April 12, 2019

30th Annual Saskatchewan Tourism Awards Celebrated

Saskatchewan’s tourism sector honoured businesses and individuals at the 30th annual Saskatchewan Tourism Awards of Excellence Gala, which was celebrated in Saskatoon on April 11 at TCU Place.

“This is a special occasion celebrating the 30th annual Saskatchewan Tourism Awards of Excellence,” Minister Responsible for Tourism Saskatchewan Gene Makowsky said.  “The Government of Saskatchewan extends congratulations to the award recipients and finalists, and to the Tourism Builders honoured.  Their hard work contributes to authentic, remarkable visitor experiences that make Saskatchewan a great place to visit.”

“Tourism Saskatchewan is exceedingly proud of the effort that has made the Saskatchewan Tourism Awards of Excellence a 30-year success story,” Tourism Saskatchewan CEO Mary Taylor-Ash said.  “We take even greater pride in the work of our industry.  These awards showcase tourism operators and businesses that epitomize hospitality and leadership.  They inspire others to dream big and pursue their goals with unwavering determination.  Tourism Saskatchewan is delighted to celebrate their achievements.”

The winners of the Saskatchewan Tourism Awards of Excellence for 2018 are:

  • Rookie of the Year Award

Sponsored by the Saskatchewan Roughrider Football Club

Wheatland Express, Cudworth/Wakaw

  • Service Excellence Award

Sponsored by the Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce

Harvest Eatery, Shaunavon

  • Tourism Employee of the Year Award

Sponsored by Harvard Broadcasting

Brenda Peterson, Parks Canada, Grasslands National Park

  • Tourism Employer of the Year Award

Sponsored by Regina Airport Authority

Gold Eagle Casino, Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority, North Battleford

  • Gil Carduner Marketing Award

Sponsored by Phoenix Group

Kinder Surprises Antiques, Davidson

  • Fred Heal Tourism Ambassador Award

Sponsored by Wanuskewin Heritage Park

Watrous Manitou Marketing Group, Watrous

  • Travel Media Award

Sponsored by Vendasta

Robin and Arlene Karpan, Saskatoon

  • Indigenous Tourism Experience Award

Sponsored by Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies

Wanuskewin Heritage Park, Saskatoon

  • Community Event of the Year Award

Sponsored by the Saskatchewan Arts Board

Taste of Maple Creek Festival, Maple Creek

  • Marquee Event of the Year Award

Sponsored by CTV

2018 WBSC Junior Men’s World Softball Championship, Prince Albert

  • Business of the Year Award (Under 20 Full-time Employees)

Sponsored by the Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority

Over the Hill Orchards and Winery, Lumsden

  • Business of the Year Award (More than 20 Full-time Employees)

Sponsored by Insightrix Research

Regina Exhibition Association Limited, Regina

  • Tourism Builder Award

Sponsored by Tourism Saskatchewan

Randy Fernets, Saskatoon Scott Ford, Saskatoon Shann Gowan, Swift Current

Detailed information on each category winner is available at www.Industry.TourismSaskatchewan.com.