Chilliwack Search and Rescue takes home top emergency service prize

It was an exciting evening for the Chilliwack Search and Rescue (SAR) team when they took home the Rescue and Emergency Support Services award at the Land Rover Defender Service Awards gala in California. The team narrowly edged out the Pemberton SAR for the top spot.

The award comes with a coveted prize: a brand-new Land Rover Defender 130 for operations—Chilliwack SAR says this will be used to improve response capabilities “at home and while providing mutual aid to neighbouring areas”—and $30,000 USD to buy vital equipment for rescue missions.

Chilliwack SAR is 100% volunteer-led, providing lifesaving services year round in the area, which has become increasingly busy as the population continues to boom. The organization says it serves areas that “traditional emergency services” can’t go.

The city was the second fastest-growing centre in Canada, with a population that rose 10% between 2016 and 2022. Many flock to the BC town for access to nature and backcountry spots. Chilliwack SAR says it operates in one of the busiest outdoor recreational areas in Canada.

The organization was one of three B.C. search and rescue groups (including Pemberton and Sunshine Coast) to make it to the final round, with two U.S. organizations alongside them.

The Chilliwack team began appealing for the community’s help with votes in October and it shared a video of the gleeful moment when they won the award last week. The video has hundreds of responses, with multiple commenters saying they voted everyday. 

“This win is your win,” Chilliwack SAR wrote in a social media post. “We asked for your votes and the overwhelming support from our community was inspiring. 

“If you ever need emergency help, this Defender will now roll up with eight of our volunteer members to provide life saving supports where and when you need them most.”