MCGUINTY GOVERNMENT HELPING BOOST GEORGIAN BAY TOURISM

LITTLE CURRENT — The McGuinty government is investing $60,000 in a Georgian Bay tourism industry alliance that is marketing the area as a year-round travel destination, Tourism Minister Jim Bradley announced today.

“Georgian Bay is one of the province’s most beautiful regions, with lots for visitors and residents to see and do in all four seasons,” said Bradley.  “The Ontario government is pleased to partner with the Georgian Bay Destination Development Partnership to develop tourism experiences in the region.”

The grant will help the Georgian Bay Destination Development Partnership attract new and repeat visitors to the region through marketing, research and support for local tourism operators and visitor centres. The group will promote motorcycling and RV touring routes as well as marine heritage and lighthouses, beaches, scenic vistas and outdoor adventure. 

“Support from the Ministry of Tourism will help us promote Georgian Bay as an icon destination,” said Bryan Plumstead, chair of the Georgian Bay Destination Partnership. “We feel strongly that our local attractions and amenities can compete on a global scale to attract travellors from the US, Quebec and beyond.”

Georgian Bay offers many tourism experiences including Sainte-Marie Among The Hurons, the historic French River canoe route traveled by Samuel de Champlain in 1615, Manitoulin Island, Wasaga Beach, the Bruce Peninsula and the 30,000 Islands. The area has three national parks, several provincial parks and protected areas, as well as the entrance to the Trent Severn National Historic Waterway.  

Grey County is the lead partner of the Georgian Bay Destination Development Partnership. Other members include Bruce County, Georgian Triangle Tourist Association, Town of Wasaga Beach, Southern Georgian Bay Chamber of Commerce, Georgian Bay Country Tourism Association, Rainbow Country, City of Greater Sudbury, LAMBAC (Manitoulin Island), Blue Mountain Resort (Intrawest), and Scenic Caves Nature Adventures. 

“A healthy tourism industry supports Ontario’s high quality of life,” said Bradley. “Tourism brings new visitors to communities across Ontario, supporting small businesses, creating jobs and contributing to a strong and prosperous economy.”

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

 

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