City Presents 24th Annual Tourism Awards

On Thursday, May 28, Members of St. John’s City Council welcomed tourism leaders from throughout the City to the 24th Annual Tourism Awards presentation at City Hall, where individuals and businesses were recognized for their outstanding contributions to the tourism sector and the St. John’s economy.
 
“The tourism sector plays a significant role in our economy,” said Councillor Dave Lane, Co-Chair of the Economic Development, Tourism and Public Engagement Committee. “The award winners announced today have made substantial efforts to provide a top-of-the-line experience for guests visiting our beautiful City, and for that they deserve high praise and recognition.”
 
In 2014 estimates indicate that the province received approximately 507,900 non-resident visitors from January to December, representing an increase of 2% over 2013. 

The following award winners represent the best of the best St. John’s has to offer visitors from around the world.

• The Legend Award for outstanding enhancements to the tourism industry was presented to Dale Gilbert Jarvis, best known for the St. John’s Haunted Hike.
• Event of the Year was presented to the Mummers Festival.
• The Signal Award, for outstanding contribution to the cruise industry went to Bob McCarthy.
• The St. John’s Taxi Industry received the Victoria Wagon Award, presented annually to a taxi driver or provider who best exemplifies the spirit of exceptional customer service.
• The Discovery Award for innovative tourism related products was presented to The Overcast.
• New in 2015, the Sport Tourism Award was presented to the Ice Caps Hockey Club.

During the ceremony, the City of St. John’s tourism partner Destination St. John’s also presented its annual Award of Distinction to OCEANS’14 for Convention of the Year.

Information on all recipients is contained in the backgrounder.
 
For further information:
Kelly Maguire
Media Relations
City of St. John's
709-576-8491
kmaguire@stjohns.ca