Municipal Awards

With a relentless work ethic and unwavering dedication Gavin Baggs is an unstoppable multi-sport athlete who claimed national silver in both para hockey and track, made his international debut with Team Canada’s Para Hockey team in 2024, and scored a goal to send Team Ontario to the national finals. He is a leader in every way - musical theatre, coaching, volunteering, and student council. 

Avery Durdle's baseball season was nothing short of remarkable. She struck out 10 batters at Nationals, went a perfect 10-for-10 at the plate during the NL Summer Games, and led her team to gold—all while competing above her age group on the U21 team and other elite provincial and national teams. As captain of Paradise Intermediate, Avery guided her team to a Tier 2 championship, showcasing her leadership and impact. Off the field, she mentors young girls in baseball, inspiring the next generation.

Female Athlete of the Year - Lisa Froude

Lisa Froude is considered a powerhouse. As a champion powerlifter, she’s earned four provincial golds, a regional silver, and national bronze. She competes with Team NL and Team Canada, all while raising three kids, working with NL Health Services, and volunteering with the Paradise Centennial Lions Club. Now a member of Canada’s national bench press team, Lisa will represent the country on the world stage in Norway. She’s not just one of the best in the province—she’s one of the best in the world.

Coach of the Year - Steve Nolan

Steve Nolan has shown exceptional leadership, passion, and expertise in the sport of trampoline—guiding athletes from the pre-competitive level all the way to the national stage. In 2024, the athletes he coached delivered outstanding results, including podium finishes at some of Canada’s most prestigious competitions. A respected figure in the trampoline community, Steve is known not only for his coaching success, but also for his generosity—mentoring fellow coaches and helping shape the next generation of talent. His commitment to excellence, ability to inspire, and relentless support of his athletes truly set him apart.

This year’s Youth of the Year leads by example—on the ice, in the classroom, and throughout her community. A decorated skater with provincial and Atlantic titles, she also excels academically, earning science fair awards and a Memorial University Scholarship. A driven and compassionate role model, Norah coaches young skaters, volunteers, tutors, and serves on school leadership groups with professionalism, positivity, and heart.

There are those who talk and those who do—and Judy Sparkes is the rare kind who does both. A proud veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces and a devoted member of the Paradise Centennial Lions Club, she brings heart, leadership, and action to everything she touches. She founded the Circle of Life / Little Lions Program to connect seniors with new moms and babies, co-coordinates Healing Rhythms for Veterans, and volunteers tirelessly for programs like Ronald McDonald House’s “Home for Dinner” and the School Breakfast Program. Judy is known for using her community connections to create lasting partnerships and for always being the first to lend a hand.

Judy Sparkes is filled with compassion at her core, she finds ways—big and small—to make others feel seen, supported, and connected. Whether she's preparing meals, uplifting and supporting veterans, or creating meaningful moments between generations, her efforts strengthen the very fabric of Paradise. Judy is a proud veteran, Lions Club member, and a true community builder.

The Paradise Centennial Lions Club truly lives the motto "We Serve". Whether the Town, a resident or community group needs a helping hand, this group is quick to provide assistance either financially or in the form of manual labour. The group is devoted to the community it serves and always leads by example. From their School Breakfast Programs, their advocacy to create meaningful relationships between youth and seniors, and their Healing Rhythms for Veterans’ programs, the Paradise Centennial Lions Club goes go above and beyond to make sure people stay connected.

Banished Brewing has become a true hub for the Town—bringing people together and fostering a spirit of inclusivity. This year, they doubled production of their finest brews, hosted over 35 events, and were named the exclusive brewer of the 2025 Canada Games, complete with a unique can design. They launched a new line of seltzers and now supply across Alberta, British Columbia, Saskatchewan, and Atlantic Canada. Focused on giving back, Banished Brewing supported over 50 sports teams, including their annual “Paddles Up” brew with the Avalon Dragons, donating 50 cents from every can sold. Their lively events and community spirit keep Paradise vibrant year-round.

CakeyHand Desserts has achieved so much in just five years. They have grown from a single table at a local market to two storefronts, a popular food court booth, and a vending machine that rarely stays stocked. Their delicious, creative desserts have become a beloved treat. With just 12 employees, they’ve proven what’s possible through creativity, resilience, and customer-first innovation. As new Canadians, they’ve built a thriving brand while raising a young family—an inspiring story of leadership, determination, and heart.

Score (Canada) Ltd had an outstanding year, marked by bold innovation, strategic growth, and community leadership. The company expanded its emissions elimination capabilities and, internally, introduced Long Service Awards to honour employee dedication. They embraced cutting-edge digital transformation, advanced technologies, and have implemented in-house training rooted in global expertise, building a more agile, data-driven business model. Their ability to adapt during global challenges. demonstrates their resilience and commitment to safety, performance, and people. Score (Canada) Ltd has not only elevated service in Newfoundland & Labrador but have become ambassadors within their sector. Their forward-thinking approach and deep-rooted community impact make them a true leader in their field.