Gravenhurst Volunteer Fire Department

Our two latest apparatus for the department's fleet were officially unveiled to the public on Wednesday, June 24th. Firefighters, their family's, friends and members of the public joined us as we held a Commisioning and Dedication Ceremony. Chaplain, Rev., Dr. James Sitler, led those assembled to hope that these apparatus would never need to be used, and if they should, that those who respond on them will arrive and returm safe and sound.In typical tradition the new trucks were "rolled out" for all to see and admire what they're tax dollars have purchased. Unit One is a 2008 Pierce Saber Engine which will be used to fight fires

from Station One. And Unit Eight is a 2009 Pierce Saber Water Tanker which will see service throughout the community from Station One.

Above, Unit One and Unit Eight are "rolled out" officially for the first time.

Left, LtoR, Fire Chief Lorne McNeice and Deputy Chief John Black watch as Department Chaplain Jim Sitler unveils the new trucks.

A fire at a home on Ben Lake Road completely destroyed the log structure on May 31st. Gravenhurst firefighters received the call for a fire in the roof of the home just before 9 p.m. On arrival, pictures below, firefighters found the home completely engulfed in flames. The lone occupant was able to escape the house in time with no injuries. However, two firefighters received minor injuries battling the blaze. Photos by Eric Reilly.

Gravenhurst Firefighters were honoured by the province for volunteering in their community during a ceremony at Huntsville on May 21st. The awards included pins and certificates recognizing five, ten, fifteen and twenty years of volunteer service. Left to Right Firefighter Rory Goddard, M.P.P. Norm Miller, Fire Prevention Officer Robert King, Firefighters Rick Smith and Don Turner, Captains Chris Allen and Jason Jongen, Training Officer Tracy Jocque and Firefighter Chris Tryon. Also receiving awards, but not present at the ceremony because they were stationed protecting the Town were John Reardon, John Black, Ian Graydon, Gord Kuzniak, Bill Nelson, Paul Rubinato, and Scott Schamehorn.

Every year our firefighters gather to recognize the contribution their spouses and significant others make to the department. The department's Spouse Appreciation Dinner and Dance is a chance for the firefighters to say thanks for putting up with us as we perform our jobs as volunteer firefighters. For 51 years the "Annual" has become the spring social event of the department. This year's version was held on May 23rd at the local Royal Canadian Legion Branch. The Legion Auxiliary put on another great roast beef dinner with all the fixings, and after a few special presentations, the members and their spouses danced the night away.

The spouses, friends and special guests gather for a group picture at this year's "Annual."