Best of Torbay Awards | Town of Torbay

The Best of Torbay Awards celebrate the achievements of local businesses, entrepreneurs, volunteers and individuals that go above and beyond in our Town each and every day! Nominations are now open online at torbay.ca or in person at the Torbay Common or Town Hall starting February 13, 2026!

Online nominations will be accepted via email at recreation@torbay.ca or info@torbay.ca with completed forms attached by nominators, or in person at the Town Hall or Torbay Common. Nominations will be accepted between February 13 and March 6. The deadline for nominations for the Chief McGrath Award is April 2.

The list of awards include the following:

Business of the Year Award

The Business of the Year award is given to the Business that exemplifies an all-round excellence in business as well as a significant contribution to the community.

Ward Gosse Coach of the Year Award

The Ward Gosse Coach of the Year award for the Town of Torbay is given to an individual that has made a significant impact in a specific sport or activity in the community. This award is dedicated in memory of our dear friend and colleague: Councillor Ward Gosse. Ward’s passion for participation in sport and community was one that was admirable by all of those who knew him.

Chief McGrath Award

The Towns of Torbay and Flatrock in partnership with the Torbay Volunteer Fire Department are now accepting applications for the 2026 Chief McGrath Award.

This award will be presented to one student in elementary, junior high, and high school who is either a resident of Torbay or Flatrock that best exhibit characteristics of leadership, commitment, community involvement, dedication and selflessness, while also being involved with various community groups and devoting time to volunteer initiatives.

Winners will be selected by a judging committee comprised of individuals outside of the Town of Torbay and Town of Flatrock staff, and Torbay Volunteer Fire Department. Successful recipients will receive a personalized plaque and a cash reward of $100 (elementary and junior high) or $250 (high school). Additionally, recipients will have their name added to the plaque of future and previous recipients that will be displayed during the event. Please note that any residents of the towns of Torbay and Flatrock are eligible for this award and does not have to attend one of the local schools within the area (Cape St. Francis Elementary, Holy Trinity Elementary, Juniper Ridge Intermediate, Holy Trinity High).

If you or someone you know are interested in nominating an individual for this award, you are encouraged to review the qualifications and complete the nomination package for the appropriate grade level.

Deadline for submission for the Chief McGrath Award is Thursday, April 2, 2026 and can be submitted by email to:

Kellie Tapper (Town of Torbay) – ktapper@torbay.ca
Stephanie Murray (Town of Flatrock) – stephanie@townofflatrock.com

Grades 4-6 Qualifications

Grades 7-9 Qualifications

Grades 10-12 Qualifications

Grades 4-6 Application Chief Mcgrath Award 2026

Grades 7-9 Application Chief Mcgrath Award 2026

Grades 10-12 Application Chief Mcgrath Award 2026

Customer Commitment Award

The Customer Commitment Award is given to the Business that delivers consistent, superior, customer service and commitment to their patrons.

Economic Impact Award

The Economic Impact Award is given to the Business that is viewed as an economic driver within the community through its sustainable approach to business, as well as investment in the Community that has significant positive impact on the economy of Torbay.

Lifetime Achievement Award

The Lifetime Achievement Award for the Town of Torbay is given to an individual that has made significant contributions to a business, non-profit organization, cause or community.

New / Emerging Business Award

The New/Emerging Business Award is given to a business that has been in operation for more than 1 year and less than 3 years, has made a significant impact on the community, and shows promise to continue its success in the future.

Senior of the Year Award

The Senior of the Year Award is given to an individual over the age of 60 that has made significant contributions to the Town of Torbay through service to the community, community social involvement, community pride, etc.

Volunteer of the Year

The Volunteer of the Year award is given to an individual that has made significant contributions to offering a service and/or increasing the quality of life for residents of Torbay through sport, recreation, charitable causes, social activities, etc.

Volunteer Group of the Year

The Volunteer Group of the Year Award is given to a group who has made significant contributions to offering a service and/or increasing the quality of life for residents of Torbay through sport, recreation, charitable causes, social activities, etc.

Young Entrepreneur Award

The Young Entrepreneur award is given to an individual under the age of 35 that has made a significant impact on the community with regards to business success and contribution to community events.