MCGUINTY GOVERNMENT GRANT SUPPORTS TOURISM IN WATERFRONT COMMUNITIES
Discover Ontario And The Best Fresh Water Cruising In The World

SAULT STE. MARIE — The Ontario government is helping the Ontario Marine Operators Association (OMOA) to promote the province as “the best fresh water cruising grounds in the world,” Minister of Tourism Jim Bradley announced today.

“Cruising is an increasingly popular way to travel and explore a new destination,” said Bradley. “The Ontario government is pleased to help promote recreational boating and draw more visitors to our province’s beautiful waterfront communities.”

The $60,000 grant from the Ministry of Tourism will be used to help OMOA market Ontario as an ideal recreational boating destination.The funding will help OMOA to build on its VISION 2020 promotional campaign, which includes a “Boating Ontario – Discover DVD Cruising” series, the Boating Ontario magazine, a Marinas and Destination Guide, and the association’s website, www.omoa.com.

With the ministry’s support, the association plans to work with marinas in five areas – Sarnia, Leamington, Kingston, Toronto and North Channel – on a pilot project called “Boating Ontario Thank You!”. The project will include welcome packages that contain vouchers and coupons for area attractions and encourage return visits by boaters.

“Thanks to the support provided by the McGuinty government, we can build on our plans to bring more boating enthusiasts to Ontario’s waters,” said OMOA Executive Director, Al Donaldson.

The Ministry of Tourism’s Industry Partnership Proposal Program assists the tourism industry to develop and implement innovative and co-operative marketing projects. The projects must contribute to developing Ontario as a four-season destination, increasing visitor stay and improving the economy through increased tourism spending.

“Tourism is a major economic driver in many of our communities,” said Sault Ste Marie MPP David Orazietti. “By working with organizations like OMOA, we are giving a boost to local businesses and giving visitors a refreshing new way to discover Ontario.”

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Contacts:
David Oved, Minister’s Office, (416) 314-1400
Guy Lepage, Communications Branch, (416) 314-3497