The District of Sooke has appointed Russ Cameron as interim fire chief.
Cameron replaces Steve Sorensen, who retired after a 36-year career.
Cameron began firefighting at the age of 18 as a volunteer firefighter in Colwood. He continued as a volunteer in Colwood, while working as a crash and fire rescue specialist for the Ministry of Transportation at the Victoria Airport.
He next took a career position with Colwood Fire Rescue, eventually advancing and serving as Colwood’s longest serving fire chief (almost 25 years).
While holding the position of fire chief in Colwood, Cameron became well known locally and across the province.
“Change is a normal and natural part of any organization, and after the well-deserved retirement of our previous long-term Fire Chief, it was important to have someone with considerable experience to guide the fire department during this transition,” said Teresa Sullivan, Sooke chief administrative officer.
Cameron begins his new duties Aug. 8.
The district has begun a nationwide search for a new fire chief.