After an intense and highly anticipated competition, Dylan Miedema was crowned Ontario’s Finest Butcher for 2025

The grand finale, part of the bi-annual Meating Place Conference, was held at the Blue Mountain Conference Centre this past weekend, and spotlighted the exceptional skill, precision, and creativity of Ontario’s top butchers.  This year’s competition was a true showcase of mastery and precision, bringing together 13 of Ontario’s most skilled butchers earlier this year at the elimination round, in a thrilling display of craftsmanship and creativity.

Through demanding rounds that tested technique, speed, and artistry, the field was narrowed to three exceptional finalists – Sulaiman Hakimi of Halenda’s Fine Foods, Rakesh Khadoo of Conestoga Meat Packers Ltd., and Dylan Meidema of Townsend Butchers Inc.. Each competitor demonstrated unwavering focus and exceptional skill under pressure, but it was Dylan Miedema of Townsend Butchers Inc. who ultimately claimed the title of Ontario’s Finest Butcher, and took home the official black jacket and prize package.

 “What I’ve learned from these competitions is the importance of precision, making sure your strings are neat and even, your cuts are straight, and that there’s very little waste”

Dylan has had a decade of hands-on butchery experience at Townsend Butchers Inc. in Simcoe, Ontario. Starting at age 16, he has worked in every corner of the shop; from the cut-room and kill-floor to the sausage and smokehouse rooms, where he gained deep knowledge and skill along the way.

In addition, he was one of three young Canadian butchers who went to Paris, France, and competed in the World Butcher Challenge, representing Junior Team Canada.

“I was nervous at the beginning but excited at the end,” said Miedema about the final round. “This isn’t my first competition – I’ve placed in the top three for the last three years, and I competed two years before that. Five years ago, I didn’t place, but I completed the challenge. What I’ve learned from these competitions is the importance of precision, making sure your strings are neat and even, your cuts are straight, and that there’s very little waste. Most importantly, it all has to look good to the eye.”

Judges praised Miedema for his craftsmanship, innovation, and experience gained from previous competitions.

Troy Spicer, from Fanshawe College, commented, “It’s been great to see Dylan over the last few years hone his craft and develop a real understanding of what competition is all about. Any experience in the competition arena helps prepare you for the world stage – and you could see the planning he put in and the methodical way he works. He wasn’t scattered; he was focused and calm, and that really made the difference.”

During the final round, the three talented butchers were challenged to transform three surprise proteins into a “Festive Family Feast” display – all within 45 minutes. It was Miedema’s seasoned skill, creative vision, and unwavering dedication that set him apart, securing his position as this year’s champion. Contestants were judged on precision, creativity, and presentation.

In its 12th year, Ontario’s Finest Butcher Competition continues to highlight the skill, passion, and artistry of the province’s meat industry – celebrating craftsmanship and inspiring the next generation of Ontario butchers.

Watch the full livestream of the grand finale at: https://www.facebook.com/MeatPoultryON

The competition is proudly sponsored by: Handtmann Canada, Fortinos, Ontario Beef, Malabar Ingredients, Conestoga Meat Packers, The Yes Group, Mee-Chef, Noropac, Newmarket Meat Packers, and Hayter’s Farm.