Surrey, BC – April 22, 2025
By Harnaik Singh
The Surrey Police Service (SPS) ushered in a new era of leadership during a dignified and symbolic Change of Command and Colour Presentation Ceremony held on the ancestral, traditional, and unceded territories of the Coast Salish peoples.
The ceremony was presided over by Staff Sergeant Stephen Blair Hurst, who served as the Director of Ceremonies, and featured a roster of distinguished guests, symbolizing the unity of tradition, governance, and progressive policing.
Staff Sergeant Stephen Blair Hurst
Honouring the Land and Culture
The event began with an Indigenous Welcome and Blessing by Chief Harley Chappell of the Semiahmoo First Nation. Speaking both in his traditional language and English, Chief Chappell, whose traditional name is Hwip’ak’ten, expressed deep gratitude and spiritual grounding, reminding guests of the importance of cultural acknowledgment in public service transitions.
Chief Harley Chappell
Esteemed Dignitaries in Attendance
Among the honoured guests were:
- Her Honour, the Honourable Wendy Lisogar-Cocchia, 31st Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia
- Chief Harley Chappell, Surrey Police Board Chair
- Hon. Garry Begg, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General
- Deputy Commissioner Dwayne McDonald, Commanding Officer of BC RCMP
- Chief Constable Norm Lipinski, Surrey Police Service
A Moment of Transition
The centrepiece of the event was the official signing and handover ceremony, marking the formal transition of command between Deputy Commissioner Dwayne McDonald and Chief Constable Norm Lipinski. Witnessed by Minister Garry Begg and Police Board Chair Chief Harley Chappell, the signing symbolized institutional trust, mutual respect, and coordinated leadership in public safety.
A Legacy Remembered
The ceremony also paid tribute to Surrey’s law enforcement history. The SPS acknowledged the RCMP’s service from 1951 to 2024, as well as the original Surrey Police Department from 1887 to 1951. In a symbolic gesture, Chief Constable Lipinski’s badge number—22—was chosen to honour the 21 officers who served in the earlier municipal force, reaffirming continuity and reverence for those who came before.
Looking Ahead
As SPS continues its phased transition, this Change of Command marks more than just a leadership shift — it is a reaffirmation of the service’s vision for a community-first, culturally responsive, and forward-looking police force.
📺 Full Ceremony Replay Available Here:
Watch on YouTube
Media professional and journalist based in British Columbia, Canada. Founder of Studiox Film & TV Corporation, focusing on multicultural news, interviews, and community storytelling across Canada.
