Special Guests

Conservation Dinner special guests over the years

For many years, the Conservation Dinner had a Master of Ceremonies (emcee) and/or special guest – although the Dinner Committee has not named an official ‘special guest’ in recent years, we thank all the people who served in this role over the years:

  • 2015 – Bob Tanner, Lions Club Multiple District A Council Chair
  • 2014 – Charles Corbett (Ausable Bayfield Conservation Foundation) and John Norris (Exeter Lions Club), Honourary Chairs
  • 2013 – Peter Smith, Acting Artistic Director, Blyth Festival
  • 2012 – Doug Brooks, CEO of Certified General Accountants of Ontario
  • 2011 – Terry O’Rourke, parent of a modern-day Canadian veteran
  • 2010 – Kristylee Varley, radio broadcaster and volunteer with Canadian Aid for Southern Sudan
  • 2009 – John A. MacNaughton, Canadian business leader and Order of Canada recipient
  • 2008 – Scott Miller, Television broadcaster
  • 2007 – John Davidson, Founder of Jesse’s Journey
  • 2006 – Randy Tieman, CTV sportscaster
  • 2005 – Nick Paparella, Television journalist
  • 2004 – Kate Young, Former television anchor
  • 2003 – Stephanie Mandziuk, Print and broadcast journalist
  • 2002 – Bill Brady, Radio host and newspaper columnist
  • 2001 – Suzy Burge, TV weather forecaster
  • 2000 – Gordon Cudmore, London lawyer
  • 1999 – Hugh Filson, Auctioneer
  • 1998 – Jack Riddell, Former Ontario Minister of Agriculture
  • 1997 – Peter Garland, Radio host
  • 1996 – Jay Campbell, Television broadcaster and meteorologist
  • 1995 – Cliff Maxwell, St. Thomas businessperson and musician
  • 1994 – Jay Campbell, Television broadcaster and meteorologist
  • 1993 – Bob Heywood, Auctioneer
  • 1992 – Jack Riddell, Former Ontario Minister of Agriculture
  • 1991 – Bruce Murray, humourist
  • 1990 – Bill Lanouette, of Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters

The charity gala dinner and auction has featured more than 20 special guests (emcees/hosts) since it began in 1990.