A Celebration of Women in Ag
A simple discussion between Rayelle and her father Barry 4 years ago, came full circle yesterday. This pink tractor and baler which was once only a thought, is now a reality. The unit was customized for Rayelle to represent two things: a father’s expression of his daughter’s importance on the family farm, and, being proud to be a woman working in the ag industry.
Barry realized early on that he didn’t want his four older sons to outshine his youngest, and only, daughter when it came to working on the Barr-Ag operation. He wanted to make sure Rayelle knew she was just as capable as her brothers to become a farmer. The pink tractor and baler became a symbolic representation of this. Now, Rayelle is 17 and helping work alongside her brothers on the farm.
Rayelle has already done about 1500 bales with the unit this summer- even amidst some slightly uncooperative weather. She prides herself on the cleanliness and neatness of her cab, but also stresses the importance of knowing all of the mechanical details as well. Rayelle will be finishing her last year of high school this year, but she knows her pink tractor will be waiting for her when she’s ready to hit the field.
A special thanks to AGCO, FCC, Scotia Bank and Phiber representatives who all joined us yesterday to support Rayelle and women in the ag industry. It was a combined effort to make this event happen and it was a great success! Barr-Ag did a fantastic job putting together all of the details!
Another thanks to Brendon for working some late nights to ensure the little details were just right on this pink combo!