Durness 4-H Club swept the competition by winning multiple prizes in this year’s Co-op’s 4-H essay competition. Federated Co-op Limited held an essay competition from January 1 to April 2 and received entries from 4-H clubs in Alberta, Manitoba and Saskatchewan.

The Durness Club took home the grand prize, as well as several second and third place prizes. Feed Sales and Marketing Manager Shawn McGuire said in a statement that the club’s quality of applications were stellar.

“The Durness 4-H Club members showed a depth and understanding of co-operative principles and confidently shared the importance of their home [Lloydminster and District Co-op] to their community. Their answers expressed a maturity beyond their years and we’re honoured to help support them as they continue their journey in 4-H.”

The grand prize includes a set of clippers, backpack and a $1,000 donation to a non-profit or charity of the winner’s choice. This year’s winner, Kate Peregrym, is a member of the Durness 4-H Cloverbud program that focuses on hands-on, activity-based programming for youth aged six to eight.

“Our 4-H Club was intrigued when we saw this essay contest pop-up so we decided to encourage our members to apply,” said General Leader of the club Jamie Huehnicen-Burzinski. “When we received the phone call stating not only had our members been awarded second and third prizes, but that one of our members had won the grand prize as well. We were ecstatic.”