Member of the Order of Canada
- Awarded on: November 19, 2018
- Invested on: March 14, 2019
Austin Hilliard Hunt, C.M.
Kagawong, Ontario
Austin Hunt has dedicated his life to public service. He began his political career as the campaign manager and official agent of former prime minister Lester B. Pearson, before turning his interest to provincial and municipal governance on Manitoulin Island. As mayor of Billings Township for over five decades, he became the longest-serving elected official in Canada. To this day, he continues to serve as a role model to youth who are eager to get involved in politics and governance at all levels.