IN THE LEDGE – A tribute to retiring broadcast journalist Doug Collins

Comments by Kamloops-South Thompson MLA Todd Stone in the B.C. Legislature on Monday, Nov. 1, 2021:

T. Stone: A strong and independent news media is essential for the protection of our democracy and its institutions. Over the years, Kamloops has been blessed by having some of the best in news journalism.

But as time marches on, more and more of those who tell the important stories of our days, weeks and years are looking fondly towards retirement, and “I had a pretty good run because of a great team.” These are the selfless words of Doug Collins, who recently made the decision to step away from the career he loved.

Doug leaves broadcasting after a 55-year run with 51 of those unforgettable and rewarding years with the same company that is now known as Jim Pattison Media. Over five-plus decades, Doug did it all, from reporting and anchoring to senior management.

In the last half-century, Doug has had a front-row seat to historic news events in Kamloops and area, like the devastating flood of 1972, coincidently the year that I was born, to the equally devastating forest fires and, of course, a few political controversies over the years.

However, never one to put himself first, Doug will tell you that his greatest pride in over 50 years in broadcasting were the people who came through CFJC as they worked toward advancing their own careers in radio and television.

CFJC’s James Peters summed it up well when he said this. “Like dozens, maybe hundreds of great journalists and broadcasters over the past half-century, I literally owe my career to Doug Collins. I could not have asked for a better mentor and boss.”

Active in the community in several roles, including coaching baseball and football, Doug’s contributions were recognized by the city of Kamloops in 2019 when he received the Freedom of the City. He was also named Broadcaster of the Year by the B.C. Association of Broadcasters in 2009, and he holds a well-earned lifetime achievement award from the Radio and Television Newsdirectors Association.

Despite telling it like it was in 40 years of radio editorials, which often sparked hot debate, Doug always maintained his reputation for compassion, integrity and standing by his principles, and I can assure this House that this is far from just one man’s opinion.

Source: B.C. Hansard.