The Bell Island Expedition has been named Expedition of the Year by The Royal Canadian Geographical Society (RCGS). The organization is dedicated to promoting and enhancing public awareness for Canadian geography, and to strengthening the bond between Canadians and their diverse and vast geographical heritage.

As one of Canada’s oldest and largest educational, non-profit organizations, the RCGS, and its iconic publication, Canadian Geographic, has been our country’s most recognized voice for connecting Canadians with the land, culture and environment in which they live.

Their education program, Canadian Geographic Education, is one of the most robust in the country. RCGS currently provides free geographic educational material and supports for over 16,000 educator-members, with our membership expanding each year.

The RCGS is Canada’s centre for exploration, funding geographic expeditions from across the country, and providing grants and scholarships for cutting edge geographical research.

Sir Christopher Ondaatje Medal for Exploration

On November 14th, 2013, Jill Heinerth was presented with the first Sir Christopher Ondaatje Medal for Exploration at the Museum of Civilization, in Ottawa, Canada. The medal was presented by President of the RCGS, Paul Ruest and Governor General David Johnston. The Royal Canadian Geographical Society is Canada’s centre for exploration, and operates an expeditions program. Founded in 1929, the Society is dedicated to promoting geographic literacy through its education program, Canadian Geographic Education, and to making Canada better known to Canadians and the world through its publications, awards, lectures and research and expedition grants.