The Government House Foundation and the Maritime Museum of BC (MMBC) are teaming up to present the Lieutenant Governor’s Award for Maritime Achievement this year.
The MMBC has just announced that nominations for the prestigious maritime award are now open.
People are welcome to nominate any mariner in their life who may have made notable contributions to BC’s maritime interests.
Nominees’ contributions can include any of the following areas: science, technology, business, applications of maritime skills, nautical heritage and culture, art and/or academic endeavours.
Last year’s winners include Kenneth Butler, a master builder who works primarily in the restoration of heritage vessels; Bonnie Gee, a maritime advocate and spokesperson; Captain Clay Evans, a west coast mariner who spent over 35-years with the Canadian Coast Guard; Dr. Francis Juanes, a coastal and estuarine ecologist; and more.
Furthermore, the scope of the Maritime Achievement Award has been expanded in recent years to recognize Indigenous and traditional practices, environmental stewardship and to ensure diversity in nominees.
“British Columbia is a province proudly defined by its beautiful coastline and waterways,” said Wendy Cocchia, Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia.
“As Lieutenant Governor, I am delighted to support this important recognition of those whose work has touched and been touched by all things maritime. From ship building to life saving to capturing the incredible grandeur of coastal British Columbia through art or history, there are myriad reasons to nominate an individual for the Award for Maritime Achievement.”
The award itself is a medallion featuring the artwork of Nusi Ian Reid, a member of the Heiltsuk Nation in Bella Bella, and is presented to each recipient in a ceremony in the fall.
Nominations for the Lieutenant Governor’s Award for Maritime Achievement are now open, and will close on June 13th.
Click here to find out more about the awards.
