Kristin Hayward, assistant deputy minister for the Manitoba Wildfire Service, and Christine Stevens, assistant deputy minister for the Manitoba Emergency Management Organization, appear during a news conference in Winnipeg on May 14, 2025. (CHRISD.CA FILE)
Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew has presented the Order of the Buffalo Hunt to two provincial leaders for their roles in managing the province’s severe 2025 wildfire season.
Presented on Thursday during a ceremony at the legislature, it’s one of Manitoba’s highest honours to be bestowed on an individual.
Kristin Hayward, assistant deputy minister for the Manitoba Wildfire Service, and Christine Stevens, assistant deputy minister for the Manitoba Emergency Management Organization, were recognized for their leadership and dedication during one of the most challenging wildfire seasons in recent memory.
“From the first sparks to the continuing fight against wildfires, these Manitoba heroes worked around the clock to protect communities, homes and lives,” Kinew said in a statement.
“I want to thank every firefighter, every emergency worker, and every volunteer who stood on the front lines and behind the scenes. Manitobans can take pride in knowing when disaster strikes, we have people of extraordinary skill and heart answering the call.”
Established in 1957, the Order of the Buffalo Hunt recognizes outstanding contributions to Manitoba. Recent recipients include first responders from the Carberry bus tragedy and the École Secondaire Neelin High School attack.
Watch Thursday’s news conference:
