MPP Mike Harris presents Walter Ostanek with the King Charles III Coronation Medal
October 14, 2025
This prestigious honour recognizes individuals who have made a profound and lasting contribution to Ontario and to Canada.
KITCHENER — Minister of Natural Resources and Member of Provincial Parliament for Kitchener–Conestoga, joined Walter Ostanek at the official Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest Keg Tapping Ceremony on Friday, October 10, 2025 to present him with the King Charles III Coronation Medal.
Recipients of the medal have made a significant contribution to Canada and to Ontario, and are selected for their long service and good conduct as a volunteer or member of an organization; for having demonstrated high professionalism; and for performing a deed or activity that brings great credit to Canada.
“It is my pleasure to present Walter with the King Charles III Coronation Medal,” said Mike Harris, MPP for Kitchener–Conestoga. “Walter’s incredible talent and dedication have brought joy to generations of music lovers. He has proudly contributed to the spirit of this community and has helped make Waterloo Region synonymous with great music and celebration.”
Known as Canada’s Polka King, Walter Ostanek is a three-time Grammy Award winner and one of the most influential figures in Canadian music. Over his remarkable career, Walter has recorded more than 50 albums, entertained audiences internationally, and helped define the cultural spirit of the Kitchener-Waterloo region.
A lifelong ambassador for Oktoberfest and for the rich cultural traditions of this community, Walter’s music has connected generations and brought people together through the joy of polka. His passion and legacy continue to inspire artists and audiences alike.
QUICK FACTS
- The Coronation Medal was created to mark the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III, which took place on May 6, 2023. It is the first Canadian commemorative medal to mark a coronation.
- The Office of the Secretary to the Governor General administers the King Charles III Coronation Medal Program in Canada.
- The medal will be awarded to 30,000 deserving individuals across the country.
- To be eligible for this honour, the recipient must have made a significant contribution to Canada or to a particular province, territory, region of, or community in, Canada, or attained an outstanding achievement abroad that brings credit to Canada.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES