BC Yukon Farmers Honoured for Excellence
The BC/Yukon Region of Canada’s Outstanding Young Farmers Program (BCOYF) has named Thomas and Catherine Cuthbert of Southcoast Agro Farms as the 2025 Outstanding Young Farmers.
The award ceremony took place on February 18-19 at the Clarion Hotel & Conference Centre in Abbotsford, with over 70 industry members attending, including MP Brad Vis and MP Alistair McGregor.
Thomas and Catherine run a successful poultry and beef farm on Vancouver Island. They began by raising free-range roasting chickens in 2018 and expanded into grass-fed beef production in 2022 to meet growing demand. Thomas also manages the family’s dairy farm. As fourth-generation farmers, they are committed to passing their agricultural knowledge to their four children while contributing fresh, locally sourced food to their community.
The event featured two outstanding nominees: Albert Gorter and Chelsea Enns of Little Qualicum Cheeseworks in Parksville, BC, and Thomas and Catherine Cuthbert of Southcoast Agro Farms in Ladysmith, BC.
The competition celebrates young farmers between 18 and 39 years old who demonstrate excellence in their field. Winners are selected from seven regions across Canada, and two national winners will be chosen in Toronto from November 27-30, 2025.
“It is wonderful to see such enthusiastic young farmers emerge from the Island. Both nominee finalists are inspirational,” said Brian Pauls, Chair of the BC Outstanding Young Farmers Program.
The competition is supported by national sponsors, including Agriculture et Agroalimentaire Canada, CIBC, John Deere, Bayer, and Sollio Agriculture, among others.
Photo Credit: Cuthberts-OYF