The Livestock Breeders Association’s Agri-Culture Centre is regularly used for important LBA and community events at the fairgrounds in Ormstown, such as the upcoming Chateauguay Valley Dairy Day on January 27, along with various meetings, workshops, and other local gatherings.
According to LBA manager Sue Morison, the hall has become “a go-to space for bringing people together around agriculture and community life,” with events or activities occurring as often as two or three times per week.
Morison said the LBA was surprised by the demand, noting the centre’s success has been driven entirely by word-of-mouth. She explained that from the start, rental rates were reduced for non-profit organizations to “keep the hall accessible to groups that support education, culture, and community development while still covering operation costs.”
Now, the LBA wants to give back by offering the use of the hall free of charge to three non-profit organizations for an event or activity in 2026. Morison said the initiative aims to boost year-round use, build strong community partnerships, and ensure the space continues to serve the Haut-Saint-Laurent region in a meaningful way.
Non-profits have until February 1 to submit their requests by email to manager@expoormstown.com. Requests should include a brief description of the organization, the purpose of the event, preferred dates, and how the use of the centre will benefit the community.
A second venue
Despite its success, Morison said the dining hall’s capacity is a limitation for larger events. The LBA is now renovating the Industrial Building with the goal of creating a second all-season venue. “It is a beautiful, unique building,” she said, noting there were very few others like it in Quebec.
Currently, the near-century-old building is only used during warmer months. It is not heated and running water is not available during the winter, and the existing ground-level cement floor is cracked and uneven. The initial phase of renovations will focus on installing a new, level, and heated floor, said Morison, which will be completed in time for this year’s fair in June.
Unlike the Agri-Culture Centre which received significant funding, these renovation expenses are being covered by the LBA, and they are seeking funding to help with future phases. “It is something we feel is necessary,” she said, adding the renovations will bring new life to the building while respecting its heritage.