Table of Contents
Heidi Petracek: A Distinguished Career in Journalism
Early Career and Diverse Experiences
- Heidi Petracek, a seasoned videojournalist based in Halifax, has made significant contributions to radio and television for over two decades. Her journey began in her home province of Saskatchewan, where she worked as a television news reporter.1
- However, her career path led her to explore opportunities in various cities such as Calgary, Toronto, Corner Brook, and St. John’s.
- Over the years, Petracek has seamlessly transitioned between roles, showcasing her versatility as a news reporter, host, producer, and writer in both radio and television.
A Versatile Communicator
- Petracek’s skill as a communicator is evident in her diverse portfolio of interviews. She has engaged with a wide array of personalities, from Academy Award winner Olympia Dukakis to Canadian rocker Kim Mitchell, baseball Hall of Famer Roberto Alomar, and Col. Chris Hadfield.
- Beyond celebrity interviews, Heidi has dedicated herself to capturing the compelling personal stories of individuals across Canada, often during challenging moments in their lives.
Reporting on Key Events
- Heidi Petracek has played a pivotal role in reporting on crucial events shaping Canada’s narrative. Her coverage spans federal elections, floods, the collapse of the Atlantic fishery, the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks, the Moncton shootings in 2014, and Hurricane Fiona in 2022.
- Notably, she provided extensive coverage of the worst mass shooting in recent Canadian history, delving into questions surrounding the RCMP response and the subsequent Mass Casualty Commission’s inquiry.
Recognition and Contributions Beyond Journalism
Heidi’s impact extends beyond her reporting duties. She has served as an emcee for fundraisers benefiting Maritime organizations like The IWK Foundation, Christmas Daddies, and the Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia.
Her commitment to shedding light on PTSD among first responders earned her the title of “Media Person of the Year” from the Tema Conter Memorial Trust.
Personal Pursuits and Hobbies
Away from the hustle of her journalistic endeavors, Heidi finds solace in various activities. Whether kayaking with her husband, enjoying the company of her dog and cat, experimenting with cooking, or capturing moments through photography, she embraces a well-rounded lifestyle.
Her dedication to both her professional and personal pursuits reflects a passionate and multifaceted individual.
Today was my last day @CTVAtlantic. It’s a bittersweet day, after working with this talented team for almost 13 years. The next chapter is exciting, but I look back fondly on these years, serving viewers throughout the Maritimes. I will continue to do so.
Much thanks. pic.twitter.com/EacOsfvxoU— Heidi Petracek (@HeidiPGlobalTV) October 20, 2023
Heidi Petracek Joins Global National as Atlantic Correspondent: A Milestone Moment
Long-time broadcaster Heidi Petracek has recently become a significant addition to the Global National team, taking on the role of Atlantic correspondent based in Halifax. This marks a pivotal moment in her 25-year broadcasting career, covering various regions in Atlantic Canada and beyond. 2
A Journey Through Atlantic Canada and Beyond
Petracek’s illustrious career began in her home province of Saskatchewan, leading her to work in diverse locations such as Calgary, Toronto, Corner Brook, and St. John’s. Eventually, she found her home in Halifax, where she now serves as the Atlantic Correspondent for Global National.
Embracing the Atlantic Region
In a recent interview with Global News Morning’s Eilish Bonang, Petracek expressed her deep connection to Atlantic Canada, emphasizing that it has become her “adopted home.”
She conveys her excitement about representing the people of Atlantic Canada to the rest of the country and expresses gratitude for the opportunity provided by Global National.
Taking the Helm from Ross Lord
Heidi Petracek steps into the shoes of Ross Lord, who retired from the Global News team earlier in the year. Petracek, formerly associated with CTV Atlantic, brings a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to her new role.
A Lifelong Dream Fulfilled
Reflecting on her journey, Petracek acknowledges feeling “incredibly fortunate” to have worked with amazing individuals across the country, fulfilling a lifelong dream of being a journalist.
She traces this passion back to her high school days, expressing how her desire to become a journalist was a constant throughout her career.
Reporting Through the Years
Petracek has been an integral part of major news stories in Atlantic Canada, covering events such as the aftermath of 9/11, the collapse of the Atlantic cod fishery, the Moncton RCMP shootings, Hurricane Fiona, and various provincial and federal elections.
Her coverage includes the tragic 2020 mass shooting in Portapique, N.S., where she followed the story through the inquiry and the release of the Mass Casualty Commission’s final report.
A Compelling Sense of Duty
Addressing her dedication to her work, Petracek emphasizes the importance of seeing certain assignments through to the end, particularly when it involves the well-being and justice for those affected.
This commitment was evident in her coverage of the Mass Casualty Commission, showcasing her dedication to thorough and comprehensive reporting.
Continuous Learning and Growth
Throughout her career, Petracek acknowledges that journalism is a profession of continuous learning. Despite the challenges and emotions associated with her assignments, she expresses her gratitude and happiness in being part of the Global National team.
Global National’s Welcome
Tristan Staddon, Global National managing editor, highlights Petracek’s compassion in storytelling and commitment to reflecting the humanity of those she covers. The Global National team welcomes her with pride, recognizing her valuable contributions to journalism.
Heidi Petracek’s Career Transition
So, I have news…about my life in news. https://t.co/EtA43JDXd1 .
— Heidi Petracek (@HeidiPGlobalTV) October 19, 2023
A Distinguished Figure in Journalism
Heidi Petracek, a prominent figure in the field of journalism, recently made a significant career shift from CTV News Atlantic to Global News in October 2023. With roots in Saskatchewan, Petracek boasts an illustrious career in broadcasting, having held various roles such as reporter, host, producer, and writer.3
Prowess in Communication
Throughout her career, Petracek has showcased her communication skills by conducting interviews with diverse personalities, ranging from Oscar-winning actress Olympia Dukakis to Canadian astronaut Col. Chris Hadfield. Her versatility and professionalism have earned her recognition in the industry.
Transition to Global News
In the latter part of 2023, Heidi Petracek redirected her career trajectory towards Global News. This transition was not only noteworthy but also pivotal, as she moved from CTV News Atlantic to take on a new role at Global National as an Atlantic correspondent based in Halifax.
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Public Announcement and Farewell
On October 21st, Petracek publicly bid farewell to her CTV Atlantic team through social media, expressing both nostalgia and excitement for her upcoming journey. She shared her gratitude for the 13 years spent with the talented team at CTV Atlantic and embarked on the next phase of her career.4
Succession at Global National
It was later revealed that Heidi Petracek would succeed Ross Lord as a national correspondent at Global National. Ross Lord had retired earlier that year, and Petracek’s arrival symbolized the beginning of a new era for the broadcasting network.
Embracing the New Role
Upon joining Global National as the new Atlantic correspondent, Petracek expressed her gratitude and pride in representing Atlantic Canada, her adopted home.
Her journey in journalism, which began during high school, reflects her deep fondness for Atlantic Canada, where she has covered significant events since relocating in 2000.
Commitment to Comprehensive Reporting
Heidi Petracek’s commitment to comprehensive reporting is evident in her coverage of challenging stories, including the 2020 mass shooting in Portapique, N.S. She followed through on the incident until the Mass Casualty Commission released its final report.
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Commendation and Future Prospects
Tristan Staddon, Global National’s managing editor, commended Petracek’s dedication to journalism and welcomed her to the team. This career move not only marks a new chapter in Heidi Petracek’s life but also sets a promising path for her future endeavors at Global News.
Heidi Petracek’s Career Transition to Global National
In October 2023, Heidi Petracek, a seasoned journalist, took a significant step in her career by joining the Global National team as their Atlantic correspondent, stationed in Halifax.
Leaving CTV News for a New Chapter
Heidi Petracek’s departure from CTV News marked a milestone in her journalistic journey. This career shift was publicly announced by both Global News and Petracek herself, with the journalist expressing mixed emotions about leaving her former team.
On October 21, Petracek shared the news on social media, stating, “Today was my last day @CTVAtlantic.” She fondly reflected on her almost 13-year tenure with the talented team, highlighting the bittersweet nature of the day.
Reflecting on Past Experiences and Excitement for the Future
- While bidding farewell to CTV Atlantic, Petracek expressed her excitement for the upcoming chapter in her career. She looked back fondly on her years of service to viewers throughout the Maritimes and expressed gratitude.
- Her sentiments conveyed both appreciation for the past and anticipation for what lay ahead.
- “The next chapter is exciting, but I look back fondly on these years, serving viewers throughout the Maritimes. I will continue to do so. Many thanks,” she wrote.
Joining Global National as National Correspondent
- Following her departure from CTV News, it was revealed that Heidi Petracek would join Global National on October 23. She assumed the role of a national correspondent based in Halifax, succeeding Ross Lord, a long-time reporter who had retired earlier that year.
- Petracek’s appointment signified a new era for Global National, promising a continuation of excellence in journalism under her experienced guidance.
- Her transition added depth and expertise to the team, ensuring a seamless continuation of their commitment to delivering high-quality news coverage.
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