MEDIA RELEASE
Sept. 13, 2024
Township of Wilmot announces 2024 Citizen of the Year Award recipients
NEW HAMBURG, ONT.— Each year, the Township of Wilmot shines a spotlight on Wilmot residents who have made outstanding contributions to the community in the previous calendar year.
The Township announced the recipients of Wilmot’s 2024 Citizen of the Year Awards on September 13 at the opening ceremonies of the New Hamburg Fall Fair.
The following five individuals were chosen by the community for their contributions in the categories of Athletics, Community Service, Culture, Seniors, and Youth.
Award recipient Tyler Rorke of Baden is an accomplished world-class athlete in the sport of cycling and sprinting.
In 2024, he earned his first UCI Nations Cup podium as he took bronze in the team sprint with James Hedgcock and Ryan Dodyk to secure Canada’s spot in the event for the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, France.
Award recipient Stephanie Goertz is the Founder and Lead Volunteer of the Waterloo Region Grassroots Response to the Ukrainian Crisis.
As a result of the efforts of the Grassroots Response, nearly 1,000 Ukrainians fleeing the ongoing war in Ukraine have been helped with housing and other settlement needs locally.
Award recipient Marie Voisin plays a lead role in preserving New Hamburg heritage.
As an author, Marie has chronicled the history of New Hamburg’s houses, buildings, people, and even ghosts. Marie preserves the architectural heritage of New Hamburg, including their own home, a heritage site, and has restored The Imperial building, including its bricks, flags, spirals and horse post.
Award recipient Scott Dunstall reaches boomers, seniors and caregivers through their writing and social media channels.
Scott writes for local seniors’ magazine ‘Embracing Change’, a fashion column for mature men in the Wilmot-Tavistock Gazette and co-founded the Facebook group Show us Your Wilmot.
Award recipient Katie Musselman mentors teens and children to become leaders and volunteers in their communities.
At 17 years old, Katie has worked with special needs children at Waterloo-Oxford D.S.S. and Hidden Acres and was an ambassador for the agricultural program at W-O, touring the Provincial Education Minister and other dignitaries through the program. Katie continues to show community commitment through their interest in becoming a firefighter.
Mayor Natasha Salonen presented the award recipients with an award plaque, medal, and certificate. The awards are chosen through public nomination and online voting.
Mayor Natasha Salonen
Township of Wilmot
"Tonight, we're honouring community members who exemplify the spirit and dedication of our community. Each of our 2024 Citizen of the Year Award recipients has made a remarkable impact by sharing their unique talents and passions with our community. Heartfelt congratulations to all who were nominated and sincere thanks to everyone who participated in the nomination process. Your volunteerism and passion enrich our Township and make Wilmot a better place for all."
Media contact:
Corporate Communications | Office of the Chief Administrative Officer
Township of Wilmot | 519-634-8444 | communications@wilmot.ca
It appears you are trying to access this site using an outdated browser. As a result, parts of the site may not function properly for you. We recommend updating your browser to its most recent version at your earliest convenience.