By the early 1960s, Bay Roberts had experienced a diversification in its economy with the establishment of dozens of successful, commercial establishments, thus allowing the town to free itself, somewhat, from dependency on the uncertain fishing industry. In 1965, after agreement though a circulated petition, the areas of Bay Roberts East, Coley's Point, Country Road, and Shearstown became part of the town; and finally, in 1990, the final parts of Butlerville and Birch Hills joined. The town is an early example in the province of a number of smaller communities joining together to work successfully for the good of all.