June 14, 2024

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CEO MESSAGE

When I purchased a boat a few years ago from two retired brothers in Vernon, I headed straight to the launch ramp at West Kelowna’s Gellatly Bay Park to set sail and learn the idiosyncrasies of my new watercraft. Because it was a bit cool and really smoky that day, there were no other boats at the dock or within view on Okanagan Lake.

However, not more than 20 minutes on the water, a zodiac vessel suddenly appeared out of the fog with two members of the RCMP’s West Coast Marine Service on board. They motioned for me to stop and then rafted up. The first thing they asked me is how long I had owned the boat for and chuckled when I said about two hours.

After verifying my boating license, one of the officers proceeded to check for the items all boaters must have to legally operate on the lakes, rivers and saltchuck in BC. She systematically inspected my life jackets, flashlight, fire extinguisher, flares, bailing bucket, and other things to ensure I was prepared to operate safety on the water. Given I just got the boat, I had no idea what I possessed or what was missing, nor was I completely aware of boating laws and regulations. Ignorance aside, I was grateful to float away with only a warning but not before promising to be better equipped the next time I ventured out.

Suffice it to say, the checklist of essentials and rules is long for boat owners and it’s up to us to keep up with legal requirements. For example, the province introduced a new regulation last month that compels owners to remove the drain plug and release all water from internal compartments such as ballasts, bilges, and live wells on dry land before transporting their boats.

Additionally, if you’re transporting a watercraft (e.g. sailboat, motorboat, car topper, kayak, canoe, paddle board) in BC, it’s mandatory to stop and report to all invasive mussel watercraft inspection stations along your travel route. The BC Conservation Officer Service has a team of specialized inspectors checking, and if necessary, decontaminating watercraft being transported within and into BC. I recently saw an inspection station down the road from the Mount Robson visitor centre where officers were patiently waiting for Alberta boaters travelling the Yellowhead to their favourite body of water in our province.

So why should anyone without a personal watercraft care? Very simply…the reason for the new drain plug edict is to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species, including zebra and quagga mussels, that pose a serious threat to British Columbia’s aquatic ecosystems, salmon populations, hydro power stations, and other infrastructure facilities. Should these invasive species find their way into a lake or stream, it’s game over for the eco-system. There is no way to reverse the damage. If you’ve ever come across a ‘dead’ lake, it’s disheartening to say the least.

You may know that Parks Canada recently banished personal watercraft from several lakes in eastern BC, Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba until next year to prevent the spread of whirling disease and/or invasive species.

Last month I met with my (western) provincial counterparts to discuss the impact of the aforementioned rules and restrictions although no action has yet been taken to mitigate revenue losses by marinas, boat rental companies, resorts, and other marine tourism operators. To be sure, the most pressing priority is to ensure these lakes are protected from potential predators and preserved for future generations.

Lately, TIABC has been receiving inquiries from out-of-province visitors and industry colleagues who wish to learn more about bans, invasive species, and new boater rules (e.g. drain plugs) to be better prepared for a summer on the water. A workshop or webinar is likely in order in the near future. Stay tuned.

After that first outing on Okanagan Lake, I replaced the old life jackets, fire extinguisher, flares, and other stuff on my boat as per the officer’s suggestion. To be extra cautious, I now go through a checklist before I hook up the boat trailer to ensure I have all the necessities to be safe and legal as per the captain’s responsibilities.

Leaving the drain plug out while towing my boat won’t be a problem. However, I can’t say with 100 percent certainty that I’ll remember to put it back in before backing down the ramp to launch. In fact, I’ve had nightmares about encountering the RCMP’s West Coast Marine Service again, only this time they were rescuing me as my water-filled boat sank to the bottom of the lake.

Walt Judas,

CEO, TIABC

ABLE BC Reports over 40% of Members Operating at a Loss or Breaking Even

Preliminary results of ABLE BC's 2024 Industry Benchmark survey conducted last month show that over 40% of survey respondents are operating at a loss or breaking even.

Throughout the month of May, ABLE BC surveyed liquor primary (LP) and licensee retail store (LRS) members to understand how their businesses are doing and what they expect in the coming months. Unsurprisingly, survey respondents noted the biggest challenges they are facing now are increasing labour costs, shifting consumer habits to low and no-alcohol beverages, labour shortages, and rising food and alcohol costs.

Also noted, 60% of survey respondents reported that customers are returning and sales volumes have remained stable or increased compared to 2022. However, given the downward pressure on profitability, it’s clear that industry is far from recovery.

A detailed report with a complete breakdown of survey responses based on license type, size of business, and region will be available from ABLE BC in the coming months. 

Restaurants Canada Urges Reduction in EI Premiums to Lift Strain on Small Businesses

Restaurants Canada, together with other national business associations, is urging the federal government to act on the findings of a pivotal report titled “On the Precipice – Help is Needed“, authored by Ian Lee, PhD, Associate Professor at Carleton University.

This report delves into the impacts of EI Premiums on small businesses and shines a spotlight on the challenges posed by higher EI Premiums amidst unprecedented cost pressures. It also issues a call to action to the federal government to address the escalating costs of running a small business in today’s challenging economic climate, noting bankruptcies among restaurants and accommodations doubled from 2019 to 2024.

This data underscores the urgent need for the Federal Government to lower the Employment Insurance Premium rate to 1.58%, for small businesses and their employees, from the current rate of 1.66%.

Download the full report HERE.

Province Takes Action Ahead of Anticipated Summer Wildfires

As BC transitions into warmer, drier summer months, the Province continues to take action to help keep people and communities safe from wildfires. This includes additional and faster support for people evacuated from their homes during an emergency.

To better support people who cannot meet their own needs during evacuations from wildfires and other climate emergencies, the Province is introducing several improved measures stemming from the Premier’s Expert Task Force on Emergencies, including:

• Introducing an accommodation allowance of $200 per night, which is available through Interac e-transfer or at reception centres.
• A new Interac e-transfer direct deposit payment option for people who need help securing accommodation during large-scale evacuations.
• Updating and redesigning the EmergencyInfoBC website to improve user experience, especially on mobile devices.

Learn more and read the full announcement from government HERE.

Fair Pay & Basic Protection Coming

for Gig Workers

The Province announced earlier this week it has finalized regulations to provide minimum-wage measures and basic protections for app-based ride-hailing and delivery workers in British Columbia.  

The regulations, a first in Canada, will come into effect on September 3rd. They will apply to those who work for apps such as Uber, Lyft, Uber Eats, Skip the Dishes, DoorDash and others.

The regulations address the top concerns raised by workers, including:

• Low and unpredictable pay
• Lack of workers’ compensation
• Lack of transparency
• Unfair “deactivations” and suspension, and
• Tip protection

The final regulations will be posted in the coming days. Read the official announcement from the Province HERE.

Just Released! | Episode 24 - Charlayne Thornton-Joe

Meet Charlayne Thornton-Joe, Visitor Experience and Facilities Coordinator at the Chinese Canadian Museum Society of BC and recent Destination Greater Victoria Miracle Award recipient, who joins TIABC's Voice of Tourism host Walt Judas to discuss her career path, her work with tourism as a former Victoria City Councillor, and what communities need to grow and prosper as tourism destinations.

You can now listen to the Voice of Tourism podcast wherever you get your podcasts. Check us out on Apple, Spotify, iHeart Radio, Amazon Music, Deezer, Podcast Addict and Podchaser. Or listen through the link below.

DBC and Industry Partners Showcase

Destination Development Case Studies

Destination BC (DBC), in collaboration with tourism industry partners at regional and local levels, has launched an inspiring new collection of 12 destination development case studies that highlight innovative tourism practices and their positive impact on visitors and residents.

This series features two projects from each of the six tourism regions in BC, highlighting the positive impacts of destination development for BC communities—environmentally, economically, socially, culturally, and recreationally. The case studies cover 12 projects across the province; Accelerate Kootenays, BC’s Fishing Highway, Cross-Country Ski Trails in the Thompson Okanagan, Don’t Love It To Death, Expanding Mountain Bike Infrastructure in the Thompson Okanagan, Experience the Fraser, First Impressions Assessment, Indigenous Voices of Vancouver Island, Morfee Mountain Ridgeline Trail, Mt. Abriel Trail Network, Nemiah Valley Lodge, and Tumbler Ridge Global Geopark.

Together, they demonstrate how sustainable practices and inclusive community engagement lead to thriving destinations.

You are encouraged to delve into these individual stories and case studies through THIS LINK.

Guidance Toolkit for Engagement with Indigenous Communities

The Outdoor Recreation Council has released a new guide offering recreation organizations a roadmap for advancing reconciliation objectives and tools for recreation organizations embarking on discussions and relationship building with First Nations at the community level.

The toolkit is part of an ongoing effort to provide guidance and resources to the outdoor recreation sector on working cooperatively with Indigenous governments and communities on outdoor recreation projects. The hope for the guide is to spark dialogue within groups and to help foster genuine collaboration within Indigenous communities.

Deloitte Releases 2024 Summer Travel Outlook Report

With the arrival of summer, Deloitte has released the Canadian Summer Travel Outlook. The outlook is based on an online survey of over 1,000 Canadians who had plans to travel between May 24th and September 30th. Asked where they plan to spend their "big trip", an impressive 81% of respondents said within Canada. Most of the rest plan to visit Europe or the U.S. Additional highlights include:

• Most Canadians (77%) expect to spend the same or more on summer travel this year.
• Safety, inclusivity, and accessibility are important to visitors: respectively, 88%, 52%, and 49% think about these concerns when planning a trip.
• Canadians find fitness/sports options, all-inclusive packages, nightlife options, beach/pool access, and personalized customer service lacking in travel destinations.
• 63% of Western Canadians are traveling within their own home region.
• 80% of Canadians prefer food and drink available from local farmers, chefs, wineries, and breweries
• Awareness of Indigenous tourism experiences is rising
• Canadians are generally positive about tourism within their own communities. 43% said the benefits of tourism outweighed the costs in their town or city. But another 43% said they were neutral on the issue – which means we all have work to do to educate people about the importance of tourism.

Learn more about Deloitte tourism and destination development initiatives and read the full report HERE.

OHS Guidelines for Part 3 – Occupational First Aid Now Available

WorkSafeBC has made amendments to Part 3 of the OHS Regulation, relating to the provision of occupational first aid (sections 3.14–3.21), that will take effect November 1st.

These draft preliminary guidelines are intended to help employers prepare for the implementation of the new provisions. Draft versions of these guidelines were posted for consultation during the month of April and feedback from interested parties was incorporated into this preliminary revision.

Learn more about the revised guidelines HERE.

Powell River Airport Re-opens | Pacific Coastal Resumes Flight Service

The City of Powell River re-opened the Powell River Airport (YPW) last weekend following the completion of the runway rehabilitation project, which included extension and repaving of the runway, new lighting and visual aids, and improved drainage.

To celebrate the resumption of its service to Powell River Airport, Pacific Coastal Airlines is pleased to offer a special promotion. Passengers can enjoy a 20% discount on bookings using the promo code: YPW20. Further details regarding the promotion can be found on the Pacific Coastal Airlines website HERE.

WORTH Seeking Candidates for

2024 Board of Directors

WORTH is seeking candidates for its 2024 Board of Directors. This year, the Board of Directors has a minimum of three director positions to be filled. Board terms are two years long and the commitment is about eight hours per month with quarterly board meetings.

The Nominating Committee is seeking candidates that meet the skills and experience and characteristics requirements. Candidates are not required to possess all of the qualifications. Rather, they encourage individuals with expertise in specific areas to apply.

WORTH is committed to expanding the diversity of their board and creating an inclusive and equitable environment, and encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds and experiences to apply.

This is a volunteer position – directors will be reimbursed for reasonable out-of-pocket expenses incurred in performing their duties. Candidates must contact WORTH’s Nominating Committee via email at nominees@worthassociation.com no later than 5:00pm PT on June 30th, with a 200-250 word bio statement outlining their pertinent expertise and interest in joining the WORTH Board of Directors.

Learn more about the 2024 Board of Directors opportunity and requirements HERE.

Job Opportunity | Marketing Coordinator

Northern BC Tourism Association (NBCTA) is searching for a Marketing Coordinator to join their team for a one-year, full-time position with the potential for extension subject to funding and performance. This is an opportunity to embark on an exciting journey with NBCTA, a not-for-profit economic development organization with a mission to facilitate and steward the development of a strong tourism industry in Northern BC that is integral to the regional way of life.

Overview of the Position:

The Marketing Coordinator will work collaboratively with the Northern BC Tourism Marketing team and partners to support promoting Northern BC as a remarkable and sustainable travel destination. 

Learn more about the position HERE.

Reminder | Post your Summer Jobs Today!

Now that the season is underway, go2HR want to remind employers to post their summer job opportunities by posting on go2HR's job board and tap into young and local talent.

Students and young workers are still applying for summer jobs. Simply sign into your account to post your summer job vacancy. New employers can sign up for FREE!

Learn more and post your job HERE.

Just Released | 2024/25 Super Camping/Select Lodging BC Guide and App

The digital flipbook version of 2024/25 Super Camping/Select Lodging British Columbia is now available for use and includes over 200 listings to help you with your camping, RVing and lodging plans.

There is also an app that supports the flipbook version where users can receive notifications throughout the year to keep up-to-date on happenings. To download, look for the SCBC logo in the App store on IOS or the Play Store on android.

Note: the printed guide can also be picked up at British Columbia Visitor Centres.

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

Douglas College

Founded in 1970, Douglas College is the largest degree-granting college in BC, educating close to 25,000 students per year. The College has two major campuses in Metro Vancouver (New Westminster and Coquitlam), as well as several smaller training centres in Surrey, Burnaby and Maple Ridge. Douglas offers the most bachelor’s degrees and post-degree programs of any college in the province.

Learn more about Douglas College 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 | Canadian Tourism Data Collective

Following the recent launch of the award-winning Canadian Tourism Data Collective, the new, centralized national platform designed to revolutionize how we share and access tourism data, Destination Canada will be hosting a free industry webinar to further explore and discuss the platform’s dynamic features and products.  

Join in for an informative session and demo of this innovative tool which will harness the formidable power of data, research, and insights to increase Canada’s competitiveness and ultimately fuel economic growth through data-driven decision making. The webinar will be followed by a Q&A session. 

Date: Tuesday, June 18

Time: 10:00 am - 11:00 am (PT) 

Registration closes June 12th. Learn more and register HERE.

BCHA's Fast Track Your Future:

Managing Crisis Communications

The BC Hotel Association’s (BCHA) Fast Track Your Future series returns next month with sessions on Managing Crisis Communications.

This series equips participants with essential issues management and communication tools tailored to the unique challenges of the hospitality sector. 

From establishing a proactive response plan to implementing best practices, attendees will gain the confidence and expertise needed to navigate crises responsibly and intentionally.

Next Session:

• From Reaction to Recovery June 18

Learn more and register HERE.

Virtual Workshop | Climate Resilience

& Disaster Preparedness

Register Now for the upcoming BCTCRI virtual workshop on Climate Resilience & Disaster Preparedness.

Date: June 19

Time: 10am-12pm (PDT). 

The workshop will cover topics ranging from the current state of preparedness for disasters, the important role communities play in disaster preparedness, and emergency resources available for BC’s tourism industry. 

CDMOs, municipal government staff, First Nations economic development corporations, and communities with any level of experience in managing climate change and sustainability are eligible to join. This session will help enhance your community’s preparedness, ensuring safety, sustainability, and resilience.

Learn more about Project 4 of the BCTCRI HERE.

Register HERE.

BC Family Fishing Weekend

BC's Family Fishing Weekend is an annual celebration of fishing that coincides with the Father’s Day weekend. The three-day event falls on June 14-16. This is a great chance to get together with family and friends and try fishing! 

The BC Family Fishing Weekend aims to share the simple joy of casting a line and catching a fish with all British Columbians. 

There are plenty of ways to celebrate. Take advantage of free fishing days! No fishing licence is required to fish fresh or salt waters from June 14th to 16th. 

Learn more HERE.

Okanagan Wine Festivals Return in June

The Okanagan Wine Festivals returns this June with three weeks in wine country you don’t want to miss. There is no better time to visit BC Wine Country than in June. Just before the summer season kicks into high gear, you can explore all your favourite wineries and discover hidden treasures. The Okanagan Spring Wine Festival will focus on a TASTE and SIPS series of events throughout the Okanagan Valley.

Dates: June 2-23

The official launch of the Okanagan Spring Wine Festival will take place at the Penticton Trade and Convention Centre on Friday, June 7th, following the BC Wine Awards private reception, where the 2024 BC TOP 50 and the Wine of the Year will be announced.

Learn more about the Okanagan Wine Festivals, the various events and how to purchase tickets HERE.

Celebrating Roots & Fruits

The festivities begin with the 4th annual Rock & Roll Picnic. You won't be able to resist the electrifying performances of two amazing rock bands while indulging in gourmet hotdogs created by our top local chefs.

The excitement continues on Sunday with non-stop music, entertainment, kids' activities, and a diverse range of vendors to explore lasting well into the night.

Dates: June 20-23

Learn more and purchase tickets HERE.

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

Use promo code TIABC40  and save $100 per pass.

Learn more and register HERE.

2024 CanSPEP National Conference Registration

Join event entrepreneurs at CanSPEP featuring immersive programs, networking and awards in Victoria, BC.

Dates: June 25-28

Early registration is now open until May 3rd. Learn more and register HERE.

2024 CITAP+ Annual General Meeting

The 2024 CITAP+ AGM will be held electronically via Zoom on Wednesday, June 26th. Online registration through Zoom will open in early June, so please stay tuned! There will be no cost to attend the meeting.

Date: Wednesday, June 26

Time: 10:00-11:00 AM

Place:  Zoom Cloud

Learn more HERE.

43rd Annual Kamloopa Powwow

Join in to celebrate three days of vibrant Indigenous Culture! The Kamloopa Powwow Society is honoured to host the 43rd annual Kamloopa Powwow. The Kamloopa Powwow expects another large turn-out with an estimated 500 dancers and drummers from all across Canada and the United States. Attendees can expect to enjoy amazing drumming and dancing, colourful regalia, great food, and shopping at the artisan vendor booths.

Dates: June 28-30

Location: Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc Special Events Facility (the Arbour) within Secwepemcúl’ecw, Kamloops

By being together, we will celebrate our culture and lift our spirits up. Kamloopa Powwow helps to honour our personal pride as First Nations and share our beautiful culture and territory with the world.

Learn more HERE.

2024 BCHF Golf Tournaments

Registration is now open for the 2024 BC Hospitality Foundation golf tournaments. This year a new venue is being introduced to the Vancouver location which will bring a whole new experience: 

Dates:

• July 5 - Tsawwassen Springs Golf Club
• August 21 - Olympic Golf Club, Victoria

Learn more and register HERE.

Save the Date | Hidi Nishi Golf Tournament

The highly anticipated Hidi Nishi Golf Tournament is set to tee off! Golf enthusiasts and industry professionals alike will gather for a day of friendly competition and networking against the stunning backdrop of British Columbia’s scenic landscapes.

Dates: July 17

Location: Tsawwassen Springs Golf Club

To Register: please email the CITAP+ office at info@citap.ca to be invoiced for your preferred activities/ sponsorships. Please indicate the number of individuals that will be in attendance.

SKAL Vancouver | Tourism Industry Golf Tournament

This year Vancouver's tourism executive club: Skal, is hosting a different kind of tourism industry Golf Tournament; a KP (Closest to the Pin) Shootout.

Date: June 21

Location: Mylora, Richmond

Having 15 Par 3's to shoot at for $1000.00 in cash & prizes on a course anyone can play on, with a Shotgun start, is the way to go. More fun, no waiting around for 5 hours on a golf course, and a great barbeque onsite at the end.

We are looking for golfers, hole sponsors, a title sponsor for the event, the reception, and the KP shootout. For more information, visit THIS LINK. 

33rd Annual PNWER Summit

Advancing a Sustainable Regional Economy through Clean Energy & Innovation

Legislators, business leaders, academics, and policymakers from the U.S. and Canada will gather in Whistler for PNWER's 33rd Annual Summit from July 21-25 to discuss regional economic best practices and trade concerns. It will be an opportunity to engage with our region's key decision makers on both sides of the border. 

Dates: July 21-22

Location: Fairmont Château Whistler

Learn more and register 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!

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.

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.