The Mayor of Portugal Cove-St. Philip’s is praising the former chief of their volunteer fire department as he retires after a 50 year career.

Dave Bartlett says chief Fred Hollett’s career in fire and emergency services dates back to the 1970s. He joined the town’s fire department in 2014.

Bartlett says they have been “deeply honoured” to have his expertise and comradery on their side.

The mayor says Hollett’s knowledge was on full display during the fire at Landings Restaurant earlier this year, saying that it was “so well organized.” He states that Hollett has seen so much that he knows what to expect in those situations.

Former deputy fire chief Terry Scott has been appointed as the new fire chief.