Big Lakes County Fire Services Awards Banquet

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Big Lakes County Fire Services hosted their annual Awards Banquet on Saturday, February 1st, at the Joussard Community Hall. The event saw an impressive turnout, with Big Lakes County Reeve Tyler Airth, Councillor Richard Mifflin, and MLA Scott Sinclair among those who took the stage to honor nearly 80 dedicated volunteer firefighters.

“Each of you has made an incredible commitment, not for recognition or reward, but because you care deeply about your communities and your neighbors,” said Big Lakes County Reeve Airth. “On behalf of Big Lakes County, thank you. Thank you for your service, for your sacrifices, and for showing up when it matters most. Congratulations to all the award recipients, and to every firefighter in this room – you are heroes, and we are deeply grateful for each one of you.”

In 2024, Big Lakes County Fire Services responded to over 200 emergency calls, totaling an impressive 1,500 hours of dedicated volunteer service. These calls spanned a wide range of incidents, from fires to medical emergencies, showcasing the unwavering commitment of the volunteer firefighters. Alongside their response efforts, the team also invested 3,000 hours in specialized training, ensuring that they are equipped with the knowledge and skills to handle a variety of challenging situations. This included training in areas such as Confined Space Rescue, Dangerous Goods Handling, Northern Heat Training, Air Brakes for emergency vehicles, and Critical Incident Stress Management, all of which are vital to ensuring the safety and efficiency of their operations. In addition to the ongoing dedication of the existing team, Big Lakes County Fire Services saw a boost in personnel, with 14 new volunteers joining the ranks.

Fire Chief Jason Cottingham, Deputy Fire Chief Luci Martinson, MLA Scott Sinclair, Reeve Airth, and Councillor Mifflin presented the Big Lakes County Years of Service Awards, Fire Services Exemplary Service Awards, Alberta Emergency Services Awards, and the Long Service Award.

A special moment of the evening came when Fire Chief Jason Cottingham presented the Long Service Award to Enilda District Chief Donald Bissell, recognizing his incredible 50 years of dedicated service. “For five decades, Donald has selflessly served our community, answering the call whenever it was needed, and setting a standard of dedication and courage for all who follow in his footsteps. Donald, your 50 years of service is a testament to your passion, your heart for the community, and your extraordinary work ethic. On behalf of Big Lakes County Fire Services, we extend our deepest gratitude and congratulations to you.”

Congratulations to all of this year’s award recipients. To learn more about Big Lakes County Fire Services, visit our website. 

Big Lakes County Fire Service – Years of Service Awards

5 Years

Tyler Mindel

Charlotte Cardinal

15 Years

Dustin Seghers

25 Years

Everett Samuelson

Fire Services Exemplary Service Award

20 Years

Herman Sutherland Jr.

Mykola Wedmid

Donald Bissell

Jason Cottingham

Everett Samuelson

Conrad Cardinal

Robert Nygaard

Alberta Emergency Services Awards

12 Years

Michael Zatorski

Hunter Wedmid

Avery Getz

22 Years

Conrad Cardinal

Jim Zinyk

32 Years                 

Jim Zinyk

Long Service Award- Special Presentation

50 Years

Donald Bissell  

                                        

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