Tourism Week took place from April 15th to 19th this year, offering the tourism industry an opportunity to showcase and promote Canada’s destinations, businesses, and workers. To celebrate the event, the Ottawa Valley Tourist Association (OVTA) held its annual general meeting and tourism conference on April 16 at the myFM Centre in Renfrew.
The conference attracted more than 60 attendees, including tourism operators, community partners, and stakeholders, to discuss the future of tourism in the Ottawa Valley and share best practices ahead of the summer season. The event began with a cultural presentation by Christine Luckasavitch of Waaseyaa Cultural Tours, followed by reports and the election of a new board of directors for the 2024-25 term.
Keynote speaker Sara Norton provided insights into various marketing channels and how to target audiences effectively. Panel discussions also covered topics like community partnerships, travel trade marketing, and succession planning.
Stefani Van Wijk, Chair of the OVTA Board of Directors, emphasized the importance of sustainable tourism as the industry recovers post-pandemic. The OVTA represents over 300 tourism businesses across the Upper Ottawa Valley, supporting attractions, accommodations, and other tourism-related establishments.
The OVTA Board of Directors for the 2024-25 term include:
- Councillor David Bennett, Renfrew County Council/Horton Township
- Chris Hinsperger, Bonnechere Caves
- Meghan James, Somewhere Inn, Calabogie
- Julia Klimack, Upper Ottawa Valley Heritage Society
- Joel Kowalski, Wilderness Tours
- Michelle Logan, Comfort Inn Pembroke
- Elijah McKeown, City of Pembroke
- Jill McLellan, End of the Leash Pet Boutique & Watch My 6
- Chris Melmoth, Algonquin College Pembroke
- Jolene Meloche, Renfrew County ATV Club
- Emily Stovel, Arnprior & District Museum
- Stefani Van Wijk, Madawaska Kanu Centre
- Councillor Rob Weir, Renfrew County Council/Greater Madawaska Township
- Rachel Worth-Cappell, Braiding Rivers
The Chair and Vice Chair positions will be elected at the first meeting of the Board in May 2024.
(Written by: Emma Butler)