The rumble of antique and modern tractors once again echoed through the Winkler area as Eden Foundation hosted its 19th Annual Tractor Trek, bringing together farmers, families and community supporters to raise money for mental health services.
The annual event has become one of Eden Foundation’s signature fundraisers, combining Manitoba’s rich agricultural heritage with a cause that resonates deeply across rural communities.
David Sawatzky, Development Director for Eden Foundation, said this year’s event continued the tradition of strong community support.
“We had another tremendous day,” Sawatzky said. “People came together not only because they enjoy tractors, but because they understand how important mental health services are for individuals and families across our region.”
This year’s Tractor Trek featured a wide variety of restored, unrestored and newer tractors driven by participants from across southern Manitoba. Along the route, supporters gathered to watch the procession, while judges recognized outstanding entries in several categories, adding a friendly spirit of competition to the day.
Sawatzky said fundraising continues after the event, but early indications show another successful year.
“We’re at about $50,000 raised so far this year,” he said. “Over the 19 years of Tractor Trek, we’ve now raised more than $1.1 million to support mental health services through Eden.”
Those funds help Eden continue providing programs and services for people living with mental illness, while also supporting education and reducing the stigma surrounding mental health.

Sawatzky believes the event connects especially well with Manitoba’s farming community because agriculture understands the importance of supporting neighbours through difficult times.
“Farmers know what it’s like to face uncertainty, whether it’s weather, markets or other pressures,” he said. “Mental health affects every community, and Tractor Trek gives people a practical way to make a difference.”
He noted that conversations around mental health have changed dramatically over the past two decades.
“Years ago, people simply didn’t talk about mental illness,” Sawatzky said. “Today we’re seeing more openness, more understanding and more willingness to support one another. Events like Tractor Trek help keep that conversation going.”
Funds raised through the event remain in Manitoba, supporting Eden’s work in providing recovery-oriented mental health services and programs for individuals and families throughout the region.
Participants also competed for several tractor awards, including Best Newer Tractor (1986 and newer), Best Restored Tractor (pre-1986), Best Unrestored Tractor (pre-1986), Smoothest Running Tractor, Quietest Tractor, Loudest Tractor and the Judges’ Choice Award.
Sawatzky thanked the many volunteers, sponsors, drivers and donors whose commitment has helped Tractor Trek grow into one of Eden Foundation’s most successful annual fundraising events.
“We couldn’t do this without the incredible support of our volunteers, participants and sponsors,” he said. “Every tractor that participates and every donation received helps strengthen mental health care in our communities.”
With more than $1.1 million raised over 19 years and this year’s total already approaching $50,000, Tractor Trek continues to demonstrate how Manitoba’s agricultural community rallies together when neighbours need support. •
— By Harry Siemens