Residents from Maple Creek and the surrounding southwest were gathered at the Armoury in town to receive some very prestigious awards.

40 of the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medals were presented to various individuals in recognition of their efforts, devotion to their fellows, and in respect for their various contributions to their communities.

Gathered for the event were various officials, including the Lieutenant Governor of Saskatchewan, his Honour the Honourable Russ Mirasty, MLA for Maple Creek, Doug Steele, as well as Shaunavon Mayor, Kyle Bennet, and the host of the night, Maple Creek Mayor, Michelle McKenzie.

Of the 40 awardees, 36 members were to be presented their medals in person. A few had to opt for a later date for their medals, due to health and scheduling concerns. 

Cypress Hills MLA, Doug Steele, was proud of these citizens and the commendation they had earned themselves.

"It's amazing but that's the backbone and foundation of rural Saskatchewan, volunteers and working together," said Steele. "I'm so proud to be the representative for these folks. [I would like to thank them] for everything they've done and they've set a great example for the younger community members to see how important it is to volunteer and work together."

Various categories such as Agriculture, Education, Philanthropy, Reconciliation, Sport, Arts, Environment, Politics, Religion, Volunteer Services, Business/Commerce, Health Care, Military, Science, Communication, Law, Protective Services, and Social Services, were available for nominees to be awarded under.

His Honour the Honourable Russ Mirasty, lieutenant governor of Saskatchewan, hopes that these awards will inspire future generations to donate their time and energy to their communities, seeing that it doesn't go unnoticed.

"I've always believed that it's up to each of us to contribute in some way that makes our communities better," said Mirasty. "And when others see the recipients being recognized, I think it's a motivator."

After the awards were handed out, folks were invited to mix and mingle, while enjoying baked goods and refreshments. 

With the recent passing of her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the Platinum Jubilee Medals gain a more significant role, as the final jubilee awards presented in her name. 

"In terms of the medals, I think it really gives them more meaning because they then become truly commemorative medals in recognition of her service," said Mirasty. "But at the same time, recognizing what people have contributed to their community."

Elizabeth II made more trips to Canada than any other Commonwealth nation, with 22 official tours of the nation. 

Of those 22 visits, six were made to Saskatchewan, with her first trip to the province taking place prior to her assuming the throne when she was still Princess and the heir presumptive. During that first trip, she visited Swift Current, Regina, Moose Jaw, and Saskatoon.

The medal itself is made of copper, coated in nickel. It is 32mm in diameter, with two faces. The first face depicts her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, and the second bears the Saskatchewan Shield of Arms. Inscribed upon the front, with Her Majesty, is the phrase "VIVAT REGINA" meaning "Long live The Queen". 

A full list of those that won the awards will be provided once made available.