Architect Nick Bawlf and Dr. Richard Hebda, curator of Botany and Earth History at the Royal B.C. Museum, have been awarded the Queen's Diamond Jubilee medal.

The medal, which commemorates the 60th year of Queen Elizabeth II's reign, was presented to Hebda and Victoria city councillor Pamela Madoff, Bawlf's common-law partner of 20 years, by Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations Minister Steve Thomson in a ceremony in Victoria today.

Bawlf was recognized for his work to preserve Victoria's architectural heritage. His legacy includes restoration work on Market Square, St. Andrew's Cathedral and the Jewish Synagogue. He died in August.

Hebda has been curator at the provincial museum for more than 32 years and an adjunct faculty member in the University of Victoria's Biology, Earth and Ocean Sciences for almost as long. He serves as the Province's science advisor in paleontology and played a key role in getting the McAbee fossil beds designated as a Provincial Historic Site.

The Jubilee Medal recognizes people who have dedicated themselves to serving their community, their country and their fellow Canadians. The B.C. government is presenting approximately 760 Jubilee medals.

Quotes:

Minister of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations Steve Thomson -

"In this milestone year, the Queen's Diamond Jubilee medal is intended to recognize outstanding service to the people, to the province and to the country. Both Nick Bawlf and Dr. Hebda have been leaders in their respective fields, and their work has enriched the lives of not just the people of Victoria, but British Columbians across the province."

Quick Facts:

• The Queen's Diamond Jubilee began in February 2012.

• The Royal Canadian Mint created 60,000 medals to commemorate the Diamond Jubilee.

Learn More:

Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal: www.gg.ca/diamondjubilee

Media Contact:

Media Relations
Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations
250 356-5261