Four North Islanders were awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medals by MLA Michele Babchuk on Sep. 4 for their outstanding work in their respective communities.
The prestigious medals, created to mark the coronation of King Charles III on May 6, 2023, were handed out by Babchuk during a lunch with the honourees.
“It is such a privilege to honour these exceptional community members with this award,” says Babchuk in a press release from the New Democrat BC Government Caucus. “We’re all better off because of their dedication and leadership to our community, and I am so excited to have this day to celebrate these individuals and their achievements, and give them just a little bit of the massive recognition they so deserve.”
The four honourees are Dr. Lisa Domae, Dr. Erika Kellerhals, Valery Puetz, and Colin Gabelmann.
"Dr. Erika Kellerhals has been a long-standing family doctor in Campbell River and on Quadra Island for 30 years," reads the release. "Over the past 10 years, Dr. Kellerhals has shifted to helping people across the North Island suffering from substance abuse, using her expertise and passion to advocate for detox and treatment, as well as preventive measures and safe supply."
Domae is described as an extraordinary leader. She is the president of the North Island College and launched a new strategic plan, Build 2026.
"This plan emphasizes local community development and skills training for local industries," reads the release. "Under her leadership, North Island College has been recognized as a first-class education institution."
Puetz has retired but was the executive director of the Campbell River and North Island Transition Society for over 20 years.
"Her leadership has driven significant capital and program expansions, particularly in services for vulnerable community members, including those affected by violence, addiction, homelessness, and housing," reads the release. "Valery has also played a pivotal role in bringing the Rose Harbour and Eagle Harbour housing initiatives to Campbell River for women and children fleeing violence."
Gabelmann served as MLA for the North Island from 1979 to 1996 as a New Democratic Party Member, and the Attorney General of British Columbia from 1991 to 1995. He is still active in the Campbell River community as a member of the Beaver Lodge Lands' board, advocating for the preservation of its local ecosystem.
The Government of B.C. is presenting 551 medals, with ceremonies being held across the province by local MLAs.
