Tourism businesses motivated to reach new heights at the Central Counties and Durham Tourism Partnership Symposium

Whitby, Ontario –The promising future of Durham Region’s tourism industry was showcased among local tourism stakeholders today at the annual Central Counties and Durham Tourism Partnership Symposium, held at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park in Clarington.

In order to facilitate the growth and development of Durham Region’s economy, the 2017 Symposium hosted an engaging industry speaker series and a networking session for local tourism businesses—presented by Durham Tourism and Central Counties Tourism. The theme of the day was Elevate Your Experience, and participants were inspired to take their businesses to new heights and connect with ideas, opportunities and their peers.

“The annual Central Counties and Durham Tourism Partnership Symposium showcases Durham Region’s thriving tourism sector, which is made up of many unique attractions and distinctive businesses,” said Brian Bridgeman, Commissioner of Planning and Economic Development. “Collaboration between businesses and tourism operators is what allows Durham to offer spectacular experiences for both residents and visitors.”

This year’s event featured three dynamic keynote presenters: Todd Lucier, co-founder of the Tourism Café Canada and Northern Edge Algonquin; Andrew Wiens, International DMO Manager for TripAdvisor; and John Draper, founder of Together We Rock! – a socially responsible business committed to creating accessible and inclusive communities. Other speakers included:

• John Henry, Mayor, City of Oshawa
  
  
• Kathy Weiss, Director, Economic Development and Tourism, The Regional Municipality of Durham
  
  
• Kristyn Chambers, Manager of Tourism, The Regional Municipality of Durham
  
  
• Lori Talling, Sport Tourism Coordinator, The Regional Municipality of Durham
  
  
• Chuck Thibeault, Executive Director, Central Counties Tourism
  
  
• Ron Fellows, Canadian Tire Motorsport Park

The presenters updated participants on current industry initiatives and programs; encouraged collaborations as part of individual business strategies; and provided local tourism businesses with practical advice to help further their success and elevate their businesses to new heights.

“This inspiring and engaging speaker series explores ways to take Durham’s tourism assets and leverage them to attract more visitors to the region,” said Kathy Weiss, Director of Economic Development and Tourism. “By promoting collaboration, and further developing our variety of exceptional attractions and prime destinations, we will continue to attract new business and more visitors, resulting in an increase of local economic activity.”

For more information about Durham Tourism, visit www.durhamtourism.ca or call 1-800-413-0017.

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