Location
Port Alberni
Established
1992
Current Photo
Crew History
The Thunderbird Unit Crew acknowledges that they operate on the unceded territory of the Nuu-Chah-Nulth, the traditional home of the Tseshaht and Hupačasath First Nations. Established in 1992 as a First Nations Crew, the Thunderbirds honour the original crew’s legacy to this day. To be a Thunderbird is to be dedicated to community, service, and ownership. The crew prioritizes relationship development, meaningful training, and project work in their communities
In 1991, the Nuu-Chah-Nulth Tribal Council (NTC) and Ministry of Forests and Range (MOFR) planned to develop a 20-person First Nations firefighting crew in Port Alberni. Their joint goal was to provide equal opportunities for young members of the local Indigenous communities to gain experience in forestry and firefighting. The Coastal Fire Centre recruited members from the Nuu-Chah-Nulth Nation to form the first Thunderbird Unit Crew in 1992. Many inaugural crew members felt the work was an extension of their Nations’ stewardship of their forests.
The Thunderbird Unit Crew is fortunate to train in the technical terrain and forests of Vancouver Island. They respond to local incidents and travel off-Island and across the province each summer. Life on a Unit Crew can be challenging but comes with a great deal of pride and accomplishment. Through teamwork and camaraderie, the crew members support each other in this demanding work season after season.
Patches
The Thunderbird Unit Crew logo was designed by Eugine Antoine, an original Thunderbird crew member and local Indigenous artist. The Thunderbird symbolizes power and strength and is an important part of the Nuu-Chah-Nulth Nation’s history. The Thunderbird patch is proudly displayed on the crew’s uniforms and vehicles, in honour of the crew’s origins and traditions.
Crew Supervisor
E. Van Jarrett – 2022 – Current
S. Siddall – 2020 – 2021
T. Ruel – 2017 – 2019
S. McKay – 2015 – 2017
T. Crosby – 2012 – 2014
C. Spronken – 2009 – 2012
D. Neuwirth – 2003 – 2008
W. Lauder – 1997 – 2002
J. Ballantyne – 1996
W. Lauder – 1993 – 1995
W. Robinson – 1992
News Articles
Thunderbirds firefighters tackle any emergency | Ammsa.com
For updates to this page please contact fireinfo@gov.bc.ca.