2025 Farm Family of the Year | Hillside Poultry Farm

Building a Farm from the Ground Up 

In 2002, with his parents’ support, Theo officially began farming. After completing the Agriculture Production program at Olds College in 2004, he helped construct his first chicken barn. In 2011, Theo and Claudine were married, welcoming twins Kaiden and Emma in 2013 and Madison in 2015.  

Over time, they’ve turned their bare quarter into a busy farmstead.  

Today, Hillside Poultry Farm raises 52,000 chickens in their barn and farms 3,100 acres in partnership with Theo’s brother Jack and his family.  A second barn is now planned for Hillside Poultry, which will double their broiler chicken capacity and incorporate new technologies to enhance efficiency and sustainability. 

“When we first came here, it was just a bare quarter with nothing on it. To see what we’ve built together as a family is something I’m really proud of,” said Theo. “Chicken farming and grain farming fit so well together, and we’re always looking for ways to make the farm more sustainable.” 

Innovation and Sustainability 

The Brunings have embraced innovation as part of their success. In 2024, they installed solar panels on an unused hillside, producing enough power to run their barns, shop, and home, while feeding surplus energy back to the grid. They also utilize GPS-enabled equipment, section control sprayers, and seed drills to minimize overlap and waste. 

A roller mill allows the family to crack and feed more of their own wheat to their chickens, reducing costs. By integrating poultry and grain production, they recycle chicken manure to improve soil fertility, reduce fertilizer needs, and create a more self-sufficient, environmentally friendly farm system, while reducing reliance on purchased inputs. 

A True Family Operation 

Farming is a family affair at Hillside Poultry Farm. Theo manages day-to-day operations, like daily barn chores and repairs. Claudine balances her career as a registered nurse in Lacombe Continuing Care with farm responsibilities, managing the books, running parts, and preparing meals for the harvest crew. 

Their children—Kaiden  (12), Emma (12), and Madison (10)—are also involved, helping with chores in the barns, caring for the sheep herd, picking bales, running equipment, and assisting with yard and household tasks. Despite the size of the operation, the Brunings hire only seasonal harvest help, reflecting the strength of their family commitment. 

“It takes all of us to keep the farm running smoothly,” said Claudine. “Whether it’s the kids checking the barns, me doing the books, or Theo making farm decisions, everyone has a role. It’s busy, but it’s also what keeps us close as a family.” 

Leadership in Agriculture 

Beyond the farm, the Brunings are active in the broader agricultural community. Theo serves as a Director of the Clive Seed Cleaning Plant and was invited to join Sofina Foods’ Producer Advisory Committee, which provides feedback to one of the country’s largest poultry processing facilities in Calgary. His input helps shape systems, practices, and long-term industry improvements that support poultry producers across Alberta. 

Claudine volunteers as registrar and admin for the Lacombe Skating Club, serves as Chair of the Father Lacombe Catholic School Council, and helped with the planning of the first annual Lacombe Soccer Tournament. The family also supports the Canadian Foodgrains Bank Growing Project, through both donations and volunteer fieldwork. They also volunteer with the Alberta Chicken Producers, running the booth at different events to showcase poultry farming. 

Community involvement is central to the Bruning family. They are active at St. Andrew’s United Church, where they assist with youth programming through St. Andrew’s monthly Messy Church program and other volunteer opportunities.  

The family also takes part in the rural crime watch group southeast of Lacombe, is a member of the Clive Curling Club, and enjoys hosting their neighbours at an annual Christmas party, a tradition that helps friends and neighbours stay connected. 

Proud to Call Lacombe County Home 

For the Brunings, farming is more than an occupation—it’s a way of life rooted in family, community, and stewardship of the land. 

“We’re proud to be farmers, and proud to be part of Lacombe County,” the Brunings shared. “This is our home, and it’s where we’ve built our future.”