Released on April 6, 2017
Saskatchewan’s tourism sector honoured businesses and individuals at the 28th annual Saskatchewan Tourism Awards of Excellence Gala, which was celebrated in Saskatoon on April 5 at the Sheraton Cavalier Saskatoon Hotel.“The Government of Saskatchewan acknowledges the businesses and individuals honoured at the 28th annual Saskatchewan Tourism Awards of Excellence Gala,” Minister Responsible for Tourism Saskatchewan Jeremy Harrison said. “Their accomplishments are impressive, and highlight leadership, creativity and deep pride-of-place. The award recipients and finalists inspire their peers and encourage residents, communities and businesses throughout the province to deliver great guest experiences and service.”
“Tourism Saskatchewan considers it a privilege to host this annual gala that shines a spotlight on people and businesses deeply committed to building a vibrant tourism industry and delivering on the promise of exceptional hospitality and memorable guest experiences,” Tourism Saskatchewan CEO Mary Taylor-Ash said. “Our congratulations, along with our gratitude, is extended to the award recipients and finalists, who are champions of our industry and dedicated ambassadors for the province.”
A 15-person external panel selected the 33 finalists and 11 award recipients. The recipients of the Tourism Builder Award were chosen by a panel of select industry veterans, a member of Tourism Saskatchewan’s Board of Directors and a member of its Executive Leadership Team.
The winners of the Saskatchewan Tourism Awards of Excellence for 2016 are:
• Rookie of the Year Award
Sponsored by the Saskatchewan Roughrider Football Club
Cowtown Kids Toy & Candy, Maple Creek
• Service Excellence Award
Sponsored by the Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce
Skyxe Saskatoon Airport, Saskatoon
• Tourism Employee of the Year Award
Sponsored by Harvard Broadcasting
Kristine Scheller, Cypress Hills Destination Area, Maple Creek
• Tourism Employer of the Year Award
Sponsored by Transcontinental Printing
Park Town Hotel, Saskatoon
• Gil Carduner Marketing Award
Sponsored by Phoenix Group
Royal Saskatchewan Museum, Regina
• Fred Heal Tourism Ambassador Award
Sponsored by Wanuskewin Heritage Park
Angela Schmitt, Redwillow Outfitting, Carrot River
• Travel Media Award
Sponsored by Vendasta
Ashlyn George, Saskatoon
• Community Event of the Year Award
Sponsored by the Saskatchewan Arts Board
Country at the Creek Music Festival, Big River
• Marquee Event of the Year Award
Sponsored by CTV
SaskTel Saskatchewan Jazz Festival, Saskatoon
• Business of the Year Award (Under 20 Full-time Employees)
Sponsored by the Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority
Saskatchewan Sports Hall of Fame, Regina
• Business of the Year Award (Over 20 Full-time Employees)
Sponsored by The Western Producer
Park Town Hotel, Saskatoon
• Tourism Builder Award
Sponsored by Tourism Saskatchewan
Trent Fraser, Regina
Irene LeGatt, Saskatoon
Steve McLellan, Regina
Detailed information regarding each category winner is available at www.IndustryMatters.com.
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For more information, contact:
Elizabeth Braitenbach
Tourism Saskatchewan
Regina
Phone: 306-529-0162
Email: elizabeth.braitenbach@tourismsask.com
Cell: 306-529-0162