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CEO MESSAGE
I absolutely adore my daughter but the fact that we’re very much alike ironically also causes tension between us. We’re both strong-willed and opinionated on certain subjects which makes for some lively discussions.
Over dinner one night at a popular restaurant, she scolded me for asking the server where he was originally from and how he came to live in BC. She claimed I was invading his privacy and that my line of questioning was offensive. Wait. What? After I mumbled something about woke, a battle royal ensued.
For decades I’ve asked dozens of servers the aforementioned questions and virtually every one of them was happy to share their story of either immigrating to Canada, moving to BC from another province, making a pit stop here on a working holiday visa, studying at one of our post-secondary institutions, or marrying a Canadian citizen and building a new life in their chosen country. The many tales I’ve heard always make me smile and remind me of my immigrant parents who were warmly embraced as newcomers to Canada despite their thick accents and limited English language skills.
The fact is, BC’s tourism and hospitality sector workforce is flush with people from other countries, a portion of them here as part of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFW). However, much to the chagrin of our industry, that could all change soon unless the federal government backs away from the latest revisions that restrict TFWs to one-year contracts instead of two and limit workplaces to fill only 10 percent of total positions with TFWs instead of the most recent 20 percent cap.
My friend at Restaurants Canada, Mark von Schellwitz, explains that government’s move will have dire consequences for his sector which is still looking to fill some 73,000 positions across the country. Mark points out that on top of recruitment efforts, Labour Market Impact Assessment fees, arduous paperwork and bureaucracy, plus the time spent training a new worker, it’s hardly worth it for an employer to invest the time and expense only to get one year of employment out of a TFW. Consequently, many positions will continue to remain vacant or operators will need to reduce hours, and in a worst-case scenario, close shop altogether.
The Federal Government’s TFW policy is an issue that TIABC, our national, provincial and territorial counterparts, as well as multiple other sector associations like TIABC member Restaurants Canada have been trying to resolve for years with regular lobbying and a long list of recommendations, some of which have landed, others not. Suffice it to say, here we go again.
Similarly, changes to international student post-graduate work permits targeting colleges, universities and institutes may have unintended consequences for Canadian tourism and hospitality students because many programs that rely heavily on international enrollment to help subsidize costs may no longer be available.
Recently, Canada’s Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Minister, Marc Miller, announced a new series of reforms to reduce the number of temporary residents that include further reductions to overall international student numbers and changes to post-graduate work eligibility for those studying at private and public colleges and universities, which, by the way, often have comprehensive systems in place to ensure their programs line up with national labour market needs as per government’s directive.
However, notwithstanding there is little consideration given to the needs of local labour markets and the reliance on graduates of all post-secondary institutions to fill positions, the problem is that the tourism and hospitality sector has been excluded from the small list of identified industries that qualify these students to receive their work permits. This comes at a time when these programs are already seeing a decline in enrollment in many parts of the province for myriad other reasons. Furthermore, it’s not only another blow for many colleges and universities, but also the tourism workforce, especially in smaller communities.
Simply put, a blunt, one-size-fits-all, national policy does not work for BC or many other provinces and territories. Once again, TIABC, our post-secondary institution members, and our counterparts from across the country are appealing to the federal government to back away from the restrictions or to make more critical industries like tourism and hospitality eligible for graduates of multiple programs to receive work permits. We have a lot of work to do in a short period of time to fix a serious issue. More to come soon.
Admittedly, I often say things to get a rise out of my wonderful daughter who always seems to take the bait and enter into an argument about something innocuous. For me it's fun but perhaps not so much for her. For the record…she’s nothing like I’ve made her out to be. She’s actually very kind, gentle, sweet, and loving…just like her father. 😃
Walt Judas
CEO, TIABC
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TIABC CALL FOR BOARD NOMINATIONS
The Tourism Industry Association of BC (TIABC) Governance Committee is seeking qualified individuals for the 2024-2026 term that are dedicated to the success of the association and will support its principles as a member of TIABC's Board of Directors. Acceptance of nominations is based on a specific set of skills and experience.
TIABC strives to maintain a balance of skills, industry knowledge and experience, technical skills, governance competencies, education and training, and geographic representation on its Board of Directors.
Eligible candidates must demonstrate specific experience in the following areas:
1. Tourism Industry Knowledge
2. Technical & Business Expertise
3. Governance Competencies
4. Education and Training
The Board of Directors is made up of a maximum of 13 directors consisting of 11 directors elected by active members, plus the Chair and Past-chair. TIABC is seeking a total of six (6) candidates for the 2024-2026 term:
• From the DMO category two (2) are required for a two-year term.
• From the Sector Association category sector one (1) is required for a two-year term.
• From the Business Membership category three (3) are required for a two-year term.
Board composition strives for 50% gender parity and 30% representation of other under-represented groups including Indigenous peoples, racialized persons, people with disabilities, and members of the 2SLGBTQI+ community.
If you are a TIABC member in good standing, have a strong understanding of the tourism industry, significant expertise and industry knowledge and are a senior executive (e.g. CEO, GM, ED), currently involved in tourism or destination management, we invite you to apply.
Deadline for application submissions is Friday, October 25th at 5:00 pm.
To receive a TIABC Board Nomination Form, access the link below, or if you have any questions, please contact Deborah Kulchiski at deborah@tiabc.ca or 604-530-9979.
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Canadian Tourism Ministers Join Forces to Propel Tourism Forward
Earlier this week, the federal, provincial and territorial ministers responsible for tourism participated in the 2024 Canadian Council of Tourism Ministers (CCTM) meeting. The meeting was held in Alberta with the Honourable Soraya Martinez Ferrada, Minister of Tourism and Minister responsible for the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec, as well as the Honourable Joseph Schow, Alberta Minister of Tourism and Sport, co-chairing and recognizing the traditional Treaty 7 territory.
The ministers heard from tourism stakeholders that included TIABC CEO Walt Judas (who attended virtually) on the areas of emergency management, destination development, investment attraction, workforce development and retention, air access, parks and recreation. The ministers took the opportunity to discuss areas that impact the growth of tourism in Canada, such as limited transportation connectivity in some regions, barriers to raising private capital for investments, fees and regulations impacting the competitiveness of domestic air travel, and associated challenges including the seasonal nature of tourism.
In 2025, the CCTM will seek to refresh the mandates of the Working Groups to ensure their work addresses emerging priorities while effectively leveraging inter-governmental collaboration. The efforts of TIABC and BC's Tourism Emergency Management Committee in emergency management was particularly acknowledged and as a result, tourism emergency management will be considered as a main agenda item in the upcoming year.
Read the full communique from the Canadian Intergovernmental Conference Secretariat HERE.
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BC General Election: Saturday, October 19!
As British Columbians prepare to head to the polls on or before Saturday, October 19th, it’s important to remember the provincial election is not just a chance to select representatives; it’s an opportunity to voice our needs, our priorities and the key issues that impact our province, our communities and our residents. This election could have a considerable impact on BC's tourism and hospitality industry.
A reminder to review the TIABC Election Toolkit - and please take the time to vote!
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ICYMI! | Episode #30 - Amy Thacker
Meet Amy Thacker, CEO, Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Tourism and the newest guest of TIABC's Voice of Tourism podcast host Walt Judas. Hear from Amy as she discusses her career path, her work in sustainable tourism, and what challenges business owners & operators are facing in her region.
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September 2024 Labour Market Information
According to go2HR's most recent labour market report, employment in BC’s tourism and hospitality sector declined by 6.7% from August to September, continuing a steady downward trend over the past three months. Current employment levels remain slightly higher than pre-COVID figures.
The report also noted several key trends emerged when analyzing BC's tourism and hospitality employment data from July to September.
Steady Employment Decline: Employment in the tourism and hospitality sector has consistently dropped over the last three months, falling by 6.7% between August and September.
Sector-Specific Divergence: While the Recreation and Entertainment sector has surpassed pre-COVID employment levels, indicating resilience or growth, the Food & Beverage, Accommodation, and Transportation & Travel sectors, though still above pre-COVID figures, have seen employment decreases throughout the quarter.
Shrinking Labour Force: The total tourism and hospitality labour force also dropped significantly, decreasing by 6.5% between August and September. This suggests fewer individuals are both working and seeking work in the sector, possibly indicating a shift to other industries or discouragement from reduced job opportunities.
Slight Rise in Unemployment: The unemployment rate in the tourism sector rose slightly, from 3.9% in August to 4.1% in September.
Learn more from the BC Tourism & Hospitality Employment Tracker HERE.
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Second Annual Social Procurement
Report Released
Social procurement is about capturing impacts and seeking to make intentional positive contributions to both the local economy and the overall vibrancy of the community.
Since 2017, Destination Vancouver has engaged with social enterprises through the Social Procurement Roundtable, hosted by Buy Social Canada.
The second annual report identifying Destination Vancouver members which identify as social purpose organizations and diverse-owned businesses, was presented last week at a webinar with Destination Vancouver and Buy Social Canada.
Data is gathered through a survey and follow up interviews, along with relevant industry research and data. You can also watch the webinar HERE - using the password SocialProcurement-$-2024
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ICYMI | go2HR Employer Survey
As go2HR embarks on its next strategic planning process, they need your input to ensure their programs and services remain relevant and meet the evolving needs of your business.
The survey should take about 15 minutes to complete and will enable go2HR to better understand the key human resource, health & safety, and training issues and opportunities facing the tourism and hospitality industry in BC. Any information that you provide will be kept confidential and reported only in summary with responses of other participants.
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Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture & Sport Announce New Role for Amber Mattock
The Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture & Sport (MTACS) announced earlier this week that Amber Mattock is the successful candidate to fill the role of Executive Director, Tourism Sector Strategy Branch. Amber has over 20 years of experience in the tourism sector and brings a wealth of knowledge to this role. She has been with the BC public sector for 17 years and has acted in the ED position since August 2023.
Amber holds a Bachelor of Recreation and Tourism Management from Vancouver Island University, a Master’s in Tourism Management from Royal Roads University and has served as an Associate Faculty member at the School of Tourism and Hospitality Management at Royal Roads University.
TIABC joins MTACS in congratulating Amber on her new role and looks forward to continuing to work with her in this official capacity.
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ABLE BC Welcomes New Manager of
Membership & Events
ABLE BC has recently announced the appointment of Jesse Sidhu as the new manager of Membership & Events. Jesse joined the team last month and has hit ground running planning ABLE's 2025 event schedule and meeting with members and industry partners.
Jesse comes to ABLE BC with over a decade of experience in non-profit management, event and conference planning, and member development.
TIABC's board and staff join ABLE BC in welcoming Jesse to his new role and look forward to working with him on various initiatives.
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40 Knots Winery
40 Knots Vineyard & Estate Winery is one of the largest wineries on Vancouver Island, farming sustainably and using the best practices from organics, biodynamic and plant-based practices, on 24 stunning acres. They craft wines distinctly shaped by the ocean breeze and sun-soaked climate.
40 Knots has recently announced that it has earned two prestigious sustainability certifications: the Biosphere Sustainable Lifestyle Certification and the BC Green Business Certification. These achievements join the winery’s Platinum Certification with Green Step Sustainable Tourism and its recognition through the 2024 BC Tourism Sustainability Award.
Learn more about 40 Knots Winery HERE.
Would you like to be featured in our weekly Voice of Tourism newsletter, 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
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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.
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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.
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Join Us! | 2025 BC Tourism Industry Conference
We’re excited to share that a program overview, registration rates, and hotel room booking details for the 2025 BC Tourism Industry Conference are now available to view on the conference website (https://bctourismconference.ca/) While detailed timing will be released later this fall, we're pleased to announce that the program will return to a Wednesday-to-Friday format. Stay tuned for updates on keynote speakers, engaging sessions, networking opportunities, and more.
Visit the conference website for details on travel, accommodation and conference sponsorship opportunities. More information, including registration and program highlights, will be available next month. We look forward to seeing you in Vancouver next year!
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6th Annual Spirit of Hospitality Lottery
Has Launched!
Last year, with the incredible support from our hospitality and tourism partners, we raised $34,000, and this year, we’re setting our sights on $60,000. We truly believe this goal is within reach, but we need the collective power of the entire hospitality community to make it happen.
This year's prizes are fantastic – including a stay at the St. Regis in Aspen, a Rocky Mountaineer rail tour, a Big White Ski Vacation, and a trip to Quebec City. These are sure to inspire people to participate, and with your help, we can spread the word and drive ticket sales.
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Lottery Closes: November 25
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Draw Date: November 26
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Early Bird Draws: October 29, November 5, November 12
Together, we can make a real difference. Please feel free to reach out if you need any additional information, and thank you so much for your continued support.
Learn more HERE, including how you can donate and how your business or organization can get involved!
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Small Business Week Summit
The BC Chamber of Commerce Small Business Week Summit celebrates BC’s small businesses and provides them with the opportunity to listen, learn and engage directly with subject matter experts and thought leaders on topics that are important to them.
This year’s theme, “Cultivating Resilience through Innovation” highlights the importance of empowering businesses to thrive during times of uncertainty and change.
Dates: October 21-25
Join in for a thoughtfully curated program of five virtual webinars that will address a variety of topics and equip businesses with tools needed to excel in today’s dynamic business landscape. Tickets are complimentary, and each session will be hosted via Zoom webinar.
Learn more and register for the sessions of your choice HERE.
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Mythbusting: Sustainable Seafood
and Plastics Explained
Join two experts from Ocean Wise to dispel some of the greenwashing myths around plastics and sourcing sustainable seafood. For details on each section of the webinar, read on below.
The team of committed experts and scientists at Ocean Wise are focused on identifying and eliminating the plastics that enter and damage our ocean. Their main efforts are directed in supporting businesses in taking responsibility for their waste and encouraging collaboration across sectors to help drive the plastic reduction that the ocean is calling for.
Date: October 22
Time: 10:00 am (PST)
Learn more and register HERE.
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Building Canada's Small Business Future: A Conversation with Minister Rechie Valdez
Join the Surrey Board of Trade and the South Surrey & White Rock Chamber of Commerce during Small Business Week for a conversation with Minister Rechie Valdez.
As Canada's Minister of Small Business, Rechie Valdez will share insights on the government's plans to support entrepreneurs, foster innovation, and create growth opportunities in Surrey and across the nation. This event will highlight Surrey’s vital role as a hub for small business success and offer practical takeaways for local business owners.
Date: Wednesday, October 23
Time: 11:30 am - 1:30 pm (PST)
Location: Sheraton Vancouver Guidford Hotel, 15269 104 Avenue, Surrey
Learn more and register HERE.
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You're Invited | October Liquor
Industry Meetings
The ABLE BC team is on the road again.
Liquor Industry Meetings are free to attend and open to owners, managers, and staff from any business in the private liquor industry. ABLE BC is extending an invitation to all bars, pubs, hotels, liquor stores, manufacturers, and agents nearby. No need to be an ABLE BC member to attend! Come learn about ABLE BC memberships, key issues they are focusing on, and how you can get more involved in shaping BC’s private liquor industry.
ABLE BC looks forward to meeting you face-to-face to hear about the issues that matter most to you and your businesses!
Learn more and register HERE.
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Working Together - Parks Canada
Webinar Series
TIAC members are invited to the second instalment of the exclusive Parks Canada Webinar Series - titled “Ask an Expert: Partnering with Parks Canada Toward Tourism Growth". The webinar is designed to help you unlock new opportunities for collaboration and growth with Parks Canada.
Date: October 30
Time: 11:00 am (PT), virtual
During this dynamic session, you will:
- Gain valuable insights from Parks Canada experts on successful collaboration.
- Understand the intricacies of formalizing partnerships and receive expert tips on crafting compelling proposal submissions.
- Equip yourself with strategies to contribute effectively to the sustainable growth of our industry.
Learn more and register HERE.
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DMO Strategies for Sustainable Food Practices
in Tourism & Hospitality
Join Ben Liegey, founder and CEO of BetterTable who will be delivering an engaging webinar on effective DMO strategies for implementing sustainable food practices in the hotel and restaurant industry. Learn first hand in a panel discussion how RDMO’s CDMO’s and industry leaders are developing best practices and innovative approaches while working to support their stakeholders on their regenerative journey.
Date: Tuesday, November 5 at 12:00 pm (Noon, PT), virtual
Panel participants:
- Ellen Walker-Matthews, CEO, Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association
- Nancy Small, CEO, Tourism Richmond
- Julia Canton, Sustainability Manager, Huntington Hotel & Suites
This webinar is a joint partnership between the BCDMOA and TIABC. Learn more and register HERE.
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Destination Canada | Annual Public Meeting
Save the date for Destination Canada’s Annual Public Meeting (APM), which will feature the official launch of their highly-anticipated Wealth & Wellbeing Index.
Date: Thursday, November 28
Time: 10:00 (PT) - Virtual
Learn more and register HERE.
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Student Work Placement Program
Propel offers tourism, hospitality, and travel employers access to wage subsidies when they hire a post-secondary student for work-integrated learning: an internship, a co-op placement, a work experience placement, and more.
Join this one-hour virtual session to learn:
• Why work-integrated learning matters
• Who qualifies for the Propel program
• Where to post a job
• How to apply for a wage subsidy
• When the subsidy is available, and more.
A Q&A component will follow the presentation. Registrants can submit questions in advance via the registration form.
Learn more and register HERE.
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Workforce Hiring Solutions: Effective Strategies for Attracting and Retaining Talent
Discover how to leverage LMIA-exempt streams, employment programs for refugees, and domestic partner options to attract and retain talent in this comprehensive webinar focused on effective workforce hiring solutions. Learn about the upcoming Destination Canada Mobility forum, sign up dates, and how to submit job orders.
Plus, get the inside scoop on:
- Adjustments to Temporary Foreign Workers Program
- Changing Work Hour Rules for International Students
Date: Tuesday, October 29|
Time: 1pm - 2pm PT
Location: Online via Zoom
Learn more and register HERE.
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SFI 2024 Big Splash Raffle
The Sport Fishing Institute (SFI) is excited to announce the annual Big Splash Raffle has launched. Early Bird tickets are now available. Prize draw deadline comes quick!
- Early Bird Deadline: Midnight, Thursday, October 24
- Draws date: Friday, October 25 at 12:00 pm
- SFI Big Splash Raffle Sales Deadline: Midnight, Friday, December 27
- SFI Big Splash Raffle Draw: Saturday, December 28 at 12:00 pm
Learn more and purchase tickets HERE.
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VCM | Crisis Communication Planning
Training Series
Understand your organization’s role during an emergency or crisis, within BC’s Tourism Emergency Management Framework
- Understand the elements of a crisis and how it impacts behavior and response;
- Assess potential crises that could impact your local destination or organization.
- Create the tools and responses you will use in a crisis; and,
- Put your new skills to work in a simulation exercise.
This interactive virtual series will be facilitated by a crisis communication expert and will allow you to engage with other tourism professionals from regions and communities around the province to share ideas, information, and solutions to help in your planning process.
Date: November 5 & 7
Please note that this training is not suitable for tourism businesses. Due to limited capacity, only one representative from any organization will be accepted to participate.
This Fall 2024 workshop series is exclusively for DMOS and Visitor Centres within the Vancouver Coast and Mountains region ONLY!
Learn more and register HERE.
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Northern BC 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
Learn more and register HERE.
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Kootenay Rockies Tourism Association AGM & Tourism Industry Conference
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
Learn more and register HERE.
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OC Cultivates
Ignite Your Senses and Spark Your Curiosity!
Part of the Okanagan Fall Wine Festival events lineup, meet and mingle over delicious pairings and live music, then sit back and enjoy storytelling from renowned local innovators passionate about Okanagan food, beverage and tourism.
Date: Friday, October 25
Location: Gymnasium, Penticton campus, Okanagan College
5:30 - 7:30 pm - Tasting and Experience Festival
7:30 - 8:30 pm - Innovators in Conversation
Learn more and purchase tickets HERE.
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TOTA AGM and Summit
"Immerse Yourself"
Early bird registration is still open for the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association AGM & Summit.
Dates: October 29-30
Location: Vernon
Hosted in partnership with Tourism Vernon and Destination Silver Star.
Mark your calendar, learn more and register HERE.
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Yes Shef: Elevating Women in
Food & Beverage
WORTH Association is proud to announce Yes Shef: Elevating Women in Food & Beverage. We will join once again for an unforgettable evening celebrating the remarkable women of British Columbia's hospitality community.
During this unique culinary experience, guests enjoy tasting stations, savouring delights crafted and curated by female-led teams. Noteworthy Chefs collaborate with student apprentices from the Pacific Institute of Culinary Arts to develop and execute a signature dish. Leading Winemakers, Sommeliers, Brewers and Bar Professionals serve wine, beer and cocktail creations.
Date: November 6
Time: 5:30 pm - 9:30 pm
Location: Fairmont Pacific Rim, Star Sapphire Ballroom
Early Bird tickets are still available—use code 2024EarlyBird. Take advantage of the Restaurant Group Discount: purchase 4-8 tickets for your team and save 25%! Learn more and purchase tickets HERE.
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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 is now open. Learn more and register HERE.
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Food Synergy at The Cinematheque
Celebrate the launch of the first-of-its-kind feature documentary highlighting food heroes in BC and across the world fighting food loss and waste. Enjoy culinary delights of upcycled treats brought to you by the JW Marriott’s very own Chef Kunal Dighe in a night of visual and gastronomic culinary delights.
Date: Nov 12 @ 6:30 pm
Location: The Cinematheque
Price: $18 (including some food from Chef Kunal)
This in-person event promises to be a feast for the senses, celebrating the love of food in a cinematic setting, with analysis and discussion of food waste reduction practices from farm to table. Don't miss out on this exclusive event!
Learn more and purchase your ticket HERE.
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Boating BC Conference
Enjoy discounted tickets, and as a special bonus, all early bird registrants from now until October 11th will automatically be entered for a chance to win a pair of tickets to the Grey Cup at BC Place on November 17, plus a complimentary one-night stay at the conference host hotel, Delta Hotel & Casino. Early Bird Tickets Now Available!
Conference Details:
Dates: November 19-20
Location: Cascades Casino Delta
Included with your registration is exclusive access to Marina Night on November 18, from 7:00 - 9:00 pm. This special event will bring together leading experts from the marine industry, offering valuable insights and discussions. It’s an evening you won’t want to miss!
Learn more and purchase tickets HERE.
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Save the Date! VCM Industry Forum
Mark your calendars for the Vancouver, Coast & Mountains Industry Forum.
Date: November 21
Location: Pinnacle Hotel Harbourfront, Vancouver.
This free, annual event is for tourism businesses and Community Destination Management Organizations in the VCM region. Learn more about tourism trends, major events, sustainability, and more.
Learn more and register HERE.
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Save the Date - 2024 Policy Conference & Big Splash Gala
The Sport Fishing Institute of BC (SFI) will hold its annual Policy Conference. This year's theme is Selective and Sustainable. This is a highly anticipated forum where elected officials, public servants and those in the sport fishing industry can meet, share their perspectives on the issues facing the recreational fishery and discuss expectations for the coming seasons. As last year, SFI will be providing the Pacific Salmon Foundation a portion of the day to share details about programs and projects that are funded by revenues generated from sales of the Salmon Conservation stamp on your tidal waters licence.
Date: November 29
Location: Vancouver Convention Centre
Following the Conference is the Big Splash Gala and Fundraiser.
More information and ticket purchases are available HERE.
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WinterFest 2024
WinterFest, the Royal BC Museum's outdoor multicultural holiday market, is back for another year.
Celebrating arts, culture and community, WinterFest brings together the best parts of the holiday season. Food, warm drinks and multicultural performances pair with local artists and artisans for a one-of-a-kind experience.
Dates: November 30 & December 1
Times: 10 am -5 pm
Learn more HERE.
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27th Annual CITAP+ Winter Function
You are cordially invited to save the date for the 27th CITAP+ Winter Function.
Date: Tuesday, December 3
Location: River Rock Casino Resort, Richmond
The event will be a full day in a familiar format, including morning educational sessions, the afternoon marketplace, and the dinner reception.
Registration is now open! Early bird pricing is in effect until Friday, October 18 at 5pm PT. Sponsorship packages are available HERE. Please note that your 2024 CITAP+ membership must be in good standing in order to register for the Winter Function.
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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.
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SOS Coalition Announces
"Communities Driving Change" Forum
With crime, violence and street disorder plaguing communities large and small across British Columbia, BC’s Save Our Streets coalition (SOS) will hold a day-long “Communities Driving Change” Forum.
Date: January 23, 2025
Location: Morris J. Wosk Centre for Dialogue, Vancouver
The Forum will explore solutions to these issues with community and business leaders, subject experts and political leaders.
The Forum, will feature moderated panel discussions, keynote expert speakers, and opportunities for virtual community participation from around the province. Topics to include judicial reform and resources, policing, addictions and mental illnesses, and the role of housing as components of the solution.
Note: If you have registered for the previous date of September 12th, 2024 and the date doesn't work for yoru schedule, please reach out and your registration will be cancelled.
Read the official news release and learn more about the SOS initiative HERE.
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Registration Now Open
The 8th Annual IMPACT Sustainable Tourism & Travel Summit will be held again in Victoria.
Day of Impact: January 26, 2025
Dates of Conference: January 27-29, 2025
Early-bird registration is now open. Visit HERE.
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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.
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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. | | | | |
