YORKTON – Annual fundraising efforts are underway for the Yorkton Brick Mill Heritage Society, this time in the form of an online auction.
"It's one of the means that we've been utilizing to raise funds," said Bonnie Rushowick, a member of the society’s board.
Rushowick emphasized that the auction plays a key role in generating interest in the historic mill and in securing financial support for its preservation.
"The auction generates interest. We approach businesses and individuals in the area—it is not a Yorkton-centric event—we recognize the broader communities around Yorkton are involved and have a part to play in maintaining this historical place. We have folks and businesses that donate from all over the place," said Rushowick, "we're very happy and appreciative of their support."
The online auction is being hosted with Yorkton Auction Centre, which has donated its website and expertise to the fundraising effort for the fourth consecutive year.
"We're encouraging people who have items they feel could be donated—this is an opportunity for them to do so," said Rushowick.
In previous years, auction items have included a MAC truck and a road grader.
"We're going from smaller items all the way to big. Everything is accepted."
This year's auction features a variety of donations, including a vintage glass-gallon butter churn, bison sausage, season tickets for the 2025-26 Yorkton Terrier season, pollinator seed, tickets for two for a vintage combine ride, Gallagher Centre Water Park access tickets, a golf package for two at Deer Park, a quilt from the York Colony Quilt Guild, six months of tae kwon do lessons and a vintage Coca-Cola crate among many other unique items.
Rushowick noted that larger items, such as a vintage tractor and possibly two vehicles, are expected to be part of this year’s auction.
All donated items must be registered with Yorkton Auction Centre by April 25. Interested bidders will have the chance to view the items at the Yorkton Flour Mill before the auction closes.
The auction begins at 6 p.m. on April 29 and runs until 6 p.m. on May 4. Winning bidders will be able to pick up their items the following week.
Those wishing to donate can contact any member of the Yorkton Brick Mill Heritage Society, Rushowick at (306) 621-6758, or Janice Pilipow at (306) 621-2470.
Beyond its role as a fundraiser, Rushowick emphasized that the event is an opportunity to support the agricultural heritage of Yorkton and surrounding areas.
"I grew up on a farm near the Balcarres area, and I know my parents brought wheat to the old mill when it was functioning and exchanged it for flour and other items," said Rushowick.
The society aims to preserve the historic mill as a lasting reminder of the region’s agricultural roots while continuing to look forward.
"We want to maintain this as an important part of a very strong agricultural area," said Rushowick, adding, "we're not only looking back on what has been managed but we want to look ahead. The auction is one of the ways to maintain and have that work out."
