NB 726
June 7, 2006
FREDERICTON (CNB) - Tourism operators gathered today at an awards luncheon hosted by the Department of Tourism and Parks to celebrate the accomplishments of the industry and recognize the efforts of their peers.
"The tourism industry contributes more than $1 billion to the provincial economy, and it is important to recognize the role that operators play in that success," Tourism and Parks Minister Joan MacAlpine-Stiles said. "I am extremely proud of the significant achievements of both the nominees and the award winners. I thank these tourism operators for their efforts in promoting New Brunswick as a year-round destination, and congratulate them on this recognition."
The 2006 Tourism Excellence and Innovation Awards celebrate the achievements of the businesses, operators and organizations that capitalize on New Brunswick's natural wonders, rich heritage and cultural diversity to create outstanding tourism experiences. These awards recognize exceptional performance in product development, marketing and creative partnerships.
Valerie O'Donnell of O'Donnell's Cottages and Expeditions in Doaktown won the Excellence and Innovation Award in Tourism Marketing. O'Donnell began her business in 1991 with the purchase of 10 acres of riverfront property, a two-bedroom cottage, and her first establishment and outfitter's license. Since then, through her commitment to professional development, partnership development, and through a highly effective marketing strategy, she has achieved her goal of creating a year-round, internationally recognized destination that provides nature adventure, first-class accommodation and personalized, top-quality service.
Rita Gagnon with the Centre touristique de l'ancienne gare in Saint-Quentin won the award for Excellence and Innovation in Tourism Partnerships. The Centre touristique de l'ancienne gare opened in June 2005. A year-round facility, it boasts an information centre; a forestry, agriculture and maple interpretation centre; and a gift shop. It also provides important community infrastructure with a conference room, exhibition hall for artists, and office space for local organizations.
More than 20 partners were involved over the life of the project, providing funding, expertise, materials and the time required to make it a reality. The contributions of three levels of government, major companies operating in the region, local merchants, individual donors, and many volunteers ensured the success of the project.
Danny Braun with the World Pond Hockey Championships received the award for Excellence and Innovation in Product Development. The first World Pond Hockey Championships were held in Plaster Rock in February 2002. It began as a modest fundraising effort in aid of local charities. Today, organizers communicate with over 1,700 teams worldwide, and once a year media converges on Plaster Rock to record what is now recognized as a world-class sport-tourism event.
The tournament has major benefits to the Plaster Rock area and the province. It has contributed significantly to the local economy, and provides the opportunity for tourism operators to promote their products and services to the world. Most importantly, it has brought communities and individuals together, creating lasting, beneficial relationships, in addition to enhancing New Brunswick's reputation as a destination in key markets.
John and Lucinda Flemer with Kingsbrae Gardens in St. Andrews won the Minister's Award for Tourism Excellence. Built on the grounds of the summer home of Mrs. Flemer's parents and grandparents, the garden was developed through a partnership involving the Flemer family, the Province of New Brunswick, the Town of St. Andrews and the community at large. In addition to donating the family estate, the Flemers established a substantial endowment fund to ensure the garden's long-term care and sustainability.
"While we are constantly looking to the future to determine the best ways to develop and grow the industry, it is also important to acknowledge current and past accomplishments," MacAlpine-Stiles said. "These award winners are excellent examples of the vision and innovation that will ensure a strong future for New Brunswick's $1-billion tourism industry."
06/06/07
MEDIA CONTACT: Danielle McFarlane, communications, Tourism and Parks, 506-444-4454.
06/06/07
