April 21, 2023

CEO MESSAGE

Trying to out-bike a train to an unsecured crossing is clearly not very smart. But once in a while I dip into my reserves and peddle like mad to cross the tracks ahead of a long coal or cargo train to avoid waiting forever before being able to continue on my ride.

Although I’m used to seeing, feeling and hearing trains meandering their way to Delta’s Roberts Bank every day, I rarely ponder the purpose or final destination for the hundreds of containers or commodities being shipped to countries all over the world. But perhaps I should considering the implications on the tourism industry.

During a meeting with a professional colleague from the Mining Association of BC this week to discuss areas of mutual concern and interest, I learned that in the quest to move toward clean energy technologies and infrastructure to tackle climate change, enormous amounts of critical minerals and metals found in BC are essential for the desired energy transition including aluminum, antimony, bismuth, germanium, indium, lead, molybdenum, tellurium, and zinc.

While I’m not very familiar with many these materials or their uses, I do know that copper is essential for electric vehicles, silver for solar panels, and steelmaking coal for infrastructure like wind turbines…all of which BC either leads in producing or is close to the top producer in Canada.

Because of the increasing focus on clean technology and the need for both rare and common minerals around the world, the mining sector is growing in British Columbia. Multiple mines are looking to expand operations while several new sites are being explored for the aforementioned materials to help meet climate action targets, among other obvious reasons.

Here’s where the connection to the visitor economy plays out. Notwithstanding that clean energy transition and climate action are so important to both the tourism and mining industry’s future, mining explorers, developers and operators also require access to crown land and water to conduct business. However, joint land use amongst various interests (i.e. tourism, mining, forestry, recreation) is seldom compatible these days and has increasingly led to friction.

I’ve recently become aware of incidents whereby a resource company has staked out a tract of land for exploration and possible development, unbeknownst to a tourism operator that already owns a permit or tenure on the same parcel. What’s more, these resource companies appear to be unaware or have little regard for the operator and the tourism values on the land and have neglected to consult or communicate with the original (tourism) tenure holder. To top it off, government officials have declined to get involved and instead suggested that the two sides sort it out themselves. The question is how, especially if only one side appears willing (to be fair I've only heard one side of the story thus far)?

For the record, most tourism operators are not anti-mining, nor is our industry at-large casting aspersions against explorers or developers. Our industry is only asking to be heard and to respect current land use and tenures in the type of situation I described above.

Thankfully all is not lost though. TIABC’s member – Guide Outfitters Association of BC – recently uncovered a three-way Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Council of Tourism Associations (now TIABC), the Mining Association of BC, and the BC & Yukon Chamber of Mines (now Association of Mineral Explorers – AME BC) that was signed nearly 20 years ago to create an atmosphere of business certainty and investment confidence regarding access to land and land use as it pertains to relations between tourism, mineral exploration and mining.

Although TIABC was unsuccessful in attempting to update and renew the original MOU in 2016, the previous agreement and core tenets remain solid and provide a foundation on which to build or rebuild a relationship to allow our respective sectors to prosper in the spirit of mutual recognition, respect, education, open dialogue and cooperation. Fortunately there appears to be a willingness by all parties to move forward under the guise of the existing MOU or through a new pact to help resolve some of the issues I alluded to earlier. Stay tuned.

Now that I’m a bit better educated on the mining sector, during my ride earlier this week I decided to pause and let a super long train pass to ponder where the goods and materials might be shipped to and for what purpose. Truth be told, the other reason I stopped was because I didn’t have any reserves in the tank to beat the lead locomotive to the railway crossing. So instead I enjoyed a quick nap to the rumbling sound of a train as the earth vibrated underneath my tired body.

Walt Judas,
CEO, TIABC
Investing in Sustainability is Investing in the Planet & Your Business!
 
Article Courtesy of TIABC's Partners at
GreenStep Solutions

Another Earth Day is upon us. On Saturday, April 22nd, we celebrate the 53rd anniversary of the birth of the modern environmental movement. The theme for Earth Day this year looks to how we can better invest in our planet.

The beauty of investment (of time, money, effort and intention) in the planet is that it provides dividends beyond the green, it provides return on investment for communities, businesses AND our environment!

The tourism industry has been moving in great strides in recent years to invest in the planet, through building resilience, embedding sustainability, encouraging behaviour change, and empowering stakeholders. These changes are driven and led by a shift in consciousness by both tourists and operators, as well as taking the time to pause and reflect after the challenges of the last few years.

Read the full article HERE.
TIABC Takes The Sustainable Tourism 2030 Pledge

As One of Our Efforts to Recognize
Tourism Week

"Our Sustainable Tourism Pledge"

The Tourism Industry Association of BC has signed the Sustainable Tourism 2030 Pledge to demonstrate our commitment to improving the sustainability performance of our business and to ensure our commitment to improving the sustainability of our province between now and 2030.

The UN World Tourism Organization defines sustainable tourism as “tourism that takes full account of its current and future economic, social and environmental impacts, addressing the needs of visitors, the industry, the environment and host communities.”

Each year, TIABC will commit to measuring and improving our sustainability performance in the following ways:

  • Measure our carbon footprint and find opportunities to reduce our emissions year-over-year
  • Continue to have sustainability and environmental consciousness as part of our organizational thinking and framework
  • When building partnerships, ask potential partners if and what initiatives they are undertaking to support sustainability
  • Ensure work-related flights and accommodations are carbon offset when available
  • Utilize our provincial tourism network to support the education of sustainability at our annually delivered BC Tourism & Hospitality conference 

We encourage our members and stakeholders to join us in this movement.
The Tourism Week 2023 Industry Toolkit Provides Information and Resources for BC’s Tourism Industry and Partners
Participate as You Can, When You Can

Next week marks "Tourism Week" - an annual national and provincial invitation for all tourism partners to come together to champion and promote our destinations, tourism businesses, and employees. TIABC has partnered with Destination BC (DBC) to develop a comprehensive toolkit that includes valuable resources that will assist you in developing new initiatives and ideas to implement during Tourism Week and beyond.

We encourage you to follow our social channels to repost your communication throughout the week and help us spread the message that #BCTourismCounts.

The 2023 Tourism Week Industry Toolkit will contain many resources for your use that will include:

  • BC Government Resources
  • Key Messaging
  • Tourism Week Fact Sheet
  • Suggested Social Media Posts
  • Infographics and Graphic Tiles
  • Value of Tourism Videos
  • Ideas to Celebrate Tourism Week
  • Sustainable Tourism Pledge 2030
  • TIAC Resources
  • go2HR Resources

Note: This document will be updated as new tools, resources and information are made available. Please check back regularly on either TIABC or DBC websites
Proposed Ski Resorts Find
First Nations Buy-in Vital

In an interview with Business in Vancouver (BIV) earlier this week, TIABC CEO Walt Judas commented on the proposed BC ski resort investments and explained that new product development is always welcome in our sector, including resorts that drive more visitation to BC and establish partnerships with First Nations.

Read the full story and interview HERE.
Organizations Receive Funds to Enhance Local Tourism Experiences

Earlier this week, the Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of International Development and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada (PacifiCan), announced over $2.9 million in PacifiCan funding through the Tourism Relief Fund for 14 projects in the Lower Mainland that included TIABC's latest Value of Tourism initiative. The funding will help tourism businesses and sectors continue to rebuild following the pandemic.

TIABC CEO Walt Judas was on hand for the announcement and to acknowledge PacifiCan's contribution to TIABC.
(Pictured above: Honorable Harjit S.Saijjan and
TIABC CEO Walt Judas)

Funding for the other 13 projects will help local organizations and businesses in areas such as:

  • Restoring events like the Vancouver Fringe Festival and International Jazz Festival,
  • Supporting cultural events like Latincouver and the Dragon Boat Festiva
  • Revitalizing venues like the Granville Island Stage
  • Creating new public spaces and experiences in Gastown
  • Expand augmented reality exhibit in downtown Vancouver
  • Assisting local communities and businesses develop strategic tourism plans to attract more visitors to BC

These investments are expected to create approximately 430 new jobs and attract over 514,000 new local, national and international visitors to Vancouver.

Read the official government announcement HERE.
Coalition of Sector Associations Submit
Intentions Paper to Government

A coalition of connected sector associations that includes TIABC recently submitted its response and recommendations to the province's Coastal Marine Strategy Intentions Paper.

Among the recommendations, the coalition encourages the province to consult with all segments of the marine tourism industry in the development of a new coastal marine strategy to ensure that the sector contributes to the environmental, social, cultural and economic needs of coastal communities and the province as a whole.
Proposed Regulations for National Marine Conservation Areas

Parks Canada is developing general regulations under the Canada National Marine Conservation Areas Act (2002) to help manage national marine conservation areas - a type of marine protected area administered by Parks Canada.

National marine conservation areas are established for the purpose of protecting and conserving representative marine areas for the benefit, education and enjoyment of the people of Canada and the world. General regulations are nationally consistent and enforceable tools that will apply to all national marine conservation areas established under the Act, from coast-to-coast-to-coast and on the Great Lakes.

Parks Canada has prepared a regulatory proposal and is inviting comments on the proposal until June 8th. The regulatory proposal focuses on five main themes:
  • Visitor experience and public use
  • Research and collections activities
  • Protection of natural and cultural resources
  • Commercial activities and special events
  • Zoning and area-based management

Find out more about these themes at Let’s Talk NMCAs and share your ideas to help improve the proposed regulations.
Federal Government Introduces Funding For Low-Cost National Flood Insurance Program

As released in last month's federal budget, the government committed $31.7 million over the next three years toward a low-cost flood insurance program.

The federal budget states that the unique realities of natural disasters make them difficult to insure. It proposes funding starting in 2023-24 to Public Safety Canada and the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation to work with the Department of Finance on the program.

The program would include offering reinsurance through a Crown corporation and a separate insurance subsidy program.

The budget also proposes $15.3 million over three years for Public Safety Canada to create an online portal where Canadians can find out their exposure to flooding, as the increasing risks posed by climate change mean many may not be aware of the risks their home faces.

It further proposes more than $50 million to Public Safety Canada to identify areas at a high risk for flooding and implement a modernized Disaster Financial Assistance Arrangements program, the program that covers the vast majority of provincial and territorial costs after a disaster.

Read the Insurance Bureau of Canada's statement HERE.

YVR Releases $40 Million Action Plan

YVR announced earlier this week a promise to create new protocols to avoid the type of operational breakdowns that left hundreds of passengers stranded at the airport during a major snowstorm that coincided with December holidays.

A new $40 million action plan will add more staff, improve training, use technology, increase communication, and invest in additional equipment to keep more aircraft moving and passengers informed. The plan follows a comprehensive After-Action Review of the disruptions at YVR, as well as direct feedback from over 1,500 passengers and members of the public.

The five key focus areas are:

  • Enhance Winter and Irregular Operations
  • Enhance Cross-Team Collaboration
  • Accelerate Investments in Technology and Data
  • Enhance In-Terminal Passenger Supports
  • Enhance Communications to Passengers and Public

Read the announcement and action plan HERE.
BC SALMON, MARK SELECTIVE FISHERIES (MSF), AND COASTAL RESIDENTS NEED YOUR HELP AND ATTENTION! 

The southern BC angling community continues to face frustration, uncertainty, and socioeconomic harm as a direct result of Minister Murray’s failure to acknowledge the importance of opportunity and timely decision-making.

Despite efforts that have spanned years by stakeholders and DFO regional staff to provide Minister Murray with a science-based, conservative, and precautionary approach to support the implementation of hatchery-based Mark Selective Fishery (MSF) pilot fisheries in Howe Sound, Southern Gulf Islands, Haro Strait and Juan De Fuca Strait for April 1st, as of today, no decision or further information has been provided to the March 31st Fisheries Notices. Already more than 25% of a limited opportunity for these modest but important, precedent-setting and time-sensitive proposals is lost.

The Sport Fishing Institute of BC appeals to DFO, and Minister Murray, to acknowledge the critical importance of sustainable access to fishery resources to all British Columbians by implementing these responsible, prudent pilot fisheries immediately.

Learn more HERE.
WGBC Releases its Annual Vintage Report

“Wine Growers BC was pleased to host winemakers and viticulturists from across the province at our annual forum this past December to review the 2022 growing season in BC vineyards,” said Miles Prodan, CEO & President of Wine Growers British Columbia.

“As reflected in the Vintage Report, there was resounding agreement that while not without its challenges, the 2022 vintage will be remembered for incredible harvest conditions, remarkable fruit quality, and average to above average yields. BC wine lovers can look forward to celebrating the bounty this year as the 2022 wines start to hit the shelves this spring.”


Read the full BC Wine 2022 Vintage Report HERE.
Sumac Ridge Family Estate Winery to Close - Iconic Brands Live On -

Arterra Wines Canada announced last week the closing of both retail and winemaking operations at Sumac Ridge Estate Winery, effective immediately.

Sumac Ridge was the first to develop a commercially successful Okanagan sparkling wine; the first to have a winery restaurant; the first winery in Canada to begin using Meritage on its Bordeaux blends; and the first Okanagan winery to release a $50 bottle of wine. The winery also helped to popularize Gewürztraminer.

Sumac Ridge Estate Winery was purchased in the Spring of 2000 by Vincor Canada (now Arterra Wines). With operations being shifted to the state-of-the-art facility in Oliver, these brands will continue to live on through on-premise partners and the Great Estate Okanagan website despite the closure of winery retail operations.
ABLE BC Comment on BC Cancer Agency Campaign: The Proof

In January 2023 the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction (CCSA) released Canada’s Guidance on Alcohol and Health Report, which recommends that no amount of alcohol is safe to consume and that Canadians should have no more than two alcoholic drinks per week. This is a major shift from Canada’s current low-risk drinking guidelines of a maximum of 15 drinks per week for men and 10 drinks per week for women.

This report and the proposed guidelines have been controversial. Groups such as the International Scientific Forum on Alcohol Research have raised serious questions about the CCSA's study, and ABLE BC's Executive Director Jeff Guignard has spoken with the media about this several times this year.

These guidelines have not yet been adopted by Health Canada. Despite the CCSA's claims, they do not replace the current low-risk drinking guidelines. ABLE BC is concerned about the lack of expert peer-review of the CCSA's data and conclusions.

Despite this, BC’s Ministry of Health will be promoting these guidelines publicly. The BC Cancer Agency has just launched The Proof, a campaign to bring awareness to British Columbians about cancer risks associated with drinking alcohol. ABLE BC is engaging with both Provincial and Federal Government partners on this issue and will continue to provide updates as they are available.

Contact Jeff Guignard at jeff@ablebc.ca regarding concerns or perspectives.
Join TIABC and the GreenStep team to learn more about taking the Sustainable Tourism 2030 Pledge and about the importance of measuring the sustainability performance of your business or destination.

Why attend?

  • Learn why and how to measure your sustainability performance
  • Understand the business case for sustainability 
  • Preview an introduction to the globally-recognized criteria used to assess your business or destination
  • Join the movement, and become a part of the solution by actively engaging in the building of a sustainability action plan for your business or destination

Who should attend:

This webinar is for a business owner, manager, destination management team member, or any staff who can influence operational improvement within the organization.

Let's change the world.
ICYMI | Episode #5
Voice of Tourism Podcast Series

TIABC recently released episode #5 in our Voice of Tourism podcast series. In this episode, host Walt Judas speaks with Philip Mondor, President and CEO of Tourism HR Canada about the tourism workforce shortage in Canada and the issues associated with it, government policy, and other initiatives in the tourism labour market.

TIABC's Voice of Tourism podcasts feature interviews with some of the most respected professionals in the tourism industry and have been developed to provide TIABC members and stakeholders with insightful content and a unique perspective on industry developments, policy directives, the work that sector associations are doing, and the opportunities that exist for businesses, communities, and government within the visitor economy.

Stay tuned for editions #6 and #7 to be released soon!
REMINDER | BC's Tourism & Hospitality Industry Partners Want to Hear From You!

TIABC, along with our tourism and hospitality partners go2hr, and Destination BC, have collaborated to conduct a survey about the status of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) efforts of tourism and hospitality businesses around the province.

This DEIA survey is one initiative that supports the BC tourism industry’s continued learning journey as we collectively reflect on how we might better authentically represent communities in BC, understand how others encounter the world, and ensure tourism experiences are safe, accessible, and inclusive for everyone.

Note: This survey should only be completed by one person per business/association/organization, by an employee with the title of, or similar to: Owner, Vice President, General Manager, HR Manager, CEO, COO, or DEIA Specialist.

Please share this opportunity with your network(s) and help the survey team reach over 19,000 tourism and hospitality businesses, and various industry partners, across the province.

Survey available through to April 28th!
GreenStep Introduces Members of Their Growing Team
Sridhar Pathipaka
Business Energy Advisor
Hassaan Ali
Circular Economy Specialist
Matt Weller
Senior Sustainability Project Manager
GreenStep recently announced the addition of three new members to their growing team. TIABC joins in congratulating Sridhar, Hassaan and Matt and looks forward to our continued work together on sustainable tourism initiatives.

Learn more about GreenStep and their programs and services dedicated to sustainable tourism HERE.
Tourism Ucluelet

Tourism Ucluelet (TU) is the destination management organization who has been responsible for marketing Ucluelet as a destination since 2008.

Ucluelet is a flourishing community with an active, working harbour that thrives on outdoor recreation and ecotourism. Tourism is one of Ucluelet’s main economic drivers, employing 400-500 people regionally and generating $50-60 million in regional spending each year.

Learn more about Tourism Ucluelet HERE.
Your Membership is Important to Us!

We strongly encourage you to consider membership or renew your membership with TIABC 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.

Your support and engagement is vital to ensuring businesses, DMO's and sectors are united and speaking with one voice on issues that impact BC's tourism industry.

Contact info@tiabc.ca for more information, visit our website HERE or the link below.
TIAC's Associate Program Now Available to TIABC Members

The Tourism Industry Association of BC (TIABC) and the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) are happy to announce an exceptional offer to TIABC members! Effective now, TIABC members in good standing can enrol in TIAC’s Associate Program FOR ONLY $25.

TIAC is the national voice for the travel and tourism sector and acts on behalf of Canadian tourism businesses promoting and supporting policies, programs, and activities that will benefit the sector’s growth, development, and prosperity.

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.

Contact info@tiabc.ca for more information or visit our website HERE.
webinar header f
Earth Day | April 22

The Earth Day 2023 theme is focused on engaging the more than 1 billion people, governments, institutions, and businesses who participate in Earth Day to recognize our collective responsibility and to help accelerate the transition to an equitable, prosperous green economy for all. The focus is on reframing the conversation, accelerating action, and bringing everyone together to understand that this is within our reach if we work together.

Whether you are taking actions virtually or in person - you can join the largest environmental movement on Earth!


For more information on Earth Day 2023, the official theme, Earth Day toolkit, updates, and how to get involved, please visit HERE.
Stop Food Waste Day | April 26

Stop Food Waste Day takes place April 26th and was created to help spread awareness and provide solutions to the issue.

Green Key Global has partnered with Better Table to organize a helpful webinar tailored for the hotel industry.

Date: April 26
Time: 11 am (PST)

You will learn:
- How hospitality leaders leverage food cost control
- How to achieve a triple bottom line with food waste prevention
- How to implement hotel best practices in your F&B operation

Register HERE.
Now Open | Abbotsford
Tulip Festival

The Abbotsford Tulip Festival is positioned as Canada’s largest tulip festival with 27 acres and over 70 tulip varieties. The Abbotsford Tulip Festival is an amazing display of flowers that create a dazzling array of colour. The Festival kicked off on April 14th. Highlights include kilometres of walking trails, specialty varietals that have been imported from Holland, including fringe tulips and double tulips, and a legacy tulip named after grandfather Peter Warmerdam.

The festival is open from 6:00 am to 8:00 pm seven days a week, and ends on May 14th. Online tickets are available one week in advance with tiered pricing options for weekdays and weekends. It is strongly recommended that visitors purchase tickets online. Daily field reports will be provided on the Lakeland Flowers’ website and social media channels.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit HERE.
Workshops, One-on-One Coaching and Certification Support

The Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) is pleased to offer sustainability training, workshops and support completely FREE to industry. Made possible with the generous support of the Government of Canada through the Tourism Relief Fund, TIAC has secured the services of experts in the field to deliver a valuable program.

The program will be offered in cohorts, supporting participants to go deeper in sustainability and receive guidance on how to align with the UN SDGs and find practical actions to make tourism a force for good. This is a great learning and networking opportunity, with offerings including:

  • Symposium Recordings
  • Specialized workshops, one-on-one coaching, and green certification support
  • Resources, tools, and materials to support your journey 

Space is limited, so sign up today!
Employment Equity Partners' Roundtable

"Beyond Culture: Bridging Gaps in Accessibility, Equity & Inclusion"

Community leaders, researchers, policymakers and employers across public and private sectors will converge. Discussions will focus on transcending cultural norms and challenging predominant narratives to advance accessibility and inclusion within workplaces and institutions.

Date: Tuesday, May 9
Time: 9:00 AM (PST)
Location: Morris J. Wosk Centre for Dialogue, 580 W. Hastings, Vancouver

Outcomes will help employers and decision makers better understand opportunities for engaging talents from different equity-deserving groups, as well as contribute toward a national framework for employment equity in Canada.

Participation from public and private sector employers, including senior business leaders, human resource managers, DEI leaders and policymakers are encouraged to attend.


For further information about registration, sponsorship or partnership opportunities, please contact connect@theinclusionproject.com. Visit the event website HERE.
Pathway to Net Zero Carbon Masterclass

The Pathway to Net Zero Carbon training MasterClass will provide participants with the key steps to measuring the carbon footprint of their organization based on the internationally accepted Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Protocol, and how to uncover the opportunities to both reduce emissions and save money. It is broken into the following three steps:

Step 1: The Carbon Challenge - review GHG accounting and reporting standards, and methods.
Step 2: How to Measure Your Carbon Footprint.
Step 3: We will help the participants on “How to Set Carbon Reduction Goals & Prioritize Actions based on a Net Zero Goal”.

This program includes three workshops:

  • Wed, May 3 - 930am - 1230pm PST
  • Wed, May 17 - 930am - 1230pm PST
  • Wed, May 24 - 930am - 1230pm PST
BCHF Golf Tournaments | Registration Now Open
Foursomes and Single Players - don't miss out!

Okanagan 2nd Annual Tournament
May 18 - Harvest Golf Club

Vancouver 13th Annual Tournament
July 17 - Westwood Plateau

Victoria 9th Annual Tournament
August 23 - Olympic View

If you want to become a sponsor for any (or all) tournaments, contact Samantha at samantha@sasparilla.ca our Event Manager or Mike Macleod, Golf Committee Chair at mike@bcha.com
save the date banner
A Roof Over Our Heads:
Exploring Mountain Resort Housing Possibilities

Housing a local workforce is among the most pressing matters facing mountain resorts today.

Industry experts from throughout North America will speak to mountain resort housing models utilized in Whistler before expanding the lens to explore mountain resort housing models throughout North America. The discussions will be followed by an opportunity for the audience to engage in a Q&A session.

Date: Thursday, April 27
Time: 2:00-4:30pm (PT)
Location: Whistler Conference Centre
Tickets: $25 per person

Learn more and register HERE.
Register Today! | Annual Ski Conference Event of the Year!

The CWSAA Spring and Trade Show returns this year in Whistler. Don't miss the biggest annual ski conference of the year and registrants have the option to enjoy the Sea to Sky Gondola tour or go on a ride and enjoy the experience on your own! go2HR and CMHA BC will also be doing a presentation together about psychologically safer workplaces for employers, supervisors and OHS professionals. Register today. Note - open to CWSAA members only.

Dates: April 25-27, Whistler

Learn more and register HERE.
Destination Greater Victoria | AGM

Join the DGV Board of Directors and CEO Paul Nursey update to members about Destination Greater Victoria’s work and achievements, and plans looking forward. We will also be celebrating the Life Member Award and Miracle Award recipients. Following the business portion of the AGM, mix and mingle at the DGV members’ reception featuring complimentary appetizers, refreshments and a cash bar.

When: Friday, April 28
Time: 1:30 - 4:00 pm
      AGM from 1:30-3:00 pm
      Reception from 3:00-4:00pm
Where: Inn at Laurel Point, Spirit Rooms, 680 Montreal Street, Victoria.

Learn more and register HERE.
BCHA Summit | Register Today


The 2023 BCHA Summit will feature an array of insightful and thought-provoking sessions designed to support industry growth and excellence. Learn from the industry’s most influential thought-leaders and change-makers over the course of the two-day conference.

There is a variety of ticket options to suit each individual’s needs, including member/non-member pricing, full registration, student pricing, and Awards Gala-only ticket options.

Dates: May 1-2
Location: Delta by Marriott Hotels, Grand Okanagan Resort, Kelowna

Learn more and register HERE.
Rendez-vous Canada 2023

A world-class conference that connects international buyers with Canadian sellers of tourism products, this year’s Quebec City event will bring together approximately 1,700 tourism business leaders for more than 30,000 one-on-one appointments, experienced-based luncheons, exclusive breakfasts, and engaging networking opportunities. Get your brand in front of an audience with influence at RVC2023!

Dates: May 30-June 2
Location: Quebec City

Learn more and register HERE.
BC Chamber of Commerce 2023 AGM

This year’s AGM and Conference theme is Focusing Forward… Together.

Over the course of two days, public sector, private sector and Indigenous leaders will inspire us, challenge us to think outside-the-box and take steps to work together and chart a path to a future where businesses prosper, British Columbians thrive and communities flourish.

Date: May 31-June 2
Location: Hilton Whistler Resort & Spa, Whistler

Registration is now open! View the program and register HERE.

Save the Date | June 5-7
BC Aviation Council Conference - Prince George

We are pleased to announce the dates for the next annual BCAC Conference. It will take place in Prince George, ("Base camp to the North" and home to YXS) at the "Courtyard by Marriott" hotel.

More information including conference theme, agenda, list of speakers, as well as hotel and travel partner recommendations to follow soon.

Questions or Sponsorships? Ask Dave!
10th Anniversary of
The Art of Leadership for Women

The Art of Leadership Women focuses on the topics and trends most critical to leaders. This unique one-day conference features a riveting collection of world leaders, business icons, academics, and bestselling authors who inspire action.

Attendees will have the opportunity to learn improved ways of leveraging their value, elevating their skills, and developing the strategies required to take their leadership and their organizations to the next level. This conference is not just for women, but for anyone who wants to champion change on behalf of women.

Date: June 6
Time: 8:30 am - 4:30 pm
Location: Vancouver Convention Centre

NOTE: TIABC members can receive up to $100 off registration by using code TIABC40

Learn more and purchase tickets HERE.
21st Annual Coast Hotels
Shuhachi Naito Golf Classic

The 21st Annual Coast Hotels Shuhachi Naito Golf Classic will take place and will begin with a 12:00 Noon shotgun start in a Texas Scramble format. Last year, the tournament raised $80,000.00 for designated charities.

Date: July 13
Location: Tsawwassen Springs Golf Club, Delta

The two beneficiaries this year are once again the ALS Society of BC and the Vancouver Holocaust Education Centre. Due to the success of this event, more than 50% of this year's playing spots have already been pre-sold.

Learn more and register HERE.
Abbotsford International Airshow

The Abbotsford International Airshow has grown to become one of the Fraser Valley’s largest and most exciting annual events.

Dates: Aug. 11, 12 & 13
Location: Abbotsford International Airport

Early Bird Tickets on Sale Now! Early Bird ticket access is EXCLUSIVE to Airshow Insiders.
Learn more about the event performers and event attractions HERE.
Thank-you for your readership! We encourage you to send us your ideas or content that would be valuable for TIABC to share through our Bulletin.
Drop us a line at info@tiabc.ca.
TIABC recognizes that our members, stakeholders and staff occupy the ceded, unceded and traditional territories of Indigenous Nations across British Columbia. We sincerely appreciate the opportunity to live, work and play on the lands that our Indigenous friends and First Nations ancestors honour and care for.