Two local winners at tourism awards

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Published on Thursday, June 9, 2016

Photos by John Drinkwater. Left: Marketing award winner, Vern May makes his acceptance speech. Right: Winner in the Service Excellence category, Nikita Shaurette (right) of Shuttle Bug Charter & Tour Services (Onanole), was presented with her award from Debbie McMillan (left) of CAA Manitoba.

By John Drinkwater

Neepawa Banner/Neepawa Press

Hosted by Tourism Westman, the 13th annual Tribute to Tourism Awards gala took place at Carberry Community Hall, on Wednesday, June 1.

The Marketing award recognizes a marketing campaign that contributes to promoting Southwestern Manitoba as a quality destination and demonstrates effectiveness in increasing tourism to the area.

Winner, Vern May of Minnedosa, has developed the “Inclusive and Collaborative” marketing strategy. The execution of this campaign included active engagement of the media; print advertising in new markets; social media; online video; addressing “What’s in it for me?” and new billboards. During 2015, more than 240 articles were published under Vern’s byline in 16 publications, attendance at yearly events in Minnedosa increased from Saskatchewan and Alberta, Minnedosa’s Facebook pageweekly average visits reached 5,122, with the busiest week seeing 36,000 viewers and more than 20,000 viewers have seen the online video promoting the community.

May received the award from Lillian Tankard representing sponsor, Travel Manitoba. He said, “I feel overwhelmed considering the record number of nominees and strong competition in all categories. It’s important we involve youth in our communities. The best way to promote tourism is as the parent of a five year old. Prior to our arrival in Minnedosa, we tried to get our son Oscar excited about the move. He went to his day care and told them I’m moving to the beach to live with the buffalo. His class were not clear on his statement but were sure excited for him.”

The Service Excellence Award, sponsored by CAA Manitoba recognizes outstanding service to enhance the visitor experience as demonstrated through a high degree of visitor satisfaction.

Winner, Nikita Shaurette of Shuttle Bug Charter & Tour Services, Onanole, started an enterprise to curb drinking and driving around RMNP. The business has grown to include weddings, golf groups, dinner groups, tour groups, including one from the UK, and involves two 21 passenger buses, a 15 passenger van and a 10 passenger bus. Nikita takes people sunset watching, to view local wildlife, recommends places for supper and ensues each and every customer feels important. I enjoy what I am doing, bringing satisfaction. I’m grateful to my dad who helped me obtain a handy van. I work with 15 part time staff who act as tour guides, co-pilots etc. Promoting tourism has opened my eyes to the beauty that this province has to offer.”

Other winners were:

•Volunteer of the Year - Judy Wells (Deloraine)

• Aspiring Youth - Jordan Hale (Souris)

•Partnership - Lake Metigoshe Improvement Association & Deloraine - Winchester

•Event of the Year - Melita Banana Days

A delicious dinner was prepared by Bob and staff from Robins Nest Motel & Cafe, Carberry and Chris Funk the Wonderist provided great entertainment.