New Coombs-Hilliers Volunteer Fire Department chief Enzo Calla (left) officially receives command of the department from the retired Ron Schildroth (right). (Image Credit: RDN)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

changing of the guard

New chief & fire truck opening new era for Coombs-Hillier fire department

Jan 18, 2026 | 9:02 AM

COOMBS — A new fire chief and a new fire engine are ushering in a period of transition and investment for the Coombs-Hilliers Volunteer Fire Department.

The Regional District of Nanaimo has appointed Enzo Calla as the department’s new fire chief following the retirement of longtime chief Ron Schildroth.

Calla brings more than 30 years of experience in fire services and emergency management, along with extensive training in operations, planning, public education, policy and fire codes in B.C.

“As the Fire Chief of the Coombs-Hilliers Volunteer Fire Department, I am honored to have the opportunity to serve and contribute to the community I now call home. Starting my new role alongside the arrival of our new fire truck makes this particularly meaningful. The introduction of this truck represents a major advancement for our department.”

The 2025 Fort Garry fire engine, being put into service later this month, replaces a 2004 model which reached the end of its operational life.

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The custom-built truck cost approximately $1.24 million, funded through a mix of reserves, short-term borrowing, and Community Works Funds provided by the province.

Designed to meet the demands of rural firefighting, the engine features a 1,000-gallon water tank, a 1,500-gallon-per-minute pump, an automatic foam system, and seating for six firefighters.

“It provides our firefighters with state-of-the-art equipment, enabling us to respond to fires and other emergencies with greater efficiency and effectiveness,” Calla said.

RDN Chief Administrative Officer Douglas Holmes said Schildroth’s leadership left a lasting mark on the department and the community.

“Through his exemplary leadership, Chief Schildroth has made a significant and lasting impact on the safety and well-being of local residents,” Holmes said, adding Calla is well positioned to lead the department into the future.

The engine is expected to serve the Coombs-Hilliers area and neighbouring mutual-aid communities for the next 20 to 25 years.

Outgoing chief Schildroth was celebrated as someone who gave “dedicated service and unwavering commitment” to the department over a lengthy career.

“Through his exemplary leadership, Chief Schildroth has made a significant and lasting impact on the safety and well-being of local residents. As he enters retirement, we wish him all the best,” Douglas Holmes, RDN CAO, said in a statement.

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