Ms. Nancy Small, Executive Director,
Tourism Burnaby and Ms. Jennifer Scott, Senior Manager, Sport
Burnaby appeared before Council to highlight the 2017 events and the 2018
plans.
Ms. Small provided an update on the
Tourism Burnaby’s Strategic Plan and Vision, and noted a number of successful
national and international events held in Burnaby, such as Americas Rugby
Championship (USA vs Canada), BC Secondary School Soccer Championships,
Rowing National Championships, and many more. In addition, the speaker noted
that the 2017 Pat Quinn Classic Hockey Tournament was a great success with 38
teams from Canada and USA participating. Ms. Small further noted that Tourism
Burnaby sponsored the Burnaby Art Gallery’s 50th Anniversary
event, Burnaby Blues and Roots Festival, and multiple international
festivals.
The speaker advised that Tourism
Burnaby continues to grow the City’s tourist economy, collecting $1,207,645
in Municipal and Regional District Tax in 2017, a 7% increase over 2016.
Ms. Scott advised that Sport Burnaby
is developing a Sport Hosting Strategy to build upon successful events held
in Burnaby, and work on new initiatives, such as engagement with China/Asia
hockey. Sport Burnaby will work with staff from the Parks, Recreation and
Cultural Services Department to further strengthen engagement with the City. Plans
for 2018 include increasing marketing, communications and visitor servicing,
as well as focus on community engagement. In conclusion, the speaker
provided highlights of the events planned for 2018, such as Table Tennis
Canada Cup, YVR International Goalball Grandslam, World Taekwondo Referee
Seminars, Soccer BC Provincial Championships, Juno Cup, and others.
Mayor Corrigan extended congratulations
and appreciation to Tourism Burnaby and Sport Burnaby on their efforts to promote
Burnaby and its facilities as a desirable sport event destination.
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