2026 Civic Award Recipients

Celebrating Kirkland Lake's Inaugural Civic Award Recipients!

The Town of Kirkland Lake is proud to recognize the outstanding individuals who were honoured at the inaugural Civic Awards Ceremony. These recipients exemplify leadership, volunteerism, courage, achievement, and a lifelong commitment to making our community stronger.

Congratulations to our 2026 recipients:

⭐ Rising Star Award – Hardy Kurz
🤝 Volunteer & Community Service Award – Sabrina Skalecki
🔬 Achievement in STEAM Award – Dr. Adam Hacking
💛 Mayor's Heart of Gold Lifetime Achievement Award – Rodney Thomas
🦸 Rising Hero Award (Special One-Time Award) – Benjamin Garand, Michael LaRocque, Trayce Carrière & Tyler Cameron

Each recipient has made a meaningful and lasting impact through their dedication, achievements, and service to others. Thank you for representing the very best of Kirkland Lake and inspiring those around you.

Please join us in congratulating this year's recipients! 👏

Rising Star Award – Hardy Kurz

Hardy Kurz was recognized as the inaugural recipient of the Rising Star Award for his outstanding leadership, community involvement, and commitment to making a positive impact in Kirkland Lake. Through his active participation in school, sports, and volunteer initiatives, Hardy has demonstrated exceptional character and leadership, making him a deserving recipient of this award. The award was presented by Councillor Rick Owen and Councillor Dolly Dikens

Volunteer & Community Service Award – Sabrina Skalecki

Sabrina Skalecki was named the inaugural recipient of the Volunteer and Community Service Award in recognition of her outstanding volunteerism and dedication to the Kirkland Lake community. Through her involvement with several local organizations, she has made a lasting impact by strengthening community connections and supporting others. Sabrina was unable to attend the ceremony in person, but jointed virtually.

Achievement in STEAM Award – Dr. Adam Hacking

Dr. Adam Hacking was recognized as the inaugural recipient of the Achievement in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) Award for his internationally recognized contributions to biomedical engineering and neurotechnology. Despite his global success, he continues to maintain strong ties to Kirkland Lake and the surrounding region. Dr. Hacking was unable to attend the ceremony.

Mayor's Heart of Gold Lifetime Achievement Award – Rodney Thomas

Rodney Thomas was named the inaugural recipient of the Mayor's Heart of Gold Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his outstanding athletic accomplishments and decades of dedication to the Kirkland Lake Aquatic Club. As an elite swimmer, accomplished coach, and proud ambassador for Kirkland Lake, his lifelong commitment to developing athletes and representing the community has left a lasting legacy, making him a deserving recipient of the Town's highest civic honour. The award was presented by Mayor Wight.

Rising Hero Award (Special One-Time Award) – Benjamin Garand, Michael LaRocque, Trayce Carrière & Tyler Cameron

Benjamin Garand, Michael LaRocque, Trayce Carrière, and Tyler Cameron were recognized as the inaugural recipients of the Rising Hero Award for their courageous actions in assisting strangers during a residential fire before emergency responders arrived. Their quick thinking and bravery inspired the creation of this special award category. The award was presented by Councillor Casey Owens, who also teaches the recipients at École secondaire catholique l’Envolée du Nord.