Vicki Tomori, a dedicated member of the Marine Heritage Society (MHS) in Saugeen Shores, Bruce County, has been named one of the recipients of the esteemed June Callwood Outstanding Achievement Award for Voluntarism in Ontario.
This honour recognizes Vicki’s exceptional commitment to volunteerism and her significant contributions to the local community. The provincial award for voluntarism, named after the late June Callwood, a renowned journalist and author known for her dedication to community service, is presented annually by an independent selection committee. The award acknowledges individuals who demonstrate leadership, innovation, and a strong commitment to volunteerism, thereby contributing to the betterment of communities across Ontario.
In a statement from the province, Michael Ford, Minister of Citizenship and Multiculturalism said about all the honourees, “We are grateful for the dedication and selfless service of these outstanding Ontarians. You continue to inspire others and make our province a stronger and more vibrant place to live, work and raise a family.”
Vicki Tomori’s volunteerism ties back to the inception of the Marine Heritage Society in 1997, where she was one of the founding members. Today, she holds the distinction of being the longest-serving original member of the MHS, still conducting daily, hands-on activities.
Wayne Kaufman, Chair of the Marine Heritage Society, says, “Vicki is a force of nature. From her foundational role over 25 years ago, to her teamwork today, she continues to advance the Marine Heritage Society through her collaboration, engaging the public, fundraising, working with other community groups, and much more.”
Reflecting on the early days of the Marine Heritage Society, the volunteers restored the Chantry Island Lighthouse Keeper’s Home and began conducting tours for the public to the iconic community landmark, which includes the tall, 1859 imperial tower.
Today, the MHS also provides the annual Marine Heritage Festival (this summer from July 26 to 28), the weekly Artisans and Tastes Market (Fridays from June 28 to Aug 30), maintains Pioneer Park at the mouth of the Saugeen River, staffs the tour base located at the Southampton harbour, and operates the Boat House workshop to maintain the tour boat and other infrastructure.
Kaufman added, “The Marine Heritage Society community is outstanding, and Vicki is a great example of the thinkers and doers who are essential to any volunteer organization. We look forward to sharing more about the MHS and Vicki’s role in events ahead.”
The award, from the Ontario Ministry of Citizenship and Multiculturalism, is expected to be presented in Owen Sound in late June.
About the Marine Heritage Society: In connecting the past to the present, the MHS helps preserve the pristine shoreline and enhances awareness of our nautical history dating back to the 1880s. The 200+ volunteer, non-profit organization operates in an ethical, fun, and safe manner for the well-being of our local community and positive public engagement with visitors from across Canada and around the world. For details on tours, events, volunteer opportunities, and more, please visit www.chantryisland.com.
