News release

Enhancing Experiences for Visitors to Nova Scotia

Tourism, Culture and Heritage (Dec. 2003 - Jan. 2011)

TOURISM, CULTURE AND HERITAGE--Enhancing Experiences for Visitors to Nova Scotia


From hiking the trails in Inverness to watching historical characters perform in Yarmouth, many new experiences await visitors to Nova Scotia in 2005.

Tourism, Culture and Heritage Minister Rodney MacDonald announced today, Jan. 11, that a total of $138,765 will support tourism projects across the province. This investment comes from the department's Tourism Development Investment Fund. Over the last year, the fund has invested more than $474,826 in 35 projects across Nova Scotia.

"Offering new and exciting experiences is a great way to attract visitors to the province," said Rodney MacDonald, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Heritage. "It also helps us to stay one step ahead in today's competitive tourism market."

The Inverness County Trans Canada Trail Federation will receive $52,000 to complete the development of the Trans Canada Trail between Port Hastings and Inverness. The project will focus on trail bed development, creating new look-offs and rest-stops, and completing six bridges. Upon completion, there will be a continuous, 92-kilometre coastal trail linking Port Hastings and Inverness.

"This funding will enable us to complete a coastal trail that is safe, scenic and lasting in Inverness County," said Blaise MacEachern, federation committee member. "The infrastructure improvements will enhance the trail experience for residents and visitors alike."

The Cumberland Regional Economic Development Association (CREDA) received $60,000 to support its efforts to have Joggins Fossil Cliffs named a world heritage site by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).

"This is a significant project which has the potential to draw visitors from around the world to the Joggins area," said Rhonda Kelly, executive director, CREDA. "It also will help us build on our international status of having the oldest reptile fossils in North America."

The new tourism projects meet the strategic priorities outlined in the annual tourism plan, says Patricia Lyall, vice-chair of the Tourism Partnership Council. "The projects also will help us to build on our strengths and realize the province's full potential as a world-class tourism destination."

Information on the Tourism Development Investment Fund is available from the Department of Tourism, Culture and Heritage by calling 902-424-3908, or by visiting the Tourism Partnership Council website at www.nstpc.com .


Note: Following are the six projects receiving support from the Tourism Development Investment Fund: -- Burncoat Head Lighthouse and Park in Hants County will receive $10,000 to make enhancements which will improve accessibility and interpretation at the park. -- Inverness County Trans Canada Trail Federation will receive $52,000 to complete the development of the Trans Canada Trail between Port Hastings and Inverness. The project will focus on trail bed development, creating new look-offs and rest-stops, and completing six bridges. -- Yarmouth County Museum and Historical Research Library will receive $1,150 to create 10 new costumes depicting various historical characters from the Yarmouth area. -- Port Royal 400th Society will receive $9,500 to develop and run a re-enactment to celebrate the 400th anniversary of the land of the French at Port Royal. -- Cumberland Regional Economic Development Association will receive $60,000 to support efforts to develop a nomination bid to have Joggins Fossil Cliffs named a world heritage site by UNESCO. -- Tourism Industry Association of Nova Scotia will receive $6,115 to provide basic business computer workshops for tourism professionals.