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Aside from caddying, picking strawberries, and cutting lawns, my first real job was working at the Richmond Country Club where for $3.00 an hour I cleaned members’ golf clubs, washed golf carts, picked up range balls, and sold golf gear in the pro shop. I loved every minute of it.
I went on to work at Beaver Lumber and then as a labourer before entering BCIT’s Broadcast Journalism Program and transitioning into my first career gig as a broadcaster. From there I progressed to roles with BC Pavco, the Vancouver Port Authority, Tourism Vancouver, and finally TIABC, initially on contract as part of my company - Parkside Tourism Consulting.
Since it’s gone by so quickly, it’s hard for me to come to grips with the fact that I’ve been in the workforce for nearly 50 years, all but six of which have been full-time. Suffice it to say, I am well aware that while my mind often tricks me into believing I’m still in my twenties, qualifying for the senior's discount at the barbershop and the bags under my eyes tell me otherwise.
All of this is context for letting you know that I’m stepping down as CEO of TIABC within the next few months. Like a professional athlete who realizes they can no longer embrace another training camp, road trips, injuries, rehabilitation, the grind of the season, and other obstacles that come with a long playing career, I recognize it’s time to move along and let a new leader take the helm to transition the organization into its next evolution.
Although I informed TIABC’s Board of Directors of my intention to step down several months ago, the recovery period following brain surgery in May was also a time for reflection and reaffirmed my decision to pursue other interests that include new places to visit, friends to (re) connect with, more family time to enjoy, organizations to serve, hobbies to continue or start, and new dreams to chase.
To be clear, I’m stepping away from my current role and full-time employment but I won’t be walking away from work entirely. Rather, I am leaving the door open for projects that align with my values and where I can be of assistance.
Yet, as much as I can try to carve out a new path, I know that unforeseen opportunities will come my way so I’m not nervous about what the future holds. My only wish is to remain healthy and continue to find meaning and purpose in whatever I decide to do.
My wonderful wife thinks I should return to the Richmond Country Club to wash members’ golf clubs and pick up range balls. Admittedly, part of me longs for the simple pleasure (schadenfreude) of watching nervous golfers attempt to hit a drive over the intimidating ditch on the first tee.
I am so fortunate to have enjoyed an amazing career, especially the 36+ years I spent in the tourism industry. Thankfully there have been far more highs than lows and many more successes than failures. Regardless, I’d rather leave on a positive note with Deb, Cassandra, Pria, Fiona, a new CEO, and TIABC’s Board of Directors (currently under the direction of JJ Belanger) ensuring that the organization remains in a solid position to do the work that’s necessary as the Voice of Tourism for British Columbia.
I’ve heard it said that wisdom is a function of time and experience. Having been gainfully employed for so long, I am wise enough to be grateful each day for all the friendships I’ve made in tourism here at home, across Canada and around the world, the mentors who taught me along the way, the employers that took a chance on me, the generosity and encouragement of my colleagues, the incredible experiences I’ve enjoyed as part of the tourism industry, and for my family that kept me grounded and focussed on doing the best that I could to serve others for close to five decades.
That said, don’t push me out the door just yet. I have plenty of work to do that will keep me tethered to my desk until TIABC's board completes its search for my replacement. I will also be attending various industry conferences throughout the Fall so I look forward to connecting with you somewhere on the road.
See you soon.
Walt Judas
CEO, TIABC
| | Stay updated on the latest news and developments by checking out this week's compilation of important matters impacting and influencing our industry. | | | |
Update on Phase 3 Engagement Timelines to the Heritage Conservation Act
The Joint Working Group on First Nations Heritage Conservation (JWGFNHC) has provided an update that the deadline to receive feedback from First Nations, local governments, stakeholders, and the public on the proposed changes to the Heritage Conservation Act has been extended to Nov. 14. This additional time will provide the opportunity to review the proposed changes in detail and provide meaningful feedback.
Please direct written feedback, before Nov. 14, to EngageHCA@gov.bc.ca.
In addition to the opportunities for First Nations, local governments, and stakeholders to provide direct input into the project, a public survey has been launched to support the general public to submit feedback on proposed changes to the Heritage Conservation Act. You are encouraged to share THIS LINK with your community, neighbours, and contacts
New information is available on the project website to support a greater understanding of the project. This includes:
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The Wickaninnish Inn Highlights the Benefits of the Temporary Foreign Workers Program
TIABC member Charles McDiarmid, Managing Director of the Wickaninnish Inn, recently submitted an editorial to Maclean's in response to concerns regarding the current status of the Temporary Foreign Workers Program (TFW) and how important it's been for his property, his community, and for other operators who continue to face the challenge of recruitment and retention of employees in BC's tourism and hospitality sectors.
For the last 20 years, the Wickaninnish Inn has been recruiting foreign workers to fill their staffing needs where between 15 and 20% of their employees are temporary foreign workers that hold roles in practically every department of the inn, ranging from senior managers to entry-level positions. As noted in the article titled You Can't Run a Tourist Town Without Foreign Workers - Charles states that "the Wick, one of the largest employers in Tofino, swells to over 200 staff in the summer. The local labour pool simply isn’t large enough to fill entry-level positions like stewards and room attendants, let alone specialized roles like sommeliers and pastry chefs."
We encourage you to read the full article, where Charles highlights the significant benefits the TFW Program has brought to BC’s tourism and hospitality sectors. He also outlines the investments owners and operators have made to successfully engage with the program, and warns of the serious consequences that cuts to the TFW Program will have on small towns and operators across the country.
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MICHELIN Guide Vancouver Announces 2025 Restaurant Recipients
In a ceremony held at The Commodore Ballroom last night, the MICHELIN Guide announced the 2025 restaurant selection for the MICHELIN Guide Vancouver that included 2 new restaurants earning their first Michelin stars.
Vancouver now boasts:
- 15 Bib Gourmands (1 new restaurant)
- 49 Recommended restaurants (2 new restaurants)
- 4 Special award recipients
- 76 Total restaurants recognized, reflecting 22 types of cuisine.
The MICHELIN Guide is recognize globally for excellence and quality, offering a selection of world-class restaurants.
View the list of Vancouver restaurants HERE.
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Restaurants Canada V.P. Western Canada
Announces Retirement
Mark von Schellwitz, Restaurants Canada’s vice-president of Western Canada has announced his retirement after more than 28 years with the organization.
Mark has been a tireless advocate and champion for foodservice businesses in British Columbia, Alberta and Saskatchewan since he joined Restaurants Canada in 1997.
Among many career highlights, he successfully fought to keep restaurant meals PST-free in BC, and after years of lobbying efforts, Mark and industry partners also achieved the goal of providing BC licensees wholesale liquor pricing in 2022. Additionally, he navigated the industry through COVID lockdowns and supports resulting in COVID restaurant restrictions being lifted in Western Canadian provinces faster than in other regions of the country.
Mark has been a strong partner of TIABC. He will remain in his role through the end of the year as the organization looks for a replacement.
Read the full announcement HERE.
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Leadership Opportunity on BC’s Rugged West Coast | Tourism Tofino
Tourism Tofino is inviting applications for the position of Executive Director — an exciting opportunity to lead one of British Columbia’s most recognized destination marketing organizations. Based in the iconic coastal community of Tofino, the Executive Director will be responsible for guiding the organization’s strategy, marketing, and destination development initiatives, while supporting a thriving and sustainable tourism economy.
With a mandate to promote Tofino — renowned for its untamed beaches, ancient rainforests, rich Indigenous culture, and world-class outdoor experiences — this role will play a pivotal part in shaping the visitor experience and supporting the long-term vitality of the community. The Executive Director will work collaboratively with industry partners, local businesses, governments, and stakeholders to ensure Tourism Tofino continues to deliver innovative leadership in destination marketing and management.
Chemistry Consulting Group is leading the executive search on behalf of Tourism Tofino and is seeking candidates who bring vision, integrity, and a proven record of destination leadership.
Learn more and APPLY HERE.
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YOU’RE INVITED - TIABC Roundtable Series
Connecting with Members and Tourism Collaborators
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Join TIABC CEO Walt Judas and/or Director of Policy Cassandra Zerebeski at one of our upcoming roundtables to discuss tourism policy, issues, and opportunities for your business/organization and help shape actionable solutions that strengthen our sector in your community, region and across British Columbia.
Dates and times for the Thompson Okanagan - in partnership with TOTA
Penticton - October 7: 1:00 – 3:00 pm
Kelowna - October 8: 8:30 – 10:30am
Kamloops - October 8: 4:00 – 6:00 pm
Blue River/Valemount - October 9: 11: 30 am – 1:30 pm
Please RSVP for any TOTA session via: Judie@totabc.com
We look forward to hearing your perspectives, addressing the challenges, and helping shape practical solutions for government consideration.
***More dates and information to follow for sessions in other regions***
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Please Join Us! | 2026 BC Tourism Industry Conference
Planning for the 2026 BC Tourism Industry Conference has already begun, and you're encouraged to Save the Date for this must-attend conference. BC TIC will be held at the Delta Hotel, Grand Okanagan Resort in Kelowna, March 4–6, 2026.
Stay tuned for updates on registration, conference schedule, travel & accommodation, sponsor opportunities, and programming. More information will be shared on our conference website at bctourismconference.ca shortly.
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Sponsorship Opportunities NOW AVAILABLE!
Our sponsors are critical to what makes the BC Tourism Industry Conference a consistent success. Aside from helping to offset the costs of staging this event, sponsors deliver benefits to delegates that help grow their businesses, as well as BC’s visitor economy as a whole.
If your company is keen to connect with tourism leaders and stakeholders throughout British Columbia and Canada, we encourage you to partner with us for the 2026 BC Tourism Industry Conference.
Contact us at sponsorship@bctourismconference.ca and learn more about the sponsorship opportunities in the link below.
We look forward to seeing you in Kelowna next year!
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In Recognition of National Truth & Reconciliation Day | NBCTA
In recognition of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30th, and in support of their ongoing commitment to reconciliation and learning, the Northern BC Tourism Association (NBCTA) provided each staff member with a copy of Bruce McIvor’s Indigenous Rights in One Minute: What You Need to Know to Talk Reconciliation. By taking the time to read, reflect, and learn, their team is continuing to build understanding and strengthen their role in advancing reconciliation both personally and professionally.
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Valleys & Vineyards Spark Program
A new program aimed at sparking and supporting innovative tourism ideas across Valleys & Vineyards was officially announced this week by Destination BC, in partnership with the Tourism Innovation Lab along with the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association.
Part of the Super, Natural British Columbia® brand family, Valleys & Vineyards is located within the territories of the Syilx Okanagan Nation and Secwépemc Nation in the Okanagan and Similkameen Valleys.
The Valleys & Vineyards “Spark” Mentorships & Grants Program will match selected applicants with a tourism mentor, provide a $3,000 grant, and offer additional partner support to help take their new tourism ideas to the next level of development.
Applications are encouraged from tourism entrepreneurs, small businesses, and non-profit organizations until November 12. Learn more and apply HERE.
Birthplace of Adventure Spark Program
Destination BC’s Birthplace of Adventure “Spark” Program is designed to support innovative tourism initiatives in southeastern British Columbia through mentorship and grant funding.
Open to individuals, start-ups, established small businesses, and non-profit organizations, the program addresses the challenges of developing new tourism concepts, experiences, and partnerships. Selected participants will be matched with experienced tourism mentors and receive seed funding to advance their projects to the next stage of development or implementation.
Learn more and apply by October 30 HERE.
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2025 Spirit of Hospitality Lottery
The BC Hospitality Foundation is thrilled to launch its biggest fundraiser of the year: the 7th Annual Spirit of Hospitality Lottery, proudly presented by the Hotel Association of Vancouver and media sponsor CHEK News.
This is an all-Canadian lottery giving you the chance to win unforgettable experiences right here at home while supporting a cause that makes a real difference in the lives of BC’s hospitality and tourism workers who are facing financial crisis due to health challenges.
Learn more HERE and purchase tickets in the link below.
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FRS CLIPPER
FRS Clipper is a high-speed passenger-only ferry service between the Inner Harbour in downtown Victoria and downtown Seattle.
FRS Clipper are well known travel experts for the Pacific Northwest and Western Canada. Since 1986, they have provided transportation, tours and accommodation packages between Victoria and Seattle, offering opportunities to experience the popular destinations of Victoria, Vancouver and Seattle.
Learn more about FRS Clipper HERE.
Photo Credit: FRS Clipper
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Let's Work Together on What Matters Most
To bolster industry advocacy efforts, membership in the Tourism Industry Association of BC (TIABC) is a good investment.
Becoming a member of TIABC offers many significant benefits that can enhance your business, elevate your voice on the issues that matter, and contribute to the success of BC’s visitor economy. As well, you will gain ease of access to a collaborative network of businesses, partners and allies that support the tourism industry, both nationally and provincially.
NEW! Associate Member Category
If you’re a tourism operator and already an active member of another sector association or DMO and cannot afford a full membership in TIABC, consider supporting us by becoming a TIABC Associate. For a nominal annual fee you’ll receive streamlined benefits and opportunities, including adding your voice to the conversation about the future of our sector.
Contact info@tiabc.ca for more information, visit our website HERE or the link below.
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Destination Dialogues 2025 | Rethinking Experience Development: From Ideation to Export Ready
Join Destination Canada for a free 90-minute session to explore how destinations, businesses, and community leaders can develop regenerative, Indigenous tourism experiences in rural, remote, and northern areas of Canada.
Date: October 8
Time: 9:00 am (PDT)
This session is tailored for tourism and destination development professionals in Canada. It will share best practices in rural experience development, leaving you informed, inspired and empowered to create regenerative travel experiences deeply rooted in your community.
This year's session theme will focus on Indigenous tourism in collaboration with the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada.
Learn more and register HERE.
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Implementing Psychological Health & Safety in the Workplace
How do you tackle workplace stress, bullying, or burnout before they escalate? Join go2HR for a practical session on implementing Psychological Health & Safety in you workplace.
Date: October 9
Time: 10:00 am - 11:00 am (PDT)
Learn how to identify common psychological hazards in the Tourism & Hospitality industry and create a culture where employees feel safe speaking up.
Learn more and register HERE.
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For North Okanagan Food Businesses | Discover Profitable Food Waste Solutions
Join FoodMesh and BetterTable for an interactive 30-minute, free webinar designed specially for hospitality professionals in the North Okanagan. You’ll discover simple, practical ways to cut waste, save money, and strengthen your connection to the local community.
Why attend?
- Boost profits: Learn proven strategies to reduce waste and maximize your food cost savings.
- Stay ahead of the curve: Get insights on food waste trends, policies, and best practices shaping the industry in the Okanagan and beyond.
- Get inspired by peers: Hear real-world examples from chefs and restaurateurs already making food waste work for them.
- Do good locally: Find out how donating surplus food supports Okanagan residents, while unlocking tax incentives and meeting regulations with ease.
This session is short, engaging, and packed with takeaways you can start using right away in your restaurant, café, or food service operation.
Date: Wednesday, November 5
Time: 2:00 - 2:30 PM PST - Virtual
Learn more and register HERE.
| | | CONFERENCES & SPECIAL EVENTS | |
Northern BC 2025 Tourism Summit
The Northern BC 2025 Tourism Summit, a must-attend event for anyone passionate about the development of a strong tourism sector in Northern British Columbia.
Ready to connect, learn, and lead the future of tourism? The Northern BC 2025 Tourism Summit is your opportunity to be part of the region’s most dynamic gathering of tourism professionals, entrepreneurs, and community changemakers.
Dates: October 15-17
Location: Courtyard by Marriott, Prince George
Learn more and register HERE.
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CCCTA Tourism Summit and AGM
Join the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Tourism Association (CCCT) for an extraordinary event – the annual 2025 Tourism Summit & AGM.
Dates: October 17-19
Location: Quesnel
Join delegates from across the region and all areas of BC tourism to network, gain knowledge and support the tourism industry and economy. The event is designed to educate, provide network opportunities, influence new ideas and recognize our amazing industry leaders here in the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast.
Learn more about the Summit and AGM HERE. Registration is now open HERE.
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Mark Your Calendar | TOTA AGM and Summit
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) has announced the dates for the 2025 TOTA AGM & Summit.
Dates: October 22-23
Location: KF Centre for Excellence, Kelowna
Last year's Summit was a sold-out event that brought together tourism industry professionals from around the region for two days to network, engage in industry-specific workshops, and learn from experts.
Learn more and register HERE.
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GreenStep Offering Free Climate Action Workshops in Kelowna
Businesses in Kelowna are invited to join a 4-part virtual Climate Action Training series, delivered in collaboration with the City of Kelowna.
Cohort 2: Starts October 23.
Learn more and register HERE.
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Western Ideas Forum & AccomEx
Registration is now open for the inaugural Western Ideas Forum & AccomEx.
Dates: November 3-6
Location: St. Eugene Golf Resort & Casino, Cranbrook
Come join campground, RV park, glamping, and outdoor hospitality operators from across Western Canada for three days of:
- Inspiring speakers and expert-led sessions
- Practical workshops tailored to your business
- Networking opportunities with industry leaders and peers
- An exhibitor showcase featuring products and services designed for your operation
Learn more and register HERE.
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B.C. Aviation Council Silver Wings Industry and Scholarship Awards Celebration 2025
The annual Silver Wings Industry and Scholarship Awards Celebration recognizes aviation and aerospace industry colleagues for specific achievements. As well, they disburse over $200,000 through the Aviation and Aerospace Scholarship Awards Program to hard-working students enrolled in aviation and/or aerospace programs in British Columbia. This is the largest scholarship program of its kind in Canada.
You are invited to join in at this inspiring annual celebration for an evening of fine food, live entertainment, an online auction, a 50/50 Draw, a vibrant awards ceremony and unparalleled relationship-building opportunities.
Date: November 14
Location: Vancouver Convention Centre West (Floor 3)
Time: 5:45pm - 10:00pm (PST)
Learn more and purchase tickets HERE.
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Save the Date!
Boating BC 2025 Conference: Rocking The Industry – Navigating Disruptive Times
Presented by Mercury Marine, this is the must-attend event for marine professionals across the province — a dynamic two-day experience packed with industry insight, leadership, and valuable networking. We’re also excited to announce our first confirmed speaker: Vaughn Palmer of the Vancouver Sun, returning to share his always-popular perspectives.
Dates: November 18-19
Location: River Rock Casino Resort, Richmond
To learn more about the conference sponsorship opportunities, visit HERE.
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TIAC - 2025 Tourism Congress
Tourism is more than travel—it is a tool for unity across Canada. TourismCan celebrates the industry that unites the country through building economies, communities, careers, innovation, and policy. Tourism is the thread that ties Canada together.
Dates: November 18–20
Location: Hilton Lac-Leamy, Gatineau, Quebec
Here’s what you can look forward to:
- Engage with industry leaders and stakeholders from across the country
- Participate in critical discussions on the future of Canadian tourism
- Recognize and honour the strength, resilience, and ingenuity of Canada’s tourism sector
Learn more and register HERE.
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Annual SFI Big Splash Gala, Fundraiser and Policy Conference
During the day, make plans to attend the SFI Annual Industry Policy Conference, held at the Vancouver Convention Centre - West. This annual event is an unique opportunity for those in the sport fishing industry and community to meet, hear from, and exchange perspectives on the issues facing the public fishery with elected officials, public servants.
Date: Friday, November 21
Location: Vancouver Convention Centre – West
This year's theme is Balanced and Sustainable and ticket sales are now open! Early bird tickets are only available until October 31st!
Learn more and purchase tickets HERE.
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Sport Event Exchange BC 2025
Sport Exchange BC 2025 will be a one-day sport tourism industry forum bringing together BC's destination marketing organizations, municipalities, provincial sport organizations, multi-sport organizations, disability sport organizations, BC-based national sport organizations, sport event rights holders, and venue owners/operators. Designed to strengthen collaboration, build capacity, and spark new opportunities in sport event hosting, this initiative is a first-of-its-kind knowledge exchange and relationship-building event in the province.The event will feature engaging panel discussions, networking sessions, and opportunities to explore partnership models between sport organizations and tourism professionals.
Date: Friday, November 21
Time: 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
Location: Sheraton Vancouver Airport Hotel
The event will feature engaging panel discussions, networking sessions, and opportunities to explore partnership models between sport organizations and tourism professionals. Learn more and REGISTER HERE.
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IMPACT Sustainability Travel & Tourism Summit - 2026
Registration is now open for 2026's iteration of the IMPACT Sustainability Travel & Tourism Summit Victoria
Dates: January 25-28
Get ready to explore Aligned action, shared direction, and real progress alongside global changemakers. With a brand-new Workshop Series, immersive case studies, and hands-on tools to take home, IMPACT 2026 will equip you to transform your destination into one that's not just visited, but nurtured.
Learn more and secure your spot HERE.
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SAVE THE DATE | 2026 International Indigenous Tourism Conference
The 2026 International Indigenous Tourism Conference (#2026IITC), hosted in partnership with Indigenous Tourism Alberta and Explore Edmonton, will be held on unceded Treaty 6 Territory in Amiskwacîwâskahikan (Edmonton).
Dates: February 17-19
The many Nations that call the area home, including Cree, Saulteaux, Blackfoot, Sioux and Métis People, are excited to welcome you to their territory at this amazing celebration of Indigenous tourism. Save the date!
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SAVE THE DATE | 2026 BC Tourism Industry Conference
It's hard to believe the 2025 BC Tourism Industry Conference is behind us! While planning for 2026 won't begin until early fall, we're excited to announce the date and location:
Dates: March 4-6
Location: Delta Hotel, Grand Okanagan Resort, Kelowna
Mark your calendar - we can't wait to see you there and celebrate our incredible industry together!
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Save the Date | BC Outdoor Recreation Conference 2026
The Outdoor Recreation Council of BC is celebrating 50 years of advocacy in 2026, and we’re marking the occasion in a big way! Join us at Thompson Rivers University in Kamloops, BC, for this milestone event.
Dates: May 20-22
Location: Thompson Rivers University, Kamloops
This conference will bring together outdoor recreation leaders, advocates, and enthusiasts from across British Columbia to reflect on our past, celebrate our achievements, and shape the future of public recreation. Look forward to engaging speakers, insightful panel discussions, hands-on workshops, and valuable networking with recreationists, land managers, and decision-makers.
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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.
#970 - 1050 West Pender Street | Vancouver, BC | V6E 3S7 | 604.685.5956
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