the Portico
“Our mission is to enhance the relationship between the University and its alumni and friends and promoted pride and commitment within the University Community.”Enthusiastic about agriculture
They were breathing in smoke and watching the ash fall all summer, but Matthew and Molly (Bannerman) Thurston, both B.Sc.(Agr.) ’04, say the fires around Kelowna, B.C., were inconvenient but not devastating to the Okanagan Valley, where they both work in the agricultural industry.
He’s a credit advisor with Farm Credit Corporation; she’s a horticulturalist with the Okanagan Tree Fruit Cooperative. When the north-south highway was closed for a few days, trucks of cherries were delayed getting to the packing house in Kelowna, says Molly. “Overall, the summer heat was wonderful for the fruit growth, but we experienced very dry conditions and water shortages. Several fruit growers exceeded their water allocations.”
Molly is on home turf in Kelowna; she met Ontario-born Matt when both were studying at U of G. They have enjoyed a variety of summer jobs in the agricultural industry and since graduation have worked in Lethbridge, Alta., and on organic farms in England, Scotland and Wales before settling in Kelowna. Matt’s first job in the Okanagan was helping to manage a vineyard, and he has taken additional courses in viticulture and banking. In addition to their current jobs, they’re running their own small fruit farm.
Matt also referees in the Western Hockey League, averaging 15 games a month for the Kelowna Rockets. Both enjoy running and cycling and often take cycling vacations.
