August 16, 2024

View as Webpage

CEO MESSAGE

On the Rocky Mountaineer last year, I met three elderly sisters from Florida who were funny, friendly, eccentric, and loud. For whatever reason I nicknamed them the Pointer Sisters and became fast friends with the oldest one who pronounced me as her date and then proceeded to tell me her whole life story while we stared at the beautiful scenery from the comfort of our dome car.

Shortly before we pulled into Lake Louise, the guest services attendant received word from the front of the train that a bear had been spotted on the north side of the track. The Pointer Sisters and I scrambled over to the other side of the compartment to see if we could spot the majestic animal. Because we were in one of the last cars, it took a while to get up to the area the bear was last seen. Just as we were about to give up, she appeared in all her splendour.

This wasn’t just any bear though. It was a rare, white grizzly that people in Banff later told us was known as Nakoda. I recall saying to the Pointer Sisters that seeing a grizzly in the wild was extraordinary, but seeing a white one was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. I almost started singing “I’m So Excited” but thought the better of it.

Sadly, I recently learned that Nakoda was killed by a car while crossing the Trans-Canada Highway in BC’s Yoho National Park. Even more disturbing was that her two cubs had also been killed by a vehicle just 24 hours earlier. Their deaths have sparked another call for government measures to protect more bears from becoming roadside carnage. The question is how?

Similarly, there are increasing calls by conservationists to implement stronger regulations to protect BC’s other iconic species – the Southern Resident killer whale – to ensure they aren’t dying needlessly given their status as threatened.

Following a series of new protective measures announced in June specifically for Southern Residents, the Government of Canada also launched an online national public survey on potential amendments to Marine Mammal Regulations to evaluate whether further rules might be needed.

This week, TIABC provided its response to the survey questions with a central message that while we strongly support safeguards for endangered species, more extreme protection measures should not necessarily apply for non-endangered species, particularly for whale watch operators who care deeply for the environment and invest profits and resources into education and sustainability initiatives to protect the marine eco-system.

In the survey, DFO asked for comments on whether the current approach distance (200 m) for all Pacific killer whales (except Southern Residents) should be amended?

Our recommendation stated that any amendments to the current approach distance of 200 metres should apply only to endangered Southern Resident killer whales (e.g. increase the approach distance), whose behaviour and look sets them apart from Bigg’s killer whales which are thriving and do not need the same level of protection.

We pointed out that in neighbouring Washington State, where BC whale watching companies also operate, a viewing distance of 1,000 yards will be applied on January 1st for Southern Residents, while a distance of 200 yards will be permitted for all other non-endangered species. Our recommendation was that we do the same in BC (albeit measured in metres). For sake of brevity, I’ll spare you the answers to the other questions but will share our brief with you in the coming weeks.

Suffice it to say, whale watching is a vital part of BC’s visitor economy and an incredible experience that well over 200,000 domestic and international tourists enjoy annually through the 14 BC-based Pacific Whale Watch Association members, as well as other operators. The sector supports over 1,000 jobs and generates some $132 million in annual economic activity.

Aside from the aforementioned investment and education, whale watching operators also play a critical role in informing recreational boaters, fishers and others on rules and regulations to help protect whales, especially the endangered Southern Residents.

In our submission, we emphasized that TIABC is keen to see a healthy balance between protecting the interests of professional whale watch operators (many of whom are our members) and the overall sector, as well as ensuring the health and protection of the marine environment which includes Southern Resident and other killer whales within BC waters.

We also stressed that a science-based, data-driven and common-sense approach is paramount to achieving palatable solutions for all stakeholders. Moreover, any future regulations should be consistent throughout BC and congruent with those in Washington State to ensure consistency, compliance, protection, and desired outcomes for both killer whales and the whale watching sector for the foreseeable future.

At the conclusion of the journey through the Rockies, I said farewell to the Pointer Sisters and made the oldest one promise to add another chapter to her life story and tell her friends where and when she saw her first white grizzly while on a date with a much younger man onboard the Rocky Mountaineer.

Walt Judas

CEO, TIABC

go2HR Release July 2024

Labour Market Information

go2HR has released the latest labour market information for the province for the month of July and noted employment in the tourism and hospitality sector saw a slight increase (2.6%) from June to July 2024, totalling 350,000 jobs. Current employment remains below 2019 levels by 2,500 jobs. In July 2019, the industry employed 353,750 compared to 350,000 in July 2024. Here are some of the latest trends for July 2024:

Sector Trends:

• Increased Employment: Accommodation and Recreation and Entertainment sectors.
• Decreased Employment: Food and Beverage and Transportation and Travel sectors.

Regional Dynamics:

• Employment: Increases in the Cariboo, Lower Mainland, and Vancouver Island regions. Employment decreases in the Northern BC, Thompson Okanagan, and Kootenay regions.
• Pre-COVID Comparison: Vancouver Island region was above pre-COVID employment levels, while Cariboo, Lower Mainland, Northern BC, Thompson Okanagan, and Kootenay regions remain below COVID levels.

Unemployment Rates:

• The unemployment rate in the sector decreased to 4.9% in June 2024 from 3.8% in July 2024, yet remains above the pre-COVID level of 3.6% (July 2019).

Although employment levels have increased in July, the tourism and hospitality industry still faces employment lower than pre-COVID levels, indicating future growth and opportunities across the sectors. Learn more through the go2HR Employment Tracker HERE.

From a national perspective, Tourism HR Canada reports that summer is experiencing continued growth in the tourism workforce.

With summer in full swing, the tourism sector in July saw growth over the previous month with high school students entering the workforce and the season shifting into higher gear. The sector was in a slightly stronger position than it was last year, although unemployment was generally higher. The gap between the current state of the sector and where it was in July 2019 was around 1%.

Review the Canadian Tourism Labour Market Snapshot for the month of July HERE.

Marine Debris Removal Initiative Returns to the Great Bear Rainforest Coastline

For the first time since the Marine Debris Removal Initiative (MDRI) began when the pandemic halted tourism, Small Ship Tourism Operators (SSTOA) members Maple Leaf Adventures and Bluewater Adventures have returned to their mission to clean up marine debris from British Columbia’s remote coastline. 

Working with local Indigenous nations, they have just completed the clean up of 32.5 tonnes of debris comprising of fishing gear, nets, rope, polystyrene floats, plastic bottles, and more—exceeding their target of 30 tonnes. This marine debris, if not removed, poses significant threats to BC’s ecosystems, breaking down into microplastics or entangling wildlife such as humpback whales. 

This clean up adds to the over 327 tonnes they cleaned up in the previous two expeditions in 2020 & 2021. This year’s effort was uniquely redesigned to fit within the middle of their tourism season. 

By integrating marine debris removal into a peak tourism season, the companies aimed to show how coastal protection and environmental stewardship can become just another part of doing business in British Columbia. Read the full media release HERE.

Coastal First Nations, Province Renew Commitment to Work Together

The Coastal First Nations-Great Bear Initiative (CFN) and the Government of British Columbia are strengthening their decades-long relationship by renewing their commitment to work together through a reconciliation agreement that builds off the success of their 2009 reconciliation protocol and 2020 Pathway to Reconciliation memorandum of understanding (MOU), to continue to benefit all those who live on the north and central coast.

The Province is contributing $1.6 million annually for implementation funding for four years to help facilitate government-to-government forums between B.C. and the alliance of First Nations as they work together to address shared goals related to integrated land, marine stewardship and economic revitalization that incudes tourism in the north Pacific coast bioregion, as well as shared challenges like climate impacts and food security.

Read the full announcement from government HERE.

Government of Canada Announces Third Round of Business Recipients Supported by Indigenous Tourism Fund

In partnership with the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC), the government is rolling out the $10 million Indigenous Tourism Fund (ITF) Micro and Small Business Stream (MSBS), providing direct financial support to Indigenous tourism enterprises.

Earlier this week, the Honourable Soraya Martinez Ferrada, Minister of Tourism and Minister responsible for the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec, announced the third group of businesses to benefit from the MSBS. In this round, $1.01 million in federal funding, administered by ITAC, has been awarded to 41 Indigenous tourism businesses from across Canada.

This announcement follows previous rounds of funding support:

• Round 1: Supported 78 Indigenous tourism businesses through approximately $1.94 million in funding.
• Round 2: Provided about $1.67 million to 67 businesses.

To view the successful applicants from Round 3, including 10 businesses from British Columbia, visit HERE.

Read the official announcement from Government HERE.

Government Seeking Input on Strengthening Canadian Workforce

Earlier this week, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official Languages, Randy Boissonnault, launched an online engagement process aimed at developing a new worker-centric, forward looking, and sustainable economy. By pooling together diverse views from across the country on how to drive a modern, inclusive, and productive labour market for the 21st century, the government will be better positioned to identify ways to build on our strengths, address challenges and seize opportunities to better prepare Canadians for success today and tomorrow.

In addition, the Minister will be inviting leaders from across Canada representing industry, employers, labour, education and training institutions, Indigenous and not-for-profit organizations, governments, academics, and others to a workforce summit this fall to further the discussion.

To inform the online engagement, Canadians are invited to read an online discussion paper that provides an overview of the current labour market context, major trends, a snapshot of Canada’s skills development landscape and future opportunities.Feedback can be provided by responding to this online questionnaire, available until September 30, 2024. 

• Read the discussion paper HERE.
• Learn more and read the full announcement HERE.

BC Parks Management Planning | Backcountry Muskwa-Kechika 

BC Parks has launched a public engagement period to review a draft management plan initiated in 2020. The plan includes multiple backcountry protected areas in the Muskwa-Kechika Management Area. 

The Let's Talk BC Parks webpage contains all the details for the project including the virtual and open house schedule, a link to the draft plan, and an online survey.

The engagement period will close on September 6, 2024. Learn more HERE.

TOTA Seeking Nominations to Board

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) is seeking voting stakeholders to put their name forward or to nominate a qualified candidate to serve as a member of the TOTA Board of Directors for a two-year term, effective October 29, 2024, to the 2026 AGM.

TOTA is committed to assisting and supporting tourism stakeholders and working closely with Destination BC to put the Thompson Okanagan region and the Province of BC at the forefront of innovation as we maneuver through the tourism industry’s changing landscape.

This year, there are 10 openings. Seven directors are letting their names stand for re-election with four directors moving into the second year of their two-year term. Learn more about the voting process and how to nominate HERE.

Culinary Tourism Alliance Seeking Nominations

The Culinary Tourism Alliance (CTA) is accepting nominations for our Board of Directors. If you're passionate about shaping the future of culinary tourism across Canada, we encourage you to consider this opportunity.

The CTA Board currently meets the 50/30 challenge and will be holding space for candidates that enable us to advance gender parity and increased diversity on the Board. Nominations will be accepted up until August 26th.

Interested parties should complete the Nomination form HERE.

Employment Insurance Board of Appeal Seeking Board Members

The Canada Employment Insurance Commission just launched a selection process to seek applications from qualified and diverse Canadians to join the Employment Insurance Board of Appeal as Board Members.

As part of a three-member decision-making panel, Members representing employers are expected to participate in hearings (in-person, videoconference or telephone), be knowledgeable of employment or labour conditions in a specific BOA geographical area and have experience, whether in a professional or business setting.

Applications will be accepted until October 14, 2024. Learn more, including how to apply HERE.

Job Opportunity | Director, Marketing & Visitor Experience (12-month term)

Reporting to the CEO, the Director, Marketing & Visitor Experience will act as a strategic, hands on, and participative manager that will lead and support all marketing activities for the organization and all aspects of Visitor Services.

The Director, Marketing & Visitor Experience will play a critical role in partnering with the senior leadership team in strategic and operational decisions. The position is ideal for an autonomous, independent decision-maker who is passionate about helping Prince George grow as a destination.

Learn more and apply HERE.

TOTA Announces #TravelNowOnUs Campaign

Earlier this week, the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) and participating CDMOs in the region, launched the #TravelNowOnUs to the Thompson Okanagan campaign, a contest-based activation designed to push late summer and fall travel.

Capture and share your vacation memories in the Thompson Okanagan where one can enjoy road-tripping, enjoying the regional ingredients found in local food and beverages, exploring and learning about the local art and culture, or adventuring through endless trails.

Travellers can submit a photo or video memory of their trip to the region for a chance to win $1,000 towards a vacation or 4-day houseboat trip with Twin Anchors Houseboat Vacations.

Learn more and enter the contest HERE.

Camper's Code Blog Series

"Respect Wildlife"

The third blog in the Camper's Code Blog Series has recently been released, entitled "Respect Wildlife".

The blog highlights how to co-exist harmoniously with wildlife, how wildlife plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance of our ecosystems, and how our actions can have significant impacts on their well-being. 

Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast, an avid camper, a casual hiker, or simply someone who loves nature, the blog and accompanying video provide some key principles to ensure we respect and protect wildlife. 

• Read the blog HERE.
• Watch the video HERE.

Mountain Bike Park and Mountain Coaster Coming to Grouse Mountain

There will soon be more ways to enjoy Grouse Mountain Resort, with the addition of a Mountain Coaster and the North Shore’s only chairlift-accessed Mountain Bike Park, both opening next spring. Part of a $9-million investment, the attractions will open after the launch of the resort’s new state-of-the-art gondola in winter 2024/25, kicking off an exciting 12 months for Grouse Mountain as it works to enhance its four-season offerings and overall guest experience.

Learn more HERE.

Tourism Prince George Making Move to

New Location

Tourism Prince George moved to a container at Canada Games Plaza in the heart of the city earlier this year and has got some new swag to show off at their Basecamp Boutique.

Tourism Prince George will be moving into their permanent home later this year, located between the Civic Centre and the Prince George Public Library. The organization looked at many different areas when it came to considering a new location for the Visitor Centre that was located on First Avenue for many years. The new location is part of a bigger project that was announced this spring that will see Canada Games Plaza hosting an open-air container market and year-round skating rink with seating. Read the full story in The Prince George Citizen HERE.

Learn more HERE.

Would you like your image to appear in our weekly Postcards from BC feature? Contact deborah@tiabc.ca

Nanaimo Hospitality Association

On April 1st, 2015 the 24 accommodators who make up the membership of the Nanaimo Hospitality Association began collecting the Municipal and Regional District Tax (MRDT). The purpose of the accommodation tax and the associated Nanaimo Hospitality Grants Program is to support the growth of overnight visitations to Nanaimo through the development of festivals and events, including sporting events.

Learn more about the Nanaimo Hospitality Association HERE.

Would you like to be featured in our weekly Voice of Tourism, social channels or on our website? TIABC member testimonials provide visibility and exposure to the tourism industry and a wider audience for your business. Contact Deborah - deborah@tiabc.ca

Become a Member in 2024

Your Membership is Important to Us!

We strongly encourage you to consider membership or renew your membership with TIABC in 2024 to support our important advocacy efforts on behalf of the entire visitor economy.

TIABC continues to identify your concerns, raise your voice, champion your needs, and push for support and programs while encouraging policy changes at both the provincial and federal level.

Contact info@tiabc.ca for more information, visit our website HERE or the link below.

TIAC's Associate Program for TIABC Members

The Tourism Industry Association of BC (TIABC) and the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) continue to offer TIABC members an opportunity to extend their membership. TIABC members in good standing can enrol in TIAC’s Associate Program FOR ONLY $25.

By visiting this link, you can become a TIAC Associate Member, enjoy access to a range of TIAC benefits and add your voice to National efforts.

Note: If you are already a TIAC associate member, you will receive a renewal notice before your anniversary date. If you are currently a full TIAC member, you already get enhanced advantages. You will continue to enjoy added benefits and savings over and above what is available to associate members, including the TIAC Member Advantage program at Rendez-vous Canada.

Webinar | TIAC and Parks Canada Working Together

TIAC is excited to invite you to the first in its exclusive Parks Canada webinar series, "Working Together: Opportunities to Collaborate with Parks Canada in the Canadian Tourism Industry"

Date: August 29

Time: 11:00 am-noon (PT)

Why Attend? 

Parks Canada, the country's largest heritage tourism provider, will share invaluable insights on how your business can collaborate with them to create exceptional visitor experiences. This webinar will be the first in a three-part series designed to equip you with the tools and knowledge to enhance your offerings and engage with Parks Canada's extensive network. 

What You’ll Learn: 

• An overview of Parks Canada’s mandate, programs, and visitor experience offerings. 
• How Parks Canada collaborates with the Tourism Industry Association of Canada and other key tourism partners to strengthen the industry. 
• Pathways to connect with Parks Canada–administered sites and uncover new business opportunities. 

TIAC members can learn more and register HERE.

SOS Coalition Announces

"Communities Driving Change" Forum

With crime, violence and street disorder plaguing communities large and small across British Columbia, BC’s Save Our Streets coalition (SOS) has announced it will hold a day-long “Communities Driving Change” Forum.

Date: September 12

Location: Morris J. Wosk Centre for Dialogue, Vancouver

The Forum will explore solutions to these issues with community and business leaders, subject experts and political leaders.

The Forum, which is being held in the lead-up to the provincial election, and a week before the annual Union of BC Municipalities Convention, will feature moderated panel discussions, keynote expert speakers, and opportunities for virtual community participation from around the province. Topics to include judicial reform and resources, policing, addictions and mental illnesses, and the role of housing as components of the solution.

The speaker invitation process is currently underway with panelists and keynote speakers to be announced in the coming weeks.

Read the official news release and learn more about the SOS initiative HERE.

Skip the Lottery | Tickets Now On Sale

You and your friends are invited to join together in Oliver Osoyoos Wine Country for the 2025 Half Corked Marathon, taking place on May 31, 2025, with the opportunity to Skip The Lottery and get your ticket now! 

Very limited number of tickets available, this is your only chance to get your tickets without entering the lottery. These tickets are available at 2024 pricing at $275 each plus tax.

Gather your friends, family and colleagues and share the news! Tickets are available until SOLD OUT. Learn more and purchase tickets HERE.

Destination Canada Launches

Webinar Series

Destination Canada is excited to be back for the second year with the Destination Dialogues webinar series.

Date: September 12

Time: 8:30 am to 10 am (PT)

This free 90-minute online session will describe how destinations, organizations, businesses, and individuals can create compelling storytelling-based experiences in rural areas.

This webinar is open to everyone, in Canada, and is designed to inspire, inform and foster innovation amongst communities. Many smaller rural regions lack the resources and budget to send staff to industry conferences, so this opportunity is to provide them with a comprehensive and valuable learning opportunity online.

If you are interested in joining, you can find more about the event and register through the link below.

BCTCRI Workshop #4: Climate Resilience & Indigenous Knowledge

Registration for workshop #4 in the BC Tourism Climate Resiliency Initiative program is now available. In this workshop, explore the intersection of climate resilience and Indigenous knowledge. This session will look into the invaluable wisdom and practices that Indigenous communities have developed to adapt and respond to environmental challenges.

Date: September 18th

Time: 10:00 am (PT)

Registration now available HERE.

2024 Go Fish BC Photo Contest

The Go Fish BC Photo Contest is now open.

Categories

• BC Fishing Landscapes 
• Fishing Buddies
• Fishing Firsts

First and second place prizes will be awarded for each category.

1st prize: $300

2nd prize: $150

Additionally, there will be a random draw from all submitted entries on July 26, August 9, August 23, and September 6. Random-draw winners will receive a Go Fish BC prize pack, including a cap, drink tumbler, and stickers.

How to Enter

Complete this entry form, upload your best freshwater fishing images, and click submit. It’s that easy! Contest closes September 16th.

2024 BCHF Golf Tournament

Registration is now open for the 2024 BC Hospitality Foundation golf tournament in Victoria.

Date: August 21

Location: Olympic Golf Club

Learn more and register HERE.

ELEVATE | In Support of

Canucks Autism Network

Get ready to soar to new heights at this exclusive fundraising event in support of Canucks Autism Network!

This year, ELEVATE features an aviation-themed evening of mingling and music, drinks and dancing, and thrilling helicopter rides courtesy of SKY Helicopters. Dress in “aviation casual” and walk the red carpet into SKY hangar, a 6,000 square foot space where you will be engrossed by music, ambiance, and thoughtful decor – perfect for mixing and mingling. 

Date: August 26

Reserve your tickets HERE and prepare for an unforgettable night

Camping Appreciation Weekend

The weekend of September 6-8 is Camping Appreciation Weekend, when many Canadian campgrounds coast-to-coast say thank you to campers for their patronage.

The weekend is organized and sponsored by the Canadian Camping and RV Association and supported by the BC Lodging and Campgrounds Association to:

Say thanks to those that enjoy the camping and RVing lifestyle, and, to raise funds for Care Camps, to send children with cancer to specialized oncology camps.

Learn more HERE.

Taste of Abby | Celebrate the Fall Harvest

Taste of Abby is your opportunity to savour unique culinary experiences at the peak of the harvest season. Explore a selection of diverse events, tasting menus and limited-edition creations. Treat your palate to Abbotsford’s rich history, culture and cultivations at this premiere celebration in the beautiful Fraser Valley.

Dates: September 13th - 22nd

Learn more about daily events and how to get involved HERE.

Tickets Now On Sale | 2024 Wine Capital Weekend

Oliver Tourism Association and the Wine Capital Weekend Organizing Committee is thrilled to announce that tickets for the 2024 Wine Capital Weekend are now on sale!

Set in the picturesque town of Oliver, from September 20 - 22, this extraordinary weekend promises to deliver an unforgettable experience filled with world-class wines, craft beers, ciders, spirits, delectable food, and exciting entertainment.

Learn more and purchase your tickets HERE.

Annual Tourism Summit & AGM

What to Expect at the 2024 Tourism Summit - As an attendee you will have access to a range of networking opportunities, the chance to pick up invaluable insights from industry experts, and time to connect with the tourism community. 

Date: October 15-17

Location: Bella Coola

Registration, room rates and agenda will be posted soon.

Silver Wings Industry and Scholarship Awards Celebration 2024

At the annual Silver Wings Industry and Scholarship Awards Celebration, the BCAC recognizes aviation and aerospace industry colleagues for specific achievements. As well, they disburse almost $150,000 through their Scholarship Awards Program to hard-working students enrolled in aviation and/or aerospace programs in British Columbia.

Date: October 18

Time: 5:45 pm - 10:00 pm PT

Registration is now open - learn more and register HERE.

Note: Prior to the Silver Wings event, they are also hosting the third annual "Chair’s Women in Aviation and Aerospace Reception” (CWAAR), also at the Vancouver Convention Centre (VCC).

For more information and registration HERE.

Save the Date | NBC Tourism Summit

The Northern BC Tourism Summit is back for 2024! It will be the first time the summit has happened since 2019 and will bring together industry experts, travel enthusiasts, and local businesses to discuss the latest trends, strategies, and opportunities in Northern BC's tourism sector.

Dates: October 22-24

Location: Ramada Hotel, Prince George

Registration is now open - learn more and register HERE.

Save the Date | Kootenay Rockies Tourism Association AGM

The Kootenay Rockies Tourism Association will be holding it's 47th Annual General Meeting & Tourism Industry Conference.

Dates: October 23-24

Location: Prestige Lakeside Resort, Nelson

Mark your calendar! Program details to follow!

TOTA AGM and Summit

Early bird registration is now open for the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association AGM & Summit.

Dates: October 29-30

Location: Vernon

Hosted in partnership with Tourism Vernon and Destination Silver Star. Early bird pricing for the Summit is available until August 2nd. 

Mark your calendar, learn more and register HERE.

Annual Lodging & Camping Ideas Forum

The Ideas Forum is designed to provide BC Lodging and Campground Association members and guests with an inexpensive learning opportunity thanks to our sponsors and suppliers. It’s a chance to network with the sponsors, suppliers, fellow members and meet the volunteer board of directors. This is where ideas are discussed, knowledge is shared, and members’ questions answered!

Dates: November 4-6

Location: Manning Park Resort

Registration and agenda to be available August, 2024.

Save the Date! VCM Industry Forum

Mark your calendars for the Vancouver, Coast & Mountains Industry Forum.

Date: November 21st

Location: Pinnacle Hotel Harbourfront, Vancouver.

Stay tuned as we share more details.

Save the Date - 2024 Policy Conference & Big Splash Gala

The Sport Fishing Institute of BC (SFI) will hold its annual Policy Conference. This year's theme is Selective and Sustainable. This is a highly anticipated forum where elected officials, public servants and those in the sport fishing industry can meet, share their perspectives on the issues facing the recreational fishery and discuss expectations for the coming seasons. As last year, SFI will be providing the Pacific Salmon Foundation a portion of the day to share details about programs and projects that are funded by revenues generated from sales of the Salmon Conservation stamp on your tidal waters licence.

Date: November 29

Location: Vancouver Convention Centre

Following the Conference is the Big Splash Gala and Fundraiser.

Much more information to come on each event, ticket sales will begin in September.

Tourism Congress 2024

Join the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) in beautiful Vancouver for an immersive conference experience that brings together tourism leaders, stakeholders, and innovators from across Canada and beyond. Get ready to share insights, explore new ideas, and celebrate our industry's resilience and creativity. We are thrilled the Tourism Congress is hitting the road this year.

Dates: December 3-5

Location: Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre

Learn more about Tourism Congress including group booking opportunities HERE.

Save The Date

The 8th Annual IMPACT Sustainable Tourism & Travel Summit will be held again in Victoria.

Day of Impact: January 26, 2025

Dates of Conference: January 27-29, 2025

Details to the conference including registration, accommodation and travel information will soon follow.