Governor General honours outstanding Vancouver Islanders

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WATCH: Dozens of distinguished British Columbians honoured by Governor General in Victoria, including several Vancouver Islanders.

The Governor General presented honours to a number of distinguished British Columbians during a ceremony at Government House on Wednesday.

More than 45 recipients were on-hand, including basketball legend Kathie Shields. The former player and long-time head coach of the University of Victoria Vikes basketball team was named to the Order of Canada in 2016.

Victoria historian Merna Forster was recognized with a meritorious service decoration for her campaign to get notable Canadian woman on our banknotes. A new $10 bill was released this year featuring civil rights activist Viola Desmond.

Medals of bravery were awarded to Victoria Police officers Craig Barker and Paul Hykaway, who ran into a burning house to make sure everyone inside had gotten out safely.

Carey Newman of Sooke was also honoured for creating the Witness Blanket to foster reconciliation between indigenous and non-indigenous peoples in Canada.

Tess van StraatenTess van Straaten

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