2025 Civic Awards

Spirit of Peachland Civic Awards - Recognizing Excellence

Each year, outstanding residents are recognized for their service through the Spirit of Peachland Civic Awards

(Photos of the May 13, 2026 Spirit of Peachland Awards will be coming soon).

 

Mayor and Council proudly announced the winners of the 2025 Spirit of Peachland Awards on Wednesday, May 13, at the Peachland Community Centre. The annual event shines a spotlight on the remarkable citizens whose outstanding achievements and dedication to their community help make Peachland such a vibrant place.

 

“These awards celebrate the people who make Peachland more than just a beautiful place — they make it a true community,” said Mayor Patrick Van Minsel. “Whether through volunteerism, leadership, kindness, or quiet acts of service, each of this year’s recipients has made a meaningful impact on the lives of others. We are incredibly fortunate to have so many people who care deeply about this community and work every day to make it stronger, more welcoming, and more connected.”

 

2025 Awards Recipients:

 

Citizen of the Year - Carol White
For more than a decade of work supporting local seniors with the Peachland District and Retirement Society and the 50+ Activity Centre.

 

Youth Citizen of the Year - Alexis L’Hirondelle 

An inspiring young leader showing outstanding community spirit through volunteerism, ambassador programs and exceptional customer service within the community.

 

Mayor’s Award of Merit - The Peachland Lions Club 

For decades of community service including fundraising and supporting countless community events.

 

Councillors’ Award of Merit - Dagmar White

The founder of Peachland’s Dream Team, she contributes to everything from environmental advocacy to community celebrations with enthusiasm and kindness.

 

Unsung Hero - Brian Dodd 

 

Lifetime Service

  • Evie Swanstrom (15 years) 

  • Anne Bykowsky (15 years) 

  • Peachland Rotary Club (28 years) 

Excellence in Habitat Protection - Peachland Fire Department

 

Excellence in Volunteerism - Cors Verhage 

 

Excellence in Community Spirit - Daniela Evans 

 

Excellence in Health Promotion - Carla Miller 

 

Excellence in Sports & Recreation - Easton Christianson 

 

Excellence in Youth Leadership - Mateya Labrecque 

 

Excellence in Community Inclusion - Susan Vannoortwyk 

 

Excellence in Community Collaboration - Barb O’Pinko

 

Wedding Anniversaries: 

  • William & Susan Vannoortwyk (50th) 

  • Maureen & Doug Forrest (50th) 

  • Ian & Lenore McLean (50th) 

  • Dr. Murray & Sharon Trussler (60th) 

The District of Peachland’s Spirit of Peachland Civic Awards are supported by the Blind Angler Grill, the Peachland Ambassadors, Jean Saul, KCL Photography, Vince Boyko and Grant Eisworth 

How to Nominate

Nominations for 2026 achievements will open in early 2027. Nominations will be accepted for:

  • Peachland Excellence Awards: A Peachland resident, youth and/or group who gave significant service or had a significant achievement in a specific category during the past year. Categories include but are not restricted to: Arts, Culture, Sports, Recreation, Heritage, Environment & Conservation, Community Inclusion or Accessibility, Volunteerism, Leadership, Health Promotion, and Community Spirit. Other categories can be created by the nominee but will be judged by the committee as to their merit.
  • Unsung Hero: An individual whose everyday actions and quiet efforts have made a significant impact on the lives of others.
  • Lifetime Service: Peachland resident or group, in recognition of a minimum of 15 years dedicated service to the community.
  • Youth Citizen of the Year: A School age youth who demonstrates outstanding leadership or makes significant contributions to youth and/or the community.
  • Citizen of the Year: A Peachland resident making the greatest contribution to the improvement of the community.

Upon request, the following municipal awards are also presented at the Civic Awards Ceremony:

  • Wedding Anniversary: Peachland residents celebrating their 50, 60 or 70th Wedding Anniversary
  • Freedom of the Municipality: granted to residents who have reached their 100th birthday or have lived in Peachland for more than 75 years.

Submit a Nomination Package

  • Complete and sign nomination form
  • Write a nomination letter describing how the criteria apply to your nominee
  • Provide up to 3 letters of support
  • Attach support material including a photo of the nominee in action if available (electronic copies encouraged). Total package not to exceed 8 pages. Submit completed packages by:
  • email to Info@peachland.ca or drop off at Peachland Municipal Hall (5806 Beach Avenue) or the Peachland Community Centre (4450 6th Street)

Nomination Form

Selections will be based on the nominee's achievements and contributions for the 2025 year.

Mayor & Council Awards

The following awards are selected by Mayor and Council:

  • Councillors Award of Merit
    Any person or group, local or otherwise, making a significant contribution to our community, as decided by the District Councillors.
  • Mayors Award of Merit
    Any person or group, local or otherwise, making a significant contribution to our community, as decided by the Mayor.

Spirit of Peachland Award Winners

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2024 Citizen of the Year Paula McLaughlin

Each year, Peachland Mayor and Council announce the winners of the annual Spirit of Peachland Awards in April/May, celebrating citizens for outstanding achievements during the previous year.

"The annual civic awards celebration is a chance to recognize and applaud the many individuals and community groups who make a positive difference in our community," said Mayor Patrick Van Minsel. "This is an important way to offer our gratitude and appreciation for countless hours of volunteer time."