The Township of Brock has announced recipients of its second annual Awards of Merit, which recognize contributions by local residents and volunteers. In its release, the township said the ceremony was held the previous night.
Councillor Peter Frank presented the Arts, Heritage and Culture Award to the Beaverton Thorah Eldon Historical Society, recognizing 50 years of work preserving and sharing local history through artifacts, archives, historic buildings, education and community events. Councillor Ron Hodgson presented the Environment and Climate Change Champion Award to the Cannington Horticultural Society, whose work includes public gardens, pollinator-friendly plantings and downtown floral displays, along with education and initiatives on native plants, biodiversity, water conservation and composting.
The Sunderland Lions Club received the Community Services Group or Club Award from Councillor Lynn Campbell. The township cited the club’s support for community infrastructure, youth development, health initiatives, cultural programs, scholarships, environmental projects and charitable services, including a contribution to the Sunderland Arena project.
Councillor Claire Doble presented the Social Development Award to Candace Dove for her work with the Brock Township Food Bank. The township says Dove has volunteered for more than 25 years, served as director for the past eight years and helped coordinate food distribution, volunteers and outreach, including weekly food assistance and holiday hampers.
Regional Councillor Cria Pettingill presented the Sports and Recreation Award to Brock Rugby Club. The club was founded in 1978 and has one of the largest youth rugby programs in Ontario, according to the township.
Councillor Angela Canavan presented the Brock Accessibility Award to the Beaverton Town Hall Players. The township recognized the group’s facility improvements, accommodations for patrons and volunteers, and efforts to remove barriers to participation in the performing arts.
Canavan also presented the Volunteer of the Year Award to Katie Probst, a Brock Township resident for more than 45 years. The township says Probst has supported Community Care Durham, Brock Community Health Centre, Big Brothers Big Sisters, food-security and youth-development work, and environmental advocacy. Her current activities include reassurance calls for seniors and an intergenerational pen-pal program. The township congratulated the recipients and thanked everyone who submitted nominations.
Source: Township of Brock — https://www.townshipofbrock.ca/news/posts/awards-of-merit-2026-winners
