February 9, 2024

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Walt Judas, CEO, TIABC

Scott Ellis, CEO, Guide Outfitters Association of British Columbia

CEO MESSAGE

Earlier this week I spoke with a long-time Shuswap resident whose large property was severely damaged by fire. He made some strong comments about the disconnect between city folks, government officials and residents of rural BC when it comes to understanding what actually happens on the ground during a wildfire.

Although in a different context, I thought the same thing after listening to several outfitters, fishing guides and other adventure tourism operators talk about running a business on crown land in areas of the province that many of us have never seen or even heard of. The product, operating environment, challenges, regulations, and even clientele are decidedly different than in BC’s larger communities.

The forum for the latter discussion was two consultation meetings hosted by Lands, Water and Resource Stewardship Minister Nathan Cullen on the proposed amendments to the Land Act that is causing great angst amongst adventure tourism operators, most of whom live in rural BC. While somewhat familiar with the issues, there were many concerns expressed that I hadn’t necessarily dealt with before. Moreover, Land Act amendments weren’t even on the radar as a priority advocacy file for TIABC and many of our sector partners until two weeks ago when the province quietly announced its public engagement process.

Since then, I’ve heard and learned more about the nuances of the Land Act and what any proposed changes would mean for tourism operators that rely on crown land tenures and permits to conduct their business. As I continue to learn and gather perspectives, I asked one of my respected sector association colleagues, who has been immersed in crown land issues for years, to provide a summary of the concerns expressed by his members and other adventure tourism operators during meetings with Minister Cullen this week. 

The following is courtesy of Scott Ellis, CEO of Guide Outfitters Association of British Columbia and co-chair of the Adventure Tourism Coalition:

I believe that most of us support reconciliation with Indigenous peoples of BC. My concern is not with the intent of reconciliation but rather in how it’s being executed by our provincial and federal governments. Without a much better implementation plan, I fear that this will get much worse before it gets better. Reconciliation should mean healing for both Indigenous and non-indigenous communities. 

Case in point, the consultation on the Land Act opened in January and the Province wants it completed so it can be made into law by May 16th. What’s the rush? Fast-tracking Land Act legislation will have many consequences...even more unintended that we’re not even aware of yet.

As we heard in two meetings with Minister Cullen attended by close to 300 tourism operators, many tenure holders were upset by the lack of engagement and the response from government on the initial consultation. “Don’t worry. Trust us. This is just enabling legislation.” Business owners have stated that after many years of broken promises, these words ring hollow. We need to see the regulations and understand the impact so that it’s clear and fair for all.

Minister Cullen made a point of saying that Section 7 agreements (province and First Nations joint decision-making per DRIPA) will not impact the 40,000 tenures on the land. If so, his assurances must be written in the legislation. He has also said that government still has final say but it’s not what operators have experienced on the ground.

Land-based decisions, shorter tenure terms, harmful regulations, longer renewals, and other decisions made under the auspices of the duty to consult have huge impacts to small businesses. Without the support of the local First Nation, operating on the land has become more complex. When the economic impacts cannot be mitigated, reconciliation-based compensation must be paid and also must be written into the Land Act.

Again, this proposed legislation should not be rushed. The regulations need to be developed first so that everyone can understand the magnitude of the changes. It’s worth the time and effort to get it right. Reconciliation is difficult and when not done well, can have catastrophic impacts to small businesses, the provincial economy, and local communities – both Indigenous and non-indigenous alike.

Scott Ellis, CEO, Guide Outfitters Association of British Columbia 

Throughout this past week, I’ve undertaken extensive consultation with members, business sector associations (e.g. Business Council of BC, Mining Association of BC, Greater Van Board of Trade, UBCM), and other stakeholders on the proposed Land Act amendments with more to come in the days ahead.

In the meantime, TIABC, as part of the Adventure Tourism Coalition, will work toward advancing several recommendations to the province prior to the conclusion of the public engagement process (March 31st), starting with a request to delay the legislation until such time sufficient consultation has been completed with the tourism industry and all other sectors likely to be impacted.

In the meetings this week, many tourism operators took shots at government. To his credit, Minister Cullen wasn’t defensive, listened intently, took responsibility for some mis-steps in the consultation process, and also acknowledged the many concerns expressed by folks who believe their life savings and livelihood are at stake. He also agreed to a third session with tourism operators who either missed the other two meetings or weren’t able to share their thoughts and recommendations with the minister and his staff. We’ll keep you posted on further opportunities to engage and with any more developments as this process unfolds. Next week’s topic picks up on my conversation with the Shuswap resident and what needs to happen to mitigate the impact of wildfires.

Walt Judas

CEO, TIABC

Parliamentary Secretary Releases Statement on Support for BC Wine Sector

Roly Russell, Parliamentary Secretary for Rural Development, has released a statement regarding recent actions by the Government of Alberta that affect BC's wine producers. Here is an excerpt from the news release:

“Recently, Alberta has taken action to stop direct-to-consumer delivery of wine from BC producers. This move doesn’t only affect Albertans’ freedom to choose what wine they can enjoy, it has serious repercussions on grape growers and winemakers where I live and throughout our province.

“I know that this action couldn’t come at a worse time for our growers, given recent climatic events, and it’s baffling that Alberta would decide to do this now. Our government takes this issue very seriously. Mike Farnworth, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General, who is responsible for liquor in BC has met with his Alberta counterpart to urge them to stop what they are doing.



“These past few years, our grape growers and wineries have faced unprecedented challenges due to extreme weather events and the adverse effects of climate change. Our wine industry has grappled with unprecedented crop damage caused by two extremely cold winter-freeze events, wildfires and more. The causes of extreme weather are global – but their impacts are felt acutely here at home and many B.C. grape growers and wineries are struggling with production shortages".

• Read the full statement by Parliamentary Secretary Roly Russell HERE.
• Learn more about these actions in the news release from Wine Growers BC HERE.

Province Continues Support for Fairs, Festivals, Events

The Province announced earlier this week BC-based events are receiving more government support for sustained recovery in response to calls from this sector for help.

Government is providing $15 million in one-time grants to eligible events through the BC Fairs, Festivals and Events fund (BCFFE). Event organizers will be able to tackle ongoing challenges the sector faces, such as reduced revenue and sponsorships, and rising costs of equipment and services.

Applications will be accepted until Feb. 25th, at 11:59 p.m. Events between April 1, 2024, and September 30, 2025, are eligible for funding. Organizations are encouraged to submit their applications as soon as possible.

Learn more and read the official government announcement HERE.

YVR Updates on North Runway Project

In a letter to TIABC from Andy Margolis, VP, Operations & Chief Operations Officer, YVR provided an update on the North Runway Project. Here is an excerpt from the letter:

"As you may know, over the last year we have undertaken work to determine an optimal plan to upgrade our North Runway. With a busy dual parallel runway system in use at YVR, we recognize the importance of this work to ensure the runway’s reliability well into the future. 

Since September 2023, YVR has been assessing options for how to best deliver important upgrades to the North Runway, while minimizing customer impacts in both the short and long term. Through extensive evaluation, the option of a full six-month closure of the North Runway has been removed and will not be considered further. Alternatively, their approach moving forward will be to assess options that have a reduced impact on runway operations. 

In parallel with this decision, Andrew Grams will be taking on the role of Program Director for the North Runway Program. With a background in program management and air traffic control combined with a decade working at YVR, he is well positioned to drive the success of this initiative.  

The YVR team is set to conduct further engagement over the coming months as they assess options and determine the optimal program plan. During this time, updates will be provided on the program status, address any questions and seek valuable input."

Learn more about YVR HERE.

More Government Funding Support for Wheelchair-accessible Taxis

The province developed the funding program in 2023 to help make accessible taxis more available by offsetting the costs that taxi companies and owner-operators face in providing wheelchair-accessible vehicles. Unlike ride-hailing companies, taxi companies are required, as part of their operating license, to reserve a portion of their fleet for accessible vehicles.

As much as $7.8 million is available to partially subsidize eligible applicants for costs related to vehicle maintenance, converting an existing vehicle, purchasing a converted vehicle, or purchasing a new vehicle and converting it. This year’s funding will also offer rebates to offset the higher costs of fuel and insurance that operators of accessible vehicles face.

Applications are now open for the Passenger Transportation Accessibility Program through the second round of funding. This year’s application period was extended from four to six weeks and will close on March 3rd.

• To view more details about the funding eligibility, visit HERE.
• Read the official announcement from government HERE.

Employer Survey: Disability Inclusion Awareness and Practices

Tourism HR Canada is seeking input from tourism businesses to better understand how operators currently engage with HR practices aimed at broadening their pool of potential employees.

This short survey asks about awareness and practices related to:

► Disability inclusion

► Workplace culture

► Recruitment and promotion

► Training

► Workplace accommodations

► Mental health

Your valuable feedback will inform the development of tools and training for tourism operators who are facing mounting recruitment challenges, and who may be looking to untapped pools of talent to meet those needs. These tools and training are part of a new, three-year project called Belong, which seeks to increase tourism employment opportunities for people with disabilities in Canada. 

Heritage Week in BC | February 19-25

Heritage Week is an annual event that takes place during the third full week in February. It celebrates and showcases local heritage across the province.

This year’s Heritage Week: Layer by Layer, invites you to dig deeper into your community’s past and explore the many layers and stories that your unique community holds. Take some time during Heritage Week to learn something new about the many “layers” of the place you call home.

Dates: February 19–25

Where: Events in communities all around BC

Ways you can participate in Heritage Week:

• Attend an Event
• Host an Event
• Advocate for Heritage

Learn more about Heritage Week in BC and access available resources HERE.

ICYMI - Episode #19 in TIABC's Voice of Tourism Podcast Series

Meet Cheryl MacKinnon, Founder and president of Wellness Travel BC as she joins TIABC's Voice of Tourism host Walt Judas to discuss the growth of wellness travel following the pandemic, her work within the sector, and some of the policy issues affecting the industry that require government attention.

Now Available on Spotify or the following link:

Some 400-500 tourism industry leaders from businesses and sector associations, regional and community destination management/marketing organizations, First Nations, provincial/municipal governments, and non-government organizations will gather for discussions around the conference theme - 'Shaping Our Future Together'.

An Outstanding Program You Don't Want to Miss!

With both a 'knowledge and skills' track for workshops, delegates will not only be informed but able to apply their learnings within their own professional setting. Our goal is that in partnership, all elements of British Columbia's tourism industry will align to help the sector meet the challenges ahead but also create an environment to build back better than ever.

We’re very excited for a stellar lineup of plenary and breakout sessions and we hope you are too! This isn’t a program you’ll want to miss. 

Learn more about the conference program including agenda, speakers, opportunities for sponsorship, and more in the link below.

We Are Excited to Announce

Premier David Eby to Attend Conference

For the first time in more than 12 years, a BC premier will speak to delegates at the BC Tourism Industry Conference.

Premier David Eby will take centre stage to offer remarks during a plenary session, followed by a Q&A period with TIABC CEO Walt Judas.

Premier Eby is the MLA for Vancouver-Point Grey, first elected in 2013. He became leader of the BC NDP in 2022.

Hon. Soraya Martinez Ferrada

The Hon. Soraya Martinez Ferrada, Minister of Tourism and Minister responsible for the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec, will attend and speak to delegates at this year's BC Tourism Industry Conference. She will also participate in one of the workshops.

Minister Martinez Ferrada was first elected as the Member of Parliament for Hochelaga in 2019. For over 20 years, she has gained experience in communications and project development through her involvement in community, cultural, and political action.

Note - TIABC has not partnered with any company to release a conference delegate list. If you receive an email regarding such a list, please consider it spam.

Destination Vancouver CEO Royce Chwin Recognized as a Leader in 2024 Power 50 List

Congratulations to Destination Vancouver president & CEO Royce Chwin for making Vancouver Magazine’s 2024 Power 50 list of the city’s transformational leaders. Coming in at #30, Royce and his organization got a shout-out for bringing MICHELIN to town and putting a global spotlight on Vancouver's incredible culinary talent and all the work his team does to promote the city as an amazing place to visit and experience.

On behalf of TIABC, we send our sincere congratulations to Royce for this well-deserved recognition. Learn more about Vancouver Magazine's 2024 Power 50 recipients HERE.

Learn More from BC Lodging and Campgrounds Assoc.

The BC Lodging and Campgrounds Association regularly distribute valuable information and resources relevant to the lodging and campground sector in their Dogwood Express Newsletter. This month's edition features:

• Charging GST for Longer Term Campsite Stays
• Responding to questions re: RV Park Shower Rates
• Information for Lodging/Campground Managers per the Employment Standards Act

If you are interested in learning more, you are encouraged to subscribe for their newsletter HERE.

City of Dawson Creek

Tourism Dawson Creek

Tourism Dawson Creek was established (2001) in response to local operators and business leaders wanting to further develop and diversify the tourism industry in Dawson Creek. Tourism Dawson Creek is the recognized Destination Management Organization (DMO) responsible for the marketing and promotion of the city. Tourism Dawson Creek also operates the Visitor Centre (VC).

Learn more about Dawson Creek and Tourism Dawson Creek 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. If you want to be featured in an upcoming TIABC Voice of Tourism and other platforms, 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.

Your Role as a Leader in Workplace

Mental Health

In partnership with Canadian Mental Health Association BC (CMHA BC), go2HR's Psychological Health & Safety Coach Valerie Lister is hosting a webinar, Discussing your Role as a Leader in Workplace Mental Health.

Join in as we explore CARE 2 program together through discussions and interactivity. Leave the session with best workplace practices you can apply and share with your team, and recognize your role in workplace mental health.

Date: February 15

Time: 10:00 am - 11:00 am (PT)

Register for the webinar HERE.

Webinar | Return to Work

As of January 1, amendments to the Workers Compensation Act regarding the duty to cooperate and the duty to maintain employment are now in effect. Join go2HR and WorkSafeBC for an informative session to understand all there is to know about the regulatory changes, and how they will affect your tourism and hospitality business.

• Review the amendments and industry-specific nuances so that your business complies with the new return-to-work requirements.
• Share practical resources with all participants to help employers apply the updated legislation in the workplace.

Date: February 21

Time: 11:00 am (PT)

Register for the webinar HERE.

Learn More About "Spark" Grant and

Mentorship Program

Rainforest to Rockies Iconic Route

Want to learn more about the Rainforest to Rockies "Spark" Program and how to get $3,000 for your tourism idea?

Register for the virtual Info Session.

Date: February 22

Time: 3:00 pm (PT) - Virtual

Register for the session HERE.

Learn more about the "Spark" Program HERE.

VCC Foundation Presents FLOURISH

Flourish presented by RBC is a tasting event full of food, wine, and music, hosted by the Vancouver Community College Foundation. This memorable and engaging evening showcases tasty creations by Vancouver’s leading culinary minds.

This annual event is to raise funds to help VCC students flourish.

Date: Tues. February 27

Time: 7pm - 11pm

Location: 1120 E. 7th Ave., Vancouver 

To learn more and to purchase tickets, visit HERE.

National Tourism Week 2024 

April 15-19

Now in its 14th year, National Tourism Week (NTW) is a weeklong national social media campaign orchestrated by the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) in partnership with provincial/territorial industry associations such as TIABC. This annual event is a crucial platform for highlighting the pivotal role of tourism in Canada.

TIAC and TIABC are enthusiastically inviting everyone to partake in celebrating the nation's finest offerings to the world under the inspiring banner: Canada: Powered by Tourism

There are four easy ways to get involved; Go Green, Get Social, Share a Video Message, and Spread the Word.

The NTW website provides useful toolkits, which includes suggestions on how to do the video, how operators and organizations can get involved, and a valuable factsheet to readily use.

It's time to start planning, to celebrate tourism in our province. 

Stay tuned to TIABC for 2024 Tourism Week in British Columbia toolkit and resources.

Art of Leadership for Women Returns

to Vancouver

The Art of Leadership Women is returning to Vancouver! This year's conference features a riveting collection of renowned world leaders, business icons, esteemed academics, and bestselling authors who share strategies and insights on the most critical issues confronting leaders in our world today. Don't miss this unique opportunity to develop your leaders, engage your talent, and build high-performing teams.

Date: June 24

Time: 8:30 am - 4:30 pm

Location: Vancouver Convention Centre

Register by March 1st using promo code EBLW41 and save $100 per pass.

Learn more and register HERE.

Syéx̱w Chó:leqw Adventure Park Delivers a Powerful Cultural Experience

Lighting the Path is a unique interactive outdoor light experience. Prepare your senses as you walk an immersive outdoor path honouring residential school survivors in teachings, story and language. 

tocated at Syéx̱w Chó:leqw Adventure Park in Hope, The mesmerizing lights move through historical grief and pain, to hope and laughter, sharing the experience of Indigenous children today who are raised by their parents with no worry of being taken away. This cultural journey is appropriate for viewers of all ages.

Dates: February 10 and February 24

Limited tickets available. Visit HERE for more details and to book tickets.

International Indigenous

Tourism Conference

The 2024 Indigenous International Tourism Conference (IITC) is on the horizon!

IITC is a gathering of industry professionals, community leaders, entrepreneurs, and partners dedicated to promoting and celebrating the vibrant world of Indigenous tourism. The purpose is to showcase the diverse cultures, traditions, and tourism experiences offered by Indigenous communities in Canada and beyond.

But here's the catch – it's time to seize the moment and grab your Super Early Bird tickets before they're gone!

Date: February 26-28

Location: Ottawa, Ontario

Registration is NOW OPEN - Visit HERE for more information.

BC Hotel Association Summit Registration Now Open!

Registration is now open for the 2024 BCHA Summit Conference.

Date: May 1-2

Location: Fairmont Chateau Whistler

Join the BCHA to network with leaders, owners, operators, vendors, and tech partners. Featuring provincial and federal advocacy, in-person Fast Track Your Future education series, dynamic opening and closing keynote speakers, plus many more speakers, session, and panels!

Learn more and register HERE.

2024 BC Mountain Bike Symposium

Mountain Biking BC has announces the next symposium to be held will be at the Naramata Centre in the South Okanagan. The theme chosen for the symposium is “Stewardship; Creating a Culture of Care”. Stewardship can be applied to many aspects of mountain biking from the responsible management of trails to the effective leadership of our organizations and to the way we promote and market the experience to riders. 

Date: May 1-3

The venue is just 15 kilometers north of Penticton on the east side of Okanagan Lake and has many great riding options to offer including the extensive Three Blind Mice trail network and the Kettle Valley Rail Trail that connects Naramata and Penticton along the scenic Naramata Bench.

Registration is now available HERE.

Pig Out Festival

Buy tickets now for Pig Out Festival Weekend in the heart of Oliver Osoyoos Wine Country.

Date: Saturday, May 4

A colourful "Fiesta" celebration of the diverse food and culture of the South Okanagan, this popular one-day event returns to its original spring dates, in an exciting new location.

Gather with friends and savour the start of the sunshine season with one of the biggest and best outdoor culinary festivals in the Okanagan Valley.

Learn more and purchase tickets HERE.

2024 BC Economic Summit

Transforming Industries, Empowering Communities

With the theme "Transforming Industries, Empowering Communities," the 2024 BC Economic Summit will be delivering this highly anticipated annual event, dedicated to fostering collaboration and growth among Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities alike, and to focusing on local industries and empowering communities to achieve success.

Date: May 6-9

Location: Penticton

The BC Economic Summit serves as a dynamic platform that brings together a diverse range of thought leaders, experts, and innovators from within and outside British Columbia. It offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the latest economic development trends, strategies, and success stories that are reshaping industries and creating positive change in communities.

Learn more and register HERE.

2024 Canadian RVing and Camping Week

The Canadian RVing and Camping Week is designed to encourage Canadians and international visitors to get outside to enjoy a fun, safe and secure camping experience with family and friends.  

Dates: May 21-26

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

• Promote the lifestyle associated with camping and RVing.
• Promote good behaviour and respect via the Camper’s Code
• Raise funds for Care Camps to send children with cancer to camp.

Be part of the program and sign up HERE.

Save the Date

2024 Annual Conference | BCAC's "Soaring Above Challenges"



The BC Aviation Council (BCAC) is excited to announce that the 2024 Conference is now scheduled! Mark your calendar now and check in with our draft event webpage closer to the date for more details including agenda, speaker profiles, sponsorship opportunities, activities (including add-ons), travel and hotel partners, and more.

Date: May 27-29

Location: Nanaimo

View the draft event agenda HERE.

2024 BC Chamber of Commerce AGM

Join us and explore this vibrant, diverse and naturally beautiful city located on the traditional, ancestral, unceded territory of the Syilx/Okanagan people.

Date: May 28-30

Location: Coast Capri, 1171 Harvey Ave., Kelowna