The Municipality of the District of Lunenburg honoured volunteers from across the municipality during its annual Municipal Volunteer Recognition Night, held April 22 at the Best Western in Cookville.
The event celebrated individuals who contribute their time, skills, and compassion to a wide range of community efforts, including emergency services, recreation and sport, health and wellness, arts and culture, heritage, faith-based organizations, and community halls. Together, the recipients represent many decades of volunteer service and reflect the strength and spirit of communities throughout the district.
“Volunteers are the backbone of our communities,” says Mayor Elspeth McLean-Wile. “Whether they are responding to emergencies, supporting programs, preserving local history, or bringing people together, these individuals make a meaningful difference every day.”
Recipients recognized during the evening included:
- Colin Purcell and Jérémie Gauthier, Dayspring & District Fire Department
- Sue Rushton, Elderfit Lunenburg
- George Bush and Jerry Read, Hebbville Fire Department
- Brandon Rafuse and Phillip Rafuse, Italy Cross/Middlewood Fire Department
- Michelle Elrick, New Germany Area Promotion Society
- Dawn Whynot and Dexter Bond, New Germany Canada Day Committee
- David Melvin and Laura Melvin, Parkdale/Maplewood Community Centre Association
- Debbi Campbell and Sandy Hagell, Parkdale/Maplewood Community Museum
- Cathy Spidle and Pete McKean, Pinehurst Community Hall
- Anne Sullivan, Pleasantville Baptist Church
- Rickey Spidle, Riverport & District Fire Department
- Darlene Wentzell and Lorraine Snyder, Rosedale Home for Special Care
- Amy Foster, Seahawks Minor Football Club
- Blaine Stoll and Stephanie Smith, The 644 Revitalization Network
- Alicia Barkhouse, Thunder FC
- Corrine Collicutt, Walden Volunteer Fire DepartmentMike Wilson 600x400
- Mike Wilson, Wentzells Lake
During a previous Council meeting vote, teacher Mike Wilson of Wentzells Lake was selected to represent the Municipality of the District of Lunenburg at the Provincial Volunteer Recognition Event. Wilson has volunteered for nearly a decade with the New Germany Area IWK Toy Drive and the local Legion and is also involved in caring for Commonwealth soldiers’ grave sites. Known for his quiet leadership and reliability, he was recognized for his ongoing commitment to giving back and supporting families and community traditions.
The Municipality extends its sincere thanks to all volunteers who were honoured, as well as to the many others who contribute behind the scenes throughout the year. Their dedication helps make the District of Lunenburg a caring, connected, and resilient place to live.