Fort McMurray Newfoundland

In the last decade Canada has seen a migration like no other. Thousands of people from every province have moved to Alberta - to be part of an oil boom and the jobs that the industry creates.
Few provinces, however, can attest to the loss of community and family members like that of Newfoundland. The target, for many in this modern day gold rush, is Fort McMurray.


It would be almost impossible to visit this remote Alberta city without meeting someone from Newfoundland, or 'The Rock'. The distinct accent and genuine friendliness make these folks easy to find.

And meet them we did!!

From the folks who served us our first Jiggs Dinner to the bookstore that sold us our Downhome magazine...from the artist who creates images inspired by the spirit of his East Coast heritage to the music we found in a bar called Cowboys where we were part of a Sociable!

We went to Fort Mac to find the Newfoundland culture that we had heard about...contrary to all of the 'not so good stories' that are coming out of the oil patch - we are pleased to share the stories of the artists and musicians and 'Newfies' who are staying true to their roots until they can go back to 'The Rock'.

'They all go home eventually, back to the water boy.'

These stories have been compiled into a half hour DVD called 'The Spirit of the Rock - in the Patch', which will air on NTV. We had fun creating this program and we look forward to your input.

Keep watching this blog as we bring you individual stories from the 'hearty Alberta oil patch'.