The Gillies Bay Volunteer Fire Department has been an important part of community life on Texada Island for generations. The department serves Gillies Bay and the surrounding fire protection area that includes the airport, the Oasis, Shelter Point Campground and Shelter Point Road. Today, the fire district serves approximately 1,000 residents, including both year-round and seasonal residents.

Map of Gillies Bay Fire District Boundaries

Fire protection in Gillies Bay is closely connected to the Gillies Bay Improvement District (GBID), which was established in 1963. GBID provides fire protection as well as water and street-lighting services to the community.

Over the years, the Gillies Bay Volunteer Fire Department has been built around the dedication of local volunteers who have responded to fires, emergencies and other community needs, reflecting the continuing evolution of fire protection services in the community. The department was organized in 1977, shortly after Texada Mines closed it’s doors. Prior to that, fire protection was provided by the mine.

The department has continued to modernize its equipment, training and emergency capabilities while maintaining its volunteer tradition. It works closely with the Van Anda Volunteer Fire Department, with firefighters from both departments regularly training and responding together. The two departments are also members of the Texada Volunteer Firefighters Association, which supports island-wide fundraising, training and equipment initiatives.

Today, the Gillies Bay Volunteer Fire Department remains a vital community service. Its volunteers continue the long-standing Texada Island tradition of neighbours helping neighbours.

Join Our Firefighting Family!

The Gillies Bay Volunteer Fire Department is looking for reliable, enthusiastic community members to join our team!

No experience is necessary. We provide training in fire suppression, first aid, air brake endorsement, forestry tactics, traffic control, equipment maintenance, safety, incident command, community relations and more.

Volunteer firefighters may also be eligible for a $3,000 annual federal volunteer firefighters’ tax credit.

We don’t need superheroes—we need dedicated people who are willing to help their neighbours and contribute to our community. If you’re interested, drop by the fire hall at 6:30 on a Monday night practice and see what we’re all about!

For more information, contact Fire Chief Dave Beech at 604-414-5121 or email chief@gilliesbayvfd.ca

Come join the team. Your community needs you!