Black Lake Denesuline Nation Fire Crew earns fourth place finish at National First Nations Firefighter Competition
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The 2025 Indigenous Public Safety Conference was in Calgary over the course of October 21-24, and it was there that the Black Lake Denesuline Nation Fire Crew competed in the 36th Annual National First Nations Firefighter Competition. The team of six firefighters had to compete in four different events, and earned a fourth place finish.
The team of Ian Donard, Darco Donard, Aaron Bouvier, Darwin Bouvier, Eddie Boneleye, and Dorion Medal represented their home community as well as all of Northern Saskatchewan at the competition against teams from all over Canada.
“This team has shown what it means to be Northern Strong,” said Grand Chief Brian Hardlotte of the Prince Albert Grand Council in a statement. “Their effort, discipline, and determination reflect the professionalism and commitment of First Nations firefighters across Saskatchewan. They have made Black Lake, Treaty Eight Territory, and all of Northern Saskatchewan proud.”
The championships consisted of four different events that tested them in different aspects of firefighting. The first three events saw them carrying heavy hoses to simulate removal the fuel from an active fire, spraying targets to simulate hitting active hotspots, and working together to wind a hose through obstacles to reach the fire.
