News Release Archive
ECONOMIC RENEWAL--TOURISM SEASON-PICTOU/ANTIGONISH/GUYSBOROUGH
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An award winning historic waterfront project, the legendary
Antigonish Highland Games and terrific weather produced a banner
year for tourism operators in Pictou, Antigonish and Guysborough
counties. Along with their counterparts across the province,
local operators benefitted from a 26 per cent increase in
requests to Nova Scotia's information and reservation service and
a seven percent increase in room sales during the peak period
from July through September.
Diana Wallis, marketing manager of the Hector Heritage Quay
in Pictou, said visitors travelled from far and wide to view
the quay's signature attraction, the ship Hector. "Visitors come
from all over the world to see the on-going construction of the
Hector. Many of them have a Celtic heritage and enjoy the
historic details," she said. The quay welcomed 17,000 visitors
this in 1994 and projects 20,000 for 1995.
The owner/operator of Guysborough's Belmont Resort, Lloyd Hines
is convinced the best is yet to come. "We've had a great season
and there's momentum built up for growth in '95." He credits
the low Canadian dollar, fabulous weather and local friendliness
as contributing factors. "People remember good times."
For Lelia and Frank Machnik, owners of Seascape Cottages on
beautiful Bayfield Beach, there's a very personal benefit from a
busy season. "Half of our bookings during July and August are
repeat business. We really enjoy that, its like welcoming old
friends," said Lelia. She expects to see more central Canadians
vacationing in the province next year.
Economic Renewal Minister Ross Bragg said the province is proud
to work with such as energetic industry as the tourism sector.
"Operators throughout Nova Scotia understand the benefit of long-
range planning, packaging, cooperative marketing and
collaboration," the minister said. " The tourism industry earned
itself a banner year in l994 and the province is pleased to help
provide a platform for this success."
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Contact: Marsha Andrews (902) 424-4207
Joe Cottreau (902) 424-3970
lm January 12, 1995
