Robert Paterson
Like many rural communities since COVID, TBL has seen a remarkable number of new working-age residents. Most can be described as people who make their living using their laptops. As such, their work is not local. They came here to find a better lifestyle than in the city. This story is about a new resident couple who make their living using their hands in the midst of our community.
When Kristen Gingera first arrived here, she dreamed only of leading a self-sufficient life in the country with a large garden and maybe a few hens. Never having farmed before, she now runs a small farm that raises mainly pigs. All the while, she was mentored by a very experienced farmer, Elwood Quinn, of Quinn Farm on ÎlePerrot.
Her clients are not at arm’s length. They become friends, allies, marketers, and sometimes lend a hand. As the network expands, it becomes ever more reliable and robust. Her work is all based on the local community.
Corey Wilson was an electrician working in Montreal. After the family’s move here, he commuted daily from the farm to his old job in Montreal. Feeling that he needed to be part of the local community, Corey joined the local volunteer fire-department. It just happened that the Fire Chief, Don Mireault, is an electrician. Casually one day, Don suggested that Corey stop his commute and work with him here.
After working with Don for a few years, Corey took his exams to become a Master Electrician. He qualified this spring and is now setting out on his own. With Don’s support, Corey’s local knowledge, and Kristen’s contacts, he has the connections to the local community to make this new venture work.
With three small children, how have they done this? The key again is community. This time in the shape of Corey’s parents, who made the move with them. The three children are homeschooled, and the grandparents play a major role in their lives.
Find them here at Cheeky Creek Farm
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