Juan de Fuca SAR lead earns B.C. medal for heart, vision and resilience

Victoria Clarke, a Saanich resident and coordinator of Juan de Fuca Search and Rescue, was awarded the 2025 British Columbia Medal of Good Citizenship. Since taking the helm in 2022 she has led what the article calls a thriving, high-performing team of 40 volunteers, boosting member retention to 91 per cent, leading more than 70 calls and 225 training events and contributing more than 2,600 volunteer hours in the role. The provincial citation reads: "Victoria revitalized specialty teams, enhanced training standards, and introduced wellness programs that strengthened team cohesion and readiness. Known for her compassion, she often goes above and beyond - like staying up all night to support a distressed hiker in 2024." She is credited with building strong relationships with First Nations and emergency partners. In the team's own words: "Our fearless (and humble!) leader ... SAR calls don't come at convenient times - they happen during Sunday dinners, at 2 a.m., or in the pouring rain. Victoria is always among the first out the door with her pack, ready to serve and lead."