Monday March 23, 2026 | VIEW ROYAL, BC
by Mary P Brooke | Island Social Trends
Fire Chief Paul Hurst has announced his upcoming retirement from the View Royal Fire Department after more than four decades of service.
He was a career firefighter starting in 1988 and was appointed Fire Chief in 2006.
His retirement will be effective October 1, 2026. That comes just over two weeks ahead of the October 17, 2026 municipal election.
Shaping fire services:
During his tenure, Chief Hurst played a key role in shaping fire services in View Royal and across the region.
He was instrumental in the development of the View Royal Public Safety Building, completed in 2015 following a nine-year process, replacing the original 1957 fire station.
Hurst also contributed to the establishment of the Westshore auto aid response model and was a strong advocate for a Greater Victoria regional fire service model.
In addition to serving the Town of View Royal, Chief Hurst also served as Fire Chief for the Songhees Nation and Esquimalt Nation, strengthening partnerships and emergency response coordination across communities.
Recognition:
Chief Hurst’s service has been recognized with numerous honours. He received the Fire Services Exemplary Service Medal from the Governor General of Canada in 2004, along with subsequent bars recognizing 30 and 40 years of service.
In 2014, he was awarded the British Columbia Fire Fighter Medal of Bravery after rescuing a young girl from a house fire.
Beyond his operational leadership, Chief Hurst has demonstrated a deep commitment to community and mental health advocacy, says the Town of View Royal in a news release today, noting Hurst’s participation in support of Wounded Warriors Canada to raise funds and awareness for first responders, veterans, and their families.
“Paul Hurst’s career reminds us of what public service is truly about. Starting at a young age, he dedicated more than 40 years to his community, not for recognition, but because it mattered,” says View Royal Mayor Sid Tobias.
“His Medal of Bravery speaks to extraordinary courage, but it is his consistency, leadership, and commitment that define his legacy. He did not just serve; he helped shape the department and those who will carry it forward. On behalf of our community, we thank Paul for his service, his courage, and the example he leaves behind,” says Tobias.
Transition:
The Town of View Royal will share more information in the coming months regarding transition plans and opportunities to recognize Chief Hurst’s service.
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