2025 Business Excellence Awards

Founded in 2017 by the Downtown Wallaceburg BIA, the Wallaceburg Farmers Market celebrates the town’s agricultural roots. Located along the riverfront, it features fresh local produce, meats, baked goods, preserves, and handmade crafts—all directly from local farmers and artisans. More than a market, it connects the community with the people who grow and create their food, blending small-town charm with sustainable, farm-to-table living.

Since 2003, I’ve provided professional sound for events across Wallaceburg and Kent County. What began as helping my father with church audio grew into a passion, later reignited after returning from 13 years as a missionary in Benin, West Africa.

Today, I run 60–75 events annually—from weddings to major festivals—and offer sound advice to local churches and organizations, all as a labour of love.

As curator of the Wallaceburg and District Museum, I’m proud to share the stories that make our
town special. Each day I connect with our rich history through artifacts, research, and tours that celebrate community pride. The museum isn’t just about preserving objects—it’s about preserving identity, family history, and spirit, ensuring our stories live on for generations to come.

Heather is a graduate of the Canadian Academy of Osteopathy, earning her M.OMSc, and is a member of the Ontario Osteopathic Association. With a background in Kinesiology, she has built a career in health and wellness, and Osteopathy has deepened her understanding of the body’s structure and function. Through manual, whole-body therapy, Heather helps community members support self-healing, regulation, and overall well-being.

Adam Childs has been involved with the Downtown Wallaceburg BIA for over thirteen years, beginning with his work alongside the long-standing McCarron family business. Passionate about giving back, he helped found the Wallaceburg Farmers’ Market in 2017, providing the community access to local farm vendors and arts. During the COVID pandemic, Adam and volunteers kept the market open, offering vital community connection. He also supports other BIA initiatives, including winter markets and the Downtown Open House, while his own business, A. Childs Homestead, operates a James Street showroom showcasing family-produced domestic products.

Gert McClure, a lifelong Wallaceburg resident, has dedicated her life to community, compassion, and volunteerism. After more than 40 years in the agricultural sector, she continues to serve her hometown through her work with the Wallaceburg & District Museum and numerous local initiatives. A passionate advocate for mental health, Gert champions awareness, connection, and community pride in everything she does.

I believe a strong volunteer spirit comes from two places: a natural drive to stay active and a desire to help where needed. I’ve always had trouble sitting still—there’s always something to do. Retirement hasn’t slowed me down; it’s redirected my energy into my community. Volunteering lets me give back to the place that supported my career, find fulfillment, and live with purpose and gratitude.

Jackz Oasis Day Spa is a woman-owned business dedicated to providing a relaxing, welcoming space where clients can unwind and feel their best. Focused on personalized care and quality service, the spa blends professionalism with a warm, nurturing touch—reflecting passion, empowerment, and attention to detail that makes self-care not just a luxury, but a lifestyle.

Dan Biggs is the Chief Operating Officer at Lambton Conveyor Limited, a global leader in grain handling and storage solutions. With expertise in Lean Manufacturing, Quality Control, and team development, he led a major transformation, reducing manufacturing costs by nearly 40% in his first year. Dan credits Lambton’s growth to its skilled, collaborative team. Previously, he built a strong, results-driven career in the automotive sector.

Murray Melton lived a full and meaningful life surrounded by family, friends, and his beloved dogs. A devoted husband of 35 years, father of three, and grandfather of two, he was known for his generosity, humor, and genuine care for others. He owned Mid-County Ford for 30 years and later managed Advantage Farm Equipment, earning respect through hard work, integrity, and kindness. A long-time Dresden Rotary Club member and three-time President, Murray embodied “Service Above Self.” He will be remembered for his loyalty, compassion, and the joy he brought to everyone around him.

Sandra was a lifelong Wallaceburg resident and a passionate community champion. She believed, “You’ll never be sorry you volunteered to help your community,” a principle she lived through decades of service. For over 50 years, she was active with the Wallaceburg Optimist Club, supported the SOS Committee to preserve hospital services, and helped establish James Street Ministry. Sandra also served meals, knitted mittens for Share the Warmth, and cared for children at Mom’s Baby Cupboard. Her legacy reflects a lifetime of service, thoughtfulness, and deep love for Wallaceburg.

Zach was a compassionate and generous soul whose curiosity and drive shaped a remarkable life. From completing an Ironman, pursuing MMA, co-authoring a book, performing stand-up comedy, to joining Canadian explorer Adam Shoalts on two wilderness expeditions, his interests were vast. Raised on a North Pelham farm, he combined a love of nature with practical skills. A devoted husband, father, and friend, Zach’s kindness, civic-mindedness, and dedication to conservation—including leadership with Sydenham Field Naturalists—made his community stronger. His energy, generosity, and wholehearted commitment left a lasting impact on everyone he met.