Bonsai Winnipeg: A Brief Timeline

Left to right: Scott Samson; Paul Collard; Roger Dutton; Irv and Bonnie Hilderbrand; Stu Innes.

• Early '80s: Bonsai Society of Winnipeg founded by bonsai enthusiast Roger Dutton, who had prior experience in the UK.
• Challenges: Limited resources, scarce bonsai literature, and minimal external guidance posed difficulties for the passionate but small group.
• Leadership Transition: Irv and Bonnie Hilderbrand took over leadership, followed by Dean Laughren. Limited resources and a lack of variety in plant material marked this period.
• Marcel Comeault's Impact: Marcel, a self-taught bonsai artist, infused energy, adapting international bonsai knowledge to local conditions and native tree species.
• Bonsai Clubs International (BCI): Joined BCI to access educational resources; Marcel adapted the Introduction to Bonsai course for Zone 3 and facilitated its growth for nearly a decade.
• Ardythe McMaster's Administration: Ardythe took the lead, allowing Marcel to focus on teaching and demonstrating, resulting in significant club growth.
• Toronto Bonsai Convention (1997): Exposure to international bonsai artists inspired the club to work on larger trees and explore overlooked species like Eastern white cedar.
• Stuart Innes' Leadership: Stuart, with a consistent and thoughtful approach, continued the club's progress, emphasizing enjoyment and bonsai.
• Dean Laughren's Return: After rediscovering bonsai, Dean led the club again, infusing meetings with humor, fostering growth, and exploring larger projects.
• Paul Collard's 14-Year Stint: Oversaw many milestones, including finding new meeting spaces, importing bonsai trees, and enhancing educational offerings.
• Scott Samson's Era (2019): Scott's leadership, coupled with innovative approaches like Zoom during the pandemic, propelled membership growth and diverse activities.
• Recent Achievements (2019 Onwards): Redesigned courses, annual exhibits, and invitational displays at prestigious venues, showcasing an overall improvement in club activities.
• Future Initiatives: Bonsai Winnipeg aims to redefine bonsai appreciation in Growing Zone Three with promising new initiatives.