as an OMAFRA extension assistant in Perth County, significantly expanding the local 4-H program. In 1973, Jim and Anne purchased their farm in Sombra Township and became deeply involved in community activities. Jim joined the Wilkesport Community Centre Board in 1976 and served on the Lambton Mutual Insurance board for 27 years, including terms as chair and vice-chair.
In Lambton producer organizations, Jim served as president and vice-president of the Lambton Federation and held roles in the Lambton Soil & Crop Association and historical soybean and wheat commodity boards. He also engaged in municipal politics as a Sombra Township councilor in the early 1980s.
Jim received several accolades, including the United Cooperatives of Ontario Leadership Award, the 2002 Queen’s Jubilee Medal, and the Ontario Pork Producer Award. Today, Jim and Anne, with their children and grandchildren, farm 1,000 acres of grains, oilseeds, and alfalfa.
Congratulations, Jim, on your induction into the Lambton Agricultural Hall of Fame!
Davis & Mary and Chris & John Bryans
Davis and John Bryans, principal owner/operators of Munro Honey, along with their spouses Mary and Chris, have significantly contributed to the Lambton County agricultural community. Munro Honey provides pollination services, queen bees, and nucs to beekeepers locally and beyond. They have also excelled in value-added agriculture, producing and marketing honey and mead, and offering bee equipment and supplies.
The Bryans family has been involved in agri-tourism, hosting tours and educational courses for beekeepers. They purchased Munro Honey in 1989 and have since expanded their operations. The family is known for their trustworthiness, personable interactions, family-oriented approach, innovation, and efficient production practices.
Davis and John have served on the Ontario Beekeepers Association Board, with Davis holding the position of president. The Bryans family continues to be a vital part of the agricultural community, providing pollination services and supporting charities and special events.
Congratulations, Davis, Mary, John, and Chris Bryans, on your induction into the Lambton Agricultural Hall of Fame!
Lambton Agricultural Hall of Fame 2024 Inductee Reception
For: Jim Goodhand, Alvinston, Jim Duffy, Sombra & Davis, Mary, John & Chris Bryans, Alvinston
Date: July 13, 2024
Time: 1:30 – 3:30 p.m. (2 p.m. Presentation)
Location: Brooke Alvinston Community Centre Complex, 3310 Walnut St, Alvinston, ON N0N 1A
