BONNYVILLE – The day before the 2025 Bonnyville and District Oil and Gas show kicked off, The Bonnyville and District Chamber of Commerce organized an opening ceremony at the Bonnyville Golf and Country Club, for sponsors and exhibitors.
The June 17 event included speeches from dignitaries and awards before dinner and the Game 6 playoff hockey game between the Oilers and Panthers was shown on a projector. Attendees could also go for a round of golf.
Serina Lyons, Chamber Consultant and one of the show directors for the Oil and Gas show, said the organization has been tirelessly planning the oil and gas show for a long time, and she expressed gratitude for the many sponsors that made it happen.
“Your contributions keep this event running smoother than a well lubed pump jack, and we couldn't do it without you,” said Lyons.
She thanked the MD of Bonnyville council for sponsoring the opening ceremony.
“Your continued support as our council members means a great deal to this community and the business community as well,” said Lyons.
Bonnyville-Cold Lake-St. Paul MLA Scott Cyr addressed the crowd and spoke about the importance of the oil and gas industry in northeast Alberta.
“I’m very [invested] in making sure that these kind of events are successful, because getting that message out - that we are proud of our industry - is something that we need to sell, because it hasn't been sold right,” said Cyr.
He spoke of his time working in the oil and gas industry, and how he experienced firsthand how much work it is. Cyr said the men and women working in the oil and gas industry are some of the hardest workers on the planet, and they don’t receive the recognition they deserve.
“[The oil and gas industry is] the driver of the province - almost $19 billion is shoved into our local royalties, and I'm going to tell you, that's a huge chunk of a provincial budget. When it comes down to it, the men and women that are in this room help drive that, so thank you so much for that,” said Cyr.
MD of Bonnyville Reeve Barry Kalinski gave kudos to Deputy Reeve Darcy Skarsen, who encouraged councils' decision to increase their level of sponsorship for the oil and gas show, highlighting the importance of the industry in the area.
“To all the [exhibitors], the MD of Bonnyville is so proud to have you here - to have you guys come to this area and show what you guys got,” said Kalinski.
Lyons spoke about the Chamber board, and new Executive Director Meagan Wakefield, who put a lot of effort into the planning of the show.
“[We] work hard to advocate for this event . . . Thank you all for coming. Your presence makes this event special, and it's your energy that powers this show and the future of oil and gas in this region. Here's to a great night, a great show, [and] a great community,” said Lyons.
