On Saturday evening, onlookers for the Canada Day fireworks may have noticed a show longer than usual.
“It’s the biggest show we’ve ever done,” said Jim Martin, long-time volunteer fireworks crew member.
Nearly $10,000 was spent for Saturday’s fireworks with primary funding coming from Heritage Canada and a top up from the Port of Prince Rupert, and support from Bandstra Transportation Systems Ltd and Wainwright Marine.
Two trailers were loaded onto a barge and towed out into the harbour, while residents viewed the show from Mariner’s Park starting at 11:10 p.m. when the sky was dark enough.
After the show, Martin checked for any duds and when all was clear the Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue station picked him up. Martin estimated 95 per cent of the fireworks went off without a hitch.
Mark Robinson, a 15-year-volunteer with the fireworks crew said he does it for the enjoyment.
“It’s just a fun way to play with fireworks,” he said, “and be legal.”
Martin reflected on the changes, which have occurred over the decades he’s volunteered.
“When we started doing this, we had metal tubes buried in barrels,” Martin said comparing the past to the new wireless firing system, “we were dropping in the bombs and lighting them with flares.”
Martin added that the group is always looking for new volunteers to be trained.
