Victoria, B.C., April 29, 2011 – At Tourism Victoria’s 2010 Annual General Meeting & Awards Ceremony on April 28, 2011, two local tourism industry supporters were recognized for their outstanding contributions to the community and development of tourism in Greater Victoria through the 2010 Miracle Award and brand new 2011 Life Member Award.
The 2010 Miracle Award winner is Mr. David Featherby, Harbour Master with Transport Canada. David has held his position as Harbour Master for 25 years, implementing local and visitor programs to welcome individuals, groups and events to Victoria’s Inner Harbour. The Miracle Award was established in 1982 to award an outstanding individual or group who has shown leadership in the development of Greater Victoria’s tourism industry.
New for 2011, the Life Member Award recipient is Mr. Terry Farmer, past President & CEO of Accent Inns. Founding member of the Visitor Information Centre and Past Chair of Tourism Victoria, Terry’s contributions to the tourism industry are unparalleled in Greater Victoria. The Life Member Award recognizes an individual’s exceptional contributions to Tourism Victoria.
“David continues to be the engine that drives our harbour. His tireless efforts to ensure a safe and welcoming entry point to Victoria and Vancouver Island are beyond measure and we are proud to honour his longstanding dedication” says Rob Gialloreto, President & CEO of Tourism Victoria. “Terry Farmer has also been a pioneer for the tourism industry in Victoria. He continues to be a voice of reason and vision in a sector that truly needs it. We are thrilled to make him our inaugural Life Member.”
A yearly event recognizing the past year’s organizational and fiscal accomplishments, the Annual General Meeting is a highlight for the tourism industry in Greater Victoria. Agenda items included addresses by Tourism Victoria Chair Deirdre Campbell and President & CEO Rob Gialloreto.
Additionally, keynote speaker Michele McKenzie, President & CEO of the Canadian Tourism Commission (CTC), highlighted the CTC’s latest marketing initiatives and key statistics on tourism in Canada. An industry panel also allowed members to ask questions of their local, provincial and national tourism representatives. Sitting on the panel were Rob Gialloreto, Assistant Deputy Minister of Tourism BC Susan Rybar and Michele McKenzie.
About Tourism Victoria
Tourism Victoria is the official not-for-profit tourism industry association marketing Victoria as a worldclass destination. In partnership with over 700 business members, local municipalities, surrounding communities of Vancouver Island, British Columbia and Canada, Tourism Victoria works to showcase the destination. Tourism Victoria’s mandate is to increase the economic impact of tourism for Greater Victoria by marketing the destination and servicing visitor needs. For more information about Tourism Victoria, visit www.tourismvictoria.com or call 250-414-6999.
Media Contact:
Amber Bonner
Executive Assistant
Tourism Victoria
250-414-6976 Direct
250-661-4649 Cell
amber.bonner@tourismvictoria.com
