Friday's Portage Chamber of Commerce Agriculture Appreciation Night saw a packed house at the Glesby Centre.

Besides dinner, fundraising, and comedian Big Daddy Tazz, the focus was the annual Farm Family Awards.

The Farm Family of the Year award went to Bachalo Farms, with Daryl and Jennifer Bachalo on hand to accept. Daryl's honoured to be in the company of previous winners. He feels it's validation for dealing with recent tough times, while maintaining an optimistic outlook.

Meanwhile, the Young Farm Couple of the Year award went to Chris and Erin McCallister, of Redbeard Farms. Chris calls it exciting to be recognized for their work by the community.

Chamber President Shawn Cabak adds the event is especially important this year since there's something to celebrate with improvement in the ag sector. He thinks that may have been the biggest contributing factor in this year's large crowd.

Cabak believes the change of venue and bringing in a comedian also played a part.