RBC Awards $5,000 to RBC Farm Photo Contest Winner

Stephanie McDonald of Glencoe, Ontario, has been awarded $5,000 for her photographic interpretation of farm life. As well as receiving the cash prize, Ms. McDonald will have her photo published in the 2007 RBC Agriculture Calendar.

Her photograph, titled Country Boardroom, captured the image of two farmers conducting business   over the barn gate. "The photo shows my father and uncle discussing their plans," said Ms. McDonald. "It's how boardroom meetings are conducted in the country."

For this year's RBC Farm Photography Contest, Canadians were encouraged to present a photograph of an agricultural, environmental, agribusiness or rural lifestyle topic that they felt best depicted the rural life.  

 "Hundreds of people across the country sent in photos and the pride of Canadian producers shone through in every one," said Brian Little, Head of Agriculture and Agribusiness, RBC Royal Bank. "Knowing the challenging times Canadian producers have faced recently, it was great to see so many incredible, positive images of farm life and their optimism for the future."

Heidi Fuhr, from Lloydminster, Alberta, received second prize and $1,000 with her image of harvest taken at a unique angle   through the side view mirror of a truck. Her photo was titled Behind the Scenes.

Ten additional winners were awarded $250 each.  All winning photographs will be published in the 2007 RBC agribusiness calendar. The calendar will be available at RBC branches across Canada by the end of December 2006.   RBC has produced an agricultural calendar for more than 10 years.

As Canada's largest private sector lender to the agriculture industry, RBC Financial Group provides financial services to more farmers and farm families than any other financial institution in Canada.