Altona’s business community will have some good reasons to celebrate this spring.
The Altona and District Chamber of Commerce announced its 2025 award winners, recognizing some of the area’s most hardworking, community-minded and innovative organizations and individuals.
“We’re proud to recognize their outstanding contributions to the local business community,” said economic development officer Stephanie Harris. “These awards are a way to highlight the people and businesses who go above and beyond to make Altona such a great place to live and work.”
Bunge, one of Altona’s largest employers, is taking home the award for business excellence in the 11 or more employees category.
With roots going all the way back to 1946 when it started as a farmer co-op, the Altona plant was acquired by Bunge in 2002 and has since become a major player in agricultural processing.
Today, the plant processes sunflower, soybean, flax, and canola crops, connecting farmers with producers and helping feed communities around the world.
Bunge employs over 100 people and is deeply committed to giving back. In 2024 alone, the company donated more than $32,000 to over 25 local organizations and provided over 5,000 liters of edible oil to food banks.
In the category for small businesses with 10 or fewer employees, Page Print was honoured for its nearly 30 years of top-tier service to Altona. With its high-tech equipment and consistently high standards, Page Print has become the go-to spot for all things printing.
At the helm is Barry McGhie, who runs the operation with a level of efficiency and customer service that has earned him a stellar reputation in town. Clients know they can count on him to get the job done right and on time every time.
Nicole Wood, the green thumb behind Two Sparrows Greenhouse, is this year’s entrepreneur of the year. Since opening in May 2023, Wood has grown the business, literally and figuratively, into a much-loved destination for local gardeners and plant lovers.
Offering everything from annuals and veggies to shrubs and trees, the greenhouse has already doubled in size with new, modern facilities. Wood’s energy and passion are infectious, creating a welcoming atmosphere for customers and staff alike.
She’s also made community outreach a priority. From school field trips and private tours for newcomers with Regional Connections to hosting groups from Buffalo Apartments and soon the moms and tots from the Altona Area Resource Centre, Wood is making sure Two Sparrows is about more than just plants.
Kiddie Sunshine Centre has been making life brighter for Altona families since 1983, and this year it’s being recognized as non-profit of the year. The centre provides licensed early childhood education at two local sites, offering kids a safe, fun and nurturing place to grow and learn.
Their recent expansion means even more families now have access to high-quality child care – something that’s become increasingly important for working parents. Their dedicated team of staff and volunteers works hard every day to support kids and parents alike, and this award is a well-earned celebration of that effort.
To top it all off, the chamber is throwing a celebration. This year’s awards gala will feature The Killer Keys – a high-energy dueling pianos act starring Piano Matty B (yep, the crypto You Tube guy) and the ever-entertaining Kyle Mac. Expect a night packed with singalongs, medleys and classic tunes that’ll have everyone on their feet.
The annual awards gala will take place Thur., April 24 at the Rhineland Pioneer Centre in Altona. Tickets are limited, so be sure to reserve yours in advance by visiting www.altonachamber.com or calling 204-324-9549.
“Join us in celebrating the excellence, innovation and dedication of these incredible businesses and individuals who make Altona a thriving community,” Harris concluded.
