A few months later than the usual announcement, the Saskatchewan Tourism Awards of Excellence for 2019 have been announced.

CEO Mary Taylor-Ash says the gala was to take place in April, but because of COVID-19 it was cancelled, but on Tuesday there was a virtual announcement of the 12 award recipients and three Tourism builders. The Tourism builders are Bradley Muir, Gordon Olson and Dr. Ernie Walker.

Muir was a nature /heritage interpreter in Prince Albert National park for 30 years and in 1997 he launched Sundogs Excursions, which offers dogsledding experiences and fosters nature appreciation.

Olson’s Ness Creek site near Big River has transformed part of the boreal forest into a popular, year-round destination where music, art, culture and recreation are celebrated.

Tourism Saskatchewan says Dr. Walker is a driving force behind Wanuskewin. Back in the 1980s, he worked with Indigenous and non-Indigenous leaders to develop the concept for the historic site, and he has led archaeological excavation in the area for over 40 years.

The winners of the Saskatchewan Tourism Awards of Excellence for 2019 are:

Business of the Year Award
(Over 20 Full-Time Employees)
Wanuskewin, Saskatoon

Business of the Year Award
(Under 20 Full-Time Employees)
The Happy Nun Caf, Forget

Community Event of the Year Award
The Boomtown Cup, Shaunavon

Fred Heal Tourism Ambassador Award
Mane Productions, Saskatoon

Gil Carduner Marketing Award
Wanuskewin, Saskatoon

Indigenous Tourism Experience Award
Aski Holistic Adventures, Cumberland House

Marquee Event of the Year Award
2019 Tim Hortons NHL Heritage Classic, Regina

Rookie of the Year Award
Nutrien Wonderhub, Saskatoon

Service Excellence Award
Northern Lights Vintage Spa, Maple Creek

Tourism Employee of the Year Award
Arnold McKenzie, Legislative Assembly Service of Saskatchewan, Regina

Tourism Employer of the Year Award
CAA Saskatchewan

Travel Media Award
Jenn Sharp, Saskatoon

Tourism Builder Award
Brad Muir, Anglin Lake
Gordon Olson, Big River
Dr. Ernie Walker, Saskatoon