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One of my closest friends belongs to a powerful national union and has twice walked the picket lines. Despite being on strike for several weeks during his career and nearly losing his house, he’s very much pro-organized labour and I respect his stance. Given my pal’s experience on the front lines, I also welcome his views on labour issues (such as binding arbitration) to educate me, especially when our perspectives differ and particularly now in view of escalating BCGEU job action and calls to scrap the Temporary Foreign Worker Program.
While we often agree to disagree on labour policy, we’re on the same page when it comes to employees entitled to fair compensation for services performed on behalf of an organization. And depending on the company, type of job, and whether it’s a full or part-time gig, we concur there should also be supplementary benefits provided that may include things like extended health, generous vacation and sick day allotments, year-end bonuses, corporate profit-sharing, matching RSP or pension contributions, education allowances, or other forms of support.
To be fair, few operators can or are obligated to provide every one of the aforementioned benefits to their employees, but at the same time all are bound by ubiquitous provincial regulations within the BC Labour Relations Code (LRC) that in many cases favour employees in unionized environments.
Last year, a government-appointed review panel undertook a consultation process to examine the LRC to ensure BC’s labour laws keep up with the needs of today’s workplaces and are consistent with the rights and protections enjoyed by other Canadians. The panel was tasked under section 3 with identifying what, if any, changes to the Code are necessary in the public interest and the need to encourage investment in a strong economy.
Following engagement with the public and business groups, the panel subsequently produced a report that has drawn the attention of employers given the significant implications for businesses should some of the recommendations contained therein be adopted. TIABC is offering its input on behalf of the tourism industry as part of a multi-sector business consortium response to the report under the leadership of the Business Council of British Columbia.
In its initial observations, the business community concurs with the panel that balance, stability, and predictability are essential principles for effective labour relations, and that policy-makers need to ensure labour laws are consistent with strong, sustainable economic performance in all sectors of the economy. At the same time, the business community is concerned with several proposed amendments that would tilt the balance towards organized labour.
It should be noted that other than a small percentage of unionized workplaces, most of the proposed changes don’t directly impact the tourism sector. However, one item in the report caught my attention given the work we’re doing with the Tourism AI Network.
In brief, unions raised general concerns regarding the introduction and use of artificial intelligence (AI), particularly generative AI, relating to job security, employee privacy, monitoring and evaluating performance, evaluating applications for hiring/advancement, automation, use of personal information or work product without credit or compensation, and the use of employee work and data to train AI models.
Fair points. Many workplaces are not yet familiar with the advantages and pitfalls of AI. The panel suggested that the introduction of AI will affect all areas of the economy, not just public services, and may have a profound impact on some workplaces. As such, it recommends that government conduct a broad and comprehensive process to include involvement of unions, employers and employees to determine, amongst other things, whether any changes to employment related legislation are required. The business community opposes this recommendation noting that it exceeds the mandate of the panel, which is to review the LRC, not broad matters of policy or legislative reform beyond that.
One of the panel members suggested imposing very significant notice and consultation obligations on employers in cases where companies intend and/or plan to introduce AI into the workplace. Again, it’s not a provision supported by the business community because it would essentially require employers to treat unions as co-managers vis-a-vis the introduction of AI in a unionized workplace, which will hinder investment in and exploration of AI in BC and would be unprecedented in Canada.
The recommendation also appears to assume that the presence or timing of AI introduction in a workplace is all within an employer’s control, which is not accurate. AI is and will continue to be embedded and advanced within the technology and equipment that employers access and use in many facets of their businesses every day.
The coalition of business sectors is urging caution in imposing regulatory or procedural barriers on emerging technologies and industries before they have had a chance to develop and demonstrate their potential benefits. The more appropriate role for public policy at this stage is to enable innovation and not to constrain it through rigid compliance burdens or adversarial frameworks.
There are many more recommendations contained in the panel’s report that will be addressed within the coalition’s response, which is due later this month. TIABC will share a copy of the brief with members in early October.
After decades in the same job, my buddy is one of the most senior employees in his company and earns a high salary with incredible retirement benefits. When we get into these great policy debates from time-to-time, I have to remind myself why he argues so vociferously when it comes to labour issues. Thankfully we can agree to disagree and remain close friends.
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. | | | |
TIABC Submit Recommendations to Federal Budget
TIABC has submitted recommendations to the Federal Budget, with a focus on recommendations to unlock private investment, protect jobs and communities, and sustain Canada’s brand as a world-leading destination. The recommendations are as follows:
1). Dedicated Tourism Infrastructure and Attraction Fund Investment is critical to increase economic impact and help the visitor economy grow.
2). National Multi-Modal Connectivity Strategy To unlock growth and access, Canada should adopt a national multi-modal connectivity strategy that links destinations with targeted funding and public-private partnerships.
3). Destination Marketing & International Competitiveness There is a near-term window of opportunity with leisure, conference, and business travellers. Canada can convert these traveler segments into market share if we act quickly and invest meaningfully.
4). Emergency Preparedness To protect communities and the tourism economy from escalating climate driven disruptions, Canada should strengthen readiness, response, and recovery for affected tourism businesses.
5). Modernize Tax Rules for Seasonal Tourism Keep Canada competitive as a visitor destination by modernizing tax rules that currently have unintended consequences including suppressing investment.
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Managing Wildfire Smoke Exposure
Communities across BC are currently experiencing the effects of wildfire smoke which has become a significant environmental and psychological hazard that workplaces and communities must manage.
To help employers address these challenges, go2HR has developed a Safety Talk that provides essential guidance on protecting your workforce. This resource is designed to ensure your team is well-informed and prepared to stay safe during wildfires.
The Safety Talk covers critical aspects of wildfire smoke exposure, including:
- Symptoms of Smoke Exposure
- Proactive Measures
Download the Safety Talk Guide HERE.
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ICYMI | Destination Canada Launch Tourism Sprint Program
A reminder of the recent launch of Destination Canada's Tourism Sprint Program (TSP). This competitive, application-based, cost-sharing initiative funds short-term projects focused on creating innovative tourism products and supporting new tourism investments.
The program aims to quickly address barriers to investment by providing targeted funding over a limited project timeline, unlocking broader tourism opportunities and enhancing Canada’s competitive position in the global marketplace.
Please note: The Expression of Interest (EOI) deadline is September 12th at 5:00 PM PST.
You are encouraged to learn more about the TSP program and how to apply HERE.
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Share Your Voice on the Heritage Conservation Act
The Province has launched Phase 3 of the Heritage Conservation Act Transformation Project (HCATP), marking an important step toward modernizing the Act to better align with the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and to strengthen heritage protection across BC.
Heritage BC encourages all members of the heritage community to participate in this critical engagement process. Your feedback will help shape legislative changes anticipated for spring 2026. How to participate:
1. Virtual Engagement Session - Sept. 17, 1-4 pm (PST). Register Here
2. Submit Written Feedback - comments by October 1. Email Here
This is a vital opportunity to ensure the heritage sector’s perspectives are represented. LEARN MORE HERE.
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Pacific Coastal Airlines Announces New Flights
Pacific Coastal Airlines has announced the launch of new non-stop service between Kelowna (YLW) and Cranbrook (YXC), beginning Monday, October 27th as part of its winter 2025/26 schedule.
This enhanced schedule supports business, leisure and medical travel, with morning departures from Cranbrook offering seamless one-stop connections via Kelowna to Victoria, Nanaimo, and Comox, and evening return connections from those Vancouver Island destinations back to Cranbrook. This route will operate daily using 19-passenger Beechcraft 1900 aircraft. Learn more HERE.
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A Reminder to Stay Connected with Destination BC
A reminder, that Destination BC (DBC) provides several communication tools to help BC's tourism sector thrive and you are encouraged to to sign up and follow for regular, up to date news, insights and opportunities.
Destination BC offers several ways to stay informed and engaged:
1). Join the conversation on LinkedIn to connect with our community of nearly 30,000 tourism supporters.
2). Visit the DBC news page for announcements and industry updates.
3). Encourage your network to subscribe to Directions and receive updates about Destination BC’s marketing campaigns, tourism partnership successes, research insights, and upcoming events.
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Registration for One Hill of a Party Ends Soon!
On Monday, September 22nd, the Sir John A. Macdonald Building will come alive as Canada’s tourism champions, industry leaders, trade professionals, Members of Parliament, and policy-makers come together for an unforgettable evening celebrating the power of tourism to connect communities, fuel our economy, and shape Canada’s future.
This members-only event is hosted by TIAC in collaboration with its provincial and territorial tourism industry associations (PTTIA) including TIABC.
Registration Deadline: Thursday, September 18th. Learn more and REGISTER HERE.
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BC's Ski Sector Representatives Meet with Premier
A delegation of ski area representatives met with Premier David Eby this week to share the success story of BC’s ski strategy.
A provincial government initiative with origins back to the 1970’s laid the groundwork for what now totals 37 ski areas serving communities across the province, with many acting as the leading or significant economic driver in their local communities
As a key provider of healthy outdoor recreation for residents and visitors alike, the BC ski sector employs 16,000 workers, contributes $346m in tax revenues to government, and stimulates over $2b in visitor spending, of which $1.4b are incremental dollars coming from outside the province to bolster the BC economy.
Learn more about BC's downhill and snowboard tourism sector HERE.
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Alterra Mountain Company Introduce New VP, Government and Community Relations
Congratulations are in order to Kathy MacRae who has started a new role at the Alterra Experiences division of Alterra Mountain Company, in the position of VP, Government & Community Relations.
In this role, Kathy will focus on leading both Canadian Mountain Holidays and Mike Wiegele Heli-Skiing, aligning Alterra Mountain Company's Forward Stance goals through the evolving landscape shaped by shifting land-use policies, regulatory pressures, reconciliation, and a growing requirement for environmental leadership.
Kathy is a recognized leader in adventure tourism, with over 30 years of experience, bringing deep industry knowledge, collaborative leadership, and a steadfast commitment to responsible tourism. Most recently, Kathy served for nine years as Executive Director of the Commercial Bear Viewing Association (CBVA). She also holds leadership roles, including president of the Wilderness Tourism Association and Co-Chair of the Adventure Tourism Coalition. She is also an active member of TIABC's Policy Committee.
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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.
We look forward to seeing you in Kelowna next year!
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Now more than ever, it's time to celebrate the beauty, energy, and unforgettable experiences found right here at home.
Would you like to be part of our weekly Postcards from BC feature? Send a photo of you enjoying a BC destination to deborah@tiabc.ca.
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KERMODEI TOURISM SOCIETY
The Kermodei Tourism Society, also known as Tourism Terrace, is the official destination marketing and management organization (DMO) responsible for attracting visitors to the City of Terrace and the surrounding Northwestern British Columbia region. It functions as a resource for potential tourists by providing information on local attractions, visitor guides, and event listings to enhance their travel experience and to promote the area as a destination for outdoor and cultural exploration.
Learn more about Tourism Terrace HERE.
Photo Credit: Destination BC
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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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The Consumer Journey: Bringing BC’s Iconic Destination Brands to Life
Join Destination BC for an exclusive virtual event showcasing the full consumer launch of our Iconic Destination Brands across the global travel ecosystem.
Date: Thursday, September 18
Time: 10:00 am (PDT)
In this session, we’ll explore how the Iconic brands are coming to life across key touchpoints in the consumer journey. You’ll get a look at the evolution of the Super, Natural British Columbia® brand and the Let the Outside In creative platform, our media plan and activations across travel trade, travel media, and access to new tools for industry partners to leverage awareness of the new brands.
Learn more and REGISTER HERE.
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WORTHshop: Mental Health, Burnout, Boundaries & Recovery
What would change if we talked about what’s really going on at work? This session with Kimberly Flear (Founder, Last Call Coaching) explores how pressure, performance, and perfectionism show up across the visitor economy, and how we can interrupt the cycle with compassion, boundaries, and recovery-informed leadership. Expect real talk, practical tools, and simple shifts that can create psychologically safe, resilient teams. All are welcome.
Date: September 18 | 12 pm
Location: Virtual & Vancouver
Learn more and REGISTER HERE.
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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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Wine Capital Weekend Returns to Oliver!
The Oliver Tourism Association is thrilled to announce that Wine Capital Weekend will return for another unforgettable celebration. As the Wine Capital of Canada, Oliver welcomes locals and visitors alike to experience three days of wine, craft beverages, food, live music, team competitions, and family-friendly fun.
Dates: September 19-21
The weekend will once again feature:
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Kick-Off Party at District Wine Village – This year’s musical act will be GLASS TIGER
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Cask & Keg Festival – A celebration of craft beer, cider, and spirits featuring delicious eats, live entertainment, yard games, a family zone, and the crowd-favourite Beer Olympics.
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Festival of the Grape – The South Okanagan’s premier wine tasting event returns for its 26th year.
Learn more, including how to participate and purchase tickets HERE.
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BC Rivers Day 2025
BC Rivers Day returns for its 45th annual celebration, marking one of the province's largest community-driven environmental events.
Date: Sunday, September 28
The Outdoor Recreation Council of BC (ORCBC) has organized this day to bring together citizens, organizations, and communities to honour and safeguard the health of BC's rivers and waterways. The event encourages stewardship, education and community action while highlighting the importance of BC's rivers.
For more details about BC Rivers Day, and how to be involved, VISIT HERE.
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Greater Victoria Harbour Authority AGM
Join the Greater Victoria Harbour Authority (GVHA) for their AGM. This year’s meeting is virtual. No need to RSVP. Everyone is welcome. Review the highlights from the 2024-2025 fiscal year and learn about GVHA’s plans for the harbour. If you can’t attend, a recording will be available on the GVHA website by October 3.
Date: September 29
Time: 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m (Virtual)
If you have questions for our leadership team, please email them to the GVHA communications team in advance. Questions will also be accepted via chat during the meeting.
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4TVI | 2025 Vancouver Island Stewardship Summit
You are invited to the 4TVI Vancouver Island Stewardship Summit. The 2025 program will focus on the efforts of stewardship through destination management and collaboration. Speakers will provide tangible, inspiring presentations for attendees. The full day event will also include a State of the Region presentation.
Date: October 2-3
Location: Coast Bastion, Nanaimo
Registration is now open.
Early Bird Registration (until July 31): $199 + GST
General Registration $299 = GST
Learn more and register HERE.
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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.
Early bird registration extended until Sept. 12. 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. Early bird registration ends Sept. 15.
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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. Early bird tickets go on sale September 8th — stay tuned!
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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, QC
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
Early-bird registration is open until August 13, 11:59 pm. Learn more and register 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 (PST)
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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2026 BCHA Summit
Planning is now underway for the 2026 BC Hotel Association (BCHA) Summit and you are encouraged to mark your calendars. Building on past success, this year’s program will be expanded to deliver even more value to attendees.
Dates: April 14 – 15, 2026
Location: Vancouver Island Conference Centre, Nanaimo
As the premier event for BC’s hotel industry, the Summit brings together owners, general managers, industry leaders, and cutting-edge suppliers.
Registration will open in October on the conference website .
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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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