Altona resident Callum Morrison has always been a passionate advocate for community service. His dedication was recently recognized with the King Charles III Coronation Medal, an honor bestowed upon him for his extensive contributions to the Altona community, particularly in supporting newcomers.
Originally from Dundee, Scotland, Morrison has called Altona home since 2017. His passion for service stems from his own experience as an immigrant. Over the years, he has played a key role in various initiatives, including fundraising for Ukrainian emergency response efforts, singing at community events and care homes, and organizing celebrations for significant royal milestones.
“If everyone does little things, it adds up to a big thing. I’m just one of many people in Altona who has been helping newcomers,” Morrison said. “Altona is a deeply welcoming, wonderful place.”
Since 2018, he has volunteered with English Café, a program that helps newcomers practice English in an informal setting.
“It’s really fun, so it doesn’t feel like volunteering,” Morrison said. “It’s not just building English; it’s building a sense of community.”
A member of the Monarchist League of Canada, Morrison’s admiration for the monarchy is deeply rooted in his upbringing. Growing up in Scotland, he lived just ten miles from Glamis Castle, the birthplace of the Queen Mother. His connection to the royal family became personal when he met King Charles twice.
“The first time, it was just him,” Morrison recalled. “I was hiking with my dad and a friend. We chatted for about 20 minutes. That was fantastic. We even talked a little about agriculture. It was nice to see how personable he is.”
Since moving to Canada, Morrison has embraced his new home with enthusiasm. He has organized events celebrating the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee and the King’s coronation, partnering with the Pembina Valley Local Immigration Partnership to foster cultural connections.
“A few times a year, I’m also out at the Brandon Legion and 26th Field Artillery fundraising events,” Morrison shared. “And I’ve been singing at various community events for years. During COVID, so many people missed out on entertainment. Now, everywhere I travel, I always try to find a care home to perform for. I’ve always found that very fun.”
His performances, often featuring Scottish traditional songs, allow him to share his heritage while connecting with others.
Morrison is one of 30,000 Canadians to receive the coronation medal. He views the honour as a testament to the power of collective service.
“For every person that’s recognized, there are hundreds who aren’t,” he said. “I think they’ve done a good job ensuring these medals represent every walk of life. You’re making the Crown and Canada’s honour system relatable to people.”
The award was created to acknowledge grassroots contributions, ensuring everyday community builders receive recognition.
“It is a wonderful thing that Canada does,” Morrison said. “There will always be lots of people who have been doing wonderful things for years, recognized by these medals. You may not be a world-class name, but it’s people like them that make society function.”
Receiving the medal is a moment of great pride for Morrison, but above all, he sees it as a reflection of the values he holds dear.
“I’ve always had a deep respect for the royal family, particularly His Majesty King Charles. To receive this medal in his name is a privilege beyond words. It’s a reminder of the value of service, commitment, and unity that the Crown provides, and really, that Canada as a whole values. I’m grateful to be part of something greater than myself.”
