Bay Roberts fire brigade welcomes seven more volunteers

By Craig Westcott

The Bay Roberts Volunteer Fire Department will hold a firefighters ball this year, the first since the longstanding tradition was extinguished at the start of the Covid-19 pandemic in early 2020.

That was the word from councillor Dean Franey, who is not only council’s liaison with the department, but a volunteer firefighter himself.

Franey said the event is set for April 13 at the Royal Canadian Legion.

Meanwhile, the department held its annual general meeting and election of officers on January 29. 

“So, thank you to the mayor and deputy mayor for coming along,” Franey said. “They also helped with the election process.”

Seven positions were filled during the election. Glen Bradbury was elected as Assistant Chief, while Ab Norman, Andrew Dawe, Doug Mercer and Franey were elected as captains. Brian Thompson was named chief operator, while Michael Smith was declared executive-secretary. The terms are for two years.

Some of the volunteer firefighters were involved in joint training exercises recently with local Search and Rescue volunteers in how to best handle cold water and ice rescues.

Franey concluded his report by asking residents to keep their hydrants clear of snow if they can. “It would be a great help to keep your hydrant clear, if possible,” he said. “It could save a few seconds if we’re needed.”

Mayor Walter Yetman said it was a privilege to attend the AGM.

“It was a great meeting, a great election and everything went really well,” he said. “And I think you welcomed seven new members… So, congratulations to the new members of the Bay Roberts Fire Rescue (Department), thank you for contributing to the town and its residents. It’s a great volunteer service, and we wish you all the best.”